October 2009
October 28, 2009
APPROPRIATIONS
Conference Committee Agrees on Interior and Environment
Spending Bill; Bill Includes Continuing Resolution
On October 27, 2009, a House-Senate conference committee approved a $32.2
billion Interior and Environment appropriations bill for fiscal year (FY) 2010
(H.R. 2996). The bill provides $10.3 billion for the Environmental Protection
Agency, including $2.1 billion for the Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund
(SRF) and $1.38 billion for the Drinking Water SRF. In addition, the bill
includes a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the federal government through
December 18, 2009. The current CR is set to expire at the end of the week. With
Congress having completed work on only four appropriations bills thus far, the
CR is necessary to allow the House and Senate time to address additional
appropriations measures. For additional details on the bill, see the conference
summary here: http://appropriations.house.gov/pdf/Interior_FY10_Conference_Summary.pdf
AGRICULTURE
USDA Announces $11 Million in Water Resource Projects
On October 21, 2009, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that its
National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) has awarded more than $11
million through the National Integrated Water Quality Program (NIWQP) to
address critical water resource issues including water quality protection and
water conservation. Find more details and a list of funded projects 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%2F10%2F0524.xml&PC_7_2_5JM_parentnav=LATEST_RELEASES&PC_7_2_5JM_navid=NEWS_RELEASE#7_2_5JM
COMMERCE
1) Census Bureau Launches 2010 Census Campaign with New Website
On October 26, 2009, the Census Bureau kicked off its communications campaign
to reach every resident in America with the launch of its 2010 Census website, http://2010.census.gov/2010census/.
The website features an interactive census form that provides a history and
explanation for each of the Census questions. In mid-November, a
one-pager about the Census will be available on the site in 59 languages.
In addition, users will be able to download an in-language guide about how to
answer the form. By the end of 2009, the entire site will be presented in
Spanish. Next year, the site will include a map that displays interactive mail
back response rates in an effort to track census progress and motivate
localities.
2) Department of Commerce to Hold Public Meeting on Broadband Data and
Research
On October 22, 2009, the National Telecommunications and Information
Administration (NTIA) announced that it will host a public meeting regarding
data related to broadband internet access that the agency collects, data needs
of researchers, and future broadband research. The meeting will be held at the
Department of Commerce, Washington,
DC, on October 30, 2009, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. There will also be a webcast of this event. For more information, see:
http://www.ntia.doc.gov/frnotices/2009/FR_Broadbanddatamtg_20091022.pdf
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
1) CMS Hosts Conference Call with States on Medicare Demonstration
On October 29, 2009, at 2:00 p.m. EST, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid
Services (CMS) will host a call with states to discuss the new
Medicare-Medicaid Advanced Primary Care Demonstration Initiative and obtain
input from states on the design of this demonstration project. The call is in
response to last month's announcement that CMS would establish a new
demonstration program to allow Medicare to join Medicaid and private insurers
in innovative state-based advanced primary care initiatives. CMS plans to start
soliciting applications from states this fall and begin implementing the
program early in 2010. The demonstration will take place over three years. The
number is 877-242-4924. The call leader is Amy Thornton, and the topic is
"Briefing with States." Additional information on this demonstration
program is available at: http://www.healthreform.gov/newsroom/factsheet/medicalhomes.html
2) CMS Releases Letter on the Medicaid Management Care
Provisions in CHIPRA
On October 21, 2009, CMS released a State Health Officials letter on the
Medicaid managed care requirements in the Children's Health Insurance Program
Reauthorization Act of 2009 (CHIPRA). Specifically, the letter provides
guidance to states on the application of quality assurance standards to state
CHIP managed care programs. To view the letter, go to: http://www.cms.hhs.gov/SMDL/downloads/SHO102109.pdf
3) HHS Provides First Quarter FY 2010 Allotments for LIHEAP
On October 22, 2009, the Department of Health and
Human Services (HHS) announced the release of $2.6 billion to states to help
low-income individuals pay their heating bills during October, November, and
December of this year. These funds represent the first quarter allotments under
the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). For a complete list of
state allocations, go to: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/news/press/2009/liheap_2010.html
4) Bill Introduced in Senate to Permanently Restore Child Support Incentive
Match
On October 22, 2009, a bill (S. 1859) was introduced in the Senate to
permanently restore the federal match on state spending of child support
incentive payments. The match was repealed as part of the Deficit Reduction Act
of 2005. ARRA restored the match for FY 2009 and FY 2010.
5) House Passes Ryan White Reauthorization
On October 21, 2009, the House passed the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment
Extension Act (S. 1793). The bill now goes to the president for his signature.
S. 1793 reauthorizes the Ryan White program through FY 2013. The program was
set to sunset on September 30, 2009, but was temporarily extended for one month.
The bill authorizes $2.35 billion for the Ryan White program in FY 2010, with
slight increases each year. Additionally, the bill requires states to adopt
name-based reporting for patients by the end of 2012.
6) ACF Releases Files to Help States Calculate Monthly Work Participation
Rates for TANF
On October 19, 2009, the Administration for Children and Families (ACF)
released a memorandum informing states that they can download from the ACF
website the Statistical Analysis System (SAS) programs and documentation files
that will enable a state to calculate its monthly work participation rates from
its quarterly transmission files. The calculation used in the SAS code
is the same as used by ACF to calculate the states official monthly work
participation rates. The official, annual work participation rate is a simple
average of the 12 monthly work participation rates. To download the files, go
to: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofa/policy/tanf-im.htm
HOMELAND SECURITY
DHS Releases Proposed Guidance to Protect First Responders in Anthrax Attack
On October 27, 2009, the Department of Homeland
Security (DHS) proposed guidelines to protect the health of first responders
during an aerosolized anthrax attack. The guidelines represent the
recommendations of an interagency task force consisting of subject matter
experts in bio-defense, infectious diseases, and occupational health and
safety. The guidelines were published in the Federal Register and
provide 30 days for public comment. To see this guidance, go to:
http://www.regulations.gov/search/Regs/home.html#documentDetail?R=0900006480a4bfea
HOUSING
1) HUD and DHS Disaster Recovery Website Launched
On October 28, 2009, Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Shaun
Donovan and Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano announced the
launch of http://disasterrecoveryworkinggroup.gov --
a new interagency website that will allow federal disaster recovery officials
to solicit public comments from state, local, and tribal partners, and the
public. The new website will be used by the federal government's newly formed
Long Term Disaster Recovery Working Group to allow stakeholders to submit ideas
for disaster recovery, articulate objectives for recovery assistance going
forward, identify examples of best practices, raise challenges and obstacles to
success, and share thoughts, experiences, and lessons learned.
2) Obama Administration to Propose Rule to
Insure Housing Programs Don't Discriminate
On October 21, 2009, HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan announced a series of
proposals to ensure that HUD's core housing programs are open to all,
regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. The initiatives announced
today will be a proposed rule that will provide the opportunity for public
comment. HUD expects to begin the regulatory process immediately. For more
information, see:
http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/press/press_releases_media_advisories/2009/HUDNo.09-206
LABOR
FY 2010 State Trade Adjustment Assistance Act Allocations Issued
The Employment and Training Administration (ETA) at the Department of Labor
(DOL) issued a Training and Employment Guidance Letter (TEGL) on October 22,
2009, to provide states with their initial allocations of Trade Adjustment
Assistance Act (TAA) formula training grants. The reauthorization of TAA in
ARRA modified the funding methodology by increasing the amount of total funds
held in reserve from 25% to 35% as well as reducing hold harmless payments from
85% to 25%, among other changes. The TEGL sets the new formula methodology used
in developing the FY 2010 initial allocations and describes the process for
requesting additional TAA program reserve funds in lieu of final federal
regulations, which will not be released until February 2010. To view your
state's allocation and obtain additional information, visit: http://wdr.doleta.gov/directives/corr_doc.cfm?docn=2813
NUTRITION
TEFAP Memo Released on Food, Administrative, and Conversion Funds
On October 23, 2009, the Food and Nutrition
Service (FNS) posted a memorandum on food and administrative funds and
conversions for The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) for FY 2010. The
memorandum is available at:
http://www.fns.usda.gov/fdd/programs/tefap/FY10_Funding_for_TEFAP.pdf
TRANSPORTATION
State Allocations for Extended
Highway Funds Available
On October 15, 2009, the Federal Highway Administration released Notice
4510.714 that contains state allocations of Highways Funds pursuant to the FY
2010 continuing resolution (P.L. 111-68). To view the full notice and state
allocations, see:
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/legsregs/directives/notices/n4510714.htm
ARRA News
GENERAL
Grant recipient reporting information is expected to become available to the
public at www.recovery.gov
on October 30, 2009.
AGRICULTURE
On October 21, 2009, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced $71.7
million in loan guarantees to assist 20 rural businesses in funding made
available by ARRA. To view a the press release and
listing by state, see:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/10/0521.xml
EDUCATION
1) On October 20, 2009, the Department of Education (ED) updated their Recovery
Act State Fact Sheets. These fact sheets outline the impact of ARRA funds on
each state and provide details on the amount of funds awarded. For more
information, go to: http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/leg/recovery/state-fact-sheets/index.html
2) On October 20, 2009, ED announced that it will hold public meetings across
the country to listen and learn from assessment experts and practitioners. The
goals include gathering technical input to inform the development of a Race to
the Top Assessment Competition and to enable states and the public to learn
from these events. The press release is available here:
http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2009/10/10202009.html
More detailed information about the public meetings is available in the Federal
Register:
http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-25600.pdf
ENERGY
1) On October 21, 2009, the Department of Energy (DOE), Office of Inspector
General released a special report on DOE's quality
assurance process for ARRA reporting requirements. The report, "The
Department of Energy's Quality Assurance Process for Prime Recipients'
Reporting for the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act" is available at:
http://www.ig.energy.gov/documents/OAS-RA-10-01-508.pdf
2) On October 26, 2009, DOE announced funding awards for 37 research projects.
The $151 million in funding is being awarded through the department's recently
formed Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E). This is the first
round of projects funded under ARPA-E, which received $400 million under ARRA.
Details, including projects by state, are available at: http://www.energy.gov/news2009/8207.htm
3) On October 20, 2009, DOE updated its table on the Weatherization Assistance
Program to reflect total ARRA funds awarded by state to date: http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/weatherization/recovery_act_awards.cfm
4) On October 27, 2009, President Obama announced
$3.4 billion in ARRA grants to 49 states for investments in a nationwide Smart
Grid. For more information, including a list of the grant awards, see:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/president-obama-announces-34-billion-investment-spur-transition-smart-energy-grid
HOUSING
On October 21, 2009, the Department of Housing and Urban Development released a
notice in the Federal Register providing national exceptions to the Buy
American provisions in ARRA (Section 1605c) for projects funded under the
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG-R) or Neighborhood Stabilization
Program 2 (NSP2). A full listing and explanation of the exceptions can be found
at:
http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-25217.pdf
LABOR
On October 22, 2009, the Department of Labor (DOL) issued the second change to
Unemployment Insurance Program Letter (UIPL) 14-09. This change notifies state
administrators that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) authorized the
collection of materials in support of UI modernization incentive payments, per
the request of DOL, and issued an OMB control number for this use. More
information can be found at: http://wdr.doleta.gov/directives/attach/UIPL/UIPL14-09c2.pdf
TREASURY
On October 27, 2009, the
Treasury Department announced the allocation of $2.2 billion in Clean Renewable
Energy Bonds (CREBs) for 805 recipients across the
country. Funded by the Energy Improvement and Extension Act of 2008 and the
Recovery Act, these bonds are intended to help government agencies, public
power providers, and cooperative electric companies obtain lower-cost financing
for clean energy development projects. For more information, see: http://www.treasury.gov/press/releases/tg333.htm
APPROPRIATIONS UPDATE
1) Updated FFIS Program Summary Table
FFIS has attached an updated version of our summary table of Major Program
Funding (the Jim
Martin Table) to reflect most recent House and Senate action
on the fiscal year (FY) 2010 appropriations process. The updated table reflects
passage of the conference reports for the Agriculture, Energy and Water, and
Homeland Security appropriations bills.
2) Additional CR Needed
The Continuing Resolution (CR) currently funding FY 2010 appropriations is set
to expire on October 31, 2009. With that deadline approaching, the House is
turning their attention toward passage of another CR to keep the government in
operation while individual appropriations bills are completed and passed.
AGRICULTURE
1) USDA Announces $49 Million in Grants under the Specialty Crop Block Grant
Program
On October 15, 2009, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the award
of
grants to states, the District of Columbia, and territories totaling
approximately $49 million to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops,
which are defined as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture,
and nursery crops. A list of awards by state is available at:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/10/0512.xml
2) FY 2010 Food Lists Available
The Food and Nutrition Service has published lists of FY 2010 foods
available for the
Commodity Supplemental Food Program, the Food Distribution Program on Indian
Reservations, and the Emergency Food Assistance Program. The new lists can be
found at: http://www.fns.usda.gov/fdd/whatsnew_fd.htm
EDUCATION
OIG Report Identifies Incorrect Information about ED's
Programs in CFDA
On October 13, 2009, the Department of Education
(ED), Office of Inspector General (OIG) issued an alert memorandum about
incorrect information found in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance
(CFDA). This problem affects ED programs administered by various offices and
requires immediate attention. The memorandum is available here: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/oig/auditreports/AlertMemorandums/l16j0075.pdf
ENVIRONMENT
EPA Finalizes Flexible Air Emissions Rule
On October 5, 2009, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized a rule
that gives industries greater leeway to change the types and amounts of air
emissions without violating their pollution permits. The rule promotes
"flexible air permits," which allow regulated facilities to get
approval for operational changes without requiring new permits as changes
occur. The rule affects the Clean Air Act's New Source Review and Title V
operating permit programs, and according to EPA, provides more flexibility to
industry while ensuring environmental protection is equal to or greater than
what is offered by conventional air permits. Facilities must still meet all
Clean Air Act requirements that apply. The final rule is available at:
http://www.epa.gov/NSR/documents/FinalRule2009.pdf
HEALTH AND HUMAN
SERVICES
1) Senate Finance Committee Releases Health Care Reform Language
On October 19, 2009, the Senate Finance Committee
released legislative language for "America's Healthy Future Act"
(S. 1796), the health reform proposal approved by the committee on October 13,
2009. The bill is available at:
http://finance.senate.gov/sitepages/leg/LEG%202009/101909%20America's%20Healthy%20Furture%20Act%202009%20Leg.pdf
2) CMS Releases Medicare Part B Premiums for 2010
On October 16, 2009, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
made public a notice announcing the Medicare Part B monthly premiums for 2010.
The monthly premium rate will increase from $96.40 in 2009 to $110.50 in 2010.
The Federal Register notice, which also contains information on monthly
actuarial rates and annual deductibles, is available at:
http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-25370.pdf
Last month, the House passed a bill, the Medicare Premium Fairness Act (H.R.
3631), that would prevent the increase in the Medicare Part B premium amount
for 2010 for certain Medicare beneficiaries. Current law protects most Medicare
enrollees from receiving a premium increase if there is not a cost-of-living
adjustment (COLA) in Social Security payments. However, this provision does not
apply to all enrollees, including those individuals dually eligible for
Medicare and Medicaid. H.R. 3631 would extend the hold-harmless policy to all
Medicare enrollees and freeze their premiums at the 2009 level. As a result,
states also would be held harmless from paying the increase in Part B premiums
for dual eligibles for 2010. The Senate has not yet
acted
on a similar bill.
3) HHS Releases Technical Guidance on Child Care Development Fund (CCDF)
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently released a
Technical Bulletin (#8r) to clarify a number of issues surrounding ACF-801
reporting requirements for CCDF. To view the Technical Bulletin, go to:
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ccb/report/formhelp/techbull/tb08_r1.htm
4) Program Instruction Released Regarding Use of TANF Funds for Domestic
Violence Victims
On October 14, 2009, HHS released a program instruction on the use of federal
TANF funds and state maintenance-of-effort (MOE) funds to assist victims of
domestic violence. The guidance is available at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofa/policy/tanf-pi.htm
5) Senate Passes Ryan White Act Reauthorization
On October 19, 2009, the Senate passed a bill (S.
1793) to reauthorize the Ryan White Act through FY 2013. The measure would
slightly increase the authorization level for the programs and would extend the
deadline that requires states to adopt name-based reporting to 2012. The House
Energy and Commerce Committee approved a similar bill (H.R. 3792) last week.
HOUSING
1) HUD Seeks Public Comment on Enterprise Income Verification System
On October 15, 2009, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
issued a proposed rule on regulatory revisions to the January 27, 2009, final
rule requiring the use of HUD's Enterprise Income Verification system by public
housing agencies and multifamily housing owners and management agents when
verifying the employment and income of program participants. The effective date
of that final rule was extended to January 31, 2010, by another final rule
published on August 28, 2009. The proposed rule is designed to make certain provisions
in the January 27, 2009, final rule more clear and to
return other regulatory provisions to their pre-January 2009 final rule
content. Public comments on the proposed rule are due by November 16, 2009. The
proposed regulations can be viewed at:
http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-24809.pdf
2) Treasury Announces New Housing Finance Agency Program
On October 19, 2009, the Treasury Department announced a new, temporary program
to help improve capital liquidity for state and local housing finance agencies
(HFAs) that are having difficulty raising money
through bond sales to finance mortgages for low- and moderate-income homeowners.
The program does not require congressional approval because funds would come from
the 2008 Housing and Economic Recovery Act. To view the HFA Initiative
announcement and fact sheet, go to: http://www.ustreas.gov/press/releases/tg323.htm
TRANSPORTATION
FY 2010 Federal Transit Administration Annual List of Certifications and
Assurances for Grants and Cooperative Agreements On October 19, 2009, the Federal
Transit Administration (FTA) issued a notice in the Federal Register
containing the comprehensive compilation of FTA's certifications
and assurances for FY 2010 applicable to the various federal assistance programs
that FTA will administer during FY 2010. These certifications and assurances
reflect federal statutory, regulatory, and programmatic changes that have now
become effective as of October1, 2009. To view this notice, see:
http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/E9-24922.htm
ARRA News
EDUCATION
On October 19, 2009, the White House
Domestic Policy Council, in cooperation with the Department of Education,
released a report on the educational impact of ARRA. A copy of the report is
available at:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/assets/documents/DPC_Education_Report.pdf
ENERGY
On October 15, 2009, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced new investments
in three university-led wind energy research facilities to enhance the testing
and production of advanced and efficient wind turbine. Additional information
is available at: http://www.energy.gov/news2009/8135.htm
ENVIRONMENT
1) The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently issued new program
and reporting guidance for the Brownfields Program
activities under ARRA. Click here for details: http://www.epa.gov/brownfields/eparecovery/index.htm
2) On October 13 and 14, 2009, EPA released reporting summaries on the status
of ARRA implementation with respect to the Clean Water State Revolving Fund
(SRF) and the Drinking Water SRF. To view these reports, visit the following
links:
Clean Water SRF: ARRA Reporting Summary Project List:
http://www.epa.gov/owm/cwfinance/cwsrf/cwsrf_arra.pdf
Drinking Water SRF: ARRA Reporting Summary Project List:
http://www.epa.gov/owm/cwfinance/cwsrf/dwsrf_arra.pdf
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
The Department of Health and Human Services
released Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) specific guidance to ARRA Section
1512 Reporting. To view the full guidance, see: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ccb/initiatives/arra/1512/arra_1512.pdf
LABOR
On October 19, 2009, Vice President Biden unveiled
Recovery Through Retrofit, a report that builds on the foundation laid in ARRA
to expand green job opportunities and boost energy savings by making homes more
energy efficient. The report is available at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/assets/documents/Recovery_Through_Retrofit_Final_Report.pdf
APPROPRIATIONS UPDATE
House, Senate Pass Agriculture Appropriations
Last week, the
House and Senate passed a conference report for the FY 2010
Agriculture appropriations bill. The bill, the second of the 12 appropriations
bills
completed by Congress, provides a $2.7 billion increase over FY 2009
appropriations.
Funding includes $1 billion for conservation programs; $1.18 billion for the
Environmental Quality Incentives Program; $100 million for the Rural Energy for
America Program; $887 million for watershed surveys and planning; $51 million
for resource conservation; and $16.9 billion for child nutrition programs. The
bill also extends the Child Nutrition Act for one year. President Obama is expected to sign it.
AGRICULTURE
1) USDA Announces $1.7 Billion in Conservation Reserve Program Rental
Payments
On October 7, 2009, Agriculture Secretary Vilsack
announced that the Department of
Agriculture (USDA) will distribute $1.7 billion in Conservation Reserve Program
(CRP) rental payments to participants across the country in FY 2010. For more
information on the program and payments by state, see:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/10/0497.xml
2) 1890 Land-Grant Institution Receive Funding
On October 6, 2009, 15 historically African-American land-grant
educational institutions in 14 states were awarded $1.5 million in economic
development and business promotion grants. The grants, provided through USDA
Rural Development, will help create businesses, promote cooperatives, and
provide jobs. The recipients are among the 18 institutions supported under the
Second Morrill Act of 1890, a law providing for the establishment of land-grant
institutions focusing on agriculture, home economics, and the mechanic arts.
For a list of awards, go to:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/10/0493.xml
3) USDA Awards $11 Million for Applied Plant Genomics Research,
Education, and Extension
On October 7, 2009, USDA announced more than $11 million in Coordinated
Agricultural Project (CAP) awards to advance research, education, and extension
in applied plant genomics. CAP awards combine funding over time and across
institutions to support discovery and applications and promote communication
leading to innovative science-based solutions to critical and emerging national
priorities and needs. These grants are awarded by USDA's National Institute of
Food and Agriculture (NIFA), previously the Cooperative State Research,
Education, and Extension Service, under the new Agriculture and Food Research Initiative
program to provide funding for fundamental and applied research, extension, and
education to address food and agricultural sciences. For a list of funded
institutions, see:
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%2F10%2F0496.xml&PC_7_2_5JM_parentnav=LATEST_RELEASES&PC_7_2_5JM_navid=NEWS_RELEASE#7_2_5JM
4) Grants for Research on the Biology of Plant Processes and Traits Announced
On October 14, 2009, Vilsack announced $7 million in
grants for research on the biology of plant processes and traits which can be
used to breed crops with enhanced value and resilience to climate stress. These
grants are awarded by USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA).
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=2009/10/0510.xml
5) USDA Releases Updates on Procurements for the Child Nutrition Programs
On October 9, 2009, USDA released guidance on apply geographic preferences
in procurements for the Child Nutrition Programs as well as an updated question
and answer document. The information can be accessed through the following
links:
http://www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/Governance/Policy-Memos/2010/SP_02-2010_os.pdf
http://www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/Governance/Policy-Memos/2010/SP_01-2010_os.pdf
6) USDA Publishes Final Rule on WIC Vendor Cost Containment
On October 8, 2009, USDA published a final rule in the Federal Register on
Special
Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) vendor
cost
containment that affects the selection, authorization, and reimbursement of
retail vendors. The final rule is effective November 9, 2009, and available at:
http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-24143.pdf
COMMERCE
Temporary Suspension of the Population Estimates and Income Estimates
Challenge Programs
On October 7, 2009, the Census Bureau published a proposed rule in the
Federal Register that provides notice to state and local governments and to
federal agencies that, beginning on January 1, 2010, the Census Bureau proposes
to temporarily suspend the Population Estimates Challenge Program and to
indefinitely suspend the Per Capita Income Estimates Challenge Program. During
this time, the Census Bureau would not review the July 1, 2009, population or
per capita estimates for state and other governments. This will allow the
Census Bureau to focus on the 2010 census. Comments are due on November 6,
2009. The proposed
notice is available at: http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-24164.pdf
EDUCATION
1) ED Releases $21.8 Billion in Formula Funds to States
On October 1, 2009, the Department of Education (ED) announced the
distribution of more than $21.8 billion in formula grants to state-administered
programs that support teachers and help students reach high standards. The
grants are being distributed through the following programs:
* Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act - $10.8 billion:
http://www.ed.gov/programs/titleiparta/index.html
* Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Part B - $8.6 billion:
http://www.ed.gov/programs/osepgts/index.html
* Improving Teacher Quality State Grants - $1.6 billion:
http://www.ed.gov/programs/teacherqual/index.html
* Career and Technical Education - $773.6 million:
http://www.ed.gov/programs/ctesbg/index.html
The formula grants originate from ED's annual
appropriation from Congress and are separate from the $100 billion in ARRA
funds. To see the press release and a state-by-state distribution list, go to: http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2009/10/10012009.html
2) ED Releases Mathematics 2009 State Snapshot Reports
On October 14, 2009, ED released "The
Nation's Report Card: Mathematics 2009 State Snapshot Reports for Grade
4." Individual states can be downloaded from the following link: http://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/pubs/stt2009/20104544.asp
3) ED Announces Upcoming Stakeholders Meeting
ED will hold the third in a series of policy discussions regarding the
reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) on October
21, 2009. The topic is "Promoting Innovation and Rethinking the Federal
Role." Additional details are available at: http://www.ed.gov/news/events/forum.html
ENERGY
DOE Announces Webcast for State and Local Officials
on Feed-In Tariffs
On October 13, 2009, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced that the
Technical
Assistance Project (TAP) for state and local officials is offering a web
seminar on how state and local governments are beginning to use feed-in tariffs
as a policy to advance emerging renewable energy technologies. The presentation
will take place on October 28, 2009. Additional information is available at:
http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/wip/tap_webcasts.cfm
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
1) Senate Finance Committee Passes Health Care Reform Measure
On October 13, 2009, the Senate Finance Committee passed a 10-year, $829
billion
health care reform proposal, "America's Healthy Future Act of 2009."
The comprehensive measure contains several provisions affecting Medicaid,
including a proposal to expand Medicaid to 133% of the federal poverty level
(FPL) for all parents, adults under 65 years of age without dependents, and
children. The proposal would also require all individuals to purchase health
insurance and provide federal subsidies to help low-income individuals in
purchasing such coverage; create new state-operated insurance options for low-income
individuals between 100% and 200% FPL; establish federal minimums for health insurance
rating standards; and change the tax code as part of an effort to reduce the proposal's
cost and reduce the rate of growth in health insurance. Prior to moving to the Senate
floor, the bill needs to be combined with the Senate Health, Education, Labor
and Pensions (HELP) Committee bill (S. 1679) that passed in July 2009. The
Finance Committee proposal, which includes all adopted amendments, can be
found at
http://finance.senate.gov/sitepages/legislation.htm.
The Congressional Budget Office
(CBO) released a preliminary analysis of the final proposal that is available
at
http://www.cbo.gov/ftpdocs/106xx/doc10642/10-7-Baucus_letter.pdf.
In addition, FFIS has attached a revised version of its verbal summary (http://ecom.ncsl.org/ffis/FFIS_verbal_summary_SFC_Oct_2_2009.xls)that
outlines the changes included in the proposal related to Medicaid and the
Children's Health Insurance Program. FFIS has also attached a document (http://ecom.ncsl.org/ffis/cost_model_October12_2009.xls)
that highlights issues for states to consider when estimating the impact of
health care reform on state Medicaid costs.
2) CMS Releases Guidance on CHIP Dental Coverage
On October 7, 2009, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)
released a letter to state health officials providing guidance on new dental
coverage requirements in the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
According to CMS, all states currently include some level of diagnostic and
preventive dental services in their CHIP program. Section 501 of the Children's
Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2009 (P.L. 111-3) added a new
requirement that child health assistance provided to a targeted low-income
child include coverage of dental services necessary to prevent disease and promote
oral health, restore oral structures to health and function, and treat
emergency conditions. The letter discusses the specific dental benefit package
categories and services that meet this requirement as well as the parameters
for benchmark dental benefit packages.
The requirement took effect October 1, 2009. The CMS letter can be accessed at:
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/SMDL/downloads/CHIPRA%20Dental%20SHO%20Final%20100709revised.pdf
3) FDA Awards $17.5 Million for Food and Feed Safety
On October 9, 2009, the Food and Drug Administration announced the award of 83
grants in FY 2009, totaling $17.5 million, to state and local regulatory
agencies to
boost food and feed safety initiatives among federal, state, and local
partners. The
grants fund cooperative agreements in four major areas: response, intervention,
innovation, and prevention. More information, including state awards, is
available at: http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm186150.htm
4) HHS Announces $1 Million in REACH Grants
On September 30, 2009, HHS released an Information Memorandum
(LIHEAP-IM-2009-10) to announce FY 2009 grantees receiving FY 2010 grant awards
under the Residential Energy Assistance Challenge Award, a program designed to
help low-income households reduce their energy vulnerability. Connecticut
and the District of Columbia
as well as four tribes and one territory received funds. Applications for a
second round of REACH grants will be announced later this year. The IM is
available at:http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ocs/liheap/guidance/information_memoranda/im09-10.html
5) HHS Releases LIHEAP Financial Reporting Requirements
On October 8, 2009, HHS released an Action Transmittal (LIHEAP-AT-2010-1) on
financial reporting requirements for all Low-Income Home Energy Assistance
Program (LIHEAP) grantees. The AT provides grantees with guidance for meeting
the requirement that they file a Standard Form 269A report on the obligation of
LIHEAP grant funds. The report, covering obligations taking place in FY 2009,
is due on December 31, 2009. To access the AT, see:
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ocs/liheap/guidance/action_transmittals/at10-01.html
6) AOA Awards $32 Million for Home and Community-Based Services and Supports
On September 29, 2009, the Administration on Aging (AOA) announced that more
than $32 million is available to expand and support community-based programs
that help promote health, independence, and community living for older
Americans, veterans, and people with disabilities. Links to specific programs
with state distributions are included in the following press release:
http://www.aoa.gov/aoaroot/press_room/for_the_press/pr/archive/2009/September/09_29_09.html
7) SAMHSA Releases a Series of Awards
Last week, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
(SAMHSA) announced the following awards:
-$28.7 million to help people transition from the criminal justice system to
the community
-$8.2 million in community substance abuse and HIV/Aids prevention grants
-$16.1 million to help children dealing with traumatic stress
-$2.4 million to expand substance abuse treatment capacity for juvenile drug
courts
-$15.3 million to expand substance abuse treatment capacity in targeted areas
-$2.5 million for statewide consumer network grants
-$15 million for national child traumatic stress initiative grant
-$25.9 million for primary and behavioral health care integration programs
-$11 million for early intervention techniques for patients at risk of
substance abuse
A list of grantees is available at: http://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/index.aspx
HOUSING
1) Housing Counseling Grants Announced
On October 14, 2009, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
announced more than $60 million in housing counseling and counseling training
grants. More than $55 million will support the direct provision of housing
counseling services. In addition, HUD is awarding $5 million to three national
organizations to train approximately 4,400 counselors who will receive the
instruction and certification necessary to effectively assist families with
their housing needs. For more information and a link to awards, see:
http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/press/press_releases_media_advisories/2009/HUDNo.09-199
2) Lead Reduction Grants Announced
On October 5, 2009, HUD's Office of Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Control
announced more than $118 million in grants to 46 local projects to conduct a
wide range of activities that include eliminating lead hazards in more than
9,000 homes, training workers in lead safety methods, increasing public
awareness about childhood lead poisoning, and evaluating outreach on
controlling housing-based hazards. The grants were released under four programs:
Lead-Based Hazard Control, Lead Hazard Reduction Demonstration Grant Program,
Lead Outreach Grants, and Healthy Homes
Technical Studies Grants. For more information, see:
http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/press/press_releases_media_advisories/2009/HUDNo.09-195
JUSTICE
Justice Department Announces Grants Under Second Chance Act Prisoner Reentry
Initiative
On October 6, 2009, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced more than $28
million in grant funding to states, local governments, and non-profit
organizations under the Second Chance Act Prisoner Reentry Initiative. Funding,
awarded through five separate grant programs, will be used to support reentry
programs that assist individuals' transition from prison back into the
community through a variety of services such as mentoring, literacy classes,
job training, education programs, substance abuse, rehabilitation, and mental
health programs for adult and juvenile offenders. For more information, see:
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/newsroom/pressreleases/2009/bja100001.htm
TRANSPORTATION
FHWA Releases Apportionment of FY 2010 Funds Pursuant to Extension of
Surface Transportation Programs
On October 9, 2009, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) issued a Notice
(N 4510.713) regarding apportioned Federal-aid highway program funds pursuant
to the extension of surface transportation programs in the FY 2010 Continuing Resolution
(P.L. 111-68). The apportionments are effective immediately. To read this
notice and view tables, see: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/legsregs/directives/notices/n4510713.htm
ARRA News
AGRICULTURE
1) On October 6, 2009, Agriculture Secretary Vilsack
announced the selection of $190 million in water and environmental project
loans and grants that are being funded through ARRA. Altogether, the Department
of Agriculture (USDA) has announced $1.8 billion for water and environmental
project loans and grants. For a list of the most recent projects, see:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/10/0494.xml
2) On October 14, 2009, Agriculture Secretary Vilsack
announced that USDA is providing $30 million through ARRA for 36 community
facilities projects, many of which are for health care facilities. To date,
USDA has announced more than $335 million in ARRA funding for community
facilities projects. For a list of current projects, go to:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/10/0509.xml
COMMERCE
On October 5, 2009, the Department of Commerce's National
Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced that it
awarded the first four grants under NTIA's State
Broadband Data and Development Grant Program to fund activities in California,
Indiana, North Carolina, and Vermont. For more information, see: http://www.ntia.doc.gov/press/2009/BTOP_MappingAwards_091005.html
EDUCATION
1) On October 6, 2009, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan announced the
department's priorities for grants under the $650 million Investing
in Innovation Fund. The fund, which is part of the $5 billion investment in
school reform in ARRA, will support local efforts to start or expand research-based
innovative programs that help close the achievement gap and improve outcomes
for students. The proposed priorities were published in the Federal Register
on October 9, 2009, and comments are due on November 9, 2009. To view the
notice, please go to: http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-24387.pdf.
For information about the program, go to: http://www.ed.gov/programs/innovation/factsheet.html
2) On September 30, 2009, the U.S. Department of Education Inspector General
released an alert memorandum on potential consequences of the Maintenance of
Effort (MOE) requirements under the State Fiscal Stabilization Fund (SFSF). The
memo finds that the flexibility in the MOE requirements may be resulting in
states reducing funding for public education and could adversely impact the
achievement of education reform objectives of the SFSF program. The inspector
general recommends that the department take action to reduce these potential
consequences. To view the memo, go to:
http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/oig/auditreports/AlertMemorandums/l03j0011.pdf
HOUSING
1) On October 5, 2009, HUD posted its second frequently asked questions (FAQs) document regarding the Public Housing Capital Fund.
HUD also provided additional information for Capital Fund grant recipients on
their two reporting requirements. The posted information states that Public
Housing Agencies (PHAs) will report on activities,
job creation, and job retention in federalreporting.gov and
on National Environmental Policy Act reviews in the Recovery Act Management
Performance System (RAMPS).
To view the new FAQs, see:
http://www.hud.gov/offices/pih/programs/ph/capfund/ocir/rcryact-faq2.pdf
For more information on ARRA reporting for Capital Fund recipients, see:
http://www.hud.gov/offices/pih/programs/ph/capfund/ocir.cfm
2) HUD has published a federalreporting.gov tip sheet for Tax Credit Assistance
Program grant recipients. The tip sheet can be accessed from:
http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/RECOVERY/programs/TAX
JUSTICE
On October 8, 2009, Attorney General Eric Holder
announced more than $37 million in ARRA and FY 2009 grants that have been
awarded to support organizations in developing, implementing, and expanding
youth mentoring activities. For a list of awards, see: http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/newsroom/pressreleases/2009/OJJDP09157.htm
LABOR
On October 7, 2009, the Employment and Training
Administration (ETA) released guidance announcing the extension of the period
granted to state workforce agencies (SWAs) and employers
for the uninterrupted use of 2008 Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) processing
forms. To view the guidance, go to:
http://wdr.doleta.gov/directives/attach/TEGL/TEGL03-09Ch1.pdf
TRANSPORTATION
On October 13, 2009, the Federal Transit
Administration issued a notice in the Federal Register that announces
recipients of the $100 million in ARRA funds for the Transit Investments for Greenhouse
Gas and Energy Reduction (TIGGER) grants. The notice also responds to the comments
received in response to the request for comments on the program structure and requirements
in FTA's Notice of Funding Availability. To view this
notice, see:
http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/E9-24479.htm
APPROPRIATIONS UPDATE
Continuing Resolution Signed into Law
On September 30, 2009, Congress passed the
Legislative Branch appropriations bill,
P.L. 111-68, that included a one-month Continuing Resolution (CR) for all
fiscal year
(FY) 2010 appropriations. The CR keeps the federal government funded at current
levels as the new fiscal year begins. The president signed the bill on October
1, 2009.
AGRICULTURE
1) Rural Development Housing Preservation Grants Announced
On October 2, 2009, Agriculture Secretary Vilsack
announced that the Department of
Agriculture (USDA) is providing $9.8 million in grants to repair rural housing
and make energy efficiency improvements in 48 states and Puerto
Rico. The funds are being awarded through the USDA Rural
Development Housing Preservation Grant program. For a list of funded projects,
go to:
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/_th/J_2_9D/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?PC_7_2_5JM_contentid=2009%2F10%2F0486.xml&PC_7_2_5JM_parentnav=LATEST_RELEASES&PC_7_2_5JM_navid=NEWS_RELEASE
2) Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Awards $2.4
Billion in Electric Loans to Bolster Rural Infrastructure
On September 30, 2009, Vilsack announced that 58
rural utilities and cooperatives in 33 states have been selected to receive
$2.4 billion in loans and loan guarantees to build and repair more than 12,000
miles of distribution and transmission lines and make system improvements that
will benefit almost 113,000 rural customers. For a list of recipients, see:
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/_th/J_2_9D/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?PC_7_2_5JM_contentid=2009%2F09%2F0483.xml&PC_7_2_5JM_parentnav=LATEST_RELEASES&PC_7_2_5JM_navid=NEWS_RELEASE
3) USDA Begins Issuing Livestock Forage Disaster Payments
On September 28, 2009, Vilsack announced that ranchers
who have signed up for the Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) have begun
receiving disaster payments for forage losses due to severe drought. Producers
are reminded that LFP sign up for 2008 losses ends December 10, 2009, and
January 30, 2010, for 2009 losses. For more information, see:
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/0/_th/J_2_9D/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?PC_7_2_5JM_contentid=2009%2F09%2F0476.xml&PC_7_2_5JM_parentnav=LATEST_RELEASES&PC_7_2_5JM_navid=NEWS_RELEASE#7_2_5JM
4) $1.4 Million in Grants Awarded to Small and Socially Disadvantaged
Agricultural Producers and Cooperatives
On September 28, 2009, Vilsack announced that USDA
has selected 10 organizations in eight states to receive $1.4 million in grants
to assist small, socially disadvantaged agricultural producers and cooperatives
in rural areas. A list of funded projects 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/0/_th/J_2_9D/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?PC_7_2_5JM_contentid=2009%2F09%2F0475.xml&PC_7_2_5JM_parentnav=LATEST_RELEASES&PC_7_2_5JM_navid=NEWS_RELEASE#7_2_5JM
5) Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Announces $18
Million to States for Timely
Nutrition Aid
On September 30, 2009, Agriculture Secretary Vilsack
announced $18 million in bonus awards to states for outstanding and timely
customer service in providing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
benefits. Of the total, $12 million will go to eight states with the best and
most improved program access index. The program access index is the ratio of
participants to the number of persons below 125% of poverty and reflects state
performance in reaching those eligible for benefits. USDA also awarded $6
million to six states with the highest rate of timely processed applications.
For the list of grantees, go to:
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?contentidonly=true&contentid=2009/09/0481.xml
EDUCATION
1) $6.6 Million in Striving Readers Grants Awarded to Help Struggling
Readers
Eight states will receive $6.6 million in Striving Readers grants to improve
the literacy skills of struggling adolescent readers, Secretary of Education
Arne Duncan announced on September 29, 2009. The purpose of the Striving Readers
program is to raise reading achievement in Title I-eligible middle and high
schools where significant numbers of students are faced with the challenges of
poverty and reading below grade level. For more information, go to: http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2009/09/09292009.html
2) Education Secretary Duncan Announces $43 Million in Grants to Improve
Teaching in High-Need Schools
Secretary of Education Arne Duncan announced on
September 29, 2009, the award of $43 million for 28 new five-year Teacher
Quality
Partnership grants to improve instruction in struggling schools. These grants
will be used to reform traditional university teacher preparation and teacher
residency programs. For a list of grantees, go to:
http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2009/09/09302009.html
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
1) Senate Finance Committee Finishes Consideration of Health Care Reform
Last week, the Senate Finance Committee completed consideration of its version
of health care reform legislation. A committee vote is expected this week, once
the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) develops a preliminary cost estimate. The
chairman's mark has been revised to reflect the amendments that were adopted
throughout the process. The revised text is available at: http://finance.senate.gov/sitepages/Americas_Healthy_Future_Act.html.
One amendment that was approved would keep the current structure of the
Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). States would be required to
maintain income eligibility levels for currently eligible children in Medicaid
and CHIP until December 31, 2019. In addition, states would receive a 23
percentage point increase in the CHIP match rate through FY 2019. States would
also receive an increase of 0.15 percentage points in their Medicaid match rate
to offset the additional state costs due to the Medicaid
maintenance-of-effort provision.
The bill must now be merged with the bill approved in July by the Senate
Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee.
2) HHS Announces CHIP Outreach and Enrollment Grants
On September 30, 2009, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
announced $40 million in grants in 41 states and the District of Columbia for outreach and
enrollment efforts targeted to uninsured children. The purpose of the grants is
to support efforts to identify children who are eligible for but not yet
enrolled in either Medicaid or CHIP. The funding was approved as part of
the Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2009 (CHIPRA),
which passed earlier this year. CHIPRA included $100 million for FYs 2009-2013
for outreach grants. Of this, $80 million is designated for states and other organizations,
$10 million for tribal organizations, and $10 million for a national outreach effort.
A list of grantees by state and additional information is available at:
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/CHIPRA/04_outreachenrollmentgrants.asp
3) HHS Announces Ryan
White Awards
On October 2, 2009, HHS announced $2.7 million in FY 2009 Ryan White HIV/AIDS
Program Part D awards to eight organizations that provide HIV/AIDS services to
women, infants, children, and youth. In addition, HHS announced $5 million from
Special Projects of National Significance to test innovative ways of delivering
HIV/AIDS services to women of color. For a list of grantees by state, see:
http://newsroom.hrsa.gov/releases/2009/rwpartD.htm
http://newsroom.hrsa.gov/releases/2009/womenofcolor.htm
4) HHS Announces Family Connection Grants
HHS recently announced FY 2009 Family Connection discretionary grants. The
Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act of 2008 (P.L.
110-351) authorized the secretary of HHS to issue competitive, matching grants
to state, local, and tribal child welfare agencies, and private nonprofit
organizations for the purpose of helping children who are in or are at-risk of
entering into foster care reconnect with family members. HHS awarded 24 grants,
which include six state grants (Hawaii, Oklahoma, Maryland, Wisconsin, South Carolina,
and Maine).
For a list of grantees, go to:
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/programs_fund/discretionary/2009.htm
5) SAMHSA Releases a Series of Awards
Last week, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
(SAMHSA) announced the following awards:
- $30.9 million to community treatment and service centers helping children
suffering from traumatic stress;
- $38.2 million to expand adult drug treatment courts;
- $1.2 million for statewide family network grants;
- $14.7 million for residential treatment of pregnant and postpartum women;
- $170.5 million to fund systems of care for children and youth with serious
mental health challenges;
- $12.2 million for family centered substance abuse treatment;
- $4.4 million to prevent and reduce alcohol use among youth;
- $43 million to expand services for homeless individuals;
- $33 million for substance abuse treatment and HIV/AIDS services to
underserved communities; and
- $10 million in grants for jail diversion and trauma recovery
A list of grantees is available at: http://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/index.aspx
LABOR
DOL Announces $164 million for State UI Technology Infrastructure Grants
On September 28, 2009, the Department of Labor (DOL) announced $164.5 million
to 49 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands to
make technology upgrades that will improve the operationand
security of unemployment insurance (UI) systems. Funds will be used for a
variety of projects designed to improve services for both UI claimants and
employers, including: modernizing systems to improve and speed UI benefit payments,
tax collections, and appeals processing; helping consumers avoid debit card
fees when collecting benefits; making improvements in information technology
contingency and security plans; and implementing strategies to improve overall
program integrity. The funding was provided following supplemental budget
requests by nearly all states and is
made available through the FY 2009 appropriations for state administration of
the UI program. A list of awardees can be found at:
http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/eta/eta20091184.htm#
TRANSPORTATION
1) Guidance on Urbanized Area Formula Program Proposed
On September 30, 2009, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) released
proposed
guidance in the form of a circular to assist grantees in implementing the
Urbanized Area Formula Program (Section 5307). Comments must be submitted by
November 30, 2009. To view this notice, see:
http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/E9-23584.htm
2) Additional Information on $8.7 billion Rescission Issued
On September 28, 2009, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) issued
additional information (Notice 4510.712) in regards to Notice 4510.707 -
Rescission of Federal-aid Apportionments Pursuant to the Consolidated Appropriations
Act, 2009. This Notice was issued to notify the states of the procedures for
the implementation of the $8.7 billion rescission of unobligated
balances of Federal-aid highway funds apportioned to states. The funds were
rescinded on September 30, 2009. To view this notice and the attached tables
see: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/legsregs/directives/notices/n4510712.htm
On September 30, 2009, FHWA issued a Response to Notice 4510.707. To view this
response summary, questions, and tables see: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/rescissions/pl111_8/index.htm
ARRA News
AGRICULTURE
On September 30, 2009, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) released a
memorandum with ARRA reporting and registration requirements for the Supplemental
Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) technology projects.
The memorandum provides questions and answers to help states comply with ARRA
reporting requirements. For a copy of the memo, go to:
http://www.fns.usda.gov/fns/recovery/memos/WIC_registration-reporting.pdf
EDUCATION
On October 2,
2009 and September 24, 2009, the Department of Education (ED)
notified presidents and financial aid administrators at approximately 1,800
postsecondary education institutions that are subject to Section 1512 recipient
reporting for the Federal Work-Study Program that they are required to register
as users at http://www.federalreporting.gov/.
Guidance from the Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) set a threshold of $25,000 for ARRA reporting,
which means, in the case of the Federal Work-Study Program, only institutions receiving
at least $25,000 in ARRA funding for the 2009-10 Award Year are subject to
these reporting requirements. ED notes that the $25,000 threshold applies only
to ARRA funds received and not to the total amount of Federal Work-Study
Program funds received by an institution for the 2009-10
Award Year. Also, ED clarified that no special reporting by institutions
or states
is required under the Federal Pell Grant Program. For more information, please
see: http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/leg/recovery/section-1512.html
ENVIRONMENT
On October 1, 2009, the Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) released supplemental guidance on measuring and reporting job estimates.
In the form of questions and answers, the guidance seek to address questions
arising with both reporting the number of jobs through comprehensive reporting
and the use of statistical methods in estimating job impacts of ARRA. To
view this information, see:
http://epa.gov/recovery/supplement.html
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
1) On September
30, 2009, HHS awarded $46 million to 84 grantees under a new
program created by ARRA, the Strengthening Communities Fund. Under the State,
Local, and Tribal Capacity Building Program, entities in 29 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico,
and territories received awards. Under the Nonprofit Capacity Building Program,
35 applicants received awards. A list of grants by state is available at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/news/press/2009/scf_chart.html
2) On October 1, 2009, HHS
announced 63 awards totaling more than $7.6 million to
help states recruit new health care clinicians and alleviate their debt burden.
The funds are part of the $500 million included in ARRA to address workforce
shortages and encourage diversity in the health professions. A list of grants
by state is available at: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2009pres/09/20090930c.html
3) On September 29, 2009, HHS
released $27.8 million in ARRA funds to health centers to expand the use of
health information technology (HIT). These funds are part of the $2
billion in ARRA to expand health centers. For a list of grant
recipients, see: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2009pres/09/20090929a.html
4) On September 29, 2009,
HHS announced the release of $120 million in cooperative agreements approved as
part of ARRA for prevention and wellness programs for states and territories.
The cooperative agreements will be awarded to states and territories for three
components: statewide policy and environmental change, tobacco cessation
through quit lines and media campaigns, and special initiatives to create
health-promoting policies and environments. The application deadline is
November 24, 2009. For more information, see: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2009pres/09/20090929b.html
5) HHS released a Recovery
Act Recipient Reporting Readiness Tool that provides grant-specific information
to assist recipients prepare for data reporting: http://taggs.hhs.gov/ReadinessTool/
HHS supplemental jobs
guidance and sample reports are available at: http://www.hhs.gov/recovery/reports/reportingassistance.html#supplemental
HOUSING
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) released program-specific
guidance for the Tax Credit Assistance Program (TCAP) on estimating jobs, as
required under ARRA section 1512. The guidance can be found at:
http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/RECOVERY/programs/TCAP_RESOURCES/TCAP-JOBCOUNT-GUIDE.pdf
JUSTICE
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has developed various guidance documents and
tools to assist ARRA recipients in meeting the section 1512 reporting
requirements. This information is consolidated on a single webpage, which can
be seen at: http://www.ojp.gov/recovery/recipientreporting.htm
LABOR
The Employment and Training Administration of the Department of Labor (DOL) has
released two letters of clarification related to its agency-specific guidance
on ARRA section 1512 reporting requirements, Training and Employment Guidance
Letter (TEGL) 09-01. The first clarification, provided in TEGL 01-09, Change 1,
describes estimating job creation for summer youth programs. The second
clarification, provided in TEGL 01-09 Change 2, describes how states should
report on Workforce Investment Act programs that share the same award number,
but have different numbers in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA).
For specific information, link to both letters of clarification at:
http://www.doleta.gov/recovery/legislation.cfm