Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-34

Section Title: Disclosure of the Issuance and Termination of Enforcement Documents

Effective Date: 1/27/2005

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [NV-96-22; NV-05-01] (70 FR 71142, 11/25/2005)

Effective Date: 27-JAN-05.

Effect on Previous Actions: BM-13-JAN-94-03 (FCA-PS-57).

Source of Authority: None.

The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board finds that it is in the best interest of the Farm Credit 

System (FCS), the FCA, and the public that certain information concerning the issuance and any 

subsequent termination of final enforcement orders, formal agreements and conditions imposed in writing 

(Enforcement Documents) be disclosed to the FCS and the public. Specifically, the basis for disclosing 

this information is to communicate to the FCS and the public that the FCA is effectively using its 

enforcement powers through the issuance of Enforcement Documents and the subsequent termination of 

such Enforcement Documents, when appropriate.

THE FCA BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE FOLLOWING POLICY STATEMENT:

Upon issuance or termination of any Enforcement Document, the Office of Examination shall notify the 

Director of the Office of Communications and Public Affairs (OCPA) of such event. OCPA shall 

prepare, for release to the FCS and the public, a disclosure, subject to the concurrence of the Office of 

General Counsel (OGC). If the OGC determines that a disclosure adversely affects a civil or criminal 

investigation, the disclosure will not be made. The disclosure shall include the information described 

below:

1. The type and date of action taken;

2. The type of institution to which the action pertains, or if the action pertains to an individual or entity, 

the relationship between the individual or entity and the institution; and

3. A description of the essential facts pertaining to the action, excluding information that would identify 

the institution and/or persons involved.

DATED THIS 27th DAY OF JANUARY, 2005

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

Jeanette C. Brinkley,

Secretary to the Board.
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-35

Section Title: Oversight of the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation

Effective Date: 01/16/2020

Source of Authority: Sections 5.9, 5.19, 8.1, and 8.11 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as

amended.

THE FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE FOLLOWING POLICY 

STATEMENT:

This policy provides the general strategy and direction to the Office of Secondary Market 

Oversight (OSMO) for the examination, regulation, and supervision of the Federal Agricultural 

Mortgage Corporation (Farmer Mac or Corporation).

Background

The Farm Credit Administration (FCA or Agency) is an independent Federal agency responsible 

for examining, regulating, and supervising the Farm Credit System (FCS or System), which 

includes Farmer Mac. FCA ensures that System institutions and Farmer Mac are safe, sound, 

and dependable sources of credit and related services for all creditworthy and eligible persons 

in agriculture and rural America. Farmer Mac is a government-sponsored enterprise with the 

mission of providing a secondary market for agricultural real estate mortgage loans, rural 

housing mortgage loans, and rural utility cooperative loans. The duties of the Corporation are 

defined in Section 8.1(b) of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended (Act).

The OSMO provides for the examination, regulation, and supervision of the activities of Farmer 

Mac and its affiliates to ensure its safety and soundness and the accomplishment of its public 

policy purpose as authorized by Congress. OSMO was established by Section 8.11 of the Act and 

ensures that Farmer Mac complies with applicable laws and regulations, and it manages FCA’s 

enforcement activities with respect to Farmer Mac.

Responsibilities

The OSMO is managed by a full-time Director selected by the FCA Board. The Director is 

responsible for the examination and supervision of Farmer Mac and its affiliates. The Director 

plans, organizes, and controls the operations of the OSMO in accordance with the policies and 

procedures of FCA. The Director oversees the implementation of the annual risk-based 

examination program, the development of regulations, and the formation of other guidance, as 

needed. The Director develops guidance to communicate to Farmer Mac regulatory 

interpretations and expectations for compliance.
2

The Director implements the FCA Board's strategic goals and objectives related to Farmer Mac, 

apprises Board members of significant issues, and identifies specialized resources within and 

outside FCA to address the priorities and activities established in the operating and 

performance plan. The Director provides appropriate responses to audit reports from the FCA's 

Inspector General and establishes and maintains internal controls for the OSMO. The Director 

reports to the FCA Board on policy and rulemaking, and to the Chief Executive Officer, or a 

Board designate, on office administrative matters.

Risk-Based Examination

Section 8.11(b)(1) and (2) of the Act requires FCA to examine the financial transactions of 

Farmer Mac no less than once each year. To ensure efficiency and effectiveness, the FCA Board 

directs a “risk-based” approach to the oversight and examination of System institutions, 

including Farmer Mac.

OSMO oversees and evaluates Farmer Mac on an ongoing basis to timely identify and monitor

emerging risks and issues, and to facilitate efficient and effective risk-based examination 

activities. Pursuant to Section 8.11(a)(2), the Director must consider the reduced levels of risk 

associated with appropriately structured secondary market transactions. Through its oversight 

and examination activities, OSMO establishes a supervisory strategy and reporting 

requirements for effective analysis and evaluation of Farmer Mac’s risks and financial 

performance. Additionally, OSMO ensures that Farmer Mac complies with laws and regulations,

and that the Corporation’s reports accurately reflect its condition.

In accordance with the risk-based examination approach, OSMO focuses oversight efforts and 

resources on those areas that could materially impact Farmer Mac’s safety and soundness. 

OSMO determines the scope and depth of examination activities based on current conditions 

and risk assessments, and uses a wide range of sources to identify areas of risk.

The Director will develop procedures on operating parameters and responsibilities, including a 

quality assurance review, for the comprehensive annual examination process.

Communications

OSMO will issue an annual communication to Farmer Mac, which identifies risk topics that will 

be emphasized in ongoing examination, monitoring, and planning activities. OSMO will issue 

Examination Activity Letters to Famer Mac to communicate the findings of significant 

examination activities. At the end of each annual examination cycle, OSMO will issue a Report 

of Examination.
3

Financial Institution Rating System 

OSMO will use the Financial Institution Rating System (FIRS) as outlined in FCA Board Policy 

Statement 72 to evaluate and categorize the safety and soundness of Farmer Mac on an 

ongoing, uniform, and comprehensive basis. Based on the conclusions reached during the 

examination process and ongoing monitoring activities, OSMO will assign ratings for each 

component factor and assign a composite rating that reflects the condition and overall safety 

and soundness of Farmer Mac. The rating will be revised periodically to reflect Farmer Mac’s 

condition. The FIRS analysis provides OSMO with valuable information to assess risk and 

allocate resources. 

Risk-Based Capital

Section 8.32 of the Act directs the Director to establish a risk-based capital stress test (RBCST). 

The RBCST calculates the amount of regulatory capital for the Corporation that is sufficient to 

maintain positive working capital during a 10-year period under prescribed credit risk and 

interest rate risk scenarios. The RBCST estimates credit losses on agricultural mortgages and 

rural utility loans owned, or under Farmer Mac Standby Commitments, as well as loans serving 

as collateral for AgVantage bonds (collectively, program volume). The statute also provides 

that the Director may examine and revise the RBCST. The RBCST results, coupled with other 

analyses and information, will be used to evaluate Farmer Mac’s capital adequacy and longterm resiliency. 

Enforcement Level Rating

Section 8.35 of the Act requires the Director to determine and document an enforcement level 

classification for Farmer Mac “on not less than a quarterly basis, and as appropriate for a 

discretionary classification.” Further, Section 8.35(a) outlines the enforcement levels and 

directs the following:

Upon determining the Corporation is within Level II or III, the Director shall provide 

written notice to Congress and the Corporation:

• that the Corporation is within such level;

• that the Corporation is subject to the provisions of section 8.36 or 8.37, as 

applicable; and

• stating the reasons for the classification of the Corporation within such 

level.
4

Supervision and Enforcement Procedures

Section 8.11(a)(1) of the Act authorizes the Director to develop mandatory and discretionary 

supervision and enforcement procedures for Farmer Mac or its directors, officers, or 

employees. To the extent possible, the OSMO enforcement procedures will parallel the 

procedures developed by the Office of Examination. OSMO will identify any necessary 

distinctions and develop supplemental procedures for Farmer Mac.

If Farmer Mac, or its directors, officers, or employees, is unable or unwilling to address material 

unsafe and unsound practices, or if there is a serious statutory or regulatory violation, OSMO 

will pursue an appropriate supervisory or enforcement action.

The Director also has responsibilities under Section 8.37 of the Act for supervisory actions when 

Farmer Mac is classified as within Level III based on regulatory capital levels.

Regulatory Philosophy

The OSMO will develop regulations consistent with Farmer Mac’s role to serve as a secondary 

market for agricultural credit, and to increase liquidity and lending capacity in the agricultural 

marketplace. Consistent with FCA Board Policy Statement 62, these regulations will: (1) be

necessary to implement the law; (2) support achieving Farmer Mac’s mission; and (3) ensure 

Farmer Mac’s safety and soundness. The regulations will support the secondary market and 

promote increased availability and affordability of competitive credit.

FCA Staff Assigned to OSMO

Section 8.11(f) of the Act states that the supervision of the powers, functions, and duties of 

Farmer Mac is to be performed, to the extent practicable, by personnel who are not 

responsible for the supervision of the System banks and associations. Thus, to safeguard the 

integrity of the oversight of Farmer Mac from any conflicts of interest that may arise, 

individuals working on rotational assignments and FCA examiners assigned to the annual 

Farmer Mac examination must sign OSMO’s Conflict-of-Interest Questionnaire form annually.

Assessment

Section 8.11(d) of the Act directs FCA to assess Farmer Mac for the cost of any regulatory 

activities, including the cost of any examination. The Director, in coordination with the FCA 

Chief Financial Officer, will establish procedures for the financial assessment of Farmer Mac.

The assessment process should consider the agency’s resources used to accomplish supervisory 

and oversight requirements based on the Corporation’s size, activities, and risk profile.
5

Reporting to the FCA Board

Annually, the Director will provide the FCA Board an oversight and examination plan (plan) for 

approval. This plan will:

• Identify risks affecting Farmer Mac;

• Establish priorities and identify staffing, training, and budgetary needs;

• Include an examination schedule that ensures statutory requirements are met; and

• Include operational objectives and strategies.

The Director will also report on proposed new and amended regulations and implement any 

necessary follow-up strategies as directed by the FCA Board.

DATED THIS 16TH DAY OF JANUARY, 2020

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

Dale L. Aultman

Secretary to the Board
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-37

Section Title: Communications During Rulemaking

Effective Date: 7/8/2011

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [BM-25-MAR-92-03; NV-05-01] (70 FR 71142, 11/25/2005); [NV-11-15]

Effective Date: 08-JUL-11

Effect on Previous Actions: Replaces previous Farm Credit Administration (FCA or 

Agency) Board policy on public communications during a 

rulemaking, adopted March 25, 1992. See 57 FR 11083, April 

1, 1992. Amended July 8, 2011.

Source of Authority: None.

The FCA Board finds that it is in the public interest and consistent with the requirements of the 

Administrative Procedure Act to revise its policy on communications with the public during the 

rulemaking process.

THE FCA BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE FOLLOWING POLICY STATEMENT:

In keeping with the need to ensure an open, freely accessible, and well-informed rulemaking process 

while balancing the need for impartiality and fairness, the FCA adopts the following guidelines governing 

substantive oral communications between the public and Board members and staff during the course of a 

related rulemaking.

Before a rulemaking begins

Unrestricted communication with the public before rulemaking begins supports and promotes the 

Agency’s efforts to design creative and effective regulatory policy. No specific guidelines apply to that 

communication. 

From publication of notice of proposed rulemaking to the end of the comment period

After a particular rulemaking has begun with publication of a notice of proposed rulemaking (including 

publication of an advance notice of proposed rulemaking), FCA encourages members of the public to 

provide written comments during the public comment period. All written comments are placed in a 

public file, where they are available for examination and copying during normal business hours. The 

comments receive careful consideration and become part of the public record of the rulemaking.

Where appropriate, FCA may also conduct public hearings or open meetings to take testimony or hold 

discussions on a rulemaking. Such opportunities for comment from the public will be announced in 

advance and the comments received will be placed in the public rulemaking file.

Substantive oral communications during the comment period between FCA personnel, including Board 

members and staff, and members of the public regarding the subject of an ongoing rulemaking will be 

summarized in writing and placed in the public rulemaking file. While FCA personnel are always 

available to explain or clarify proposed rules, if an individual wants to engage FCA personnel in 

substantive discussion concerning a published proposed rule, he or she should first file a written comment 
covering the matter to be discussed, particularly if he or she has not already filed a written comment. If 

new substantive comments are discussed, FCA staff will reduce the substance of such comments to 

writing, promptly place it in the public rulemaking file, and urge the individual to submit a written 

comment.

From the close of the comment period to the adoption of the final rule

From the close of the comment period until adoption of the final rule, substantive discussions between 

members of the public and FCA personnel relating to the proposed rule should be curtailed. In the 

interest of fairness, if new facts or arguments must be brought to the attention of the FCA, the 

communication must be in writing so that it can promptly be placed in the public rulemaking file.

FCA believes these guidelines will help ensure a complete rulemaking record for future agency 

consideration of the rule or in the event of court review. Further, FCA strongly believes that the 

rulemaking process must be open and evenhanded in order to avoid even the appearance of impropriety or 

undue influence that might arise from private communication during certain periods. Finally, if a 

substantive comment on a proposed rule were transmitted to FCA in a private communication that did not 

become part of the public record, other members of the public would not have an opportunity to respond 

to any new arguments or facts contained in that communication. Because FCA believes that its 

rulemaking process benefits from give and take among commenters who are able to consider each others’ 

comments, this policy statement requires all comments to be placed in the public rulemaking file.

This policy statement does not apply to public communications regarding any rulemaking issue unless 

and until the matter becomes the subject of a notice of proposed rulemaking. Nothing in the policy 

statement is meant to affect the ability of FCA to use negotiated rulemakings, open meetings or other 

types of public forums to augment its rulemaking under section 553 of the Administrative Procedure Act.

DATED THIS 8th DAY OF JULY 2011

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

Dale L. Aultman

Secretary to the Board
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-41

Section Title: Alternative Means of Dispute Resolution

Effective Date: 7/8/2011

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [NV-97-08; NV-05-01] (70 FR 71142, 11/25/2005); [NV-11-15]

Effective Date: 08-JUL-11

Effect on Previous Action: Originally adopted 16-JUL-92 (see 57 FR 33198, July 27, 1992); 

amended 30-MAY-96; amended 10-FEB-97; amended 08-JUL11.

Source of Authority: Administrative Dispute Resolution Act of 1996, Public Law 104-

320, 110 Stat. 3870 (1996), and codified at 5 U.S.C. 571 et seq.

The Administrative Dispute Resolution Act of 1996 (Act), addresses the concern that traditional methods 

of dispute resolution, such as litigation and administrative adjudication, have become increasingly timeconsuming and expensive. The Act authorizes and encourages greater use of alternative means of dispute 

resolution (ADR), requiring each Federal agency to adopt a policy addressing the use of ADR.

ADR consists of informal, voluntary procedures used by parties who seek to resolve their disputes by 

consent. Such procedures include, but are not limited to, mediation, conciliation, facilitation, fact-finding, 

arbitration, and mini-trials, or any combination thereof. By emphasizing the common goals of the parties 

and fostering an atmosphere of cooperation, ADR can offer a less contentious and more expeditious 

alternative to traditional methods of dispute resolution such as litigation and administrative adjudication.

The use of ADR in appropriate circumstances is consistent with the Farm Credit Administration's (FCA 

or Agency) mission as an agency. To promote a safe and sound, competitive Farm Credit System, the 

FCA always strives to effectively and efficiently manage its resources. By expediting the resolution of 

certain disputes, ADR can reduce the FCA's transaction costs, increase the FCA's productivity, and help 

the FCA accomplish its goals. 

THE FCA BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE FOLLOWING POLICY STATEMENT:

It is the policy of the FCA to resolve disputes in an effective and efficient manner. Many of the disputes 

encountered by the FCA are resolved most effectively and efficiently through settlement negotiations 

between the FCA and the other parties to the disputes prior to the initiation, or in the early stages of, more

formal litigation or administrative adjudication. The FCA will continue to use settlement negotiations as 

a method of dispute resolution.

In addition, the FCA will consider whether it is appropriate to use ADR when a dispute arises. In 

assessing the advisability of using ADR procedures, as defined in 5 U.S.C. 571(3), the FCA will consider 

whether such procedures are likely to reduce the FCA's transaction costs, increase the FCA's productivity, 

and help the FCA accomplish its goals of effective regulations and policies and the enhancement of 

FCA's effectiveness and cost efficiency. The FCA will also consider the factors set forth in 5 U.S.C. 

572(b) in deciding whether it is appropriate to use such ADR procedures.

The FCA's Dispute Resolution Specialist (ADR Specialist), designated by the Chairman, is responsible 

for the implementation of this policy statement. The ADR Specialist is available to assist FCA personnel 
in considering the appropriate application of ADR procedures. Before deciding whether it is appropriate 

to use an ADR procedure, FCA personnel will consult with, and obtain the concurrence of, the ADR 

Specialist or his or her designee.

The ADR Specialist and those FCA personnel involved in resolving disputes are encouraged to attend 

educational and training programs relating to the theory and application of ADR on a regular basis, as the 

FCA budget permits.

Based on the voluntary nature of ADR, all parties to a dispute must agree to use an ADR procedure before 

it can be initiated.

DATED THIS 8th DAY OF JULY, 2011 

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

Dale L. Aultman

Secretary to the Board
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-44

Section Title: Travel

Effective Date: 8/31/2015

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [NV-92-56; NV-05-01] (70 FR 71142, 11/25/2005); [NV-11-15]

Effective Date: 31-AUG-15

Effect on Previous Actions: Originally adopted 13-JUN-91; amended 12-NOV-92; amended 

08-JUL-11; amended 31-AUG-15. 

Source of Authority: 5 U.S.C. 7351, 7353; 5 U.S.C. App. (Ethics in Government Act 

of 1978); E.O. 12674, 54 FR 15159, 3 CFR, 1989 Comp., p. 215, 

as modified by E.O. 12731, 55 FR 42547, 3 CFR, 1990 Comp., 

p. 306; 12 U.S.C. 2242 (Section 5.8 of the Farm Credit Act of 

1971, as amended), 41 C.F.R. Part 301.

THE FCA BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE FOLLOWING POLICY STATEMENT:

Members of the Farm Credit Administration (FCA or Agency) Board are not subject to the same 

requirements regarding allowances for travel and subsistence that generally apply to officers and 

employees of the United States (§ 5.8 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended). Nevertheless, it is 

the general policy of the FCA Board (Board) that Board members will travel on official business in the 

most economical fashion reasonable under the circumstances. 

FCA Board members are subject to Federal laws, rules, and Executive Orders relating to conflicts of 

interest that may result from accepting gifts, including travel related expenses, from outside sources. 

Generally, Board members may not accept anything of value from:

• A person seeking official action from, doing business with, or conducting activities regulated by the 

FCA, or 

• A person whose interests may be substantially affected by the performance or nonperformance of our 

official duties.

Such persons are prohibited sources. (See Executive Order 12674, as amended; 5 U.S.C. 7353; and 5 

CFR Part 2635, the Executive Branch-wide standards of ethical conduct issued by the Office of 

Government Ethics.) An organization is also a prohibited source if more than half of its members are 

prohibited sources. 

The gift rule under the standards of ethical conduct and the Agency’s gift acceptance authority at 31 

U.S.C. § 1353 outline the limited circumstances in which government officials may accept gifts and the 

payment of travel expenses from outside sources. Unless an exception applies, ethics rules prevent Board 

members from accepting gifts offered because of their official positions. Under no circumstances may 

Board members accept anything of value in return for being influenced in the performance of an official 

act. The aim of these rules is to prevent an actual conflict of interest or the appearance of a conflict and to 

uphold public confidence in the integrity of the Government and the Agency.
Except as noted above, third parties may not pay for official Agency expenditures. Because the Agency 

is responsible for the cost of conducting official business, Board members will ensure that the Agency is 

billed directly for travel expenses whenever possible (for example, by using a Government issued credit 

card for travel expenses). On those occasions when direct Agency payment is impossible or impractical 

(for example, a large group business dinner arranged and paid for in advance by the organizer), Board 

members will promptly notify the Agency of the obligation and ensure that the payer is promptly 

reimbursed. Board Members recognize that it is important not to create the impression that a third party, 

particularly a prohibited source, is paying for their expenses. 

TRAVEL

Transportation

Board members will use less than first-class accommodations for all modes of transportation except in 

circumstances where:

1. A Board member must use first-class accommodations because no other space accommodations are 

reasonably available or where other practical considerations exist (such as to accommodate a 

disability or other special need); 

2. Exceptional security circumstances require it;

3. The conduct of Agency business requires it; or

4. A Board member receives first-class travel benefits on an unsolicited basis from a carrier (such as 

free first-class coupons) and the benefit cannot be used by the Agency either in the present or the 

future, cannot be redeemed for cash value, and does not require the redemption of official miles. 

Under these circumstances, Board members can use the first-class benefit for either official or 

personal travel.

Board members will use a commercial charter flight at Agency expense only when no commercially 

scheduled flights are available in time to meet the requirements of the travel or when the charter flight 

would be more economical than a commercial flight. Board members will avoid the use of private 

aircraft whenever possible and use them only where commercial or charter flights are not reasonably 

available or would impose undue hardships. When reporting travel expenses, Board members must 

adequately justify the use of a commercial charter flight, private aircraft, or first-class accommodations. 

Lodging

When available and practical, Board members will book lodging at the Government rate or another 

available reduced rate at hotels and motels. When attending a convention, meeting, or other official 

activity, Board members will ordinarily obtain lodging at the hotel or motel holding the activity even if 

reduced rates are available elsewhere. Board members may also book more than one room when 

necessary for the conduct of official business on the premises.

The Agency will not ordinarily reimburse Board members for lodging in the metropolitan Washington, 

D.C., area unless they have relocated in a holdover status. However, lodging may be necessary to take 

full advantage of a conference. 

Other Expenses for Official Activities
The FCA will reimburse Board members for the usual and reasonable expenses incurred as a 

consequence of official activities in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area and in other locations. The 

Agency will allow the repayment of expenses for: 

1. Transportation costs;

2. Meal costs;

3. Registration fees or other fees assessed for attendance or participation;

4. The cost of miscellaneous supplies needed to participate in a particular function or activity; and

5. Other costs we incur by participating in official activities.

The Agency will not allow reimbursement of expenses for official activity incurred on behalf of other 

persons, including relatives, except as provided in the Board policy on Official Function (Representation 

and Reception) Expenses.

Form of Payment

Board members will arrange for official travel using the Agency’s travel management system whenever 

possible. Although Board members may use cash to pay for official travel expenses and seek repayment 

from the Agency afterwards, whenever possible, the preferred method of payment will be the use of the 

Government-issued credit card for all official travel expenses.

Receipts

When filing claims for reimbursement of travel expenses, Board members will provide receipts for 

expenses as normally required of other FCA employees under the Federal Travel Regulation, which 

currently requires receipts for all lodging and travel expenses over $75. However, failure to provide a 

receipt as normally required is not grounds for denial of a claim. If a receipt is not available, Board 

members will provide a statement explaining the nature and amount of the expense and the reason for not 

having a receipt.

COMBINING OFFICIAL BUSINESS TRAVEL WITH PERSONAL ACTIVITIES

Although it is permissible to engage in personal activities while on official travel, the purpose of the trip 

must always be the need to conduct official business. The Agency pays for travel and related expenses 

incurred in performing official business. However, the Agency may not pay for personal expenses 

incurred while on official travel. Therefore, it is important to record and allocate expenses carefully to 

ensure that official expenses are clearly differentiated from personal expenses. Proper handling of 

Agency expenses is always important, but particularly so when engaging in personal activities while on 

official Agency business.

The Board is aware that, in certain circumstances, engaging in personal activities while on official travel 

could create an appearance that personal activities, not official business, prompted the trip. When Board 

members take a trip to conduct official business, it is usually clear from the nature of the business that the 

trip is proper and necessary. If there are concerns that personal activities during the trip might suggest 

otherwise, Board members will consult the DAEO to avoid a possible appearance of impropriety. The 
Board understands that engaging in official travel that involves a given destination (for example, our 

home state) on a disproportionate basis may raise questions about whether the travel truly is necessary. 

Again, Board members will consult with the DAEO about such concerns.

DATED THIS 31st DAY OF AUGUST, 2015

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

Dale L. Aultman

Secretary to the Board
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-53

Section Title: Examination Philosophy

Effective Date: 7/8/2011

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [BM-15-JUL-93-05; NV 05-14] (70 FR 71142, 11/25/2005); NV-11-15

Effective Date: 08-JUL-11

Effect on Previous Action: Responds to NV 93-04 (15-JAN-93) and Amends FCA Policy 

Statement 53 dated 15-JUL-93. Amends FCA-PS-53 dated 08-

JUL-11.

Source of Authority: Sections 5.9 and 5.19 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as 

amended.

THE FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION (FCA or Agency) BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE 

FOLLOWING POLICY STATEMENT:

This policy provides a general philosophy and direction for the examination and oversight of the Farm 

Credit System (System). 

The FCA Board provides for the examination and supervision of each System institution in accordance 

with the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended (the “Act”). The Board fulfills this responsibility 

primarily through the Office of Examination (OE). The FCA fulfills its supervision and examination 

responsibilities for Farmer Mac, a separate government-sponsored enterprise, through its Office of 

Secondary Market Oversight. OE develops oversight plans, conducts examinations, monitors the 

System’s condition, current and emerging risks, and develops supervisory strategies to ensure that the 

System operates in a safe and sound manner and fulfills its public policy purpose. The Act also provides 

that the Farm Credit System Insurance Corporation (FCSIC) Board of Directors should utilize FCA 

examiners to conduct examinations of System institutions, to the extent practicable.

Oversight and Examination

The FCA Board directs the maintenance of a “risk-based” approach to oversight and examination for 

System institutions, which maximizes OE’s effectiveness and strategically addresses the System’s safety 

and soundness and compliance with laws and regulations. The amount of examination resources 

devoted to a System institution and the scope of an examination will depend on an institution’s ability to 

identify and manage its risks. Accordingly, oversight and examination efforts will be heightened and 

accompanied by appropriate preventive, corrective, or enforcement actions when institutions are unable or 

unwilling to address material unsafe and unsound practices or comply with law and regulations. This 

risk-based approach is critical to maintaining shareholder, investor, and public confidence in the financial 

strength and future viability of the System. 

Examination Staff and Communications

The risk-based approach must promote effective communications with System institutions. Examiners 

are an essential communication link with System institutions through ongoing institution oversight, onsite examinations, meetings with boards and management, and written reports and correspondence. The 
examination program shall therefore maintain adequately trained examiners who understand the unique 

risks and opportunities of agriculture, maintain an appropriate level of regulatory and financial industry 

experience and skills, and communicate and work effectively with System institutions to ensure they 

remain safe and sound and able to fulfill their public policy purpose. 

Reporting to the FCA Board

Annually, the Chief Examiner will provide the Board an annual oversight and examination plan (plan) for 

approval. This plan will:

• Assess the condition of and risks affecting the System at large and in specific institutions; 

• Establish priorities and identify staffing, training, and budgetary needs; 

• Include an examination schedule that ensures statutory requirements are met; and,

• Include operational objectives and strategies for meeting the plan. 

The Chief Examiner will report semi-annually to the Board on the status of, and proposed adjustments to, 

the plan. The Chief Examiner will also report quarterly on the current condition of the Farm Credit 

System, emerging risks, and any necessary follow-up strategies. 

DATED THIS 8th DAY OF JULY, 2011 

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

Dale L. Aultman

Secretary to the Board
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-59

Section Title: Regulatory Philosophy

Effective Date: 7/8/2011

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [BM-9-MAY-95-03; NV 05-15] (70 FR 71142, 11/25/2005)[NV-11-15]

Effective Date: 08-JUL-11

Effect on Previous Action: Originally adopted BM-17-FEB-94-02 (see 59 FR 32189, June 

22, 1994); see also 60 FR 26034, May 16, 1995; amended by 

NV-11-15 (8-JUL-11).

Sources of Authority: Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended; 12 U.S.C. 2001 et seq.

THE FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION (FCA) BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE 

FOLLOWING POLICY STATEMENT:

The FCA shall develop regulations consistent with its authorities under the Farm Credit Act of 1971 

(Act), as amended, and other relevant statutes. It is the FCA Board's philosophy to (1) promulgate 

regulations that are necessary to implement the law; (2) support achievement of the Farm Credit System’s 

(System) public mission; and (3) ensure the System’s safety and soundness. 

The FCA Board will strive to create an environment that promotes the confidence of customers and 

shareholders, investors, Congress, and the public in the System’s financial strength and future viability. 

The FCA Board believes that safe and sound operations of System institutions will instill: (a) investor 

confidence in System debt securities, which helps ensure that adequate funds are available at reasonable 

rates; and, (b) shareholder/member confidence in each cooperatively owned System institution by 

ensuring that sufficient financial resources are maintained to support an adequate supply of credit and 

other services to its shareholders/members in both good and bad times.

FCA will give high priority to issues that enable the System to more effectively accomplish its mission 

and to those issues that pose significant risks to the successful operation of the System, with the intent of 

ensuring an adequate and flexible flow of money into rural areas. As such, the FCA Board intends to 

provide System institutions with the flexibility consistent with changes in law, agriculture, and rural 

America so institutions can offer high quality, reasonably priced credit and related services to farmers, 

ranchers, their cooperatives, rural residents, and other entities upon which farming operations are 

dependent. 

The strategies for accomplishing the Board’s regulatory philosophy are as follows:

1. We will develop regulations based on a reasoned determination that benefits of any proposed 

regulation justify its cost.

2. We will focus our regulatory efforts on issues that address identified risks in System institutions or 

enhance the ability of System institutions to better meet the needs of agriculture and rural America. 

Preambles to regulations will explain the rationale for the regulatory approach adopted.

3. We will utilize diverse approaches to encourage public participation in the development and review 

of regulatory proposals in appropriate circumstances. 
4. We will emphasize the cooperative principles of a farmer-owned Government-sponsored enterprise 

by advancing regulatory proposals that encourage farmer- and rancher-borrowers to participate in the 

management, control, and ownership of their institutions.

5. We will work to eliminate unnecessary regulations that impair the ability of the System to accomplish 

its mission to serve agriculture and rural America and any regulations that are unduly burdensome, 

costly, or not based on the law. 

The details of how the FCA will implement these strategies will be described in the Agency’s Five-Year 

Strategic and Annual Performance Plans and in its Unified Agenda.

Semi-annually, the Director of the Office of Regulatory Policy (ORP) will provide the Board a proposed 

Unified Agenda for approval. The Unified Agenda will describe the regulatory projects the Agency plans 

to work on during the next 12 month period and apply the principles and strategies reflected in this policy. 

Quarterly, the ORP Director will report to the Board on the status of, and proposed adjustments to, 

regulatory projects scheduled on the Unified Agenda. 

DATED THIS 8th DAY OF JULY, 2011 

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

Dale L. Aultman

Secretary to the Board
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-62

Section Title: Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity

Effective Date: August 31, 2021

EFFECTIVE DATE: August 31, 2021

PREVIOUS ACTIONS: [BM-12-SEP-02-02](70 FR 71142, 11/25/05); [BM-13-JUL-06-

03](71 FR 46481, 8/14/06); [NV-11-15, 7/08/11]; [NV-13-19](78 

FR 51187, 8/20/13); [NV-14-15](79 FR 50908, 8/26/14); [NV-15-

10](80 FR 51806, 8/26/15); [NV-16-14](81 FR 53482, 8/12/16);

[NV-17-24,8/24/17] (82 FR 41258, 8/30/17); [NV 18-13, 9/4/18] 

(83 FR 45625, 9/10/2018); FCA-PS-62 [NV 19-24, 9/16/19] (84 

FR 49521, 9/20/2019);Replaces FCA-PS 62 [NV 20-23] dated 

August 17, 2020.

SOURCE OF AUTHORITY: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended (42 U.S.C. 

2000e et seq.); Age Discrimination in Employment Act (29 U.S.C. 

621 et seq.); Section 501 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as 

amended (29 U.S.C. 791); Equal Pay Act of 1974 (29 U.S.C. 

206(d)); Civil Service Reform Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. 3112); 

Notification and Federal Employee Antidiscrimination and 

Retaliation Act of 2002 (No FEAR Act) (5 U.S.C. 2301); Genetic 

Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 (42 U.S.C. 2000ff et

seq.); section 5.9 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended (12 

U.S.C. 2243); Executive Order 11478 (Equal Employment 

Opportunity in the Federal Government), as amended by 

Executive Order 13152 to include a prohibition on discrimination 

based on status as a parent; Executive Order 13166 (Improving 

Access to Services for Persons with Limited English Proficiency); 

29 CFR part 1614; Equal Employment Opportunity Commission 

Management Directives.

PURPOSE

The Farm Credit Administration (FCA or agency) Board reaffirms its commitment to Equal Employment 

Opportunity (EEO) and Diversity (EEOD) and its belief that all FCA employees should be treated with 

dignity and respect. The Board also provides guidance to agency management and staff for deciding and 

taking action in these critical areas.

IMPORTANCE

Unquestionably, the employees who comprise the FCA are its most important resource. The Board fully 

recognizes that the agency draws its strength from the dedication, experience, and diversity of its employees. 

The Board is firmly committed to taking whatever steps are needed to protect the rights of its staff and to 

carrying out programs that foster the development of each employee’s potential. We believe an investment 
in efforts that strongly promote EEOD will prevent conflict and the high costs of correction for taking no, 

or inadequate, action in these areas.

THE FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE FOLLOWING 

POLICY STATEMENT:

It is the policy of the Farm Credit Administration (FCA or agency) to prohibit discrimination in agency 

policies, program practices, and operations. Employees, applicants for employment, and members of the 

public who seek to take part in FCA programs, activities, and services will be treated fairly. The FCA 

Board Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is ultimately responsible for ensuring that FCA meets 

all EEOD requirements and initiatives in accordance with laws and regulations, to maintain a workplace 

that is free from discrimination and that values all employees. FCA, under the appropriate laws and 

regulations, will:

• Ensure equal employment opportunity based on merit and qualification, without discrimination 

because of race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity, and pregnancy), 

age (40 or older), national origin, disability, status as a parent, genetic information, or filing of a 

complaint, participation in discrimination or harassment complaint proceedings, or other opposition 

to discrimination;

• Provide for the prompt and fair consideration of complaints of discrimination;

• Make reasonable accommodations for qualified applicants for employment and employees with 

physical or mental disabilities, and provide personal assistance services to employees with targeted 

disabilities, as provided under the Rehabilitation Act and its implementing regulations;

• Make reasonable accommodations based on applicants’ and employees’ religious beliefs or 

practices, consistent with Title VII;

• Provide an environment free from harassment to all employees;

• Create and maintain an organizational culture that recognizes, values, and supports employee and 

public diversity and inclusion;

• Develop objectives within the agency’s operation and strategic planning process to meet the goals 

of EEOD and this policy;

• Implement affirmative programs to carry out this policy within the agency; and,

• To the extent practicable, seek to encourage the Farm Credit System to continue its efforts to 

promote and increase diversity.

An employee or applicant who believes they have been discriminated against must initiate contact with an 

EEO Counselor within 45 days of the date of the matter alleged to be discriminatory or, in the case of 

personnel action, within 45 days of the effective date of the action. Although the EEO complaint process 

is managed by the Director of the Office of EEO and Inclusion, FCA uses experienced outside vendors to 

perform EEO services. An employee or applicant wishing to enter the EEO process may contact an EEO 

Counselor at the following numbers: toll free phone 1-844-322-3233, TTY 703-883-4352.

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

The FCA intends to be a model employer. That is, as far as possible, FCA will build and maintain a 

workforce that reflects the rich diversity of individual differences evident throughout this Nation. The Board 

views individual differences as complementary and believes these differences enrich our organization. 

When individual differences are respected, recognized, and valued, diversity becomes a powerful force that 

can contribute to achieving superior results. Therefore, we will create, maintain, and continuously improve 

on an organizational culture that fully recognizes, values, and supports employee diversity. The Board is 

committed to promoting and supporting an inclusive environment that provides to all employees, 

individually and collectively, the chance to work to their full potential in the pursuit of the agency's mission. 
We will provide everyone the opportunity to develop to his or her fullest potential. When a barrier to 

someone achieving this goal exists, we will strive to remove this barrier.

AFFIRMATIVE EMPLOYMENT

The Board reaffirms its commitment to ensuring FCA conducts all its employment practices in a 

nondiscriminatory manner. The Board expects full cooperation and support from everyone associated with 

recruitment, selection, development, and promotion to ensure such actions are free of discrimination. All 

employees will be evaluated on their EEOD achievements as part of their overall job performance. Though 

staff commitment is important, the role of supervisors is paramount to success. Agency supervisors must 

be coaches and are responsible for helping all employees develop their talents and give their best efforts in 

contributing to the mission of the FCA. 

WORKPLACE HARASSMENT

It is the policy of the FCA to provide a work environment free from unlawful discrimination in any form, 

and to protect all employees from any form of harassment, either physical or verbal. The FCA will not 

tolerate harassment in the workplace for any reason. The FCA also will not tolerate retaliation against any 

employee for reporting harassment or for aiding or otherwise participating in any harassment inquiry or 

proceeding or otherwise opposing harassment. FCA begins prompt, thorough, and impartial investigations 

within 10 days of receiving notice of harassment allegations.

DISABLED VETERANS AFFIRMATIVE ACTION PROGRAM 

A disabled veteran is defined as someone who is entitled to compensation under the laws administered by 

the Veterans Administration or someone who was discharged or released from active duty because of a 

service-connected disability.

The FCA is committed to increasing the representation of disabled veterans within its organization. Our 

Nation owes a debt to those veterans who served their country, especially those who were disabled because 

of service. To honor these disabled veterans, the FCA shall place emphasis on making vacancies known to 

and providing opportunities for employing disabled veterans.

DATED THIS 31st DAY OF AUGUST 2021

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

___________/s/___________________

Dale Aultman,

Secretary,

Farm Credit Administration Board.
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-64

Section Title: Rules for the Transaction of Business of the Farm Credit Administration 

Board

Effective Date: 8/31/2015

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [NV-99-25; NV-05-22] (70 FR 71142, 11/25/2005)

Effective Date: 31-AUG-15

Effect on Previous Action: Originally adopted by NV-94-05 (07-FEB-94)[FCA-PS-58]; 

corrected by memo 09-FEB-94; amended by NV-95-03 (13-

JAN-95)[FCA-PS-64]; amended by NV-95-18 (20-MAR-95); 

amended by NV-95-46 (9-AUG-95); amended by BM-24-OCT95-02; amended by NV-95-69 (02-JAN-96). See also 58 FR 

6633, Feb. 1, 1993 and 59 FR 17537, Apr. 13, 1994; reaffirmed 

by NV-96-22 (30-MAY-96); amended by NV-96-36 (26-AUG96); amended by NV-98-16 (8-MAY-98); amended by NV-99-

09 (16-MAR-99); amended by NV-99-25 (24-SEP-99); amended 

by NV-11-15 (8-JUL-11); amended by NV-15-13 (31-AUG-15).

Source of Authority: Sections 5.8, 5.9, 5.10, 5.11 and 5.17 of the Farm Credit Act of 

1971, as amended.

THE FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION (FCA) BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE 

FOLLOWING POLICY STATEMENT:

RULES FOR THE TRANSACTION OF BUSINESS 

OF THE FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION BOARD

PURPOSE, SCOPE, AND DEFINITIONS 

Section 1. Purpose and Scope. These Rules adopted under § 5.8(c) of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as 

amended (Act), concerning the transaction of business of the Farm Credit Administration (FCA) Board 

(Board) supplement the statutes and regulations that govern the procedures and practice of the Board 

(including, without limitation, the Act, the Sunshine Act, and FCA regulations, 12 C.F.R. § 600 et seq.). 

Unless otherwise provided in these Rules, or relevant statutes or regulations, this Board will transact its 

business in accordance with Robert's Rules of Order (Newly Revised) (most recent edition).

Section 2. Definitions, Reporting Relationships, and Performance Appraisals.

• “Act” means the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended.

• “Board Member” means each of the three individuals appointed by the President, by and with the 

advice and consent of the Senate, to serve as Members of the Board, including the Chairman, unless 

the context requires otherwise. Each Board Member appraises the performance of his or her staff.

• “Board Member Staff” means those employees reporting directly to a Board member such as 

executive or special assistants, and who are organizationally located within the Office of the Board.
• “Chairman” means the Board Member designated by the President to serve as Chairman of the 

Board. The Chairman also serves as the Agency’s Head and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). After 

consultation with the other Board Members, the Chairman appraises the performance of the Secretary, 

Equal Employment Opportunity Director, Designated Agency Ethics Official, Chief Operating 

Officer, and all Office Directors reporting directly to him or her.

• “Designated Agency Ethics Official” (DAEO) means an employee of the FCA designated by the 

Head of the Agency to administer the provisions of Title I of the Ethics in Government Act of 1978, 

to coordinate and manage the Agency’s ethics program, and to provide liaison with the Office of 

Government Ethics on all aspects of FCA’s ethics program. The DAEO reports directly to the 

Chairman on the Agency’s ethics program. 

• “Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Director” means an employee of the FCA designated by the 

Head of the Agency to administer the provisions of the Agency’s EEO program as set forth in 29 

C.F.R. Part 1614. 

• “General Counsel” (GC) means an employee of the FCA who serves as the chief legal officer of the 

Board. The GC reports to the Chairman concerning administrative matters and to the FCA Board on 

matters of Agency policy. By the nature of the position the GC, as appropriate and necessary, 

maintains special advisory relationships in confidence with the individual Board Members. The GC 

must also keep the FCA Board fully informed of all litigation in which the Agency is involved.

• “Inspector General” (IG) means an appointed head of the Office of Inspector General (OIG), an 

independent component of the FCA, established by and responsible for adhering to the IG Act of 

1978, as amended. The purpose of the IG is to promote economy, efficiency and effectiveness, and to 

prevent and detect fraud and abuse in the programs and operations of FCA.

• “Office Director” means an employee of the FCA serving as head of an FCA Office, excluding the 

Inspector General unless specified.

• “Secretary” means an employee of the FCA who serves as Secretary to the Board as appointed by the 

Chairman. The Secretary, or another FCA employee designated by the Chairman, serves as the 

parliamentarian for the Board. The Secretary keeps permanent and complete records and minutes of 

the acts and proceedings of the Board. 

• “Sunshine Act” means the Government in the Sunshine Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552b. 

AMENDMENTS

Section 1. The business of the Board will be transacted in accordance with these Rules, which may be 

amended from time to time: Provided, however, that upon agreement of at least two Board Members 

convened in a duly called meeting, the Rules may be waived in any particular instance, except that action 

may be taken on items at a Special Meeting only in accordance with Part I, Article I, § 3(b) of this policy.

Section 2. These Rules may be changed or amended by the concurring vote of at least two Board 

Members upon notice of the proposed change or amendments having been given at least thirty days 

before such vote.

Section 3. These Rules will be reviewed by the Board at least every five years or as needed.

Section 4. The Secretary to the Board is hereby delegated authority to make technical, syntactical, and 

grammatical changes to any Board Policy, provided a redlined complete copy of the policy(ies) is given 

to each Board member that clearly details each change made at least 30 days prior to the effective date of 

the change. Any Board member may, within the 30 day period, stop the proposed changes(s) and, if a 

Board member so desires, put forth the matter for Board consideration.

PART I – RULES FOR THE FCA BOARD MEETINGS 
Article I. Board Meetings.

Article II. Board Action.

Article III. Board and Chairman Delegations.

ARTICLE I

BOARD MEETINGS

Section 1. Sunshine Act. All FCA Board meetings will be announced and conducted in conformance 

with the Government in Sunshine Act.

Section 2. Presiding Officer. The Chairman will preside at each meeting. In the event the Chairman is 

unavailable, the other Board Member from the Chairman's political party will preside. If there is no other 

Board Member from the Chairman's political party, the Board Member serving the longest on the Board 

will preside. 

Section 3. Calls and Agenda.

(a) Regular Meeting. The Secretary, at the direction of the Chairman, issues a call for items for 

the agenda to the other Board Members and the Office Directors of FCA. The Secretary provides 

to the Chairman a list of all the items submitted, including a list of outstanding notational votes and 

matters voted “not appropriate for notational vote.” The Chairman then establishes the agenda to 

be posted on the Agency’s public notice board or on its public Web site at least 1 week before the 

meeting. The agenda will also be published in the Federal Register at least 3 calendar days before 

the meeting date. At each meeting, the Board votes to approve or amend the agenda established by 

the Chairman. The Board may amend the agenda to add items that the Board Members believe 

need to be considered at that meeting.

(b) Special Meeting. Special meetings of the Board may be called:

(1) By the Chairman; or

(2) By the other two Board Members; or

(3) If there is at the time a vacancy on the Board, by a single Board Member.

 

Any call for a Special Meeting will specify the business to be transacted and state the place and 

time of such meeting. No business will be brought before a Special Meeting that has not been 

specified in the notice of call of such meeting without the unanimous consent of all Board 

Members.

(c) Notice. The Secretary will give appropriate notice of any and all meetings and make the call 

for Special meetings. Reasonable efforts to provide such notice to Board Members will be made 

for all meetings of the Board, but failure of notice will in no case invalidate a meeting or any action 

taken during that meeting.

Section 4. Board Materials. The Secretary will distribute complete Board Meeting Books to each 

Board Member and their staff at least three full business days before any Regular Meeting. There may be 

instances when the proposed Board meeting agenda approved by the Chairman may need to be amended 

prior to a Board meeting to include items that require Board action. In such instances the Secretary will 

update the Board meeting books with the newly approved item(s) and make the required Sunshine Act 

disclosures and notices as soon as possible. However, unless agreed to by all Board Members, no vote 
may be taken on an issue unless the necessary material has been provided to the Board Members not less 

than twenty-four hours before the meeting to consider such issue.

Section 5. Supporting Documentation. The Secretary will maintain one copy of all Board Meeting 

Book material. All copies of the Board Meeting Book material for Closed Sessions provided to anyone 

other than the Secretary will be returned to the Secretary for disposal or maintained in a secure location 

approved by the Secretary. One copy of each Executive Summary provided to a Board Member will be 

provided to and maintained by the Secretary. Board Meeting Books and Executive Summaries are not 

part of the minutes of the Board unless expressly incorporated therein.

Section 6. Telephone Conference. Any Board Member, including the Chairman, may participate in a 

meeting of the Board through the use of conference call telephone or similar equipment, provided that all 

persons participating in the meeting can simultaneously speak to and hear each other. Any Board 

Member so participating will be deemed present at the meeting for all purposes.

Section 7. Public Attendance.

(a) Attendance. Members of the public may attend all meetings of the Board except those 

meetings or portions of meetings that are closed as directed by the Board, consistent with the 

Sunshine Act. 

(b) Public Appearances before the Board. While members of the public are invited and 

encouraged to attend Board meetings, no member of the public has a right to speak in a Board 

meeting. However, the Board may, in its sole discretion, permit a member of the public to address 

the Board if he or she provides a written request and statement covering the intended subject matter 

at least fifteen days before the meeting. 

Section 8. Minutes.

(a) Format. The format of minutes of the Board meetings, unless otherwise stated in these rules or 

relevant statutes or regulations, will comply with the most recent edition of Robert's Rules of Order 

and the Sunshine Act. The minutes will clearly identify the date, time, and place of the meeting, 

the type of meeting held, whether the meeting was open or closed, the identity of Board Members 

present and, where applicable, that they participated by telephone, and the identity of the Secretary 

and the GC in attendance, or, in their absence, the names of the persons who substituted for them. 

The minutes will contain a separate paragraph for each subject matter and will note all main 

motions or motions to bring a main motion before the Board, except any that were withdrawn. The 

minutes will not contain any reference to statements made unless a request is specifically made that 

a statement be made a part of the minutes, or if required by the Sunshine Act. The minutes of 

meetings will indicate the substance and disposition of any notational votes completed since the last 

meeting. Except in the case of a voice vote, the Secretary will record the vote of each Board 

Member on a question or will note a unanimous consent. The Chairman and the Secretary will sign 

the minutes of the Board meeting, indicating the date of approval by the Board. 

(b) Circulation. The Chairman and GC will review draft minutes. The Secretary will circulate 

draft minutes to all Board Members at least one week before their consideration at a Board 

Meeting. The Secretary will place in all Board Meeting Books copies of the minutes of the 

meetings of the Board to be voted on at a Board Meeting. 

ARTICLE II

BOARD ACTION
Section 1. Affirmative Vote Required. Action on any matter requires the affirmative vote of at least 

two Board Members, except as provided in Article III, § 1 of this Part. 

Section 2. Records of Board Action. 

(a) Meetings. The vote of each Board Member, including the Chairman, on a question voted on at a 

meeting will be recorded in the minutes. The Chairman may, if there is no objection, call for a 

voice vote on adjournment or other actions. If a voice vote is taken, its result will be recorded in 

the minutes. 

(b) Notational Votes. The Secretary will provide a summary of any action taken by notational vote 

to the Board Members and Chairman and the action taken will be reflected in the minutes of the 

next meeting of the Board. 

Section 3. Notational Voting.

(a) Nothing in these Rules precludes the transaction of business by the circulation of written items 

(notational votes) to the Board Members. 

(b) The Board may use notational voting procedures to decide any matter that may come before it. 

Any Board Member may submit a motion to the Secretary for distribution as a notational vote. 

However, in view of the public policy of openness reflected in the Sunshine Act and the desire to 

allow any Board Member to present viewpoints to the other Board Members, any Board Member 

can veto the use of the notational voting procedure for the consideration of any particular matter by 

voting “not appropriate for notational vote.” 

(c) Upon submission of an item for notational vote, the Secretary will provide each Board Member 

a complete package of all relevant information and a notational vote ballot specifying the Board 

Member making the motion, the motion itself, and the deadline for return of the ballot. Within ten 

business days of receipt, or earlier if the motion requires, each Board Member will act on the matter 

by returning the ballot to the Secretary. Each Board Member is to indicate his/her position in 

writing on the ballot in the following manner: (1) approve, (2) disapprove, (3) abstain, or (4) not 

appropriate for notational vote. 

(d) No partial concurrences or amendments are permitted; however, a Board Member may suggest 

a revision to the proponent of the motion, subject to compliance with the Sunshine Act, and the 

proponent may withdraw his or her motion at any time before receipt by the Secretary of all the 

ballots of all Board Members or the end of the time period provided for on the ballot.

(e) A Board Member who is absent from the office may authorize a staff member to initial the 

ballot for him/her, provided that the Board Member has a designation memorandum on file with the 

Secretary. 

Section 4. Board Records. The Secretary will maintain the records of the Board including, without 

limitation, the minutes of the Board meetings and notational votes.

ARTICLE III

BOARD AND CHAIRMAN DELEGATIONS
Section 1. Two Vacancies/Authority to Act. In the event two Board Members are not available by 

reason of recusal, resignation, temporary or permanent incapacitation, or death, to perform the duties of 

their offices, the Board hereby delegates to the remaining Board Member the authority to exercise, in 

his/her discretion, the authorities of the FCA granted to the Agency or the Board by statute, regulation or 

otherwise, except those authorities which are non-delegable. This delegation of authority does not 

include authority to establish general policy and promulgate rules and regulations, or any delegation 

expressly prohibited by statute. This delegation will include but is not limited to the exercise of the 

following powers:

(a) The approval of actions of the Farm Credit System (System) institutions that are required by 

statute, regulations or otherwise to be approved by the FCA or its Board;

(b) The exercise of all powers of enforcement granted to the FCA by statute, including but not 

limited to, the authorities contained in 12 U.S.C. §§ 2154, 2154a, 2183, 2202a, and 2261-2274; and

(c) Any actions or approvals required in connection with the conduct of a receivership or 

conservatorship of a System institution.

Authorities delegated by this Section may be re-delegated, in writing, at the discretion of the remaining 

Board Member, to other FCA officers or employees.

Section 2. National Security Emergencies. Pursuant to Executive Order 12656, as amended, in the 

event of a national security emergency, if the Chairman is unable to perform his or her duties for any 

reason, the Chairman, at his or her sole discretion, delegates to the following individuals, in the order 

mentioned and subject to being available, the authority to exercise and perform all the functions, powers, 

authority and duties of the Chairman in an acting capacity until such time as either the Chairman can 

resume his/her position or, if no longer able to serve as Chairman, the President of the United States 

designates a new Chairman: 

(a) Member of the Board of the Chairman's political party;

(b) If there is no other Board Member from the Chairman’s political party, the Board Member 

serving the longest on the Board; 

(c) General Counsel.

The Chairman or Acting Chairman will ensure that FCA has an alternative location for its headquarters 

functions in the event a national security emergency renders FCA's headquarters inoperative. The 

Chairman or Acting Chairman may establish such branch office or offices of the FCA as are necessary to 

coordinate its operations with those of other government agencies.

Section 3. Individual Assignments. To the extent consistent with law, the Board or the Chairman may 

offer another Member of the Board a special assignment and define the duties incident thereto, and the 

Chairman may delegate to another Board Member certain duties and responsibilities of the Chairman.

Section 4. Other Delegations. The FCA Board may delegate such authorities as it deems necessary and 

appropriate. Such delegations are included in Attachments A and B to this policy. 

PART II – BOARD AND STAFF GOVERNANCE
Article I. Board Governance.

Article II. Staff Governance.

ARTICLE I

BOARD GOVERNANCE

Section 1. General. The purpose of this Part is to ensure the efficient operation of the FCA in light of 

the various authorities and operational responsibilities of Board and the FCA Chairman and CEO. 

The Board recognizes that for the Agency to run efficiently, the Chairman/CEO must have sufficient 

latitude and discretion to direct the implementation of Board policies and run the Agency’s day-to-day 

affairs. Notwithstanding such latitude, the other Board Members must have access to staff and must be 

able to request information from staff that they find necessary to fulfill their policy- and rulemaking 

responsibilities under the Act. 

The Chairman/CEO is always free to bring to the Board issues that do not require Board action. 

Conversely, the Board may involve itself in operational matters ordinarily reserved for the 

Chairman/CEO if it concludes that they rise to the level of policy due to their sensitivity, seriousness, or 

controversial nature. 

Section 2. Board Authorities. The Board, acting as a unit, must manage, administer, and establish 

policies for the FCA. The Board specifically approves the rules and regulations implementing the Act; 

provides for the examination, enforcement, and regulation of System institutions; provides for the 

performance of all the powers, functions, and duties vested in the FCA; and requires any reports deemed 

necessary from System institutions. The Board also adopts the FCA seal. Each Board Member has the 

authority to appoint and direct regular, full-time staff in his or her immediate office. 

Section 3. Chairman Authorities. The Chairman, in carrying out his or her responsibilities, is governed 

by the general policies adopted by the Board and by such regulatory decisions, findings, and policy 

determinations as the Board may by law be authorized to make. 

The Chairman, in carrying out policies as directed by the Board, acts as spokesperson for the Board and 

represents the Board and the FCA in official relations within the Federal Government. Under policies 

adopted by the Board, the Chairman must consult on a regular basis with the Secretary of the Treasury 

concerning the exercise of the System’s powers under § 4.2 of the Act; the Board of Governors of the 

Federal Reserve System concerning the effect of System lending activities on national monetary policy; 

and the Secretary of Agriculture concerning the effect of System policies on farmer, ranchers, and the 

agricultural economy. As to third persons, all acts of the Chairman will be conclusively presumed to be 

in compliance with general policies and regulatory decisions, findings, and determinations of the Board.

The Chairman enforces the rules, regulations, and orders of the Board. The Chairman designates 

attorneys to represent the Agency in any civil proceeding or civil action brought in connection with the 

administration of conservatorships and receiverships and in civil proceedings or civil actions when so 

authorized by the Attorney General under provisions of title 28 of the United States Code. The Chairman, 

subject to the approval of the Board, may establish one or more advisory committees in accordance with 

the Federal Advisory Committee Act. 

The Chairman may not delegate any of the foregoing powers without prior Board approval. 
The Chairman also exercises those powers conferred on the Head of the Agency, including the power to 

make certain designations. 

Section 4. CEO Authorities. The Chairman of the FCA Board is also the Agency’s CEO. The CEO, in 

carrying out his or her responsibilities, directs the implementation of policies and regulations adopted by 

the Board and, after consultation with the Board, executes the administrative functions and duties of the 

FCA. 

“Consultation with the Board” is achieved when the Chairman/CEO makes a good faith attempt to seek 

advice, guidance, and input from the Board before taking significant action on matters related to the 

execution of administrative functions or duties. 

The Chairman as CEO runs the day-to-day operations of the Agency. This includes the power to 

implement the policies and regulations adopted by the Board, appoint personnel as necessary to carry out 

Agency functions, set staff pay and benefits and direct staff. As provided in § 5.11(b) of the Act, the 

Chairman/CEO appoints heads of major administrative divisions subject to the approval of the Board. In 

accordance with the IG Act, the IG is appointed by the FCA Board.

The Chairman as CEO may designate to other FCA officers and employees the authority to exercise and 

perform those powers necessary for the day-to-day management of the Agency.

ARTICLE II

STAFF GOVERNANCE

Section 1. Authority over Staff. The Chairman/CEO has authority to hire the personnel necessary to 

carry out the mission of the Agency and to direct staff, except that each Board Member is entitled to 

appoint and direct his or her regular, full-time staff within the constraints of the adopted budget for the 

Office of the Board. 

Subject to the approval of the Board, the Chairman/CEO appoints and removes the "heads of major 

administrative divisions." The Board defines the "heads of major administrative divisions" as all Office 

Directors who are career appointees. The Board must approve the conversion of an existing career 

position to a non-career (political) position. In accordance with the IG Act, a removal of the IG may only 

be made upon the written concurrence of a 2/3 majority of the FCA Board.

Section 2. Organization Chart. Consistent with its mandate to approve regulations and appointments 

outlined above, the Board approves the FCA organizational chart down through the Office level along 

with relevant functional statements for each Office. Authority to make organizational changes within any 

division rests with the Chairman/CEO, and may be delegated to the Chief Operating Officer or Office 

Directors. In accordance with the IG Act, the IG has personnel authority for the Office of the Inspector 

General.

PART III – BOARD OPERATIONS

Article I. Committee and Financial Operations, and Other Activities.

Article II. Board Member Travel and Related Expenses.

ARTICLE I
COMMITTEE AND FINANCIAL OPERATIONS, AND OTHER ACTIVITIES

Section 1. Committee Operations. To assist the Board in exercising its authority for oversight and 

approval of the Strategic Plan, the formulation of regulations and policy, and the monitoring and 

assessment of risk, the Board directs the formation of three committees. 

Each Committee Chair will be designated by the Chairman. Each committee will be comprised of the 

Board Members’ Executive Assistants and such Agency staff as determined by the Committee Chair. The 

Committee Chair will designate a Coordinator with expertise in, or significant accountability for, the 

activities of the committee. Committees will meet as often as determined by the Committee Chair to 

achieve committee objectives. The Chairman may also approve the use of external consultants to assist 

the committees on an as-needed basis. 

(a) Strategic Planning Committee. The objective of this committee is to provide a forum for 

Board input on (1) the development of, and periodic updates to, the Strategic Plan, and (2) changes 

in processes and procedures that will improve the quality of this key Agency document.

(b) Regulation and Policy Development Committee. The objective of this committee is to 

provide a forum to (1) obtain Board input throughout the entire process of developing, modifying, 

or eliminating individual regulations, (2) discuss changes in processes and procedures that will 

improve the Agency’s regulation and policy development process, and (3) foster open discussion 

during the development and periodic update of the Agency’s regulatory agenda.

(c) Risk Committee. The objective of this committee is to provide a forum to (1) facilitate Board 

awareness of risks to the ongoing mission fulfillment and safety and soundness of the System and 

Farmer Mac, (2) ensure an integrated and coordinated Agency risk analysis process that effectively 

uses information from a wide variety of internal and external sources, and (3) foster open 

discussion about risks to the System and Farmer Mac and the implications of such risks for future 

Agency operations. 

Section 2. Financial Operations.

(a) Budget Approval. The Chairman, consistent with the provisions of the Act, other law and 

regulations, and applicable policy, oversees the development of budget proposals and causes the 

expenditure of funds within approved budgets to meet the Agency's mission and objectives. The 

Board approves an object class budget for the Agency as a whole and a budget for each office. Any 

reallocation of funds in excess of $100,000 requires FCA Board approval. Reallocation of funds of 

$100,000 or less requires the Chairman’s approval (or that of the Chairman’s designee). The Chief 

Financial Officer (CFO) will provide a monthly report to the Board on all budgetary reallocations 

that occur after the FCA Board approves a fiscal year budget. The CFO will also provide a 

quarterly budget report to the Board that discusses actual performance of the budgeted items. The 

quarterly report may be presented during regular Board meetings or during a Board briefing. 

The IG, in accordance with the IG Act, transmits a budget estimate specifying an aggregate amount 

for OIG operations, OIG training needs, and amounts for support of the Council of the Inspectors 

General on Integrity and Efficiency.

Section 3. Other Board Operations.

 (a) Audit Resolution Process. The Chairman is responsible for overseeing the audit resolution 

process and, through a designee, for audit resolution implementation and follow-up. However, the 

Chairman must obtain Board approval of audit resolutions where the issue would normally require 
Board action. The Inspector General and Audit Follow-up Official will report to the Board the 

status of any unresolved audit recommendations, unimplemented management decisions, and other 

issues on a semiannual basis following the Inspector General’s Semi-Annual Report to Congress. 

(b) Litigation. The Chairman has authority to undertake litigation to defend the Agency, consistent 

with established Board policy. The Board will approve litigation where the Agency is plaintiff, will 

approve recommendations to the Justice Department to pursue an appeal, and will approve 

positions advanced in litigation that conflict with existing Board policy or establish a significant 

new policy. The Chairman’s authority to settle certain claims against the Agency have been 

delegated to the GC provided the GC consults with the Chairman.

(c) Documents and Communications.

(1) Approval, Review, and Consultation. The FCA Board is responsible for determining the 

Agency's position on policy. Board Policy Statements should be reviewed at least every five 

years.

The Board must approve all documents published in the Federal Register, including proposed and 

final FCA regulations, except for notices of effective dates or technical corrections of regulations. 

Board approval is not necessary prior to Federal Register publication of Privacy Act systems 

notices or notices of other routine or administrative matters unless they raise policy issues 

requiring Board approval. Bookletters, informational memoranda, and other mass mailings to 

Farm Credit institutions (except documents listed in Attachment A) must be approved by the 

Board prior to distribution. Documents may be added to or deleted from Attachment A by Board 

approval.

The issuance of a "no action" letter is a policy matter requiring Board approval. For the purposes 

of this statement, a "no action" letter is a statement to a Farm Credit institution that, 

notwithstanding any other provision of law or regulation, the Board will take no action against a 

System institution solely because it engaged in conduct specified in the letter.

Authority to promulgate internal administrative issuances, including FCA Policies and 

Procedures Manual (PPM) issuances, rests with the Chairman and may be delegated to the Chief 

Operating Officer. The Chairman will provide the Board with final drafts of PPM issuances and 

other administrative issuances for an appropriate consultative period if those issuances relate to 

examination and supervision, audits, internal controls, the budget, the strategic planning process, 

regulation development, or personnel matters relating strictly to promotion or pay.

(2) Signature Authority. Authority to sign official Board documents, including, but not limited 

to, proposed and final regulations, Federal Register notices, no-action letters, minutes, and other 

Board actions is delegated to the Secretary. After any action by the Board required under 

paragraph (c)(1) of this section, the Chairman has the authority to sign bookletters, informational 

memoranda, and other mass mailings to Farm Credit institutions. This signature authority may be 

delegated to senior staff members. 

(3) Correspondence. The Chairman approves and signs routine correspondence (that is, 

correspondence in the ordinary course of business), to members of Congress, correspondence 

responding to White House referrals, or other correspondence on behalf of the Board or the 

Agency. The Chairman may delegate approval and signature authority for such correspondence 

to the Chief Operating Officer or FCA Office Director when the subject matter involves 

congressional or White House case work. When the subject matter involves the presentation of 

an Agency position or policy relative to regulations, legislation, or any other significant matter, 
the Chairman may not delegate authority, and the correspondence must be approved by the 

Board, except that the Board need not approve a previously approved response or a restatement of 

previously adopted Board policy. Board approval does not apply when the Chairman is speaking 

only for him- or herself and includes the appropriate disclaimer. Likewise, on similar matters, 

Board Members should include appropriate disclaimers. The Chairman or the Chairman's 

designee has authority to sign acknowledgments or interim responses without Board approval, 

provided such responses contain no policy statements or only previously approved statements. 

(4) Authentication and Certification of Records and Documents. The Chairman designates 

the person authorized and empowered to execute, issue and certify under the seal of the FCA:

• Statements authenticating copies of, or excerpts from official records and files of the FCA; 

• Effective periods of regulations, orders, instructions, and regulatory announcements on the 

basis of the records of the FCA; 

• Appointment, qualification, and continuance in office of any officer or employee of the FCA, 

or any conservator or receiver acting in accordance with the FCA receivership regulations at 

12 C.F.R. Part 627 on the basis of the records of the FCA. 

The Chairman may further empower the designated official(s) to sign official documents and to 

affix the seal of the FCA thereon for the purpose of attesting the signature of officials of the FCA. 

ARTICLE II

BOARD MEMBER TRAVEL AND RELATED EXPENSES

Section 1. Pre-confirmation Travel. Travel expenses incurred by an FCA Board nominee that are 

solely for the purpose of attending his or her Senate confirmation hearings will be considered the personal 

expense of the nominee and will not be reimbursed by FCA. However, consistent with existing 

Government Accountability Office interpretations, the FCA will pay for a nominee's travel expenses to 

the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area (including lodging and subsistence), if payment is approved, in 

advance whenever practicable, by the Chairman based on a determination that the nominee's travel is 

related to official business that will result in a substantial benefit to the FCA. That determination will be 

made on a case-by-case basis and is within the sole discretion of the Chairman. The same standards and 

policies that apply to the reimbursement of Board Members' travel expenses will apply to the 

reimbursement of nominee's expenses. As part of the documentation for the approval process, the 

Chairman must execute a written finding that a nominee's travel would substantially benefit the FCA.

Travel that may result in substantial benefit to the FCA could include meetings, briefings, conferences, or 

other similar encounters between the nominee and FCA Board Members, office directors, the Chief 

Operating Officer, or other senior congressional and executive branch officials, for the purpose of 

developing substantive knowledge about the FCA, its role, its interaction with other Government entities, 

or the institutions that it regulates. Meetings or briefings of this nature may enable a nominee to more 

quickly and effectively assume leadership at the Agency after confirmation by the Senate and could thus 

substantially benefit the Agency.

Section 2. Board Member Relocation. 

Relocation to the Agency

Board Members will be reimbursed by FCA for travel and transportation expenses incurred in connection 

with relocation to their first official duty station. Reasonable expenses for which reimbursement, as 

approved by the Chairman/CEO, will be allowed generally include, but are not limited to the following:
(a) Travel and per diem for the Board Member.

(b) Travel, but not per diem, for immediate family of the Board Member.

(c) Mileage if privately owned vehicle is used in travel; and

(d) Transportation and temporary storage of household goods.

Each relocation will be considered separately and all rates and allowances will be determined at the time of 

authorization, notwithstanding the limitations of 5 U.S.C., Chapter 57 and the Federal Travel Regulations, 

as provided in § 5.8(d) of the Act. Reimbursement of additional expenses may be authorized if warranted 

by specific circumstances. Board Members will be issued a specific prior written authorization by the Chief 

Operating Officer detailing the expenses that may be reimbursed.

Relocation in Holdover Status

It is in the Agency's best interest to maintain a full complement of Board Members. The Agency is sensitive 

to the uncertainty and extra expenses often incurred by Board Members that serve past the expiration of 

their official appointment and prior to their successor’s appointment. In accordance with § 5.8(b) of the 

Act, a Board Member "shall continue to serve as such after the expiration of the member's term until a 

successor has been appointed and qualified." To that end, a Board Member, not serving as FCA Chairman, 

in a holdover status may prefer to perform their official duties from another U.S. location outside of the 

Washington, D.C. area, recognizing that they still have an obligation to devote their full time and attention 

to the business of the Board as required by § 5.8(d) of the Act. In such a case, the Board Member's duty 

station may be changed from FCA headquarters to a new location. Such a Board Member will be reimbursed 

for regularly scheduled official travel to headquarters upon authorization by the Chief Operating Officer. 

For other official travel, Board Members that serve in continuation will be reimbursed subject to the Board 

travel policy outlined in PS-44.

In addition, Board Members serving as a holdover who change their duty station will be reimbursed by 

FCA for travel and transportation expenses incurred in connection with relocation to their new location. 

Reimbursement for reasonable expenses, as approved by the Chief Operating Officer, will be limited to:

(a) Travel and per diem for the Board Member.

(b) Travel, but not per diem, for immediate family of the Board Member.

(c) Mileage if privately owned vehicle is used in travel; and

(d) Transportation and temporary storage of household goods.

Board Members will be issued a specific prior written authorization by the Chief Operating Officer detailing 

the expenses that may be reimbursed.

Section 3. Representation and Reception Fund. Section 5.15(a) of the Act allows the payment of FCA 

funds for official representation and reception expenses. Expenses incurred from official functions may 

be paid for with funds from the Representation and Reception (R&R) Fund only under this policy 

statement and decisions from the Department of Justice or guidance from the Comptroller General of the 

United States (Comptroller General). 

"Official functions" include meetings and other contacts with the public to explain or further the Agency's 

mission and typically are activities of the FCA Board, individual Board Members, or other FCA officials 

acting for the Board. For example, while extending official courtesies to the public on occasions 

associated with the mission of the Agency, FCA staff may use the R&R Fund to cover catering services, 

rental of facilities, receptions, coffee, snacks, refreshments, supplies, services and tips.
Consistent with opinions of the Comptroller General, the FCA Board has determined, as a matter of 

policy, that it will not permit the R&R Fund to be used for events or functions in which attendance is 

restricted to Agency employees. 

Similarly, the R&R Fund may not be used for activities relating solely to "personal entertainment" 

(interpreted by the Comptroller General to include attendance at a sporting event or concert, for example) 

or for personal favors, even if the entertainment is enjoyed with, or is a favor given to, members of the 

public, such as Farm Credit System representatives. 

The FCA Board has determined, as a matter of policy, that the R&R Fund shall be a fund of last resort 

and shall not be used for expenses that can properly be classified as another type of Agency expense.

The FCA Board will decide how much to budget for the R&R Fund. The FCA Board will approve any 

amount available for R&R expenses for the Chairman and each Board Member, and an amount available 

for general R&R expenses. The amount approved for use by the Chairman and each Board Member will 

be maintained in their budget code. The amount approved for general R&R will be maintained in a 

separate budget class code by the Secretary.

DATED THIS 31st DAY OF AUGUST, 2015

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

Dale L. Aultman

Secretary to the Board
Attachment A

FCA COMMUNICATIONS

Part 1 - Mass Communications that do not require review by the FCA Board prior to distribution 

to Farm Credit System Institutions: 

1. Issuances or revisions to:

· The FCA Examination Manual, examination criteria, and examination procedures;

· The FCA Uniform Call Report instructions;

· Examination plans and general guidance provided to examiners, except those relating 

to Agency positions not previously approved by the Board.

2. Requests for information on:

· Call Reports, LARS, or similar data requests;

· Young, beginning, and small farmers and ranchers reports;

· Other reports as required by statute or determined necessary by the Board (consistent 

with Board instruction).

3. Information that is being provided on:

· Fraudulent activities;

· Removals/suspensions/prohibitions; 

· Other related activities.

4. Documents that have been issued by other Federal agencies including regulations, official 

staff commentary on regulations, and forms;

5. FCA Handbook updates;

6. Annual Report of Assessments and Expenses under 12 CFR 607.11; 

7. Office of Inspector General mailings for official purposes;

8. Vacancy Announcements; 

9. PPM mailings.

Part 2 – Mass Communications that contain the following matters require review by the FCA Board 

prior to distribution to Farm Credit System Institutions: 

1. Agency policy;

2. Agency legal interpretations;

3. Substantive Agency positions on examination, corporate or accounting;

4. No-action positions; 
5. Any communication listed in Part 1 containing any of the matters listed in Part 2 would also 

require review by the FCA Board prior to distribution. 
Attachment B

DELEGATIONS

1. The FCA Board delegates to the Chairman the authority to:

a. Sign letters notifying the Chairman of the Boards of Farm Credit System institutions of final 

approval for any approved corporate application, after all conditions for final approval have been 

met and in accordance with applicable procedures;

b. Execute and issue under the FCA seal the new charter or charter amendment document for such 

institutions; and

c. Sign certificates of charter after new charters and charter amendments are executed.

The Chairman may re-delegate the authority in item “a” to other FCA officers or employees as 

needed.

2. The FCA Board delegates to the Chairman the authority to approve (preliminary and final) corporate 

applications from associations requesting to merge or consolidate provided the applications are 

deemed noncomplex, noncontroversial, and low risk. 

Applications for mergers or consolidations approved under authority of § 7.8 of the Act will be 

considered noncomplex, noncontroversial, and low risk if they meet all of the following criteria:

a. The applicant association(s) has a current FIRS rating of 1, 2, or 3 (with no 3-rated association 

having a formal enforcement action);

b. The continuing or resulting association(s) has a gross loan volume of $500 million or less;

c. The application(s) is consistent with the Act and regulations governing its approval, and

d. There are no policy or precedent-setting decisions embedded in the request.

3. The FCA Board delegates to the Chairman the authority to approve, execute, and issue under the seal 

of the FCA, amendments to charters requested by Farm Credit associations, limited to name changes 

and/or headquarters relocations. The Chairman may redelegate this authority to other FCA officers or 

employees. However, all official charters or charter amendments must be signed by the Chairman 

and the Secretary and may not be delegated to other staff.
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-65

Section Title: Release of Consolidated Reporting System Information

Effective Date: 7/8/2011

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [NV-95-13; NV-05-01] (70 FR 71142, 11/25/2005)[NV-11-15]

Effective Date: 08-JUL-11

Effect on Previous Action: None. See 60 FR 15921, Mar. 28, 1995; amended by NV-11-15 

(08-JUL-11).

Source of Authority: 12 CFR Part 621, Subpart D; Freedom of Information Act, 5 

U.S.C. § 552; 12 CFR Part 602; OMB Circular A-130 (Nov. 28, 

2000).

THE FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION (FCA) BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE 

FOLLOWING POLICY STATEMENT:

Purpose: The FCA Board has adopted a policy to disclose reports of condition and performance (Call 

Reports) and any subsequent reports containing nonexempt information that are produced from the FCA's 

Consolidated Reporting System (CRS) [hereinafter nonexempt CRS reports]. For purposes of this policy, 

nonexempt CRS reports are defined as reports produced from the CRS containing information that has 

been routinely disclosed in Farm Credit System (System) institutions' quarterly and annual financial 

reports and filed with the FCA. 

The nonexempt CRS reports include the Uniform Performance Report (UPR), Uniform Peer Performance 

Report (UPPR), Six-Quarter Trend Report, Six-Year Trend Report, and Institution Comparison Report. 

Under this policy, the Call Reports and subsequent reports for the institution that submitted the 

information will be available to that institution on the FCA Web site approximately 35 days after the end 

of a quarter or a fiscal year. 

Objectives: The FCA facilitates the competitive delivery of financial services to agriculture while 

protecting the public, the taxpayer, and the investor. Consistent with that mission, the FCA endeavors to 

provide information to System institutions and to the public. Call Reports and other nonexempt CRS 

reports contain information of value to the Agency, the System, and the public that enables an evaluation 

of the financial condition of a System institution in comparison to its peers. This information will provide 

institutions with a succinct assessment of performance, in addition to that provided in the examination 

process. The FCA believes that implementation of this policy statement will enhance the FCA's 

information management activities in an efficient, effective, and economical manner consistent with 

OMB Circular A-130.

Operating Principles: Certain information reported to the Agency in compliance with Call Report 

instructions and not routinely disclosed by an institution, such as asset and liability repricing schedules or 

loan specific data, will continue to be exempt from disclosure and the FCA will not make it available 

under this policy statement. 

Availability of Reports: All nonexempt CRS reports will be available within 45 days after the end of a 

quarter or a fiscal year free of charge on the FCA Web site. 
The FCA often receives special requests for new reports containing nonexempt CRS information not 

produced from the CRS. Consistent with the Freedom of Information Act, the FCA will grant such 

special requests when the record is readily reproducible with reasonable efforts. We will assess fees to 

recover the direct costs of complying with the request, including the cost of collecting, processing, and 

disseminating the information. The FCA may grant a request for a fee waiver to an educational 

institution, a researcher, a governmental agency, a newspaper, and others, when the benefit derived from 

releasing the information exceeds the waived fee. Requests should be directed to the Office of 

Management Services.

Delegated Authority: The Director, Office of Management Services, in concurrence with the Director, 

Office of Examination, and the General Counsel, is responsible for implementing this policy statement, 

developing operating procedures, and assessing requests for fee waivers. Any of these responsibilities 

may be re-delegated to appropriate staff in their respective offices.

Reporting Requirements: The Director, Office of Management Services, shall report annually to the 

Chief Executive Officer on the number of special requests for new reports containing nonexempt CRS 

information and fees received.

DATED THIS 8th DAY OF JULY, 2011 

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

Dale L. Aultman

Secretary to the Board
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-67

Section Title: Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Agency Programs and 

Activities

Effective Date: 1/27/2005

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [BM-13-APR-95-05; NV-05-01] (70 FR 71142, 11/25/2005)

Effective Date: 27-JAN-05.

Effect on Previous Action: Supplements 12 CFR Part 606. See 60 FR 26033, May 16, 1995.

Source of Authority: Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (29 

U.S.C. 794); Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 (42 USC 4151 et 

seq.); 36 CFR part 1191.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (Section 504) prohibits Executive agencies 

from discriminating on the basis of disability in the operation of agency programs and activities. Each 

agency is responsible for enforcing Section 504 as it applies to the agency’s own programs, services, and 

employment practices. Under the provisions of Executive Order 12250, “Leadership and Coordination of 

Nondiscrimination Laws,” the Assistant Attorney General for the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights 

Division is responsible for coordinating the federal government's implementation and enforcement of 

Section 504. The FCA has issued regulations at 12 CFR Part 606 to carry out the nondiscrimination 

mandate of Section 504.

The Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 (ABA) requires certain buildings housing federal agencies to be 

accessible to people with disabilities. The U.S. Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance 

Board (Access Board) establishes, and ensures compliance with, minimum accessibility standards in 

connection with the construction and alteration of facilities. The federal government and private entities 

follow different accessibility standards. The accessibility standards applying to the federal government 

(known as the "Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards" or UFAS) were revised to conform more 

closely to the accessibility standards applying to private entities (known as the "Americans with 

Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines" or ADAAG). The Access Board issued the revised standards 

on July 23, 2004, providing an effective date of September 21, 2004.

THE FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION (FCA) BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE 

FOLLOWING POLICY STATEMENT:

The FCA prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in the operation of Agency programs and 

activities. Each FCA program or activity, when viewed in its entirety, shall be readily accessible to and 

usable by individuals with disabilities. Accessibility may be achieved through a variety of methods, 

including the redesign of equipment, the assignment of aides to beneficiaries, the reassignment of services 

to alternate accessible sites, the alteration of existing facilities, and the construction of new facilities. The 

FCA is not required to alter an existing facility when there is another feasible way of providing access to 

programs and activities. 

If a building is constructed or altered by, on behalf of, or for the use of the FCA, the design, construction, 

or alteration is subject to applicable provisions of the UFAS. A different set of accessibility standards, 

the ADAAG, applies to the design, construction, and alteration of places of public accommodation and 

commercial facilities owned, operated, or leased by private entities. The Access Board has issued a 
consolidated set of guidelines, “ADA and ABA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities,” 

which merges the provisions of UFAS and ADAAG.

Until FCA regulations are amended to incorporate the new accessibility standards, the FCA Board has 

decided that the construction or alteration of a facility by, on behalf of, or for the use of the FCA shall 

comply with the Access Board accessibility guidelines. 

DATED THIS 27TH DAY OF JANUARY, 2005

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

Jeanette C. Brinkley,

Secretary to the Board.
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-68

Section Title: FCS Building Association Management Operations Policies and 

Practices

Effective Date: 7/8/2011

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [NV-95-40, as amended by NV-05-08] (70 FR 71142, 11/25/2005) [NV-11-15]

Effective Date: 27-JUL-17

Effect on Previous Action: Amends NV-95-40, FCA-PS-68-7-JUL-95; amended by NV-11-

15 (08-JUL-11), NV-17-19 (27-JUL-17).

Source of Authority: Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended (Act), and the FCS 

Building Association (FCSBA) Articles of Association and 

Bylaws.

THE FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION (FCA) BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE 

FOLLOWING POLICY STATEMENT:

The FCSBA was established to provide the facilities and related services for the FCA and its field offices. 

The FCSBA is owned by the banks of the Farm Credit System (banks) and is funded by assessments,

rental income from commercial tenants, and other income. The original ownership interest of each bank 

was based on the bank's assets as a percentage of total Farm Credit System (FCS) assets on June 30, 1981. 

The FCSBA owns and operates the FCA headquarters in McLean, Virginia, and holds the leases and 

provides certain services and furnishings for FCA field offices. The FCA Board has sole discretionary 

authority under section (1)5.16 of the Act to approve the plans and decisions for such building and 

facilities. In order to carry out this authority and to preserve the FCA's arms-length relationship with the 

banks, the Articles of Association and Bylaws of the FCSBA grant the FCA Board the responsibility to 

oversee the affairs of the FCSBA.

The purpose of this policy statement is to outline general parameters and policies for various operational 

practices of the FCSBA that are supplementary to the FCSBA Bylaws.

A. FCA BOARD RESPONSIBILITIES

Board Responsibilities. As outlined further in this policy statement, the FCA Board is responsible for 

items including, but not limited to, approval of all budgets and subsequent changes in object class 

limitations, signature authorities for financial expenditures, and long-term investment decisions. The 

FCA Board concurs in the development of performance standards, goals and pay scales for the FCSBA 

President as provided by the FCA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (Chairman). Contracts that 

cover the selection of outside auditors, property management services or the commission of special 

studies with a cost in excess of $25,000 that were not approved during the annual budget process require

the approval of the FCA Board. All other contracts in excess of $150,000 per year not approved during 

the annual budget process require approval of the FCA Board. FCA Board approval for contracts of 

$250,000 or less may be obtained by oral briefing of the FCA Board by the Chief Operating Officer 

(COO). FCA Board approval for contracts in excess of $250,000 may be obtained by FCA Board action 

as set forth in Article II of FCA-PS-64, Rules for the Transaction of Business of the Farm Credit 

Administration Board.
Chairman's Responsibilities. The Chairman shall be responsible for coordinating the FCA Board's 

involvement in, and responsibilities for, the operation of the FCSBA, including: (1) developing 

performance standards and pay scales for the President of the FCSBA and appraising the President's 

performance with the concurrence of other FCA Board Members, (2) reviewing periodic financial and 

operating reports, (3) providing procedures as necessary concerning the FCA staff's relationship with the 

FCSBA, and (4) reviewing such other matters as the Chairman may deem advisable for the purpose of 

bringing such matters to the attention of the FCA Board. The Chairman may delegate these 

responsibilities to one or more FCA staff, as he or she deems advisable, except those responsibilities 

related to pay and performance.

B. FCSBA PRESIDENT

General Signature Authority. As required by Article V, Section 2 of the FCSBA Bylaws, in addition to 

member certificates, the FCA Board authorizes the FCSBA President to sign general correspondence and 

contracts deemed necessary for the administration of FCSBA activities. The FCSBA President must get 

Board approval before changing the signatory authority for checks and before changing any banks with 

which the FCSBA does business.

Duties. The FCSBA President reports to the FCA Board and is generally responsible within the context 

of governing policies for all activities necessary to: (1) manage FCSBA support to FCA, (2) manage the 

assets of the FCSBA, and (3) understand and consider the interests of the banks. Specific responsibilities 

include budget preparation and execution; planning; financial reporting and control; preparation of 

quarterly cash flow reports; supervision of inventory and supporting schedules for all fixed assets 

(furniture, fixtures and equipment); maintenance of management objectives schedules; supervision of the 

telecommunications system; the purchase and contracting for all supplies and services; records 

management; necessary correspondence; public relations activities in consultation with the FCA Office of 

Congressional and Public Affairs; personnel supervision and evaluation; the leasing and management of 

all space in the Farm Credit Building; site selection and lease negotiation for all FCA Field Offices; 

investment management; preparation and administration of all policies and operating procedures; 

engineering oversight; construction management; and preparation of all monthly, quarterly and annual 

reports required by the FCA Board. The FCSBA President shall coordinate these activities with the FCA 

Liaison as appropriate or required.

Standard Operating Procedures. In addition to those duties outlined under Article V, Section 2, of the 

FCSBA Bylaws and this Policy Statement, the FCSBA President is authorized to issue Standard 

Operating Procedures (SOPs), as he or she deems appropriate, in an effort to carry out the mission of the 

FCSBA provided that each SOP is reviewed by the FCA Board in advance. The President shall maintain 

all SOPs in a manner that reflects current policies and practices. SOPs will be filed with the Secretary to 

the Board, the FCSBA and others as requested.

Periodic Reports. The FCSBA President shall submit such periodic reports and proposals to the FCA 

Board and Liaison as may be necessary to facilitate budgets, assessments, audits, finances, plans, 

investments, reserve policy and accounting procedures that support the needs of the FCA Board and the 

banks as owners of the FCSBA. The FCSBA President shall normally report to the FCA Board at least 

quarterly. At a minimum, the report shall include:

1. A cash statement of operations, an explanation of budget variances, and month-to-date cash 

reconciliation report. This report will include specific notations of any expected reallocations of 

funds requiring Board approval.
2. A status of all projects/building improvements that are planned, including current accounting of 

actual costs of each project.

3. A summary of the status of reserve accounts and investments including documentation as available 

demonstrating compliance with investment policies.

4. A comprehensive Management Objectives tracking report outlining the status of issues and projects 

resulting from a combination of one or more sources such as audit and examination 

recommendations, FCA Board directives, as well as management initiatives.

5. Other matters such as insurance, leasing and contract performance issues that may be timely for the 

particular reporting period.

Annual Report. The FCSBA President shall prepare an annual report on the operations of the FCSBA. 

The draft of the report shall be provided to the FCA Board for its review within approximately 30 days of 

receiving the final report from the independent auditors. After FCA Board review, the report shall be 

provided to the banks and may be provided to others who have an interest in FCSBA affairs. Although 

other reports to the banks may be warranted from time to time, the Annual Report shall serve as the 

primary report to the FCS. The report shall include:

1. A discussion of significant issues and accomplishments.

2. Audited financial statements and reportable conditions.

3. A discussion of the previous year's and current year's budget.

4. A discussion of basic and supplemental services provided to FCA by the FCSBA including an 

estimate of market and actual values of those services.

5. A discussion of non-budgeted expenditures, that have been reimbursed by the FCA.

C. FCA LIAISON

Duties. The FCA Chief Executive Officer appoints the Liaison to the FCS Building Association. The 

FCA Liaison facilitates and coordinates the FCA’s needs with the FCSBA in such areas as office 

renovations, internal moves, telecommunications services, field office support, and matters concerning 

building security and Emergency Preparedness. The FCA Liaison provides an internal control function 

through the countersigning of certain categories of checks as designated by the FCA Board. Additionally, 

the FCA Liaison reviews FCSBA proposals that come before the FCA Board, and provides counsel 

regarding issues on which the FCA Board must decide or provide direction. The FCA Liaison is also 

responsible for assuring that FCA operations, as appropriate, comply with FCSBA policies and practices 

as well as FCA guidance relating to the FCSBA. Finally, the FCA Liaison shall review monthly cash 

reconciliation reports as provided by the FCSBA President and report irregularities, as appropriate.

D. ANNUAL AUDIT AND MANAGEMENT CONTROLS

Annual Audit and Management Controls Review. As provided by Article IV, Section 9, of the 

FCSBA Bylaws, the FCSBA shall produce audited financial statements on an annual basis. A review of 

material internal control procedures shall be included in the audit process on a periodic basis.

E. FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
Budget Philosophy. It is FCA Board policy to ensure that every effort is made to minimize operating 

expenses without jeopardizing the banks' investment in the assets that are managed. Approved budgets 

are planned and implemented in consideration of a series of policy objectives as outlined in this statement 

and always in an effort to balance income and expenses. 

Budget Development Time Frames. FCSBA budgets are prepared on a calendar year basis. Each 

November 1, the FCSBA President shall provide the proposed budget for the next calendar year to the 

FCA Board for its review and comment. With FCA Board concurrence, the proposed budget may be 

made available to the banks for further comment. 

Operating Revenues. The FCSBA receives annual operating revenues from (1) bank assessments, (2) 

office rental income from private commercial tenants, (3) other income from operating balances, and (4) 

reserve account transfers as necessary.

Operating Expenses. Operating expenses are budgeted using the appropriate object classifications as 

follows, which may be modified with FCA Board approval:

FCA Field Office Rent

Taxes and Contract Services

Maintenance and Repair

Utilities

Salaries and Benefits

Professional and Consulting Fees

Property Management Fees

Other Expenses

As a part of the draft budget proposal to the FCA Board on or before November 1st every year, the 

FCSBA President shall provide an individual expense breakdown for each item within the object class. 

This breakdown shall include the actual expense from the previous year, the estimated expense for the 

current year, and the projected expense for the proposed year. Unanticipated and emergency expenses 

during the course of the year as well as expenditures beyond amounts approved for object classes may be 

funded out of the operating reserve subject to FCA Board approval.

Capital expenditures funded by transfers from the component reserve account should be shown separately 

with a breakdown of individual expenditures.

Operating Reserves. In consideration of liquidity needs as well as unanticipated expenses, each 

approved budget shall include the sum equivalent to 15 percent of the annual operating expense as 

operating reserves.

Component Reserve Account. To reserve for capital replacement items and repairs to the McLean 

facility, the FCSBA shall maintain a component reserve account which is separate from operating funds 

and reserves. The funding for this account shall be initially based on the Capital Reserve Study of June 1, 

2005, which is then to be updated every 10 years by an independent engineering assessment. The policy 

objective is to ensure adequate funding, on a net present value basis, to cover up to a 10-year capital 

repair and replacement program to be updated, as necessary, with each approved budget. 

Assessments. To ensure the maintenance of minimum "cash on hand," FCSBA assessments are based on 

bank assets as of June 30, and issued quarterly consistent with the FCSBA Bylaws. After taking interest, 

rental, and other revenue into consideration, budgeted annual assessments must be sufficient to fund the 
operations of the FCSBA, including the ability to hold operating reserves equal to 15 percent of expenses 

as well as component reserves consistent with FCSBA policy.

Adjustments to assessments can occur subject to FCA Board approval when total year end "cash and cash 

equivalents" exceed or are below operating and component reserve requirements. Adjustments are 

normally considered for third quarter assessments and are based upon the previous year's audited financial 

statements. Earnings, if any, are distributed through this process in lieu of direct payment.

Investments. The FCSBA invests its funds in an effort to achieve maximum yield consistent with 

liquidity needs and investment safety. For short-term accessibility, operating reserves and other operating 

"cash on hand" may be invested in short-term money market accounts, certificates of deposits of federally 

insured institutions, and short-term instruments of the U.S. Government or commercial paper rated P-1 or 

A-1 by Moody's and Standard and Poor’s, respectively. Operating reserves investment decisions are 

made by the FCSBA President consistent with this policy.

With the goal of achieving the best long-term returns while minimizing risk, component reserves are 

invested solely in instruments backed by the U.S. Government and agencies of the U.S. Government. The 

maturities and amounts of component reserve investments shall be generally consistent with the 

anticipated liquidity needs of the FCSBA capital replacement and repair program. Component reserve 

investment decisions require FCA Board approval .

Budgeting for Reimbursable Expenses. The FCA regularly reimburses the FCSBA for 

telecommunications and other expenditures on a cost recovery basis. Because there is no positive or 

negative financial impact on the FCSBA, these transactions are handled on a "net" basis and thus not 

included in the budget.

Budget Execution. The FCSBA President shall administer the annual budget as approved by the FCA 

Board. Expenditures during the course of the year that would exceed the object class budget require prior 

FCA Board approval. Exceptions to this policy are made in the event of emergency or the funding of 

accrued employee benefits. Expenditures in these cases will be brought to the FCA Board in the form of 

an Executive Summary for approval within 10 business days of occurrence. In considering its approval, 

the FCA Board has the option of either adjusting other object classes, utilizing the operating reserve, or 

taking other action, as it deems appropriate.

F. CONTRACT MANAGEMENT

General. In accordance with Article IV of the FCSBA Bylaws, it is the policy of the FCA Board that all 

contracts issued by or on behalf of the FCSBA be:

1. Competitively bid with a minimum of three bids, when in excess of $25,000.

2. Obtained with a minimum of three price quotes, when less than $25,000, and more than $10,000.

3. Generally awarded to the lowest bidder meeting contract specifications except in those instances 

where the differences in cost are considered negligible relative to a particular benefit offered by a 

higher bid.

4. Reviewed and approved by the FCA Board when in excess of $150,000 unless for outside auditors, 

property managers, or special studies. Contracts approved as part of the Budget do not need 

separate approval.
5. Reviewed and approved by the FCA Board when in excess of $25,000 if for outside auditors, 

property managers, or special studies. Contracts approved as part of the Budget do not need 

separate approval.

6. Retained in file a minimum of 3 years.

7. When possible, bid in conjunction with the budget year.

Exceptions. Notwithstanding the above requirements, the FCA Board has the authority to make 

exceptions, as it deems appropriate to the circumstances. These exceptions shall be evidenced by the 

COO’s written memorandum documenting FCA Board briefing and approval for exceptions involving 

expenditures of $250,000 or less, and Notational Vote or other FCA Board action for exceptions 

involving expenditures in excess of $250,000. Additionally, competitive bidding is not required if the 

circumstances warrant immediate resolution or are vendor specific to equipment, in which case the 

FCSBA President will, within 10 business days, provide the FCA Board with a detailed report of the 

surrounding circumstances, with a copy to the COO and the FCA Liaison.

Contract Timeframes. Recurring contracts are normally for annual terms; however, when deemed cost 

effective, the FCSBA may allow terms up to 3 years. Obtaining best and final offers from bidders is 

encouraged.

Approval Authorization. The FCSBA President is authorized to approve contracts consistent with these 

guidelines and the FCSBA SOP. The FCSBA President may re-delegate up to $50,000 of contracting 

authority to the building property manager.

Contract Performance. The FCSBA President shall insure that adequate systems are in place to 

measure, administer, and report on the performance of FCSBA contracts.

G. ASSET MANAGEMENT

Personal Property. The FCSBA President shall insure that adequate methodologies and systems are in 

place to ensure that FCSBA property is effectively accounted for on a periodic basis.

H. THE FCSBA AS A SYSTEM INSTITUTION

Examination. The FCSBA is examined as provided by the Act. The scope of examination shall be 

generally consistent with the level of risk deemed associated with the operating practices of FCSBA 

management.

Assessments for Examination. The FCSBA will be charged annually for assessments consistent with 

FCA regulation found in 12 CFR (2)607.4, "Assessment of other System entities."

Liquidation by System Request. Should the Boards of the banks adopt, pursuant to Article IX of the 

FCSBA Articles of Association, a resolution to dissolve and liquidate the FCSBA, the dissolution and 

liquidation will be subject to, and conducted in accordance with, the Act and the regulations promulgated 

thereunder.

I. FCSBA SERVICES TO THE FCA

Basic Services. The FCSBA provides space to the FCA headquarters in McLean, Virginia, and leases 

space on behalf of FCA for its field offices. Basic services provided to the FCA are similar to what is 
typical of rented office space and include, but are not limited to, such items as utilities, janitorial service, 

repairs for normal wear and tear, parking and appropriate landscaping as well as amenities which are 

available to all tenants and have the effect of maintaining property values and/or enhancing rental income.

Supplemental Services. In addition to providing basic services, the FCSBA will, on a case-by-case 

basis, provide certain supplemental support services related to FCA's housing needs under the following 

kinds of circumstances:

1. The FCSBA can provide the service on better terms than the FCA.

2. The service, if not provided by the FCSBA, could potentially adversely affect the aesthetic or other 

value of property, systems, building infrastructure, the health and safety of occupants, or the 

occupancy level of commercial tenants.

3. The capacity exists for the FCSBA to provide the service within the context of its employee 

expertise and/or its overall responsibilities to all tenants.

4. By providing the service, an advantage inures to the benefit of the FCS that would not otherwise 

occur.

5. An FCA Board determination that the service will be of particular benefit to the FCA, the FCS or 

the public. In the event of such a determination, no further FCA Board approval under Section A or 

Section F of this Policy Statement is necessary. 

These supplemental services must be documented, and approved by the COO for services valued at 

$25,000 or less and approved by the FCA Board if valued in excess of $25,000. If the FCA Board 

approves a supplemental service, no further FCA Board authority under this Policy Statement is 

necessary. As deemed necessary, the FCSBA President shall issue SOPs prescribing operational or other 

details of FCSBA services provided to the FCA.

Non-Reimbursable and Reimbursable Services. Whether or not the FCA will reimburse the FCSBA 

for a supplemental service will generally be determined as follows:

1. Reimbursement is not required for support provided by the FCSBA when resources are available 

within FCA Board approved budgets for the FCSBA and one or more of the criteria for 

supplemental services expenditures outlined above have been met.

2. Unless otherwise determined by an FCA Board action, supplemental support services requiring 

resources beyond that available within the FCSBA budget will require reimbursement.

3. Reimbursement that is not required is permitted at the discretion of the FCA Board.

Reimbursements in excess of $10,000 that occur on an ongoing basis will require a written Memorandum 

of Understanding between the FCA and the FCSBA outlining the terms and conditions of the services 

provided and reimbursement. One time or minor recurring reimbursements may be handled by purchase 

orders. Reimbursable expenses shall be determined on an actual cost basis or a recognized methodology 

to achieve the goal of fully reimbursing the FCSBA on the transaction.

DATED THIS 27th DAY OF JULY, 2017 

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD
Mary Alice Donner

Acting Secretary to the Board
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-71

Section Title: Disaster Relief Efforts by Farm Credit Institutions

Effective Date: 7/8/2011

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [NV-96-27] (70 FR 71142, 11/25/2005)[NV-11-15]

Effective Date: 08-JUL-11

Effect on Previous Action: Supersedes FCA Bookletter 368-OE, September 14, 1993. See

61 FR 37471, July 18, 1996; amended by NV-11-15 (08-JUL11).

Source of Authority: Section 5.17 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended.

THE FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION (FCA) BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE 

FOLLOWING POLICY STATEMENT:

The FCA recognizes that in the aftermath of hurricanes, floods, droughts, or other natural or man-made 

disasters, specific sections of the country or segments of the agricultural community are declared to be 

disaster areas. Such disaster area declarations may be made by the President of the United States, the 

Governor of a State, or a specific Federal or State government agency. When a disaster area includes a 

rural community where a Farm Credit institution is located or does business, the institution can be 

affected in two ways: directly, such as by physical damage to the institution itself or incapacitation of 

employees; or indirectly, such as by damage suffered by individuals and businesses with loans from the 

institution. In the interest of providing the highest quality and most efficient service to agricultural 

borrowers, the FCA encourages Farm Credit institutions operating in disaster-affected areas to work 

within their communities to help alleviate pressures on borrowers under stress.

When conducted in a reasonable and prudent manner, the efforts of Farm Credit institutions to work in the 

public's interest with borrowers in the disaster areas will be considered consistent with safe and sound 

business practices. It is the FCA's belief that the institutions have considerable flexibility under the 

existing regulations to provide appropriate disaster relief. Such relief efforts may include, but would not 

necessarily be limited to, extending the terms of loan repayment or restructuring a borrower's debt 

obligations. In addition, a Farm Credit institution may consider easing some loan documentation or 

credit-extension terms for new loans to certain borrowers or requesting the FCA to grant relief from 

specific regulatory requirements. It is the FCA's belief that the principal objectives of any disaster 

assistance program developed by a Farm Credit institution and approved by its board should be to:

1. Provide necessary and timely relief to disaster-affected customers of the institution;

2. Minimize the adverse effects of the disaster on the profitability, financial condition, operating 

efficiency, and morale of customers, as well as on the institution;

3. Review applicable statutory and regulatory requirements and determine whether requesting the 

FCA to provide exceptions from regulatory requirements would be appropriate; and

4. Promote, through such consideration and actions, the Farm Credit System's mandate to provide 

American farmers and ranchers with sound, adequate, and constructive credit and closely related 

services.

The FCA further believes that proper risk controls and management oversight should be exercised to 

ensure that such efforts serve the interests of the lending institution as well as those of the community. 
Any institution providing disaster relief should document such relief actions as well as any significant 

departures from otherwise applicable institution policies and procedures.

The aforementioned objectives and risk controls are conditions and characteristics on which the FCA will 

evaluate an institution's relief activities. These objectives and risk controls should be set forth in any 

request to the FCA for specific regulatory relief.

The FCA also recognizes that conditions related to a disaster may impair an institution's ability to comply 

in a timely way with regulatory reporting and publishing requirements. Farm Credit institutions should 

contact the Director of the Office of Examination when relief from specific regulatory or reporting 

requirements is needed.

Additionally, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (Federal Reserve Board) has, from 

time to time, granted relief from certain Regulation Z requirements to consumers located in declared 

disaster areas. It is likely that the Federal Reserve Board will continue to promulgate similar temporary 

exceptions in disaster-affected areas. When this occurs, the FCA will, as a matter of convenience, 

continue to notify the Farm Credit institutions affected by Regulation Z exceptions.

DATED THIS 8th DAY OF JULY, 2011 

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

Dale L. Aultman

Secretary to the Board
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-72

Section Title: Financial Institution Rating System (FIRS)

Effective Date: 7/8/2011

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [BM-9-APR-98-02; NV-05-01] (70 FR 71142, 11/25/2005)[NV-11-15]

Effective Date: 08-JUL-11

Effect on Previous Action: Amended by NV-11-15 (08-JUL-11).

Source of Authority: Sections 5.9 and 5.17 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as 

amended.

THE FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE FOLLOWING 

POLICY STATEMENT:

I. Policy

The Financial Institution Rating System (FIRS) shall be the rating system used by Farm Credit 

Administration (FCA or Agency) examiners for evaluating and categorizing the safety and soundness of 

Farm Credit System (System) institutions on an ongoing, uniform, and comprehensive basis. 

The FIRS will provide valuable information to the Agency for assessing risk and allocating resources 

based on the safety and soundness of regulated institutions. Ratings assigned to regulated institutions will 

be adjusted periodically so that they accurately reflect the condition of institutions.

II. Standards and Implementation

Based on the conclusions reached in the ongoing examination of an institution's financial, managerial, and 

operational condition, FCA examiners will assign ratings to each of the rating factor components and 

assign a composite rating that reflects the condition and overall safety and soundness of the System 

institution. These ratings shall be reported to the institution's Board of Directors and Chief Executive 

Officer.

Component and composite ratings are assigned on a 1 to 5 numerical scale. A 1-rating indicates the 

strongest performance and management practices and the least degree of supervisory and regulatory 

concern, while a 5-rating indicates an extremely high, immediate or near-term probability of failure and 

unsatisfactory management practices and, therefore, the highest degree of concern.

Although each institution has its own examination and supervisory issues and concerns, the FIRS is 

structured to evaluate all significant financial, asset quality, and management factors common to all 

System institutions. Examination criteria for each of the rating components are defined in the FCA 

Examination Manual, which is available to the public. The FCA Examination Manual also incorporates 

the evaluative criteria under which component and composite ratings are assigned.

Composite Rating

The FIRS provides a general framework for assimilating and evaluating all significant financial, 

managerial, and operational factors to assign a composite rating to each System institution. The 
composite rating is based on a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the factors comprising each of the 

following components, the interrelationships among components, and the overall level of concern for 

those risks that affect a System institution.

The composite rating does not assume a predetermined weight for each component nor does it represent 

an arithmetic average of assigned component ratings. The weight given to any individual component in 

determining composite ratings varies depending on the degree of concern associated with the component 

and the threat posed to the overall safety and soundness of the institution.

Component Ratings

Listed below is a brief description of the FIRS components and the more common evaluative criteria and 

factors considered under each component.

• Capital -- A System institution is expected to maintain capital and capital management practices 

commensurate with the nature and extent of risks to the institution and the ability of management 

to identify, measure, monitor, and control these risks. The capital component is based on an 

evaluation of an institution's capacity to absorb losses and provide for future growth. An 

evaluation of capital relies on many factors such as regulatory capital requirements, trends, 

portfolio and institutional risk, growth, adequacy of risk funds, management capability, and other 

factors as appropriate.

• Assets -- This component is based on an assessment of both the quality of the current portfolio 

and the quality of the associated risk management processes that substantially impact the quality 

of assets. An assessment of assets relies on many factors such as loan portfolio management, 

investment portfolio management, loan portfolio trends, risk identification processes, credit 

administration, allowance for loan losses, and other factors that affect the quality, performance, 

income producing capacity, and stability of assets.

• Management -- The management component is based on an assessment of board and management 

performance against all factors considered necessary to operate the institution within accepted 

banking practices and in a safe and sound manner in accordance with applicable laws, 

regulations, and guidelines.

• Earnings -- This component is based on an evaluation of the quantity, quality, and sustainability 

of the institution's earning performance. An evaluation of earnings considers factors such as the 

level of earnings, composition and quality of net income, stability of earnings performance, 

relationship to portfolio risk, quality of earnings management, and other factors as deemed 

appropriate.

• Liquidity -- The liquidity component is based on an evaluation of an institution's capacity to 

promptly meet the demand for payment of its obligations, fund its loan portfolio, and readily meet 

the reasonable credit needs of the territory served. An evaluation of liquidity also considers 

continued access to funding, the existence of secondary sources of liquidity, and other factors as 

deemed appropriate.

• Sensitivity -- This component reflects the degree to which changes in interest rates may affect 

earnings or the market value of an institution's equity. An evaluation of this component considers 

such factors as the size and complexity of the institution's financial activities, the level of interest 

rate risk exposure relative to capital and earnings, investment and derivatives activities, 
management's ability to identify, measure, monitor, project, and control interest rate risk, and 

other factors as deemed appropriate.

III. Responsibility

It is the responsibility of the Chief Examiner to ensure that the components used to support the composite 

ratings are reviewed periodically to make certain they reflect the material matters that impact the safety 

and soundness of institutions. In this respect, the Chief Examiner shall make recommendations to the 

FCA Board to add or delete components as necessary. Specific evaluative criteria and factors for 

determining component and composite ratings shall be established by the Chief Examiner and 

incorporated in the FCA Examination Manual or by other means as appropriate. The Chief Examiner is 

responsible for ensuring that ratings assigned to institutions are commensurate with and accurately reflect 

the risk in the institutions.

IV. Reporting

At least quarterly, the Chief Examiner will provide the FCA Board a report of the composite rating of all 

FCS institutions.

V. Implementation

System institutions examined after the date this policy is adopted by the FCA Board will be assigned 

composite and component ratings in accordance with this Policy Statement.

DATED THIS 8th DAY OF JULY, 2011 

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

Dale L. Aultman

Secretary to the Board
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-77

Section Title: Borrower Privacy

Effective Date: 7/8/2011

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [BM-10-NOV-99-02] (70 FR 71142, 11/25/2005)[NV-11-15]

Effective Date: 08-JUL-11

Effect on Previous Action: Amended by NV-11-15 (08-JUL-11).

Source of Authority: Section 5.9 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended.

THE FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION (FCA) BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE 

FOLLOWING POLICY STATEMENT:

The Farm Credit Administration Board believes that each Farm Credit System institution has an 

affirmative and continuing obligation to respect the privacy of its customers and to protect the security 

and confidentiality of those customers' nonpublic personal information. Since 1972, FCA regulations 

have required that borrower information be held in strict confidence by Farm Credit institutions, their 

directors, officers and employees. Our regulations at 12 CFR Part 618, Subpart G specifically restrict 

Farm Credit institution directors and employees from disclosing information not normally contained in 

published reports or press releases about the institution or its borrowers or members. These regulations 

also provide Farm Credit institutions clear guidelines for protecting their borrowers’ nonpublic personal 

information. Particularly since Farm Credit institutions are owned and directed by the farmers, ranchers 

and cooperatives who borrow from them, the privacy and security of customer information is vital to the 

System’s continued dependability and long-term success. Therefore, the FCA Board strongly encourages 

each System institution to regularly inform their customers of the institution’s obligation to protect 

nonpublic personal information. 

Additionally, rapid technological advances have made unauthorized and/or inadvertent disclosure of 

personal financial information more common and more difficult to protect against. Therefore, in addition 

to monitoring compliance with our regulations on disclosure, FCA will examine each System institution’s 

internal controls on a regular basis to ensure that adequate safeguards are in place to protect the 

confidentiality of customer nonpublic personal information. 

DATED THIS 8th DAY OF JULY, 2011 

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

Dale L. Aultman

Secretary to the Board
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-78

Section Title: Official Names of Farm Credit System Institutions

Effective Date: 7/8/2011

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [BM-03-MAY-00-04] (70 FR 71142, 11/25/2005)[NV-11-15]

Effective Date: 08-JUL-11

Effect on Previous Action: Supercedes FCA-PS-63 [NV-96-22] 05/30/96; amended by NV11-15 (08-JUL-11).

Source of Authority: Sections 1.3(b), 2.0(b)(8), 2.10(c), 3.0, 5.17(a)(2)(A), 7.0, 7.6(a), 

7.8(a) of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended; 12 CFR Part 

611.

THE FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION (FCA or Agency) BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE 

FOLLOWING POLICY STATEMENT:

OBJECTIVE

Our objective is to ensure that the public can identify a Farm Credit System (System) bank, association, 

or service corporation as belonging to the Farm Credit System and is not misled by the name the 

institution uses. We also believe that Farm Credit System institutions should have some flexibility in 

proposing official names for their institutions. 

OFFICIAL NAMES

The FCA Board will approve an official name for a Farm Credit System bank,1 association, or service 

corporation that meets the following two requirements:

• The name includes appropriate identification of the institution as a System institution; and 

•

• The name is not misleading or inappropriate.

Appropriate identification means the name contains either 1) the relevant statutory or regulatory 

designation, or its corresponding acronym, or 2) other appropriate identification as a System institution. 

Relevant statutory and regulatory designations, and their corresponding acronyms, are as follows:

• Agricultural Credit Bank or ACB

• Bank for Cooperatives or BC

• Farm Credit Bank or FCB

• Agricultural Credit Association or ACA

• Production Credit Association or PCA
• Federal Land Credit Association or FLCA

• Federal Land Bank Association or FLBA

Other appropriate identification as a System institution includes the following:

• Farm Credit Services

• Farm Credit

• FCS

• A member of the Farm Credit System

Misleading names are those that a reasonable person might find confusing. For example, we would not 

issue a charter to an institution requesting a name that is the same as or similar to that of an existing 

institution because the public might find this confusing. Merely avoiding identical names is not enough; 

to minimize confusion, a proposed name must sufficiently distinguish an institution from other 

institutions. If the Agency had approved a charter for an institution using MyTown, ACA, as its official 

name, it would not issue a charter for an institution proposing ACA of MyTown or MyTown Farm Credit 

Services, ACA, as its official name. Nor would we issue a charter with the phrase “farm credit 

association” as part of the official name, because the inevitable use of the acronym “FCA” would be 

confused with the name of the Agency. Also, we would not approve a name for an institution that could 

cause the public to confuse that institution’s authorities and services with those of a commercial bank, 

thrift institution, or credit union. For example, we would not issue a charter to a System institution 

requesting the term “national bank” in its official name because this could cause confusion regarding the 

services the institution may offer. 

TRADE NAMES

A System institution may use a trade name. The trade name must not be misleading. If an institution 

uses a trade name, it must use both the official and trade names in all written communications.

RELATED ISSUES

If an ACA and its subsidiaries operate under substantially different names, they must clearly identify the 

parent/subsidiary relationship in all written communications. For example, if MyTown, PCA, is a 

subsidiary of EveryTown, ACA, the PCA must identify itself as a subsidiary of the parent ACA in its 

written communications.

Please note that while the FCA cannot reserve names, the Patent and Trademark Office will register 

names under certain conditions. When applying for a name change or new charter, System institutions 

should submit a statement indicating whether they have applied for a trademark in that name.

This statement addresses only FCA’s policy. Other laws, such as Federal or state trademark laws, may 

apply. Institutions should ensure that their official and trade names do not infringe the trademarks or 

service marks of other companies. Institutions may wish to consult legal counsel to determine whether 

their proposed names could be challenged or protected under state or federal law. 

DATED THIS 8th DAY OF JULY, 2011 
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

Dale L. Aultman

Secretary to the Board

_____________________

1

Farm Credit System bank includes Farm Credit Banks, Banks for Cooperatives, and Agricultural Credit 

Banks. 
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-79

Section Title: Consideration and Referral of Supervisory Strategies and Enforcement 

Actions

Effective Date: 7/8/2011

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [BM-14-FEB-08-02] (73 FR 9804, 02/22/08); [NV 09-16, 08/07/09] (74 FR 

56195, 10/30/09)[NV-11-15]

Effective Date: 08-JUL-11

Effect on Previous Actions: Rescinds and supersedes the previous PS-79; amended by 

NV-11-15 (08-JUL-11).

Source of Authority: Sections 5.19, 5.25-5.35 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as 

amended.

THE FCA BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE FOLLOWING POLICY STATEMENT:

The Farm Credit Administration (FCA or Agency) Board provides for the regulation and examination of 

Farm Credit System (System or FCS) institutions, which includes the Federal Agricultural Mortgage 

Corporation (Farmer Mac), in accordance with the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended (the “Act”). 

This policy addresses conditions that warrant referrals to the Agency’s Regulatory Enforcement 

Committee (REC) to consider appropriate supervisory strategies and recommend to the FCA Board the 

use of the enforcement authorities conferred on the Agency under Part C, Title V of the Act or other 

statutes. Enforcement actions include formal agreements, orders to cease and desist, temporary orders to 

cease and desist, civil money penalties, suspensions or removals of directors or officers, and conditions 

imposed in writing to address unsafe or unsound practices or violations of law, rule or regulation 

(Enforcement Document). Taking these actions, in an appropriate and timely manner, is critical to 

maintaining shareholder, investor, and public confidence in the financial strength and future viability of 

the System. 

This policy provides only internal FCA guidance. It is not intended to create any rights, substantive or 

procedural, enforceable at law or in any administrative proceeding.

Composition of the REC

The Chairman of the FCA Board will designate the Chief Operating Officer and the office directors of the 

Office of Examination, Office of General Counsel, and Office of Regulatory Policy, or the directors of 

successor offices, as voting members of the REC. A representative from the Farm Credit System 

Insurance Corporation will be invited to participate in REC activities as a non-voting member. The 

Chairman of the FCA Board will also designate one of the voting REC members as Chairman of the REC. 

Due to the statutory independence of the Office of Secondary Market Oversight (OSMO), there will be 

different REC membership when considering issues related to Farmer Mac. 

Referrals to the REC
Recommended supervisory strategies or enforcement actions concerning an FCS institution or person will 

be referred to the REC when any of the conditions exist, as specified below, or when a specified condition 

does not exist, but consideration of an enforcement action or review by the REC is appropriate. The REC 

will review the proposed actions and draft enforcement documents and assess the recommendations for 

pursuing any such actions. The REC may revise the recommendations and will document its concurrence 

or nonconcurrence with the supervisory strategy or enforcement action.

Conditions Warranting Referral to the REC

Any one of the following conditions requires a referral to the REC for its consideration of supervisory 

strategies or enforcement actions. 

1. A “4” or “5” composite FIRS rating is assigned to an FCS institution;

2. The institution or person is deemed unable or unwilling to address a material: (a) unsafe or unsound 

condition or practice; or (b) violation or ongoing violation of law or regulation;

3. The institution or person is about to engage in a material unsafe or unsound practice or is about to 

commit a willful or material violation of law or regulation that exposes the institution to significant 

risk;

4. Conditions meet the statutory criteria for a suspension or removal; 

5. Conditions meet the statutory criteria for assessing a civil money penalty and the factors to be 

considered in determining the amount of a civil money penalty justify the imposition of the penalty;

6. Conditions meet the statutory criteria to place an FCS institution in conservatorship or receivership; 

7. An institution or person fails to comply with an Enforcement Document or is unwilling or unable to 

address a violation of a condition imposed in writing; or

8. Conditions justify termination or modification of an existing Enforcement Document.

As appropriate, referrals for the REC’s consideration also may be made for conditions not specified 

above.

Notification of the REC

The REC will be notified when any institution is assigned a “3” composite FIRS rating and informed of 

the Agency’s supervisory strategies.

Consultation with the REC

For institutions under a formal Enforcement Document, or assigned a composite FIRS rating of “4” or 

“5”, requests for prior approvals, or other actions, will be referred to the REC for consultation.

Referral to the FCA Board

The REC will refer to the FCA Board for its consideration all recommendations concurred with by the 

REC for the placement of an Enforcement Document on a FCS institution or person. In the unlikely 

instance, when an institution receives a composite “4” or “5” FIRS rating and a formal Enforcement 

Document is not recommended to the FCA Board, the REC will promptly document and report the 

Agency’s supervisory strategy to the FCA Board. 

Reporting to the FCA Board

The REC Chairman will report at least quarterly to the FCA Board if matters are referred to or reviewed 

by the REC, but FCA Board action is not subsequently requested.
Actions by the REC

The REC will develop procedures to address the responsibilities outlined herein. 

Due to OSMO’s statutory independence, the Director of OSMO will develop procedures for actions 

affecting Farmer Mac.

DATED THIS 8th DAY OF JULY, 2011 

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

Dale L. Aultman

Secretary to the Board
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-80

Section Title: Cooperative Operating Philosophy -- Serving the Members of Farm 

Credit System Institutions

Effective Date: 10/14/2010

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [BM-14-OCT-10-02](75 FR 64728, 10/20/2010)

THE FCA BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE FOLLOWING POLICY STATEMENT:

Cooperative Operating Philosophy—Serving the Members of

Farm Credit System Institutions

FCA-PS-80 [BM-14-OCT-10-02]

Effective Date: 14-OCT-10.

Effect on Previous Actions: None.

Source of Authority: Preamble and section 1.1 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended.

Cooperative Commitment

The Farm Credit Administration (FCA) is committed to the cooperative structure under which 

Farm Credit System (System) institutions are required to operate.1 The FCA emphasizes cooperative 

principles by advancing regulatory proposals that encourage farmer, rancher, and cooperative borrowers 

to participate in the management, control, and ownership of their institutions.2

 The FCA also emphasizes 

cooperative principles in the examination function and Financial Institution Rating System (FIRS) used to 

categorize the safety and soundness of System institutions.3

 

The FCA supports cooperative values that encourage member participation in System institutions. 

Cooperatives are, by definition, entities with a “member focus.” They are owned and controlled by their 

members, and the members benefit from doing business with their cooperatives. Cooperative entities that 

focus on serving and fulfilling the needs of their members often realize greater participation in their 

institutions. While System institutions have strong reputations as effective cooperatives, they should 

build on this tradition through a cooperative business culture that goes beyond that required by statute and 

regulation.

History

The System is a Government-sponsored enterprise of cooperative institutions owned and 

controlled by their member-borrowers.4

 Prior to establishment of the System, a political consensus had 

been forming in Congress on a need for an improved system of credit delivery to agriculture. When 

Congress established the System in 1916,5 it determined that the cooperative structure was the best model 

for furnishing sound, adequate and constructive credit and closely related services to rural areas.6

 

Subsequent Farm Credit legislation, including the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended, has reaffirmed 

the cooperative nature of the System. 

Policy on Implementing a Cooperative Operating Philosophy — Serving the Members
The System, through its cooperative structure, makes competitive credit available to creditworthy 

farmers, ranchers, producers and harvesters of aquatic products, and their cooperatives. The FCA 

believes the following three core cooperative principles are the foundation of the System’s structure:7 

1) The cooperative is owned by its members.8

2) The cooperative is controlled by its members.

3) The members benefit from doing business with, and participating in, the management, 

control, and ownership of their institution.

While business practices may change over time, these underlying cooperative principles have sufficient 

flexibility to ensure changes in best practices remain member focused. System institutions should apply 

cooperative business practices in a manner that best serves their members and meets their mission as 

Government–sponsored enterprises, while continuing to operate in a safe and sound manner, by

1) Engaging members as owners,

2) Communicating with members, and 

3) Providing value-added benefits to members.

Serving the Members of Farm Credit System Institutions

Operating in a cooperative manner requires the boards of directors and management to engage, 

communicate, and provide value-added benefits to members. System institutions should proactively 

identify opportunities to reach out to member-borrowers beyond the lending and related services 

relationship.9 

Many System institutions have been innovative and diligent in maintaining a cooperative 

philosophy in their business operations. The FCA encourages System institutions to continue and further 

their efforts to uphold a cooperative business culture. In addition, the FCA Board challenges the board 

and management of each System institution to periodically review and update their cooperative 

philosophies and practices and ensure that they maintain the focus to serve the members. 

DATED THIS 14TH DAY OF OCTOBER 2010

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD

Roland E. Smith

Secretary,

Farm Credit Administration Board.

_________________________

1

See § 615.5230, “Implementation of cooperative principles.” 

2

See FCA Policy Statement “Regulatory Philosophy” (FCA-PS-59), dated June 8, 2005.
3

Under FIRS, each institution is assigned composite and component ratings based on an evaluation of the 

adequacy of Capital, Assets, Management, Earnings, Liquidity, and Sensitivity to market risk (commonly 

referred to as “CAMELS”). Composite and component ratings are assigned based on a 1 to 5 numerical 

scale, with 1 being the highest rating indicating the strongest level of performance and risk management 

practices and the least degree of supervisory concern. Within the Management component, FCA 

qualitatively rates the use of cooperative principles in the conduct of business activities. Please visit 

www.fca.gov for further information on FIRS.

4

The Preamble and section 1.1 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as amended (Act), Pub. L. 92-181, 85 

Stat. 583.

5

The Federal Farm Loan Act, Pub. L. 64-158, 39 Stat. 360.

6

The cooperative structure of the System was viewed by Congress as providing greater safeguards than 

other structures under consideration at the time.

7

The International Co-operative Alliance (ICA), an independent, non-governmental association, has 

issued a statement on cooperative identity in which they espouse seven principles as guidelines for 

cooperatives to put their values into practice. Those seven principles are voluntary and open membership, 

democratic member control, member economic participation, autonomy and independence, training and 

information, cooperation among cooperatives, and concern for community. The principles can be found 

on the ICA Web site, www.ica.coop. 

8

Under 4.3A of the Act, borrower-members of a System institution acquire voting stock at loan 

origination and hold allocated equities generated by patronage distributions from net earnings. Borrowermembers’ voting stock and allocated equities are at-risk investments.

9

At a later date, the FCA will issue an Informational Memorandum to share its perspective on cooperative 

business practices that System institutions could use to reach out to their member-borrowers.
Type: Policy Statement

Section Number: FCA-PS-81

Section Title: Ethics, Independence, Arm's-Length Role, Ex Parte Communications 

and Open Government

Effective Date: 11/7/2011

Date Created: 9/5/2012

Old/Additional ID: [NV 11-25](76 FR 71343, 11/17/2011)

THE FCA BOARD HEREBY ADOPTS THE FOLLOWING POLICY STATEMENT:

ETHICS, INDEPENDENCE, ARM'S-LENGTH ROLE,

EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS AND OPEN GOVERNMENT 

FCA-PS-81 [NV 11-25]

Effective Date: 07-NOV-11

Effect on Previous Action: None

Source of Authority: Sections 5.8, 5.9, 5.10, and 5.11 of the Farm Credit Act of 1971, as 

amended.

Ethics. The body of ethics law, rules and policies are designed to ensure that every citizen can have 

complete confidence in the integrity of the Government. FCA, as an agency in the executive branch, is 

subject to the Federal criminal conflict of interest laws and Office of Government Ethics (OGE) 

regulations and oversight, including the 14 General Principles of Ethical Conduct and the Uniform 

Standards of Ethical Conduct (Code) (5 CFR Part 2635), the restrictions on certain noncareer employees 

(5 CFR Part 2636), the regulations on ethics program responsibilities (5 CFR Part 2638), the financial 

disclosure regulations (5 CFR Part 2634), the regulations on acts affecting a personal financial interest (5 

C FR Part 2640), and the post-employment restrictions (5 CFR Part 2641). FCA also has issued 

supplemental ethics rules with the concurrence of OGE (5 CFR Part 4101). In addition, the FCA Board 

Members, as Presidential Appointees with Senate confirmation (PAS), are subject to any further 

applicable ethics restrictions that may be imposed by the President of the United States.

Pursuant to the body of ethics laws cited above, the FCA Board will continue to hold itself to the highest 

standards of ethical conduct in recognition that its commitment and adherence to the Agency ethics 

program sets the standard for the commitment and conduct of Agency staff. Board Members should 

avoid actions that could create the impression that they can be improperly influenced. They should also 

avoid actions that could create the appearance of violating the law, the ethical standards set forth in the 

Federal and FCA ethical standards of conduct, or other applicable guidance. In decision making, a Board 

Member should be guided by the integrity of the Farm Credit Act, as amended, and also by the knowledge 

that he/she is acting on behalf of the public. 

Independence. The FCA has been established as an independent Agency to administer laws enacted by 

the Congress. Its PAS Board Members serve fixed terms as provided by law. Because of its independent 

status, Board Members should not let their official decisions be swayed by partisan demands. Although 
the Agency works cooperatively with Congress and the White House, Board Members and employees 

must remain mindful of their duty to make independent determinations on matters being considered by 

the Agency. The decisions made by a Board Member will reflect objective understanding and knowledge 

of the complexity of the matter under consideration. 

Arm's-Length Role. The FCA Board Members and Agency staff are committed to maintaining an arm’slength relationship with the System. This means Agency decisions must be independent of any undue 

influence, favoritism, or special access so that all parties coming before the Agency stand on an equal 

footing. The Board Members, as final arbiters of Agency actions affecting the System, as well as all 

Agency employees who have decision-making authority affecting System institutions and related entities, 

must be especially mindful to conduct themselves in a fair and impartial manner, avoiding any actions 

that create an appearance of a loss of impartiality. This is especially important in light of FCA's 

examination, rulemaking and adjudicatory functions. While open and informative communications with 

regulated parties is essential for an effective regulator, the FCA Board and staff will strive to maintain an 

appropriate balance in its communications with the System, keeping in mind the totality of the 

circumstances – including the content, timing and setting of such communications – before engaging with 

the System. FCA Board and staff will consult with the ethics staff whenever in doubt about the propriety 

of such communications. 

Determination of Appearance of Loss of Impartiality. Under the Code's impartiality rule, an 

appearance concern is judged on the basis of the individual Board Member or employee 

determining that the circumstances would cause a reasonable person with knowledge of the 

relevant facts to question his or her impartiality in the matter. The rule also permits the DAEO or 

ethics designee to make an independent determination of whether or not a potential appearance 

problem would cause a reasonable person with knowledge of the relevant facts to question a 

Board Member's or employee's impartiality in a matter.

Ex Parte Communications. In its judicial functions, the Board Members and staff avoid all discussions 

with persons outside the Agency and its staff as set forth in Agency regulations at 12 C.F.R. Part 622.7(j). 

Specifically, this regulatory provision, in part, prohibits any FCA Board Member or employee who is or 

may reasonably be expected to be involved in the decisional process from making or knowingly cause to 

be made an ex parte communication relevant to the merits of the proceeding to any person. In its 

rulemaking functions, the Board Members and staff also adhere to the ex parte restrictions set forth in 

Board Policy 37, which governs substantive oral communications with the public during the rulemaking 

process. 

Open Government. The Agency is committed to conducting its business in the sunshine and on the public 

record as required by law. We also adopt the following core values of an open and accountable FCA as 

outlined in the President’s Open Government memorandum issued in January 2009:

· Transparency: FCA should provide citizens with information about what it is doing to promote 

knowledge, accessibility and accountability.

· Participation: FCA should actively solicit expertise from the public and from outside 

Washington so that it makes policies with the benefit of the best information. 

· Collaboration: FCA officials should work together with other Government officials and with 

citizens as part of doing its job of solving national problems. 

DATED THIS 7TH DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2011

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD
Dale L. Aultman

Secretary to the Board