September 2009
September 29, 2009
APPROPRIATIONS
UPDATE
1) Congress Works to Pass Continuing Resolution
On September 25, 2009, the House passed a one-month
continuing resolution (CR). The package will allow the federal government to
operate past September 30, 2009, since none of the 12 appropriations bills have
been signed into law. The CR is attached to the conference report for the
Legislative Branch appropriations bill (H.R. 2918), which cannot be amended.
The Senate plans to take up the measure shortly to ensure it reaches the
president's desk prior to the September 30 fiscal year end.
The bill also contains a one-month extension for Safe, Accountable, Flexible,
and Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) as
well as the Child Nutrition Act, both of which are scheduled to expire on
September 30, 2009. It does not include an extension for Ryan White AIDS
programs, which also sunset on September 30, 2009. The extension for Ryan White
is expected to move separately.
2) Senate Passes Interior Appropriations Bill
On September 24, 2009, the Senate approved a $32.1 billion Interior and
Environment appropriations bill for FY 2010. The bill (H.R. 2996) provides
$10.2 billion for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), $11.1 billion for
the Interior Department, and $5.3 billion for the Forest Service, and is $225
million below President Obama's budget request and
$200 million below the House-approved package. The Senate unanimously agreed to
an amendment to shift money to a
new contingency fund to pay for the largest and most expensive wildfires. The
bill now moves to a conference with the House bill.
AGRICULTURE
1) Funds Announced for Rural Energy for America Program
On September 24, 2009, Agriculture Secretary Vilsack
announced that the department is providing $62.5 million in loans and grants
for 705 renewable energy and energy efficiency projects in 45 states and Puerto
Rico under the Rural Energy for America Program, an initiative to help rebuild
and revitalize rural America. For a list of funded projects, see:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/09/0464.xml
2) USDA Announces $8 Million to Promote Rural Economic Development
On September 24, 2009, Vilsack announced that 58
recipients have been selected to receive $8 million in grants to spur economic
development in rural communities in 41 states, Puerto Rico, and the Western
Pacific. For a list of recipients, go to:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/09/0466.xml
3) USDA Announces $6.2 Million in Economic Development Funding
On September 23, 2009, Vilsack announced that 11
recipients have been selected to receive $6.17 million in loans and grants to
spur economic development in eight states through USDA's rural economic
development loan and grant program. The program provides zero-interest loans
and grants to local utilities that re-lend money to local businesses for projects
that will create and retain jobs in rural areas. Funding is contingent upon the
recipient meeting the conditions of the loan or grant agreement. A list of
recipients is available at:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB/.cmd/ad/.ar/sa.retrievecontent/.c/6_2_1UH/.ce/7_2_5JM/.p/5_2_4TQ/.d/2/_th/J_2_9D/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?PC_7_2_5JM_contentid=2009%2F09%2F0460.xml&PC_7_2_5JM_parentnav=LATEST_RELEASES&PC_7_2_5JM_navid=NEWS_RELEASE#7_2_5JM
4) USDA Awards $2.2 Million in Rural Business Opportunity Grants
On September 22, 2009, Vilsack announced that USDA
Rural Development is awarding $2.2 million in grants to help 35 rural
businesses, Native American tribes, and economic development groups create and
retain jobs. Grants are being provided to residents and businesses in 20
states, Puerto Rico, and the Western Pacific.
A list can be found at:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB/.cmd/ad/.ar/sa.retrievecontent/.c/6_2_1UH/.ce/7_2_5JM/.p/5_2_4TQ/.d/2/_th/J_2_9D/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?PC_7_2_5JM_contentid=2009%2F09%2F0457.xml&PC_7_2_5JM_parentnav=LATEST_RELEASES&PC_7_2_5JM_navid=NEWS_RELEASE#7_2_5JM
5) FNS Releases Final Rule on Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program
(SFMNP)
On September 23, 2009, Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) published in the Federal
Register a final rule on SFMNP. The final rule incorporates changes to the
program that were included in the Farm Bill of 2008 (P.L. 110-246). The changes
include prohibiting the value of SFMNP benefits from consideration of income or
resources when determining eligibility for other programs under any federal,
state, or local law, and prohibiting the collection of state or local tax on a
purchase of food with a benefit distributed under SFMNP. The final rule,
effective October 23, 2009, is available at: http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-22861.pdf
EDUCATION
1) Secretary Duncan Says Rewrite of 'No Child Left Behind' Should Start Now
On September 24, 2009, the Education Secretary Arne Duncan announced plans
to lay the foundation for the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act of 1965 (ESEA), known as the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB)
after the 2002 reauthorization. The Department of Education will hold a series
of meetings to provide stakeholders with an opportunity to offer input about
the new law. For more information on the meetings, see: http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2009/09/09242009.html
2) Early Reading First Grants Announced
On September 22, 2009, the Department of Education (ED) announced the award of
more than $108.8 million in Early Reading First grants to 28 local education
agencies and other public or private organizations in 18 states and Washington,
DC, to improve the school readiness of young children, especially those from
low-income families. ED awards Early Reading First grants to school districts
and non-profit organizations to improve the instruction and environment
provided by preschool programs supported by the Title I program, Head Start,
and publicly funded or subsidized child care. For a list of grantees, go to:
http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2009/09/09222009a.html
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
1) Awards Announced for Lifespan Respite Care Program
On September 24, 2009, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
announced 12 awards totaling nearly $2.3 million to implement the Lifespan
Respite Care Program, which was funded for the first time by the FY 2009
omnibus appropriations bill (P.L. 111-8). Respite provides temporary relief for
care givers from the ongoing responsibility of caring for an individual of any
age with special needs. For more information, see:
http://www.aoa.gov/AoARoot/Press_Room/News/index.aspx
2) CMS Releases Guidance to States on Medicaid/CHIP Response for H1N1
On September 24, 2009, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
sent a letter to state health officials to provide guidance on the reviews states
should be undertaking to ensure Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance
Program (CHIP) are prepared to deliver services to enrollees related to
influenza A (2009 H1N1). CMS urged states to review the operation and
management of their programs in light of the public health emergency involving
2009 H1N1, first made on April 26, 2009. CMS also informed states that the
federal agency will be available to provide ongoing technical assistance to
states and will be offering an expedited state plan amendment (SPA) process
when states request necessary modification(s) to their
plans related to 2009 H1N1. The letter is available at:
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/smdl/downloads/SHO092409.pdf
3) House Energy and Commerce Panel Approves Health Care Reform Measure
On September 23, 2009, the House Energy and Commerce Committee approved a
second package of amendmentsto the House health care
reform legislation (H.R. 3200), as part of an agreement reached when the panel
ran out of time to consider the changes during a July markup of the bill. The
measure will be sent to the House Rules Committee as a recommendation to be
added to the July 31, 2009, committee-passed measure. One amendment approved
would provide states with technical assistance to improve coordination for dual
eligibles (those who qualify for both Medicare and
Medicaid). Other approved changes would:
1. clarify that manufacturers do not need to pay rebates to Medicaid for drugs
purchased by Medicaid managed care organizations (MCO) if the MCO already
received a drug discount through
the 340B program;
2. award grants to communities for the development of
integrated health care delivery systems;
3. seek to foster greater price and quality
transparency by requiring hospitals to report data on charges for common
services and Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements.
The text of the measure is available at: http://energycommerce.house.gov/
4) Quarterly Listing of Medicare and Medicaid Program Issuances
On September 25, 2009, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)
published in the Federal Registera list of CMS manual instructions, substantive and
interpretive regulations, and other notices from April 2009 through June 2009
relating to the Medicare and Medicaid programs. The list is available at:
http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-22160.pdf
5) HHS Awards $16.8 Million to States for Home- and Community-based
Services for Youth
On September 24, 2009, the Department of Health and Human
Services (HHS) announced awards to seven states, totaling almost $16.8 million
over
five years, for integrated home- and community-based services for youth with
serious mental health challenges. For a list of grantees, see:
http://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/advisories/090924youth1252.aspx
HOMELAND SECURITY
Deadline for REAL ID Compliance Extension Request Postponed
On September 28, 2009, the Department of Homeland
Security (DHS) announced in
the Federal Register an extension of the extension request date that
affords states more time to comply with REAL ID requirements. The new deadline
for compliance extension requests is December 1, 2009. For more information,
see the announcement at: http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-23381.pdf
INTERIOR
Global Warming Strategic Plan Proposed
On September 23, 2009, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service releases a proposed strategic plan that will guide the agency's efforts
to respond to global warming. The proposed strategic plan, which is available
for public review and comment during the next 60 days, will help guide the
services response to impacts such as changing wildlife migration patterns, the
spread of invasive species, changing precipitation patterns, and rising sea
levels. The plan can be found at: http://www.fws.gov/home/climatechange/
LABOR
House Passes Unemployment Extension Bill
On September 22, 2009, the House passed the
"Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2009" (H.R. 3548). The
legislation would extend unemployment benefits to jobless workers by up to 13
weeks in states where the unemployment rate is 8.5% or higher, on a three-month
rolling average. The cost of worker benefits and program administration will be
paid with federal funds. The Senate is expected to take up similar legislation
before the end of the month. For more information, see FFIS Issue Brief
09-36.
TRANSPORTATION
House Passes Three-Month SAFETEA-LU Extension
On September 24, 2009, the House passed a bill to extend federal surface
transportation laws for three months (H.R. 3617). Those laws expire on
September 30, 2009. The House bill does not include a repeal of the $8.7
billion rescission of unobligated federal contract
authority for states. For more information on the rescission, see FFIS Issue
Brief 09-35.
ARRA News
GENERAL
On September 24, 2009, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) posted
additional ARRA Section 1512 recipient reporting questions and answers on its
website. The new Q&As
are designated with an asterisk and can be found at:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/recovery_faqs/
AGRICULTURE
1) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) released a supplemental template with
guidance on recipient and vendor reporting for ARRA. The chart is in addition
to written FNS guidance on ARRA recipient reporting requirements released in
August. The chart can be found at:
http://www.fns.usda.gov/fdd/programs/tefap/TEFAP_Template--ARRA_Reporting.pdf
2) On September 23, 2009, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack
announced that selected state agencies will receive approximately $8.5 million
in grants funded by ARRA to improve Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for
Women, Infants and Children (WIC) administration and make it easier for WIC
recipients to purchase nutritious foods. For a list of grantees, see:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/09/0462.xml
ENERGY
On September 24, 2009, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced that more
than $106 million in funding from the ARRA is being awarded to nine states to
support energy efficiency and conservation activities under DOE's
Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program. These awards to
state energy offices will be used to support state-level energy efficiency
priorities, along with funding local conservation projects in smaller cities
and counties. At least 60%
of each state's award will be passed through to local cities and counties not
eligible for direct EECBG awards from DOE. For a full list of awards to date,
visit:
http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/
HOUSING
1) The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has developed a
consolidated list of program-specific support information, mainly sample
reporting templates, for Section 1512 recipient reporting requirements. The
list can be accessed at: http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/RECOVERY/Reporting
2) On September 23, 2009, HUD awarded $500 million in Public Housing Capital
Fund competitive grants that will allow public housing authorities across the U.S.
to build or renovate affordable rental apartments and make existing public
housing units more energy efficient. A list of awardees can be found at:
http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/press/documents/CapFunds%20Gap-Energy2.xls
3) On September 23, 2009, HUD awarded $300 million in grants from the Homeless
Prevention and Rapid Re-housing Program, a program started under ARRA. These
grants offer communities a resource to provide short- and medium-term rental
assistance and services to prevent individuals and families from becoming
homeless or to quickly re-house those who are experiencing homelessness. HUD
announced the first round of grants under this program on July 9, 2009, to more
than 400
communities, totaling $1.2 billion. Today's announcement brings the total
awarded amount of HPRP funds to 100%, or $1.5 billion. A list of awardees can
be found at:
http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/press/documents/DOC010.PDF
JUSTICE
On September 21, 2009, the Department of Justice announced $236 million in ARRA
and FY 2009 public safety funding to criminal justice initiatives to tribal
communities nationwide. More than $224 million will be administered by the
Office of Justice Programs (OJP) through the Correctional Facilities on Tribal
Lands Program. The program provides resources to allow eligible American Indian
tribes and Alaska Native villages to construct or renovate correctional
facilities on tribal lands, with consideration given to the detention bed space
needs and the violent crime statistics of the applicant tribe or village. A
listing of all recipients of the Recovery Act
Correctional Facilities on Tribal Lands Awards is available at:
http://www.ojp.gov/recovery/Tribalcorrectional_Awards.htm
An additional $12 million has been awarded for 2009
Tribal Youth Program to support enhanced tribal efforts to prevent and control
delinquency and improve the juvenile justice system for American Indian/Alaskan
Native youth. A major focus of the program is providing youth with mental
health services. A listing of all recipients of the 2009 Tribal Youth Program
awards is available at: http://www.ojp.gov/funding/FY09Awards.htm
September 22, 2009
APPROPRIATIONS
UPDATE
On September 17, 2009, the Senate passed its fiscal year (FY) 2010
spending bill for
transportation and housing. The Senate did not amend the proposed funding
levels
recommended by the Appropriations Committee. The bill would provide $75.8
billion for the Department of Transportation, including $42 billion for
highways, $11 billion for transit, $1.5 billion for Amtrak and $16 billion for
aviation. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) would
receive $45.8 billion, including $18.1 billion for Section 8 tenant-based
housing choice vouchers, $8.1 billion for the Section 8 project-based rental
assistance program, $3.99 billion for the Community Development Block Grant Program,
$785 million for housing for the elderly and $1.875 billion for Homeless
Assistance Grants. The bill now moves to conference to negotiate differences
between the House and Senate versions, including a nearly $3 billion difference
in proposed funding for high-speed passenger rail grants.
AGRICULTURE
1) Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Announces $13.9
Million in Economic Development Funding
On September 21, 2009, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced 23 recipients
to receive more than $13.9 million in loans and grants to spur economic
development in rural communities in 16 states and the Western Pacific. For a
list of recipients, see:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/09/0455.xml
2) USDA Awards 4.8 Million in Rural Economic Development Grants
On September 15, 2009, USDA announced that 28 organizations in 21 states have
been selected to receive $4.8 million in grants to spur economic development
and create jobs in rural communities. This announcement comes as part of the
'Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food' initiative, a USDA-wide collaboration that
will connect people more closely with the farmers who supply their food and
increase the production, marketing and consumption of fresh, nutritious food
that is grown locally in a sustainable manner. For a list of funded projects,
go to:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/09/0443.xml
3) USDA Awards $794 Million in Electric Loans to Bolster Rural Infrastructure
On September 15, 2009, USDA announced that 23 rural utilities and cooperatives
in 19 states have been selected to receive $794 million in loans to build and
repair 3,373 miles of distribution and transmission lines and make system
improvements that will benefit 24,959 rural customers. A list of funded
projects can be found at:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/09/0439.xml
EDUCATION
House Passes Education Bill
On September 17, 2009, the House passed the "Student Aid and Fiscal
Responsibility Act" (H.R. 3221). The bill would eliminate the Family
Federal Education Loan Program (FFELP) and originate all new student loans
through the Department of Education's Direct Loan Program by July 1, 2010.
However, the legislation would allow eligible state-based non-profit lenders to
maintain the servicing rights for up to 100,000 students in their state. In
addition, $40 billion of the savings generated from this shift would be spread
over 10 years to increase the maximum Pell Grant award to $6,900 by 2019, with
annual increases pegged to the increase in the Consumer Price Index plus 1 percent.
Other higher education policy reforms include $7 billion over 10 years for a
new Community College Challenge Grant Program; $6 billion annually for a
revised Federal Perkins Loan Program; $3 billion over five years for a new
College Access and Completion Fund; $2.5 billion for community college
construction; and simplification of the Free Application for Federal Student
Aid.
The bill also contains a number of non-higher-education related policy
initiatives, including $8 billion over eight years for a new state Early
Learning Challenge Grant Program and $4.1 billion for green renovation, repair,
or modernization of school buildings. The Senate has not yet introduced a
companion bill, but must do so by October 15, 2009 to comply with
reconciliation requirements.
ENERGY
1) DOE Awards Up to $14.6 Million to Support Development of Advanced Water
Power Technologies
On September 15, 2009, Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Steven Chu announced
that 22 advanced water power projects will receive up to $14.6 million in
funding to advance the commercial viability, market acceptance, and
environmental performance for new marine and hydrokinetic technologies as well
as conventional hydropower plants. For more information, see: http://www.energy.gov/news2009/8012.htm
2) Department of Energy Announces up to $40 Million in Available Funding for
Next Generation Nuclear Plants
On September 18, 2009, Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced that up to $40
million in funding will be available from DOE to support design and planning
work for the Next Generation Nuclear Plant (NGNP). Next Generation Nuclear
Plants will use new, high temperature, gas-cooled reactor technologies to
integrate multiple industrial applications in one plant or facility, such as
generating electricity while refining petroleum. NGNP will extend the
application of nuclear energy into the broader industrial and transportation
sectors. Applications are due November 16, 2009. Applications must be submitted
through http://www.FedConnect.net to
be considered for award. DOE expects to make up to two awards in February 2010
with each supporting a unique reactor concept. The full Funding Opportunity
Announcement is available at www.Grants.gov
and www.FedConnect.net under
DE-NE0000149, CFDA #81.121. For more information, see: http://www.energy.gov/news2009/8025.htm
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
1) Delay in Final FY 2011 FMAP Calculation
FFIS was planning to calculate Final FY 2011 FMAPs
on September 18, 2009, the day the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) was
scheduled to release revised state personal income data for 2006-2008. BEA
published the following notice on its website informing the public that the
data will be released instead on Friday, October 16, 2009. FFIS will calculate
the final FY 2011 FMAPs when the data become
available.
"State personal income statistics for the second quarter of 2009 and
comprehensive revisions to those statistics for earlier periods that had been
scheduled for release tomorrow, Friday, September 18, instead will be released
on Friday, October 16. BEA had accelerated the production of the revised state
personal income statistics that are consistent with the recently released
comprehensive revision of the GDP statistics, with the aim of releasing those
statistics more quickly than in previous comprehensive revisions. Due to
discrepancies just discovered in the data, we are unable to meet the
accelerated schedule. We apologize for the delay; but the statistics BEA
produces must meet our standards for accuracy."
2) Senate Finance Releases Health Care Proposal
On September 16, 2009, the Senate Finance Committee released America's Healthy
Future Act of 2009, which is the committee's health care reform proposal.
Modifications to the chairman's mark were released today. In addition,
mark-up began today and is expected to continue for several days. The
chairman's mark, the revised chairman's mark, a summary of proposed amendments,
and the Congressional Budget Office's analysis are available at: http://finance.senate.gov/sitepages/legislation.htm
FFIS is currently reviewing the proposal and cost estimates and expects to
release additional information in the coming days.
3) OIG Releases Findings on State and Local Pandemic Influenza Preparedness
In September 2009, the Office of Inspector General
released a report that determines the extent to which selected states and
localities have prepared for a medical surge in response to an influenza
pandemic, and conducted and documented exercises that test their medical surge
preparedness. The report is available at:
http://oig.hhs.gov/oei/reports/oei-02-08-00210.pdf
Another OIG report, released in September 2009, looks at local vaccine and
antiviral drug distribution and dispensing. The report is available at:
http://oig.hhs.gov/oei/reports/oei-04-08-00260.pdf
4) HHS Awards $1 Million to States to Help Older Americans Access Legal
Services
On September 18, 2009, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
awarded $1.1 million to 11 states to help at-risk older Americans gain better
access to legal services. Awards of approximately $100,000 each were made to California, Louisiana, Maine, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina,
Ohio, Rhode Island,
South Carolina, Utah,
and Vermont.
Additional information can be found at: http://www.aoa.gov/AoARoot/Press_Room/News/index.aspx
5) HHS Awards $46 Million in State and Community Prevention Performance
Grants
On September 14, 2009, HHS awarded $46 million over five years in Partnership
for Success: State and Community Prevention Performance Grants to Colorado,
Illinois, Connecticut, and Tennessee. This program helps states reduce
substance-abuse rates by addressing gaps in current prevention services. For
more information, see:
http://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/advisories/090914grant5610.aspx
6) HHS Announces Patient Safety and Medical Malpractice Initiative
On September 17, 2009, HHS announced that it will launch a new demonstration
initiative that seeks to help states and health care systems test models that
meet goals related to improving patient safety and addressing concerns with
related medical malpractice issues. The HHS initiative includes three
components: competitive grants for up to three years to help start and evaluate
efforts; competitive one-year planning grants; and a review component for
existing initiatives that work, which would be completed in December 2009. The
Funding
Opportunity Announcement will be available on Grants.gov within 30 days of the
September 17, 2009, announcement and award decisions are expected in early
2010. Additional information is available at: http://www.healthreform.gov/newsroom/factsheet/medicalliability.html
7) HHS Awards $35 Million to States for Increasing Adoptions
On September 14, 2009, HHS awarded $35 million to 38 states and Puerto Rico for
increasing the number of children adopted from foster care. The bonus amounts
by state are available at: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2009pres/09/20090914a.html
8) HHS Releases Additional Guidance on TANF Contingency Fund
On September 21, 2009, HHS released a Program
Instruction (PI) that provides questions and answers on TANF contingency funds.
The PI can be found at:
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofa/policy/pi-ofa/2009/200906/pi200906.htm
TRANSPORTATION
1) DOT and EPA Release Propose Rule on Auto Standards
On September 15, 2009, Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Ray
LaHood and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lisa P. Jackson
jointly proposed a rule establishing a national program that would improve
vehicle fuel economy and reduce greenhouse gases. Under the proposed program,
which covers model years 2012 through 2016, automobile manufacturers could
build a single, light-duty national fleet that satisfies all federal
requirements as well as the standards of California and other states. The
proposed program includes miles per
gallon requirements under NHTSA's Corporate Average
Fuel Economy Standards (CAFE) program and national emissions standards under
EPA's greenhouse gas program. The collaboration of federal agencies for this
proposal also allows for clearer rules for all automakers, instead of three
standards (DOT, EPA, and a state standard). For more information, see:
http://www.dot.gov/affairs/2009/dot14109.htm
2) DOT Issues $963,921 in Grants to Spur Community Involvement in Pipeline Safety
Efforts
On September 17, 2009, the Department of Transportation (DOT) Pipeline and
Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) announced that it has
selected 21 local communities and organizations to receive funding through the
agency's Technical Assistance Grant program. The grants totaling $963,921 will
be used by communities and organizations to obtain funding for engineering or
scientific technical pipeline assistance, foster open communication between the
public and pipeline operators on pipeline safety and environmental issues, and
perform other
important tasks. Award amounts are available at:
http://www.dot.gov/affairs/2009/dot14409.htm
3) FAA Grants Updates are Available
On September 18, 2009, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) updated its
list of cumulative funding for Airport Improvement Program grants. The updated
lists of new and cumulative grant funding are available listed under
"Fiscal Year 2009 AIP Grants" at: http://www.faa.gov/airports/aip/grantapportion_data/
ARRA News
GENERAL
On September 14, 2009, the Recovery Accountability and Transparency Board
(RATB) announced that it was moving the dates by which it would make data from
recipients of recovery funds available to the public. All recipients of
recovery funds are to report spending information on or before October 10 and
then have a short reconciliation period to make corrections. States have expressed
concern that the RATB intended to make all information it received on October
10 public immediately and before recipients had an opportunity to reconcile
their reports. To address
these concerns the RATB has decided to follow the following timeline for
displaying recipient data on www.Recovery.gov.
Data associated with contracts awarded directly by the federal government will
be displayed October 15; data regarding grants, loans and other assistance will
be displayed October 30; and all changes made by recipients during the
reconciliation period will be made public after November 1.
AGRICULTURE
1) For a list of ARRA projects funded by the Forest Service as of September 9,
2009, see:http://fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5085932.pdf
2) On September 4, 2009, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack
announced almost $5 million in grants for seven state agencies to simplify the
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) application and eligibility
systems and improve access to program benefits for America's low-income
households. The announcement is available at: http://www.recovery.gov/?q=node/881
COMMERCE
The Department of Commerce has released specific guidance on estimating
jobs for the Section 1512 recipient reporting requirements. The guidance is
available at: http://recovery.commerce.gov/JobCreationGuidance
EDUCATION
1) The Department of Education has made available the public comments submitted
in response to the Notice of Proposed Priorities for Race to the Top funds.
They can be viewed at: http://www.regulations.gov/search/Regs/home.html#docketDetail?R=ED-2009-OESE-0006
2) The Department of Education is seeking recommendations for reviewers for the
$4.35 billion Race to the Top fund. The deadline to apply is September 30. For
more information, see: http://www.ed.gov/programs/racetothetop/index.html
The letter and application may be found at: http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/secletter/090902.html
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced that $650
million in funding included in ARRA would be used to increase physical
activity, improve nutrition, decrease obesity, and decrease smoking in U.S.
communities. HHS released information on a funding opportunity for communities and
tribes to apply for $373 million in cooperative agreements for the comprehensive
public health initiative, Communities Putting Prevention to Work, to be led by
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2009pres/09/20090917a.html
HOUSING
1) On September 4, 2009, the Department of Housing (HUD) provided guidance for
Tax Credit Assistance Program (TCAP) grantees (i.e., state housing crediting
agencies) on meeting the environmental review requirements for projects to be
assisted with TCAP funds where an environmental review has been previously
conducted by HUD staff for another HUD program (e.g., HOPE VI or FHA
mortgages or insurance) under 24 CFR part 50. The guidance is available at:
http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/RECOVERY/programs/TCAP_RESOURCES/TCAP-ENVREVIEW-GUIDE.pdf
2) On September 18, 2009, HUD provided guidance for TCAP grantees (i.e., state
housing crediting agencies) that addressed TCAP administrative, project
compliance, and asset management costs that may occur during the implementation
of the TCAP program. Understanding the distinctions among these cost categories
will assist grantees in determining which costs are eligible TCAP costs and
which costs must be paid through other funding sources. Differentiating among
administrative, project compliance and asset management costs will also help
grantees understand which costs must be borne by the grantee, and which costs
can be paid for by the project owner, including costs for activities undertaken
by third-party contractors at the expense of the project owner. The guidance is
available at:
http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/RECOVERY/programs/TCAP_RESOURCES/TCAP-ASSTMNGMT-GUIDE.pdf
INTERIOR
On September 18, 2009, the Department of Interior announced that 20
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
will be the beneficiaries of $14.25 million for historic preservation grants aimed
at providing assistance in the repair of historic buildings on their campuses. http://www.doi.gov/news/09_News_Releases/091809a.html
JUSTICE
The Office on Victims of Crime (OVC) has released specific guidance on
estimating jobs for the Section 1512 recipient reporting requirements. The
guidance and a series of frequently asked questions is
available at: http://www.ovc.gov/fund/Recoveryfunds.html
LABOR
The Department of Labor has released agency-specific guidance on the Section
1512 recipient reporting requirements. The guidance is available at:http://wdr.doleta.gov/directives/corr_doc.cfm?DOCN=2792
TRANSPORTATION
1) This week, on September 22, 23 and 24, the Federal Transit
Administration will be conducting three webinars on
Section 1512 reporting requirements for FTS grant recipients. Details are
available at: http://www.fta.dot.gov/index_9440_10541.html
2) On September 18, 2009, the Federal Highway Administration released guidance
on reporting on executive compensation for the Section 1512 recipient reporting
requirements. The guidance is available at: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/economicrecovery/guidancedexeccomp.htm
3) On September 18, 2009, the FAA updated its list of cumulative ARRA grant
funding for FAA programs. The updated list of ARRA grants is available at: http://www.faa.gov/airports/aip/
4) On September 21, 2009, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announced
$100 million in Transit Investments for Greenhouse Gas and Energy Reduction
(TIGGER) grant funding for 43 transit agencies that are pursuing cutting-edge
environmental technologies to help reduce global warming, lessen America's
dependence on oil, and create green jobs. Award amounts are available at: http://www.dot.gov/affairs/2009/fta2209.htm
5) The Department of Transportation issued the following notice on its ARRA
homepage:
WARNING: DOT is aware of attempts to defraud potential Recovery Act grantees.
These attempts occur by written request for confidential financial information
that appear to be from DOT. DO NOT RESPOND TO THESE
REQUESTS. If you receive such a request, please contact us on 202-366-0747, or
e-mail the Senior Procurement Executive at recovery.grantee@dot.gov. DOT is
working with domestic and international law enforcement agencies to identify
and prosecute the persons responsible for this fraudulent activity.
September 14, 2009
APPROPRIATIONS
UPDATE
On September 10, 2009, the Senate Appropriations Committee approved the FY 2010
Defense spending bill. A link to the Committee's report on the bill can be
found at: http://thomas.loc.gov/home/approp/app10.html
EDUCATION
ED Awards $12.4 Million to Promote Instruction of Foreign Languages
On September 11, 2009, the Department of Education (ED) announced $12.4
million in Foreign Language Assistance Program grants to state and local school
systems in 24 states and the District of Columbia. The grant awards by state
are available at:
http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2009/09/09112009.html
ENERGY
House Passes Renewable Energy R&D Bills
On September 9, 2009, the House passed two bills that authorize new research
on wind energy and hybrid vehicle technology. The Wind Energy Research and
Development Act of 2009 (H.R. 3165) authorizes $1 billion for five years for a
Department of Energy (DOE) wind energy research and development program. The
Heavy Duty Hybrid Vehicle Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 2009
(H.R. 445) directs DOE to establish a competitive grant program for developing
technologies for advanced heavy-duty hybrid vehicles, including plug-in
technology. A summary of both bills, including legislative text, is available
at: http://thomas.loc.gov/
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
1) New Guidance for Child Care and Early Childhood Programs
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released guidance on helping
childcare and early childhood programs respond to influenza during the
2009-2010 season. The guidance and technical report are available at:
http://www.flu.gov/professional/school/childguidance.html
2) HHS Awards $5 million to Support
State Biomonitoring
Programs
On September 9, 2009, HHS awarded $5 million to California,
New York, and Washington to assess residents exposure to
chemicals. Using a technique known as biomonitoring, the
states will determine which environmental chemicals people have been exposed to
and how much of those chemicals are in their bodies. More information is
available at: http://www.cdc.gov/media/pressrel/2009/r090909.htm
3) HHS Releases $24.5 million to Support Poison Control Centers
On September 9, 2009, HHS announced $24.5 million in
grants to support the work of 55 poison control centers. The grants help poison
centers provide treatment recommendations for poisonings, comply with certification
requirements, and conduct evaluations of poison prevention strategies and
activities. Grant awards by state are available at: http://newsroom.hrsa.gov/releases/2009/poisoncontrol.htm
4) HHS Releases Guidance on Adoption Assistance
On August 26, 2009, HHS released a program instruction to provide states with information
regarding changes to the Title IV-E adoption assistance eligibility requirements
made by the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing AdoptionAct
of 2008 (P.L. 110-351). The guidance is available at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/laws_policies/policy/pi/2009/pi0910.htm
HOUSING
1) HUD Requests Comment on Section 8 Hold Harmless Policy In the
September 14, 2009, Federal Register, the Department of Housing and
Urban Development (HUD) requested public comment on whether it should end its
hold harmless policy in calculating income limits under the Section 8 program.
For FY 2009, HUD continued its policy of maintaining Section 8 income limits at
the previously published level in cases where HUD's estimate of area median
family income (MFI) or housing cost adjustment data, or changes in calculation
methodology, would lead to a lower income limit than was previously published.
The policy was adopted to ensure that Multifamily Tax Subsidy Projects (MTSPs) would not be subject to income-limit and rent decreases
when the data underlying income limits otherwise indicated decreases. However,
the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 (P.L. 110-289) changed the tax
code to protect existing MTSPs from decreases in
income limits and rents, should HUD decide to discontinue this policy. Comments
are due by October 14, 2009. The request can be found at:
http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/E9-22077.htm
2) HUD Announces FY 2008 Rural Housing and Economic Development Grants
In the September 2, 2009 Federal Register, HUD announced nearly
$17 million in FY 2008 competitive grant awards to 60 projects nationwide under
the Rural Housing and Economic Development Program. The program is designed to
build capacity at the state and local level for rural housing and economic
development and to support innovative housing and economic development
activities in rural areas. Eligible applicants are local rural non-profit
organizations, community development corporations, federally recognized Indian
tribes, state housing finance agencies, and state community and/or economic
development agencies. A list of award amounts is available at: http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/E9-21207.htm
INTERIOR
Grants under North American Wetlands Conservation Act Pass $1 Billion
Threshold
On September 9, 2009, Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar, announced that
the federal government has now made more than $1 billion in grants under the
North American Wetlands Conservation Act of 1989, helping to conserve or
restore more than 25.4 million acres of wetlands and associated habitat over
the past two decades. Under the Act, federal funds are matched or exceeded by
private contributions. For more information, see: http://www.doi.gov/news/09_News_Releases/090909a.html
TRANSPORTATION
FTA Seeks Comments on Proposed Project Management Oversight Rule
On September 10, 2009, the Federal Transit Administration
(FTA) published an advance notice of a proposed rule on capital project
management. FTA is considering a revision of its Project Management Oversight
(PMO) rule, shifting its focus from project oversight only to project
management and oversight. FTA seeks to obtain a broad array of comments from project
sponsors, industry representatives, the public and other stakeholders. Comments
must be received by November 9, 2009. For more information see:http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/E9-21849.htm
ARRA News
AGRICULTURE
1) On
September 10, 2009, Agriculture Secretary Vilsack
announced the selection of
$17.5 million in community facilities projects funded through ARRA. USDA has
announced nearly $252.5 million in ARRA funding for community facility projects
to date. For a list of projects, see:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1RD?printable=true&contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/09/0431.xml
2) On September 9, 2009, Secretary Vilsack announced
projects funded by ARRA for forest health protection projects. These 78
projects will receive almost $89 million and are located on forested lands in
30 states. Funding will be used to restore forest health conditions on federal,
state, and private forest and rangelands recovering from fires, forest insects anddisease outbreaks. For
a list of projects, click here.
ENERGY
On September 14, 2009, the Department of Energy
(DOE) announced a new $454 million competitive grant program designed to
initiate a nationwide energy upgrade. This program is the competitive portion
of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) funded under
ARRA. DOE released a Request for Information (RFI) to seek feedback on thetopic areas and evaluation criteria of the new program.
Comments are due on September 28, 2009. The Funding Opportunity Announcement is
expected to be released in early October, following the public comment period.
The RFI is available at here.
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
On September 11, 2009, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
announced an additional $33 million in ARRA funds to train health professions.
These funds are part of the $500 million to address workforce shortages under
ARRA. The press release and awards by state are available at:
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2009pres/09/20090911b.html
JUSTICE
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has updated its awards to several programs
administered by the Office of Justice Programs, including Edward Byrne Competitive
grants and Rural Law Enforcement Assistance. Links to update award amounts for
these programs and others can be found at: http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/recovery/awards.htm
AGRICULTURE
1) USDA Announces $5.8 Million for Team Nutrition Training Grants
On September 1, 2009, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) awarded
approximately $5.8 million in Team Nutrition Training Grants to 18 states to
help children develop good nutrition and physical activity habits for healthier
lifestyles. This funding provides schools with nutrition education materials
for children and parents as well as technical assistance for communities and
school food service providers. For the press release and a list of grants by
state, click here. (http://www.fns.usda.gov/cga/PressReleases/2009/PR-0416.htm)
2) USDA Releases Memo on Improperly Paid Funds for School Lunch Program
On August 27, 2009, USDA released a memo regarding findings in a study
indicating
improperly paid funds to school meal programs. The memo provides guidance to
state agencies on reducing payment errors among participating institutions:
http://www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/Governance/Policy-Memos/2009/SP_39-2009_os.pdf
EDUCATION
ED Releases Proposed Rule for Higher Education
On August 21, 2009, the Department of Education (ED) published in the Federal
Register a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to implement general and
non-loan provisions that were added to the Higher Education Act, as amended by
the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008. For more information, go to:
http://www.ed.gov/policy/highered/reg/hearulemaking/2009/gen-program.html
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
1) HHS Awards Grants to States to Expand Health Insurance Coverage
On September 3, 2009, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
(HHS) announced that 13 states would receive grants to support the expansion of
health care coverage for the uninsured. The grants are funded under the State
Health Access Program (SHAP) and represent the next phase of the State Planning
Grant program that operated from 2000-2007. The grants are intended to assist
states in implementing initiatives to provide affordable insurance to specific
uninsured groups. The grants, totaling more than $70 billion, will be made over
a five-year period and require a 20% match unless a state obtains a financial
hardship waiver. States also must show that they are able to sustain the
program after federal funding has ended. The FY 2009 grant awards are available
at:
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2009pres/09/20090903c.html
2) CMS Releases Additional Guidance to States on CHIPRA
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released three State
Health Official (SHO) letters on the implementation of the Children's Health
Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2009 (CHIPRA). The September 3, 2009,
letter expands upon previously released information (SHO #09-006) about the new
option for states to provide CHIP coverage to targeted low-income pregnant
women. On August 31, 2009, two letters were released. One letter addresses
Section 403 of CHIPRA, which requires state CHIP programs to apply several of
the managed care rules in Section 1932 of the Social Security Act in the same
way these provisions apply under the Medicaid program. The second letter
focuses on the provisions in CHIPRA (sections 111, 113, and 211) that are
intended to ensure immediate coverage up to age 1 for newborn babies born to mothers
who are enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP. The letters are available on the CMS website
at: http://www.cms.hhs.gov/SMDL/SHO/list.asp#TopOfPage
LABOR
DOL Encourages States to Widen Types of Training Approved for UI Beneficiaries
In an August 26, 2009, Training and Employment Guidance Letter (TEGL), the
Department of Labor (DOL) urged states to increase the types of training
approved for Unemployment Insurance (UI) beneficiaries and provided specific
guidance on revising state policies. The guidance can be found at: http://wdr.doleta.gov/directives/corr_doc.cfm?docn=2798
TRANSPORTATION
1) FTA Releases Additional Final Guidance on New Starts/Small Starts Policiesand Procedures
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) published a notice in the Federal
Register that provides additional 2009 final guidance on New Starts/Small
Starts policies and procedures. On July 29, 2009, FTA published the proposed
guidance and requested public comment. The final guidance, available at http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/E9-21173.htm,
is effective September 2, 2009.
2) FHWA Releases Proposed Implementation Plan for the Surface Transportation
Environment and Planning Cooperative Research Program (STEP)
On September 4, 2009, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) announced the proposedFY 2010 STEP implementation strategy in
anticipation of future transportation legislation and is soliciting comments on
proposed research activities. For more information on this notice, see: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/hep/step/fr04se09106.htm
3) FHWA Releases Redistribution of FY 2009 Obligation Authority
On September 4, 2009, FHWA released a notice to advise
of the redistribution of FY 2009obligation authority to states pursuant to
Section 1102(d) of SAFETEA-LU. The notice includes a table that shows the
redistribution of $1.03 billion in unused obligation authority, which must be
obligated by September 25, 2009. The table and more information on this notice
is available at: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/legsregs/directives/notices/n4520204.htm
ARRA News
GENERAL
1) On
August 31, 2009, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) updated its list of programs
that are subject to ARRA Section 1512 recipient reporting requirements. The list
is a supplement to OMB's June 22, 2009, guidance on ARRA recipient reporting requirements.
The updated list of programs can be viewed at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/assets/memoranda_fy2009/m09-21-supp1.pdf
2) Several agencies have released agency-specific guidance
on how prime recipients should estimate jobs created or retained in order to
satisfy ARRA Section 1512 recipient reporting requirements. Agencies with
available guidance on jobs estimates include the Department of Justice,
Department of Housing and Urban Development, the National Science Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Department of
Veterans Affairs. All guidance can be downloaded at:
http://www.recovery.gov/?q=content/agency-guidance-reporting
AGRICULTURE
1) On August 13, 2009, the Food and Nutrition Service released ARRA state
administrative funding charts for FY 2010 for the Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program (SNAP). For details, go to: http://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/rules/Memo/2009/081309.pdf
2) On September 3, 2009, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack
announced an additional $172.5 million in funding for water and environmental
projects in 24 states. http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/09/0421.xml
EDUCATION
1) On September 4, 2009, the Department of Education (ED) made available ahead
of schedule the second half of ARRA funding--$11.37 billion for Title I of the
Elementary and Secondary Education Act, IDEA, and Vocational Rehabilitation
grants. The press release is available at: http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2009/09/09042009.html
In addition, ED provided further guidance to states and schools on use of
funds,
flexibility, and the need for collaboration across programs. The new guidance
on Title I, IDEA, and Response to Intervention (RTI) does not impose any
requirements. It is designed to support and provide technical assistance to
states and school districts as
they decide how best to invest these resources. This guidance builds on earlier
ARRA guidance released by the department in April 2009. The following web links
provide the additional guidance:
* Title I ARRA funds, http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/leg/recovery/guidance/titlei-reform.pdf
* IDEA Part B ARRA funds, http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/leg/recovery/guidance/idea-b-reform.pdf
* IDEA Part C ARRA funds, http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/leg/recovery/guidance/idea-c-reform.pdf
* RTI guidance, http://www.ed.gov/programs/titleiparta/rti.html
2) On September 3, 2009, ED released tip sheets to assist recipients in
completing ARRA reporting requirements: http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/leg/recovery/section-1512.html
ENERGY
On September 1, 2009, the Department of Energy announced $502 million in
the first round of awards from a $3 billion ARRA program that funds clean
energy projects by providing direct payments in lieu of tax credits. The press release
and a list of projects by state is available at: http://www.energy.gov/news2009/7851.htm
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
1) On August 28, 2009, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) posted
updated funding information on the Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital
Program (DSH): http://transparency.cit.nih.gov/RecoveryGrants/grant.cfm?grant=DSH
2) On September 1, 2009, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) releaseda State Medicaid Director Letter on the Health
Information Technology (HIT) provisions inARRA. ARRA
allows for 100% federal financial participation (FFP) for state expenditures
for Medicaid provider incentive payments to encourage electronic health record
(EHR) technologyand for demonstrating meaningful use.
According to the letter, upon receipt, states may immediately request the 90%
FFP match for administrative planning activities. The letter also advises
states to immediately contact their CMS regional office for further guidance and
maintain ongoing communication while initiating planning activities. The
guidance states that planning activities are for the purposes of administering
the incentive payments to providers, ensuring their proper payments, auditing
and monitoring of such payments, and participating in statewide efforts to
promote interoperability and meaningful use of EHRs. CMS
indicated the agency is developing rulemaking that will provide more detailed
instruction on provider eligibility and rules for participation. The proposed
rulemaking is expected by the end of this year. The letter is available at:
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/SMDL/SMD/itemdetail.asp?filterType=none&filterByDID=0&sortByDID=1&sortOrder=descending&itemID=CMS1228276&intNumPerPage=10
HOUSING
1)
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has released
agency-specific guidance on how prime recipients should estimate jobs created or
retained in order to satisfy ARRA Section 1512 recipient reporting requirements.
Included in that guidance is a September 10, 2009, deadline
for prime recipients to notify HUD program contacts if the recipient intends to
use a statistical methodology to estimate jobs data rather than a direct
counting method in their October 2009 report. The full guidance can be
viewed at:
http://www.recovery.gov/sites/default/files/HUD%20Job%20Count%20Guidance.pdf
2) On August 21, 2009, HUD released implementation guidance for the Buy
American requirement of ARRA, including guidance on the process for applying
exceptions to that requirement. The guidance can be viewed at: http://www.hud.gov/offices/pih/publications/notices/09/pih2009-31.pdf
3) On August 26, 2009, HUD announced $50 million in Neighborhood Stabilization
Program (NSP) competitive grants in an effort to help state and local
governments address the inventory of foreclosed properties assisted under the
program. HUD is awarding $44.5 million to nine national organizations and
another $5.5 million to help local communities purchase, rehabilitate, and
resell foreclosed properties in especially hard-hit neighborhoods. Awardees and
amounts can be viewed at: http://www.hud.gov/news/release.cfm?content=pr09-159.cfm
4) On September 3, 2009, HUD announced the awarding of $96 million in public
housing capital fund competitive grants to 15 public housing authorities. The
list of awardees and award amounts can be found at: http://www.hud.gov/news/release.cfm?content=pr09-163.cfm
INTERIOR
The Department of the Interior has release guidance for recipients of ARRA
contracts and grants.
http://recovery.doi.gov/press/recipient-reporting/
JUSTICE
1) On September 2, 2009, Attorney General Eric Holder announced more than $129
million in ARRA and FY 2009 funding awards for mentoring services to help
prevent at-risk youth from becoming involved in delinquency. A list of awardees
and amounts can be found at:
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/newsroom/pressreleases/2009/OJJDP09151.htm
2) On September 10, 2009, the Office of Justice Programs (OJP), the Office on
Violence Against Women (OVW), and the Office of Community Oriented Policing
Services (COPS) will host a webinar on ARRA Section
1512 reporting requirements. The session will provide supplemental information
to OMB's existing guidance on recipient reporting. One of the key areas the webinar will cover is how to calculate and report data on
job creation and retention resulting from grant projects and activities. More
information is available at:
http://www.ovw.usdoj.gov/recovery.htm
LABOR
On September 1, 2009, the Department of Labor released guidance and information
on two new targeted groups for the Work Opportunity and Tax Credit (WOTC).
Under ARRA, unemployed veterans and disconnected youth who began work in 2009
or 2010 could be treated as members of a targeted group for purposes of the
WOTC. The guidance provides information on the timely implementation of
eligibility certification for these two new groups. It can be found at: http://wdr.doleta.gov/directives/corr_doc.cfm?docn=2798
TRANSPORTATION
On August 31, 2009, the Department of Transportation announced $20 million in
recovery funds to create the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Bonding
Assistance Program, an initiative that enables small and disadvantaged
businesses to be reimbursed for bonding premiums and fees incurred when
competing for, or performing on, transportation infrastructure projects funded
by ARRA. For more information on this program see: http://www.dot.gov/recovery/ost/osdbu/
AGRICULTURE
Rural Housing
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that
eight organizations have been selected to receive $600,000 in grants to help low-
and very-low-income rural residents repair their homes. The funds are being
provided under USDA Rural Development's Housing Preservation Grant program. For
more information, see: http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/08/0412.xml
ENERGY
Weatherization
On August 21, 2009, the Department of Energy updated
its series of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
related to the Weatherization Assistance Program. The contents include monitoring
and reporting, training, home audits, technical support,
federal funding, state and local spending best practices, and historical preservation.
FAQs and clarification can be viewed at: http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/weatherization/pdfs/wap_faqs.pdf
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Child Welfare Policy Manual
On August 25, 2009, the Administration for
Children and Families (ACF) updated the Child Welfare Policy Manual to include
information regarding the Guardianship Assistance Program. The additions are
available at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/j2ee/programs/cb/laws_policies/laws/cwpm/updates_add.jsp
FY 2007 Work Participation Rates
On August 28, 2009, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
released an Information Memorandum on Work Participation Rates for FY 2007.
Twelve states failed to meet their overall work participation rate requirements.
Seven states failed to meet their two-parent work participation rate requirement.
States that failed to meet either requirement are subject to a potential
penalty. The memorandum and
work participation rate table is available at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofa/policy/im-ofa/2009/200901/IM200901.htm
JUSTICE
Intellectual Property
On August 27, 2009, the Office of Justice Programs (OJP) announced funding
to develop national support for, and improve the capacity of state, local, and
tribal criminal justice systems addressing criminal intellectual property
enforcement. The grants, totaling over $1.98 million, fund
investigation, prosecution, prevention, training, and technical assistance
activities. Press release available at:
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/newsroom/pressreleases/2009/BJA09129.htm
TRANSPORTATION
Rescission
On August 25, 2009, the Department of Transportation
released a notice on the rescission of unobligated
balances of contract authority on September 30, 2009. This notice provides four
tables and details on the rescission in a question and answer format. For more
information on this notice please see: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/legsregs/directives/notices/n4510710.htm
ARRA News
AGRICULTURE
Water/Wastewater
Secretary Vilsack
announced the selection of $175.8 million in water and environmental projects
that are being funded through ARRA. The projects will help provide safe
drinking water and improved wastewater treatment for rural communities in 27
states. To date, USDA has announced $1.47 billion for water and environmental
project loans and grants through ARRA. For a list of projects, see:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/arranews?navid=NEWS_AUSUMS&parentnav=USDA_ARRA&edeployment_action=retrievecontent&contentid=2009/08/0398.xml
Trade Adjustment Assistance
The Department of Agriculture is requesting comments on a proposed rule
that would establish the procedures and eligibility criteria for receiving
assistance under the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) for Farmers Program. The
deadline for receiving written comments is September 24, 2009. For more
information, go to:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_3JL/.cmd/ad/.ar/sa.retrievecontent/.c/6_1_2KE
/.ce/7_1_4Q5/.p/5_1_4D3/.d/2/_th/J_1_V9/_s.7_0_A/7_0_3JL?PC_7_1_4Q5_navid=NEWS_AUSUMS&PC_7_1_4Q5_contentid=2009/08/0406.xml&PC_7_1_4Q5_
parentnav=USDA_ARRA#7_1_4Q5
Community Facilities
Vilsack announced the selection of $54 million in
community facilities projects that are being funded immediately through ARRA.
Altogether, USDA has announced nearly $234 million in Recovery Act funding for
community facility projects to date.
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_3JL/.
cmd/ad/.ar/sa.retrievecontent/.c/6_1_2KE/.ce/7_1_4Q5/.p/5_1_4D3/.d/3/_th/J_1_V9/_s.7_0
_A/7_0_3JLPC_7_1_4Q5_navid=NEWS_AUSUMS&PC_7_1_4Q5_contentid=2009/08/0402.xml&PC
_7_1_4Q5_parentnav=USDA_ARRA#7_1_4Q5ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/08/0409.xml
Broadband
The Commerce
Department's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)
and the Department of Agriculture's Rural Utilities Service (RUS)
have received almost 2,200 applications requesting nearly $28 billion in
funding for proposed broadband projects reaching all 50 states and
territories and the District of
Columbia. This is the first round of ARRA funding
aimed at expanding broadband access and adoption to help bridge the
technological divide and create jobs building Internet infrastructure, with $4
billion available through loans, grants, and loan/grant combinations. For more
information, see:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/08/0409.xml
EDUCATION
School Improvement. On August 26, 2009, Secretary of Education Duncan announced
draft requirements for $3.5 billion in Title I School Improvement grants to
turn around the nation's lowest performing schools. Press release: http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2009/08/08262009.html
Fact Sheet available at http://www.ed.gov/programs/sif/factsheet.html
Federal Register Notice:
http://www.ed.gov/legislation/FedRegister/other/2009-3/082609d.pdf
ENERGY
Clean Cities
On August 26, 2009, the Department of Energy announced the selection of 25 cost-share
projects under the Clean Cities program that will be funded with nearly $300
million from ARRA. These projects will speed the transformation of the nation's
vehicle fleet, putting more than 9,000 alternative fuel and energy efficient
vehicles on the road, and establishing 542 refueling locations across the country.
For more information see: http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=232
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
CSBG
On August 18, 2009, ACF released an Information Memorandum on the Risk Assessment
and Risk Mitigation Process for FY 2009 Community Services Block Grant (CSBG)
ARRA Funds: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ocs/csbg/guidance/im112.html
TRANSPORTATION
Economically Distressed Areas
On August 24, 2009, the Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA) issued guidance to provide additional information on the
determination of economically distressed areas under the priority language in
the Highway Infrastructure Investment appropriation of ARRA. The FHWA is
issuing this guidance after consultation with the Department of Commerce and
its Economic Development Administration,
which has reviewed the "special need" criteria. States shall give
priority to projects that are located in an economically distressed area and
can be completed within the three-year time frame over projects that meet only
one of the priorities, provided that such projects also meet the other
preferences, conditions, and requirements of ARRA. For more on this
program see: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/economicrecovery/guidancedistressed.html