42 U.S.C. § 3121 (THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE)
§ 3121. Findings and declarations
(a) Findings
Congress finds that—
(1) there continue to be areas of the United States experiencing chronic high unemployment, underemployment, outmigration, and low per capita incomes, as well as areas facing sudden and severe economic dislocations because of structural economic changes, changing trade patterns, certain Federal actions (including environmental requirements that result in the removal of economic activities from a locality), and natural disasters;
(2) economic growth in the States, cities, and rural areas of the United States is produced by expanding economic opportunities, expanding free enterprise through trade, developing and strengthening public infrastructure, and creating a climate for job creation and business development;
(3) the goal of Federal economic development programs is to raise the standard of living for all citizens and increase the wealth and overall rate of growth of the economy by encouraging communities to develop a more competitive and diversified economic base by—
(A) creating an environment that promotes economic activity by improving and expanding public infrastructure;
(B) promoting job creation through increased innovation, productivity, and entrepreneurship; and
(C) empowering local and regional communities experiencing chronic high unemployment and low per capita income to develop private sector business and attract increased private sector capital investment;
(4) while economic development is an inherently local process, the Federal Government should work in partnership with public and private State, regional, tribal, and local organizations to maximize the impact of existing resources and enable regions, communities, and citizens to participate more fully in the American dream and national prosperity;
(5) in order to avoid duplication of effort and achieve meaningful, long-lasting results, Federal, State, tribal, and local economic development activities should have a clear focus, improved coordination, a comprehensive approach, and simplified and consistent requirements; and
(6) Federal economic development efforts will be more effective if the efforts are coordinated with, and build upon, the trade, workforce investment, transportation, and technology programs of the United States.
(b) Declarations
In order to promote a strong and growing economy throughout the United States, Congress declares that—
(1) assistance under this chapter should be made available to both rural- and urban-distressed communities;
(2) local communities should work in partnership with neighboring communities, the States, Indian tribes, and the Federal Government to increase the capacity of the local communities to develop and implement comprehensive economic development strategies to alleviate economic distress and enhance competitiveness in the global economy;
(3) whether suffering from long-term distress or a sudden dislocation, distressed communities should be encouraged to support entrepreneurship to take advantage of the development opportunities afforded by technological innovation and expanding newly opened global markets; and
(4) assistance under this chapter should be made available to promote the productive reuse of abandoned industrial facilities and the redevelopment of brownfields.
(Pub. L. 89–136, § 2, as added Pub. L. 105–393, title I, § 102(a), Nov. 13, 1998, 112 Stat. 3598; amended Pub. L. 108–373, title I, § 101, Oct. 27, 2004, 118 Stat. 1757.)
heading: Editorial Notes
heading: Prior Provisions
text: A prior section 3121, Pub. L. 89–136, § 2, Aug. 26, 1965, 79 Stat. 552; Pub. L. 94–487, title I, § 102, Oct. 12, 1976, 90 Stat. 2331, set forth congressional findings and statement of purpose of chapter, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 105–393, § 102(a).
heading: Amendments
text: 2004—Pub. L. 108–373 reenacted section catchline without change and amended text generally, substituting pars. (1) to (6) for former pars. (1) to (8) in subsec. (a) and pars. (1) to (4) for former pars. (1) to (3) in subsec. (b).
heading: Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
heading: Effective Date
text: Pub. L. 105–393, title I, § 105, Nov. 13, 1998, 112 Stat. 3618, provided that: “This title [see Short Title of 1998 Amendment note set out below] and the amendments made by this title shall take effect on a date determined by the Secretary of Commerce, but not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Nov. 13, 1998].”
[Effective Feb. 11, 1999, see 64 F.R. 9222.]
heading: Short Title of 2025 Amendment
text: Pub. L. 118–272, div. B, title II, § 2201, Jan. 4, 2025, 138 Stat. 3176, provided that: “This title [see Tables for classification] may be cited as the ‘Economic Development Reauthorization Act of 2024’.”
heading: Short Title of 2020 Amendment
text: Pub. L. 116–192, § 1, Oct. 30, 2020, 134 Stat. 978, provided that: “This Act [amending section 3211 of this title] may be cited as the ‘Reinvigorating Lending for the Future Act’ or the ‘RLF Act’.”
heading: Short Title of 2004 Amendment
text: Pub. L. 108–373, § 1(a), Oct. 27, 2004, 118 Stat. 1756, provided that: “This Act [enacting sections 3154 to 3154d, 3221, 3222, and 3234 of this title, amending this section and sections 3122, 3131, 3133, 3143 to 3147, 3149, 3151, 3161, 3162, 3174, 3192, 3196, 3212, 3213, 3219, and 3231 of this title, and repealing sections 3148, 3173, and 3195 of this title] may be cited as the ‘Economic Development Administration Reauthorization Act of 2004’.”
heading: Short Title of 1998 Amendment
text: Pub. L. 105–393, § 1(a), Nov. 13, 1998, 112 Stat. 3596, provided that: “This Act [see Tables for classification] may be cited as the ‘Economic Development Administration and Appalachian Regional Development Reform Act of 1998’.”
Pub. L. 105–393, title I, § 101, Nov. 13, 1998, 112 Stat. 3597, provided that: “This title [enacting subchapters I to VII of this chapter, transferring section 3222 of this title to section 3212 of this title, amending section 5316 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees, repealing former subchapters I to X of this chapter, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section, and repealing provisions set out as a note under this section] may be cited as the ‘Economic Development Administration Reform Act of 1998’.”
heading: Short Title of 1976 Amendment
text: Pub. L. 94–487, § 101, Oct. 12, 1976, 90 Stat. 2331, provided that: “This Act [enacting sections 3137, 3144, 3173, and 3246h of this title, amending this section and sections 3131, 3132, 3135, 3141, 3142, 3151a, 3152, 3153, 3161, 3171, 3172, 3188a, 3214, 3241, 3243, 3245, 3246a to 3246c, and 3246e to 3246g of this title, repealing section 3246d of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section, and amending provisions set out as a note under section 3162 of this title] may be cited as the ‘Public Works and Economic Development Act Amendments of 1976’.”
heading: Short Title of 1975 Amendments
text: Pub. L. 94–188, § 1, Dec. 31, 1975, 89 Stat. 1079, provided: “That this Act [enacting sections 3194 to 3196 of this title and sections 225 and 303 of the Appendix to former Title 40, Public Buildings, Property, and Works, amending sections 3181, 3182, 3188a and 3192 of this title, and sections 2, 101, 102, 105–107, 201, 202, 205, 207, 211, 214, 223, 224, 302, 401 and 405 of the Appendix to former Title 40, repealing section 3134 of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 3181 and 3183 of this title and sections 1, 2 and 201 of the Appendix of former Title 40] may be cited as the ‘Regional Development Act of 1975’.”
Pub. L. 94–188, title II, § 201, Dec. 31, 1975, 89 Stat. 1087, provided that: “This title [enacting sections 3194 to 3196 of this title, amending sections 3181, 3182, 3188a, and 3192 of this title, and enacting provisions set out as note under section 3183 of this title] may be cited as the ‘Regional Action Planning Commission Improvement Act of 1975’.”
heading: Short Title of 1974 Amendment
text: Pub. L. 93–567, § 1, Dec. 31, 1974, 88 Stat. 1845, provided: “That this Act [enacting sections 3246 to 3246g of this title and sections 961 to 966 of Title 29, Labor, amending section 1244 of Title 20, Education, and sections 841, 842, 844, 845, 849 to 851, 981, and 983 of Title 29, and enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 3304 of Title 26, Internal Revenue Code, and 4102 of Title 38, Veterans’ Benefits] may be cited as the ‘Emergency Jobs and Unemployment Assistance Act of 1974’.”
heading: Short Title of 1971 Amendment
text: Pub. L. 92–65, title I, § 101, Aug. 5, 1971, 85 Stat. 166, provided that: “This title [enacting section 3123 of this title and amending this section, sections 3135, 3141, 3152, 3161, 3162, 3171, 3188a, and 3191 of this title, and provisions set out as a note under section 3162 of this title] may be cited as the ‘Public Works and Economic Development Act Amendments of 1971’.”
heading: Short Title of 1969 Amendment
text: Pub. L. 91–123, title II, § 201, Nov. 25, 1969, 83 Stat. 216, provided that: “This title [enacting sections 3190, 3191, and 3192 of this title and amending this section and sections 3185, 3186, and 3188a of this title] may be cited as the ‘Regional Action Planning Commission Amendments of 1969’.”
heading: Short Title
text: Pub. L. 89–136, § 1(a), as added Pub. L. 105–393, title I, § 102(a), Nov. 13, 1998, 112 Stat. 3597, provided that: “This Act [enacting this chapter] may be cited as the ‘Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965’.”
A prior section 1 of Pub. L. 89–136, which provided that Pub. L. 89–136 could be cited as the “Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965”, was repealed by Pub. L. 105–393, title I, § 102(a), Nov. 13, 1998, 112 Stat. 3597.
heading: Denali Housing Fund
text: Pub. L. 118–272, div. B, title II, § 2252, Jan. 4, 2025, 138 Stat. 3211, provided that:
“(a) Definitions.—
In this section:
“(1) Eligible entity.—
The term ‘eligible entity’ means—
“(A) a nonprofit organization;
“(B) a limited dividend organization;
“(C) a cooperative organization;
“(D) an Indian Tribe (as defined in section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 5304)); and
“(E) a public entity, such as a municipality, county, district, authority, or other political subdivision of a State.
“(2) Federal cochair.—
The term ‘Federal Cochair’ means the Federal Cochairperson of the Denali Commission.
“(3) Fund.—
The term ‘Fund’ means the Denali Housing Fund established under subsection (b)(1).
“(4) Low-income.—
The term ‘low-income’, with respect to a household means that the household income is less than 150 percent of the Federal poverty level for the State of Alaska.
“(5) Moderate-income.—
The term ‘moderate-income’, with respect to a household, means that the household income is less than 250 percent of the Federal poverty level for the State of Alaska.
“(6) Secretary.—
The term ‘Secretary’ means the Secretary of Agriculture.
“(b) Denali Housing Fund.—
“(1) Establishment.—
There shall be established in the Treasury of the United States the Denali Housing Fund, to be administered by the Federal Cochair.
“(2) Source and use of amounts in fund.—
“(A) In general.—
Amounts allocated to the Federal Cochair for the purpose of carrying out this section shall be deposited in the Fund.
“(B) Uses.—
The Federal Cochair shall use the Fund as a revolving fund to carry out the purposes of this section.
“(C) Investment.—
The Federal Cochair may invest amounts in the Fund that are not necessary for operational expenses in bonds or other obligations, the principal and interest of which are guaranteed by the Federal Government.
“(D) General expenses.—
The Federal Cochair may charge the general expenses of carrying out this section to the Fund.
“(3) Authorization of appropriations.—
There is authorized to be appropriated to the Fund $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
“(c) Purposes.—
The purposes of this section are—
“(1) to encourage and facilitate the construction or rehabilitation of housing to meet the needs of low-income households and moderate-income households; and
“(2) to provide housing for public employees.
“(d) Loans and Grants.—
“(1) In general.—
The Federal Cochair may provide grants and loans from the Fund to eligible entities under such terms and conditions the Federal Cochair may prescribe.
“(2) Purpose.—
The purpose of a grant or loan under paragraph (1) shall be for planning and obtaining federally insured mortgage financing or other financial assistance for housing construction or rehabilitation projects for low-income and moderate-income households in rural Alaska villages.
“(e) Providing Amounts to States for Grants and Loans.—
The Federal Cochair may provide amounts to the State of Alaska, or political subdivisions thereof, for making the grants and loans described in subsection (d).
“(f) Loans.—
“(1) Limitation on available amounts.—
A loan under subsection (d) for the cost of planning and obtaining financing (including the cost of preliminary surveys and analyses of market needs, preliminary site engineering and architectural fees, site options, application and mortgage commitment fees, legal fees, and construction loan fees and discounts) of a project described in that subsection may be for not more than 90 percent of that cost.
“(2) Interest.—
A loan under subsection (d) shall be made without interest, except that a loan made to an eligible entity established for profit shall bear interest at the prevailing market rate authorized for an insured or guaranteed loan for that type of project.
“(3) Payment.—
“(A) In general.—
The Federal Cochair shall require payment of a loan made under this section under terms and conditions the Secretary may require by not later than the date of completion of the project.
“(B) Cancellation.—
For a loan other than a loan to an eligible entity established for profit, the Secretary may cancel any part of the debt with respect to a loan made under subsection (d) if the Secretary determines that a permanent loan to finance the project cannot be obtained in an amount adequate for repayment of a loan made under subsection (d).
“(g) Grants.—
“(1) In general.—
A grant under this section for expenses incidental to planning and obtaining financing for a project described in this section that the Federal Cochair considers unrecoverable from the proceeds of a permanent loan made to finance the project—
“(A) may not be made to an eligible entity established for profit; and
“(B) may not exceed 90 percent of those expenses.
“(2) Site development costs and offsite improvements.—
“(A) In general.—
The Federal Cochair may make grants and commitments for grants under terms and conditions the Federal Cochair may require to eligible entities for reasonable site development costs and necessary offsite improvements, such as sewer and water line extensions, if the grant or commitment—
“(i) is essential to ensuring that housing is constructed on the site in the future; and
“(ii) otherwise meets the requirements for assistance under this section.
“(B) Maximum amounts.—
The amount of a grant under this paragraph may not—
“(i) with respect to the construction of housing, exceed 40 percent of the cost of the construction; and
“(ii) with respect to the rehabilitation of housing, exceed 10 percent of the reasonable value of the rehabilitation, as determined by the Federal Cochair.
“(h) Information, Advice, and Technical Assistance.—
The Federal Cochair may provide, or contract with public or private organizations to provide, information, advice, and technical assistance with respect to the construction, rehabilitation, and operation by nonprofit organizations of housing for low-income or moderate-income households, or for public employees, in rural Alaska villages under this section.”
heading: Transition Provisions
text: Pub. L. 105–393, title I, § 104, Nov. 13, 1998, 112 Stat. 3617, provided that:
“(a) Existing Rights, Duties, and Obligations.—
This title [see Short Title of 1998 Amendment note set out above], including the amendments made by this title, does not affect the validity of any right, duty, or obligation of the United States or any other person arising under any contract, loan, or other instrument or agreement that was in effect on the day before the effective date of this title [see Effective Date note set out above].
“(b) Continuation of Suits.—
No action or other proceeding commenced by or against any officer or employee of the Economic Development Administration shall abate by reason of the enactment of this title.
“(c) Liquidating Account.—
The Economic Development Revolving Fund established under section 203 of the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3143) (as in effect on the day before the effective date of this title) shall continue to be available to the Secretary of Commerce as a liquidating account (as defined in section 502 of the Federal Credit Reform Act of 1990 (2 U.S.C. 661a)) for payment of obligations and expenses in connection with financial assistance provided under—
“(1) the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3121 et seq.);
“(2) the Area Redevelopment Act (42 U.S.C. 2501 et seq.); and
“(3) the Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2101 et seq.).
“(d) Administration.—
The Secretary of Commerce shall take such actions authorized before the effective date of this title as are appropriate to administer and liquidate grants, contracts, agreements, loans, obligations, debentures, or guarantees made by the Secretary under law in effect before the effective date of this title.”
heading: Denali Commission
text: Pub. L. 116–260, div. D, title V, § 505(c), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 1379, provided that: “Requirements relating to non-Federal cost-share grants and cooperative agreements for the Denali Commission are waived for grants awarded in fiscal year 2020 and in subsequent years in response to economic distress directly related to the impacts of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID–19).”
Pub. L. 105–277, div. C, title III, Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–637, as amended by Pub. L. 106–31, title I, § 105(a), May 21, 1999, 113 Stat. 62; Pub. L. 106–113, div. B, § 1000(a)(4) [title VII, § 701], Nov. 29, 1999, 113 Stat. 1535, 1501A–280; Pub. L. 108–7, div. A, title VII, § 749, div. D, title V, § 504, Feb. 20, 2003, 117 Stat. 44, 158; Pub. L. 108–199, div. B, title I, § 112(d), div. E, title II, § 222, Jan. 23, 2004, 118 Stat. 63, 256; Pub. L. 108–447, div. H, title V, § 521, Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3268; Pub. L. 109–59, title I, § 1960, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1516; Pub. L. 112–141, div. A, title I, § 1520, July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 577; Pub. L. 114–322, title IV, § 5002, Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1885; Pub. L. 117–58, div. A, title I, § 11507(b), Nov. 15, 2021, 135 Stat. 586; Pub. L. 117–286, § 4(a)(261), (262), Dec. 27, 2022, 136 Stat. 4334; Pub. L. 118–272, div. B, title II, § 2251, Jan. 4, 2025, 138 Stat. 3210, provided that:
“SEC. 301. SHORT TITLE.
“This title may be cited as the ‘Denali Commission Act of 1998’.
“SEC. 302. PURPOSES.
“The purposes of this title are as follows:
“(1) To deliver the services of the Federal Government in the most cost-effective manner practicable by reducing administrative and overhead costs.
“(2) To provide job training and other economic development services in rural communities particularly distressed communities (many of which have a rate of unemployment that exceeds 50 percent).
“(3) To promote rural development, provide power generation and transmission facilities, modern communication systems, water and sewer systems and other infrastructure needs.
“SEC. 303. ESTABLISHMENT OF COMMISSION.
“(a) Establishment.—
There is established a commission to be known as the Denali Commission (referred to in this title as the ‘Commission’).
“(b) Membership.—
“(1) Composition.—
The Commission shall be composed of 7 members, who shall be appointed by the Secretary of Commerce (referred to in this title as the ‘Secretary’), of whom—
“(A) one shall be the Governor of the State of Alaska, or an individual selected from nominations submitted by the Governor, who shall serve as the State Cochairperson;
“(B) one shall be the President of the University of Alaska, or an individual selected from nominations submitted by the President of the University of Alaska;
“(C) one shall be the President of the Alaska Municipal League or an individual selected from nominations submitted by the President of the Alaska Municipal League;
“(D) one shall be the President of the Alaska Federation of Natives or an individual selected from nominations submitted by the President of the Alaska Federation of Natives;
“(E) one shall be the Executive President of the Alaska State AFL–CIO or an individual selected from nominations submitted by the Executive President;
“(F) one shall be the President of the Associated General Contractors of Alaska or an individual selected from nominations submitted by the President of the Associated General Contractors of Alaska; and
“(G) one shall be the Federal Cochairperson, who shall be selected in accordance with the requirements of paragraph (2).
“(2) Federal cochairperson.—
“(A) In general.—
The President pro temporare [sic] of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives shall each submit a list of nominations for the position of the Federal Cochairperson under paragraph (1)(G), including pertinent biographical information, to the Secretary.
“(B) Appointment.—
The Secretary shall appoint the Federal Cochairperson from among the list of nominations submitted under subparagraph (A). The Federal Cochairperson shall serve as an employee of the Department of Commerce, and may be removed by the Secretary for cause.
“(C) Federal cochairperson vote.—
The Federal Cochairperson appointed under this paragraph shall break any tie in the voting of the Commission.
“(4) Date.—
The appointments of the members of the Commission shall be made no later than January 1, 1999.
“(c) Period of Appointment; Vacancies.—
“(1) Term of federal cochairperson.—
The Federal Cochairperson shall serve for a term of four years and may be reappointed.
“(2) Interim federal cochairperson.—
In the event of a vacancy for any reason in the position of Federal Cochairperson, the Secretary may appoint an Interim Federal Cochairperson, who shall have all the authority of the Federal Cochairperson, to serve until such time as the vacancy in the position of Federal Cochairperson is filled in accordance with subsection (b)(2)). [sic]
“(3) Term of all other members.—
All other members shall be appointed for the life of the Commission.
“(4) Vacancies.—
Except as provided in paragraph (2), any vacancy in the Commission shall not affect its powers, but shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment.
“(d) Meetings.—
“(1) In general.—
The Commission shall meet at the call of the Federal Cochairperson not less frequently than 2 times each year, and may, as appropriate, conduct business by telephone or other electronic means.
“(2) Notification.—
Not later than 2 weeks before calling a meeting under this subsection, the Federal Cochairperson shall—
“(A) notify each member of the Commission of the time, date and location of that meeting; and
“(B) provide each member of the Commission with a written agenda for the meeting, including any proposals for discussion and consideration, and any appropriate background materials.
“(e) Quorum.—
A majority of the members of the Commission shall constitute a quorum, but a lesser number of members may hold hearings.
“(f) No Federal Employee Status.—
No member of the Commission, other than the Federal Cochairperson, shall be considered to be a Federal employee for any purpose.
“(g) Conflicts of Interest.—
“(1) In general.—
Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3), no member of the Commission (referred to in this subsection as a ‘member’) shall participate personally or substantially, through recommendation, the rendering of advice, investigation, or otherwise, in any proceeding, application, request for a ruling or other determination, contract claim, controversy, or other matter in which, to the knowledge of the member, 1 or more of the following has a direct financial interest:
“(A) The member.
“(B) The spouse, minor child, or partner of the member.
“(C) An organization described in subparagraph (B), (C), (D), (E), or (F) of subsection (b)(1) for which the member is serving as an officer, director, trustee, partner, or employee.
“(D) Any individual, person, or organization with which the member is negotiating or has any arrangement concerning prospective employment.
“(2) Disclosure.—
Paragraph (1) shall not apply if the member—
“(A) immediately advises the designated agency ethics official for the Commission of the nature and circumstances of the matter presenting a potential conflict of interest;
“(B) makes full disclosure of the financial interest; and
“(C) before the proceeding concerning the matter presenting the conflict of interest, receives a written determination by the designated agency ethics official for the Commission that the interest is not so substantial as to be likely to affect the integrity of the services that the Commission may expect from the member. The written determination shall specify the rationale and any evidence or support for the decision, identify steps, if any, that should be taken to mitigate any conflict of interest, and be available to the public.
“(3) Annual disclosures.—
Once each calendar year, each member shall make full disclosure of financial interests, in a manner to be determined by the designated agency ethics official for the Commission.
“(4) Training.—
Once each calendar year, each member shall undergo disclosure of financial interests training, as prescribed by the designated agency ethics official for the Commission.
“(5) Clarification.—
A member of the Commission may continue to participate personally or substantially, through decision, approval, or disapproval on the focus of applications to be considered but not on individual applications where a conflict of interest exists.
“(6) Violation.—
Any person that violates this subsection shall be fined not more than $10,000, imprisoned for not more than 2 years, or both.
“SEC. 304. DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION.
“(a) Work Plan.—
“(1) In general.—
Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 21, 1998] and annually thereafter, the Commission shall develop a proposed work plan for Alaska that meets the requirements of paragraph (2) and submit that plan to the Federal Cochairperson for review in accordance with the requirements of subsection (b).
“(2) Work plan.—
In developing the work plan, the Commission shall—
“(A) solicit project proposals from local governments and other entities and organizations; and
“(B) provide for a comprehensive work plan for rural and infrastructure development and necessary job training in the area covered under the work plan.
“(3) Report.—
Upon completion of a work plan under this subsection, the Commission shall prepare, and submit to the Secretary, the Federal Cochairperson, and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, a report that outlines the work plan and contains recommendations for funding priorities.
“(b) Review by Federal Cochairperson.—
“(1) In general.—
Upon receiving a work plan under this section, the Secretary, acting through the Federal Cochairperson, shall publish the work plan in the Federal Register, with notice and an opportunity for public comment. The period for public review and comment shall be the 30-day period beginning on the date of publication of that notice.
“(2) Criteria for review.—
In conducting a review under paragraph (1), the Secretary, acting through the Federal Cochairperson, shall—
“(A) take into consideration the information, views, and comments received from interested parties through the public review and comment process specified in paragraph (1); and
“(B) consult with appropriate Federal officials in Alaska including but not limited to Bureau of Indian Affairs, Economic Development Administration, and Rural Development Administration.
“(3) Approval.—
Not later than 30 days after the end of the period specified in paragraph (1), the Secretary acting through the Federal Cochairperson, shall—
“(A) approve, disapprove, or partially approve the work plan that is the subject of the review; and
“(B) issue to the Commission a notice of the approval, disapproval, or partial approval that—
“(i) specifies the reasons for disapproving any portion of the work plan; and
“(ii) if applicable, includes recommendations for revisions to the work plan to make the plan subject to approval.
“(4) Review of disapproval or partial approval.—
If the Secretary, acting through the Federal Cochairperson, disapproves or partially approves a work plan, the Federal Cochairperson shall submit that work plan to the Commission for review and revision.
“SEC. 305. POWERS OF THE COMMISSION.
“(a) Information From Federal Agencies.—
The Commission may secure directly from any Federal department or agency such information as it considers necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act [probably means this title]. Upon request of the Federal Cochairperson of the Commission, the head of such department or agency shall furnish such information to the Commission. Agencies must provide the Commission with the requested information in a timely manner. Agencies are not required to provide the Commission any information that is exempt from disclosure by the Freedom of Information Act [5 U.S.C. 552]. Agenices [sic] may, upon request by the Commission, make services and personnel available to the Commission to carry out the duties of the Commission. To the maximum extent practicable, the Commission shall contract for completion of necesssary [sic] work utilizing local firms and labor to minimize costs.
“(b) Postal Services.—
The Commission may use the United States mails in the same manner and under the same conditions as other departments and agencies of the Federal Government.
“(c) Gifts.—
“(1) In general.—
Except as provided in paragraph (2), the Commission, on behalf of the United States, may accept[,] use, and dispose of gifts or donations of services, property, or money for purposes of carrying out this Act [probably means this title].
“(2) Conditional.—
With respect to conditional gifts—
“(A)
(i) the Commission, on behalf of the United States, may accept conditional gifts for purposes of carrying out this Act [probably means this title], if approved by the Federal Cochairperson; and
“(ii) the principal of and income from any such conditional gift shall be held, invested, reinvested, and used in accordance with the condition applicable to the gift; but
“(B) no gift shall be accepted that is conditioned on any expenditure not to be funded from the gift or from the income generated by the gift unless the expenditure has been approved by Act of Congress.
“(d) The Commission, acting through the Federal Cochairperson, is authorized to enter into contracts and cooperative agreements, award grants, enter into leases (including the lease of office space for any term), and make payments necessary to carry out the purposes of the Commission. With respect to funds appropriated to the Commission for fiscal year 1999, the Commission, acting through the Federal Cochairperson, is authorized to enter into contracts and cooperative agreements, award grants, and make payments to implement an interim work plan for fiscal year 1999 approved by the Commission.
“(e) Use of Funds Toward Non-Federal Share of Certain Projects.—
Notwithstanding any other provision of law regarding payment of a non-Federal share in connection with a grant-in-aid program, the Commission may use amounts made available to the Commission for the payment of such a non-Federal share for programs undertaken to carry out the purposes of the Commission.
“SEC. 306. COMMISSION PERSONNEL MATTERS.
“(a) Compensation of Members.—
Each member of the Commission who is not an officer or employee of the Federal Government shall be compensated at a rate equal to the daily equivalent of the annual rate of basic pay prescribed for level IV of the Executive Schedule under section 5315 of title 5, United States Code, for each day (including travel time) during the time such member is engaged in the performance of the duties of the Commission. The Federal Cochairperson shall be compensated at the annual rate prescribed for level IV of the Executive Schedule under section 5315 of title 5, United States Code. All members of the Commission who are officers or employees of the United States shall serve without compensation that is in addition to that received for their services as officers or employees of the United States.
“(b) Travel Expenses.—
The members of the Commission shall be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, at rates authorized for employees of agencies under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code, while away from their homes or regular places of business in the performance of services for the Commission.
“(c) Staff.—
“(1) In general.—
The Federal Cochairperson of the Commission may, without regard to the civil service laws and regulations, appoint such personnel as may be necessary to enable the Commission to perform its duties.
“(2) Compensation.—
The Federal Cochairperson of the Commission may fix the compensation of personnel without regard to the provisions of chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of title 5, United States Code, relating to classification of positions and General Schedule pay rates.
“(d) Detail of Government Employees.—
Any Federal Government employee may be detailed to the Commission without reimbursement, and such detail shall be without interruption or loss of civil service status or privilege.
“(e) Procurement of Temporary and Intermittent Services.—
The Federal Cochairperson of the Commission may procure temporary and intermittent services under section 3109(b) of title 5, United States Code, at rates for individuals which do not exceed the daily equivalent of the annual rate of basic pay prescribed for level V of the Executive Schedule under section 5316 of such title.
“(f) Offices.—
The principal office of the Commission shall be located in Alaska, at a location that the Commission shall select.
“(g) Administrative Expenses and Records.—
The Commission is hereby prohibited from using more than 5 percent of the amounts appropriated under the authority of this Act [probably means this title] or transferred pursuant to section 329 of the Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1999 (section 101(g) of division A of this Act) [43 U.S.C. 1653 note] for administrative expenses. The Commission and its grantees shall maintain accurate and complete records which shall be available for audit and examination by the Comptroller General or his or her designee.
“(h) Inspector General.—
[Amended section 8G of the Inspector General Act, 5 U.S.C. App.]
“SEC. 307. SPECIAL FUNCTIONS.
“(a) Bulk Fuels.—
Funds transferred to the Commission pursuant to section 329 of the Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1999 (section 101(g) of division A of this Act) [43 U.S.C. 1653 note] shall be available without further appropriation and until expended. The Commission, in consultation with the Commandant of the Coast Guard, shall develop a plan to provide for the repair or replacement of bulk fuel storage tanks in Alaska that are not in compliance with applicable—
“(1) Federal law, including the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (104 Stat. 484) [33 U.S.C. 2701 et seq.]; or
“(2) State law.
“(b) Demonstration Health Projects.—
In order to demonstrate the value of adequate health facilities and services to the economic development of the region, the Secretary of Health and Human Services is authorized to make interagency transfers to the Denali Commission to plan, construct, and equip demonstration health, nutrition, and child care projects, including hospitals, health care clinics, and mental health facilities (including drug and alcohol treatment centers) in accordance with the Work Plan referred to under section 304 of Title III—Denali Commission of Division C—Other Matters of Public Law 105–277. No grant for construction or equipment of a demonstration project shall exceed 50 percentum of such costs, unless the project is located in a severely economically distressed community, as identified in the Work Plan referred to under section 304 of Title III—Denali Commission of Division C—Other Matters of Public Law 105–277, in which case no grant shall exceed 80 percentum of such costs. To carry out this section, there is authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary.
“(c) Solid Waste.—
The Secretary of Agriculture is authorized to make direct lump sum payments, including interagency transfers, which shall remain available until expended to the Denali Commission to address deficiencies in solid waste disposal sites which threaten to contaminate rural drinking water supplies.
“(d) Docks, Waterfront Transportation Development, and Related Infrastructure Projects.—
The Secretary of Transportation is authorized to make direct lump sum payments to the Commission to construct docks, waterfront development projects, and related transportation infrastructure, provided the local community provides a ten percent non-Federal match in the form of any necessary land or planning and design funds. To carry out this section, there is authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary.
“SEC. 308. EXEMPTION FROM CHAPTER 10 OF TITLE 5, UNITED STATES CODE.
“Chapter 10 of title 5, United States Code, shall not apply to the Commission.
“SEC. 309. DENALI ACCESS SYSTEM PROGRAM.
“(a) Establishment of the Denali Access System Program.—
Not later than 3 months after the date of enactment of the SAFETEA–LU [Aug. 10, 2005], the Secretary of Transportation shall establish a program to pay the costs of planning, designing, engineering, and constructing road and other surface transportation infrastructure identified for the Denali access system program under this section.
“(b) Denali Access System Program Advisory Committee.—
“(1) Establishment.—
Not later than 3 months after the date of enactment of the SAFETEA–LU [Aug. 10, 2005], the Denali Commission shall establish a Denali Access System Program Advisory Committee (referred to in this section as the ‘advisory committee’).
“(2) Membership.—
The advisory committee shall be composed of nine members to be appointed by the Governor of the State of Alaska as follows:
“(A) The chairman of the Denali Commission.
“(B) Four members who represent existing regional native corporations, native nonprofit entities, or tribal governments, including one member who is a civil engineer.
“(C) Four members who represent rural Alaska regions or villages, including one member who is a civil engineer.
“(3) Terms.—
“(A) In general.—
Except for the chairman of the Commission who shall remain a member of the advisory committee, members shall be appointed to serve a term of 4 years.
“(B) Initial members.—
Except for the chairman of the Commission, of the eight initial members appointed to the advisory committee, two shall be appointed for a term of 1 year, two shall be appointed for a term of 2 years, two shall be appointed for a term of 3 years, and two shall be appointed for a term of 4 years. All subsequent appointments shall be for 4 years.
“(4) Responsibilities.—
The advisory committee shall be responsible for the following activities:
“(A) Advising the Commission on the surface transportation needs of Alaska Native villages and rural communities, including projects for the construction of essential access routes within remote Alaska Native villages and rural communities and for the construction of roads and facilities necessary to connect isolated rural communities to a road system.
“(B) Advising the Commission on considerations for coordinatedtransportation [sic] planning among the Alaska Native villages, Alaska rural villages, the State of Alaska, and other government entities.
“(C) Establishing a list of transportation priorities for Alaska Native village and rural community transportation projects on an annual basis, including funding recommendations.
“(D) Facilitate the Commission’s work on transportation projects involving more than one region.
“(5) Chapter 10 of title 5, united states code, exemption.—
The provisions of chapter 10 of title 5, United States Code, shall not apply to the advisory committee.
“(c) Allocation of Funds.—
“(1) In general.—
The Secretary of Transportation shall allocate funding authorized and made available for the Denali access system program to the Commission to carry out this section.
“(2) Distribution of funding.—
In distributing funds for surface transportation projects funded under the program, the Commission shall consult the list of transportation priorities developed by the advisory committee.
“(d) Preference to Alaska Materials and Products.—
To construct a project under this section, the Commission shall encourage, to the maximum extent practicable, the use of employees and businesses that are residents of Alaska.
“(e) Design Standards.—
Each project carried out under this section shall use technology and design standards determined by the Commission to be appropriate given the location and the functionality of the project.
“(f) Maintenance.—
Funding for a construction project under this section may include an additional amount equal to not more than 10 percent of the total cost of construction, to be retained for future maintenance of the project. All such retained funds shall be dedicated for maintenance of the project and may not be used for other purposes.
“(g) Lead Agency Designation.—
For purposes of projects carried out under this section, the Commission shall be designated as the lead agency for purposes of accepting Federal funds and for purposes of carrying out this project.
“(h) Non-Federal Share.—
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, funds made available to carry out this section may be used to meet the non-Federal share of the cost of projects under title 23, United States Code.
“(i) Surface Transportation Program Transferability.—
“(1) Transferability.—
In any fiscal year, up to 15 percent of the amounts made available to the State of Alaska for surface transportation by [former] section 133 of title 23, United States Code, may be transferred to the Denali access system program.
“(2) No effect on set-aside.—
Paragraph (2) of section 133(d) [of title 23], United States Code, shall not apply to funds transferred under paragraph (1).
“(j) Authorization of Appropriations.—
“(1) In general.—
There is authorized to be appropriated out of the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) to carry out this section $15,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2006 through 2009.
“(2) Applicability of title 23.—
Funds made available to carry out this section shall be available for obligation in the same manner as if such funds were apportioned under chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code; except that such funds shall not be transferable and shall remain available until expended, and the Federal share of the cost of any project carried out using such funds shall be determined in accordance with section 120(b).
“Sec. 310.
(a) The Federal Co-chairman of the Denali Commission shall appoint an Economic Development Committee to be chaired by the president of the Alaska Federation of Natives which shall include the Commissioner of Community and Economic Affairs for the State of Alaska, a representative from the Alaska Bankers Association, the chairman of the Alaska Permanent Fund, a representative from the Alaska State Chamber of Commerce, and a representative from each region. Of the regional representatives, at least two each shall be from Native regional corporations, Native non-profit corporations, tribes, and borough governments.
“(b) The Economic Development Committee is authorized to consider and approve applications from Regional Advisory Committees for grants and loans to promote economic development and promote private sector investment to reduce poverty in economically distressed rural villages. The Economic Development Committee may make mini-grants to individual applicants and may issue loans under such terms and conditions as it determines.
“(c) The State Co-chairman of the Denali Commission shall appoint a Regional Advisory Committee for each region which may include representatives from local, borough, and tribal governments, the Alaska Native non-profit corporation operating in the region, local Chambers of Commerce, and representatives of the private sector. Each Regional Advisory Committee shall develop a regional economic development plan for consideration by the Economic Development Committee.
“(d) The Economic Development Committee, in consultation with the First Alaskans Institute, may develop rural development performance measures linking economic growth to poverty reduction to measure the success of its program which may include economic, educational, social, and cultural indicators. The performance measures will be tested in one region for 2 years and evaluated by the University of Alaska before being deployed statewide. Thereafter, performance in each region shall be evaluated using the performance measures, and the Economic Development Committee shall not fund projects which do not demonstrate success.
“(e) Within the amounts made available annually to the Denali Commission for training, the Commission may make a grant to the First Alaskans Foundation upon submittal of an acceptable work plan to assist Alaska Natives and other rural residents in acquiring the skills and training necessary to participate fully in private sector business and economic and development opportunities through fellowships, scholarships, internships, public service programs, and other leadership initiatives.
“(f) The Committee shall sponsor a statewide economic development summit in consultation with the World Bank to evaluate the best practices for economic development worldwide and how they can be incorporated into regional economic development plans.
“(g) There is authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to the following agencies which shall be transferred to the Denali Commission as a direct lump sum payment to implement this section—
“(1) Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration,
“(2) Department of Housing and Urban Development,
“(3) Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs,
“(4) Department of Agriculture, Rural Development Administration, and
“(5) Small Business Administration.
“SEC. 311. TRANSFER OF FUNDS FROM OTHER FEDERAL AGENCIES.
“(a) In General.—
Subject to subsection (c), for purposes of this Act [probably means this title], the Commission may accept transfers of funds from other Federal agencies.
“(b) Transfers.—
Any Federal agency authorized to carry out an activity that is within the authority of the Commission may transfer to the Commission any appropriated funds for the activity.
“(c) Treatment.—
Any funds transferred to the Commission under this subsection—
“(1) shall remain available until expended;
“(2) may, to the extent necessary to carry out this Act [probably means this title], be transferred to, and merged with, the amounts made available by appropriations Acts for the Commission by the Federal Cochairperson; and
“(3) notwithstanding any other provision of law, shall—
“(A) be treated as if directly appropriated to the Commission and subject to applicable provisions of this Act; and
“(B) not be subject to any requirements that applied to the funds before the transfer, including a requirement in an appropriations Act or a requirement or regulation of the Federal agency from which the funds are transferred.
“SEC. 312. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
“(a) In General.—
There are authorized to be appropriated to the Commission to carry out the duties of the Commission consistent with the purposes of this title and pursuant to the work plan approved under section 304, $35,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.
“(b) Availability.—
Any sums appropriated under the authorization contained in this section shall remain available until expended.”
[Pub. L. 114–322, title IV, § 5002(b)(2), Dec. 16, 2016, 130 Stat. 1886, which renumbered section 310 of Pub. L. 105–277, relating to authorization of appropriations, as 312, was executed by renumbering the section and transferring it so as to appear after section 311, to reflect the probable intent of Congress.]
[For transfer of authorities, functions, personnel, and assets of the Coast Guard, including the authorities and functions of the Secretary of Transportation relating thereto, to the Department of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see sections 468(b), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6.]
heading: Lower Mississippi Delta Development Commission
text: Pub. L. 100–460, title II, Oct. 1, 1988, 102 Stat. 2246, as amended by Pub. L. 106–554, § 1(a)(4) [div. B, title I, § 153(a), title V, § 504], Dec. 21, 2000, 114 Stat. 2763, 2763A–252, 2763A–281; Pub. L. 107–171, title VI, § 6027(j), May 13, 2002, 116 Stat. 374; Pub. L. 110–234, title VI, § 6025(c), May 22, 2008, 122 Stat. 1177; Pub. L. 110–246, § 4(a), title VI, § 6025(c), June 18, 2008, 122 Stat. 1664, 1939; Pub. L. 118–272, div. B, title II, § 2253(f), Jan. 4, 2025, 138 Stat. 3213, incorporated by reference and made a part of that public law the provisions of S. 2836, the Delta Development Act, as introduced in the Senate on Sept. 27, 1988, which provided for establishment of Lower Mississippi Delta Development Commission to study and make recommendations regarding economic needs and development of Lower Mississippi Delta region, set forth membership, compensation, powers, and administrative provisions for Commission, required submission to Congress, President, and Governors of certain States of interim and final reports, and provided for termination of Commission no later than two years after Oct. 1, 1988.
Prior to amendment by Pub. L. 106–554, Pub. L. 100–460 also incorporated by reference and made a part of that public law the provisions of H.R. 5378, as introduced in the House of Representatives on Sept. 26, 1988, and known as the “Lower Mississippi Delta Development Act”, which contained provisions similar to those in S. 2836.
Pub. L. 101–161, title II, Nov. 21, 1989, 103 Stat. 969, extended date for submission of the Commission’s interim report to Oct. 16, 1989.
heading: Public Works Improvement
text: Pub. L. 98–501, title I, Oct. 19, 1984, 98 Stat. 2320, known as the “Public Works Improvement Act of 1984”, established the National Council on Public Works Improvement, to prepare and submit to the President and Congress reports in 1986, 1987, and 1988 on the state of the Nation’s infrastructure. Pursuant to section 109 of Pub. L. 98–501, the Council ceased to exist on Apr. 15, 1988.
heading: White House Conference on Balanced National Growth and Economic Development
text: Pub. L. 94–487, title II, Oct. 12, 1976, 90 Stat. 2339, 2340, as amended by Pub. L. 95–31, title II, §§ 201, 202, May 23, 1977, 91 Stat. 170, provided for calling of a White House Conference on Balanced National Growth and Economic Development within 18 months of Oct. 12, 1976, set forth powers, functions, membership, etc., of Conference, and required submission to President of a final report within 180 days after calling of Conference, with President to forward recommendations to Congress within 90 days after submission of report.
heading: Executive Documents
heading: Executive Order No. 11386
text: Ex. Ord. No. 11386, Dec. 28, 1967, 33 F.R. 5, which related to coordination of activities of regional commissions and Federal Government relating to regional economic development and which established Federal Advisory Council on Regional Economic Development, was revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 12553, Feb. 25, 1986, 51 F.R. 7237.
heading: Executive Order No. 11422
text: Ex. Ord. No. 11422, Aug. 15, 1968, 33 F.R. 11739, as amended by Ex. Ord. No. 12107, Dec. 28, 1978, 44 F.R. 1055, which related to Cooperative Area Manpower Planning System, was revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 12553, Feb. 25, 1986, 51 F.R. 7237.
heading: Executive Order No. 11493
text: Ex. Ord. No. 11493, Nov. 13, 1969, 34 F.R. 18289, which created Council for Rural Affairs to advise President with respect to further development of non-metropolitan areas of country, was revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 12553, Feb. 25, 1986, 51 F.R. 7237. Council terminated and its functions transferred to Domestic Council by section 2(b) of Ex. Ord. No. 11541, July 1, 1970, 35 F.R. 10737, set out as a note under section 501 of Title 31, Money and Finance.
heading: Ex. Ord. No. 13122. Interagency Task Force on the Economic Development of the Southwest Border
text: Ex. Ord. No. 13122, May 25, 1999, 64 F.R. 29201, as amended by Ex. Ord. No. 13284, § 6, Jan. 23, 2003, 68 F.R. 4075, provided:
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and in order to provide a more rapid and integrated Federal response to the economic development challenges of the Southwest Border region, it is hereby ordered as follows:
Section 1. Establishment of an Interagency Task Force on the Economic Development of the Southwest Border. (a) There is established the “Interagency Task Force on the Economic Development of the Southwest Border” (Task Force) that reports to the Vice President, as Chair of the President’s Community Empowerment Board (PCEB), and to the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, as Vice Chair of the PCEB.
(b) The Task Force shall comprise the Secretary of State, Secretary of Agriculture, Secretary of Commerce, Secretary of Defense, the Attorney General, Secretary of the Interior, Secretary of Education, Secretary of Health and Human Services, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Secretary of Energy, Secretary of Labor, Secretary of Transportation, Secretary of the Treasury, Secretary of Homeland Security, Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Director of National Drug Control Policy, Administrator of General Services, Administrator of the Small Business Administration, Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, or their designees, and such other senior executive branch officials as may be determined by the Co-Chairs of the Task Force. The Secretaries of the Treasury, Agriculture, and Labor shall Co-Chair the Task Force, rotating annually. The agency chairing the Task Force will provide administrative support for the Task Force.
(c) The purpose of the Task Force is to coordinate and better leverage existing Administration efforts for the Southwest Border, in concert with locally led efforts, in order to increase the living standards and the overall economic profile of the Southwest Border so that it may achieve the average of the Nation. Specifically, the Task Force shall:
(1) analyze the existing programs and policies of Task Force members that relate to the Southwest Border to determine what changes, modifications, and innovations should be considered;
(2) consider statistical and data analysis, research, and policy studies related to the Southwest Border;
(3) develop and recommend short-term and long-term options for promoting sustainable economic development;
(4) consult and coordinate activities with State, tribal, and local governments, community leaders, Members of Congress, the private sector, and other interested parties, paying particular attention to maintaining existing authorities of the States, tribes, and local governments, and preserving their existing working relationships with other agencies, organizations, or individuals;
(5) coordinate and collaborate on research and demonstration priorities of Task Force member agencies related to the Southwest Border;
(6) integrate Administration initiatives and programs into the design of sustainable economic development actions for the Southwest Border; and
(7) focus initial efforts on pilot communities for implementing a coordinated and expedited Federal response to local economic development and other needs.
(d) The Task Force shall issue an interim report to the Vice President by November 15, 1999. The Task Force shall issue its first annual report to the Vice President by April 15, 2000, with subsequent reports to follow yearly and a final report on April 15, 2002. The reports shall describe the actions taken by, and progress of, each member of the Task Force in carrying out this order. The Task Force shall terminate 30 days after submitting its final report unless a Task Force consensus recommends continuation of activities.
Sec. 2. Specific Activities by Task Force Members and Other Agencies. The agencies represented on the Task Force shall work together and report their actions and progress in carrying out this order to the Task Force Chair 1 month before the reports are due to the Vice President under section 1(d) of this order.
Sec. 3. Cooperation. All efforts taken by agencies under sections 1 and 2 of this order shall, as appropriate, further partnerships and cooperation with organizations that represent the Southwest Border and with State and local governments.
Sec. 4. (a) “Agency” means an executive agency as defined in 5 U.S.C. 105.
(b) The “Southwest Border” or “Southwest Border region” is defined as including the areas up to 150 miles north of the United States-Mexican border in the States of Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and California.
Sec. 5. Judicial Review. This order does not create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law by a party against the United States, its agencies, its officers, or any person.
heading: Ex. Ord. No. 14145. Helping Left-Behind Communities Make a Comeback
text: Ex. Ord. No. 14145, Jan. 19, 2025, 90 F.R. 8105, provided:
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered as follows:
Section 1. Policy. Well-designed programs that support local and Tribal leaders in left-behind communities can lead to stronger economic outcomes, strengthen regional assets, and reduce regional inequality. It is the policy of my Administration to take a whole-of-government approach to defining, coordinating, and increasing the accessibility of existing and future programs that help left-behind communities.
Sec. 2. Definitions. For purposes of this order:
(a) The term “covered communities” means:
(i) municipalities or other local areas within an economically distressed region;
(ii) communities in Community Disaster Resiliency Zones;
(iii) regions served by any of the following Federal programs: the Energy Communities Interagency Working Group Priority Energy Communities, the Economic Development Administration Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs, the National Science Foundation Regional Innovation Engines, the Department of Housing and Urban Development Distressed Cities and Persistent Poverty Technical Assistance Program, or the Economic Development Administration Recompete Pilot Program; or
(iv) rural communities identified by the Secretary of Agriculture and Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.
(b) “Economically distressed region” means a region described by section 301 of the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3161), section 29(j) of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3722b(j)(1)), or 49 U.S.C. 6702(a)(1), or that meets the definition of “persistent poverty county” in section 736 of Division A of Public Law 117–328 [136 Stat. 4503].
(c) “Implementing agencies” means the Department of the Treasury, the Department of the Interior, the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Commerce, the Department of Labor, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Department of Transportation, the Department of Energy, the Department of Homeland Security, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Small Business Administration.
(d) “Place-based economic development” means policies and programs administered by the Federal Government that target defined regions, including Tribal lands, and use a coordinated approach that represents the interests of community members and community-based organizations in covered communities to:
(i) improve physical infrastructure;
(ii) support workforce development to fill locally and regionally demanded well-paying jobs;
(iii) connect regions to new economic opportunities;
(iv) increase the capacity of unions, labor organizations, community organizations, and the general public to negotiate legally binding agreements with investors, project developers, and companies to deliver locally defined benefits to local communities;
(v) increase research and development capacity to accelerate local and regional innovation; or
(vi) strengthen rural, Tribal and community systems.
Sec. 3. Strengthening Federal Collaboration on Economic Development. (a) The Secretary of Commerce, acting through the Assistant Secretary for Economic Development and in consultation with the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, shall, where appropriate and consistent with applicable law, coordinate Federal investments with implementing agencies and develop and implement policy recommendations, including on meaningful community engagement, related to place-based economic development focused on covered communities.
(b) Within 1 year of the date of this order [Jan. 19, 2025], consistent with applicable law, including section 103 of the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3133), the Secretary of Commerce, through the Assistant Secretary for Economic Development, shall work with implementing agencies to:
(i) improve the quality, frequency, and accessibility of engagement with State, Tribal, territorial, local, and non-profit organizations in covered communities;
(ii) support localized, community economic development that helps generate private investments that benefit left-behind communities, such as workforce training, resilient physical infrastructure, affordable energy, civic infrastructure, affordable housing, childcare, and transportation;
(iii) develop an interagency technical assistance network in local geographies to enable interested communities and organizations to access information and resources from across the Federal Government through a single point of entry; and
(v) identify geographies served by overlapping Federal place-based economic development programs to facilitate coordination of funding opportunities and post-award implementation, consistent with applicable law.
(c) Implementing agencies shall, to the extent appropriate and consistent with applicable law, include in forthcoming funding opportunities requirements, application evaluation factors, or incentives that provide a preference for applications from entities in and serving covered communities.
Sec. 4. Supporting Award Access in Economically Distressed Regions. (a) Implementing agencies shall, to the extent consistent with applicable law, assist potential grant applicants, including in economically distressed regions, in understanding and applying for Federal grants. Implementing agencies’ activities may include:
(i) conducting proactive engagement with communities and organizations to promote opportunities for Federal assistance;
(ii) providing guidance and technical assistance to applicants; and
(iii) identifying resources across the agencies’ technical assistance programs and offices for support.
(b) Within 1 year of the date of this order, implementing agencies shall, to the extent consistent with applicable law, consider signing a memorandum of agreement to exchange information, tools, and leading practices to ensure applicants to under-resourced programs are made aware of, and may be considered for, similar programs at other agencies.
Sec. 5. Promoting Disaster Resilience and Long-Term Economic Development Post-Disaster. In coordination with the Secretary of Commerce, implementing agencies that have field offices in economically distressed regions or Community Disaster Resilience Zones that have received a major disaster declaration within the past 3 years shall, as appropriate and consistent with applicable law:
(a) seek input from local organizations on needs for and barriers to long-term economic resilience;
(b) identify funding opportunities to address long-term economic development and infrastructure needs; and
(c) provide targeted support for navigating the application process for funding opportunities.
Sec. 6. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
J.R. Biden, Jr.