Source: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2015/05/05/2015-09998/volunteers-in-service-to-america
Timestamp: 2017-10-18 11:32:55
Document Index: 513417358

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Federal Register :: Volunteers in Service to America
To be sure your comments are considered, they must reach CNCS on or before July 6, 2015.
25637-25655 (19 pages)
45 CFR 1206
45 CFR 1210
45 CFR 1211
45 CFR 1216
45 CFR 1217
45 CFR 1218
45 CFR 1220
45 CFR 1222
45 CFR 1226
45 CFR 2556
3045-AA36
2015-09998
CNCS-2015-0003
45 CFR Part 1206
45 CFR Part 1210
45 CFR Part 1211
45 CFR Part 1216
45 CFR Part 1217
45 CFR Part 1218
45 CFR Part 1220
45 CFR Part 1222
45 CFR Part 1226
45 CFR Part 2556
PART 1206—GRANTS AND CONTRACTS—SUSPENSION AND TERMINATION AND DENIAL OF APPLICATION FOR REFUNDING
PART 1210—[REMOVED and RESERVED]
PART 1211—[REMOVED and RESERVED]
PART 1216—NONDISPLACEMENT OF EMPLOYED WORKERS AND NONIMPAIRMENT OF CONTRACTS FOR SERVICE
PART 1217—[REMOVED and RESERVED]
PART 1218—[REMOVED and RESERVED]
PART 1219—[REMOVED and RESERVED]
PART 1220—PAYMENT OF VOLUNTEER LEGAL EXPENSES
PART 1222—[REMOVED and RESERVED]
https://www.federalregister.gov/d/2015-09998 https://www.federalregister.gov/d/2015-09998
The Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) proposes new regulations under the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973, as amended, and the National and Community Service Act of 1990, as amended, for the Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) program, including certain changes to update existing regulations.
You may send your comments electronically through the Federal government's one-stop Start Printed Page 25638rulemaking Web site at www.regulations.gov. You may also send your comments electronically to vistaregs@cns.gov. Also, y ou may mail or deliver your comments to Calvin Dawson, AmeriCorps VISTA, at the Corporation for National and Community Service, 1201 New York Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20525. Due to continued delays in CNCS's receipt of mail, we strongly encourage comments to be submitted online electronically. You may request this notice in an alternative format for the visually impaired. Members of the public may review copies of all communications received on this rulemaking at CNCS's Washington DC office.
Calvin Dawson, AmeriCorps VISTA, at the Corporation for National and Community Service, 1201 New York Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20525, phone 202-606-6897. The TDD/TTY number is 800-833-3722.
The Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 created the Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) program. The VISTA program, sometimes referred to as the domestic Peace Corps, has operated since the first VISTA volunteers (VISTAs or VISTA members) were placed in service in December 1964.
In 1971, the VISTA program was transferred from the Office of Economic Opportunity to the former Federal agency, ACTION (the Federal Domestic Volunteer Agency). In 1973, Congress enacted the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 (DVSA), the VISTA program's enabling legislation. The VISTA program continues to retain its purpose, as stated in the DVSA, “to strengthen and supplement efforts to eliminate and alleviate poverty and poverty-related problems in the United States by encouraging and enabling individuals from all walks of life, all geographical areas, and all age groups, including low-income individuals, elderly and retired Americans, to perform meaningful and constructive volunteer service in agencies, institutions, and situations where the application of human talent and dedication may assist in the solution of poverty and poverty-related problems and secure and exploit opportunities for self-advancement by individuals afflicted with such problems.”
In 1994, the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) was established pursuant to the National and Community Service Trust Act of 1993; at this time, the operations of all service programs previously administered by ACTION, including the VISTA program, began to be administered by CNCS. The VISTA program also became known as the AmeriCorps VISTA program, one of three AmeriCorps programs now administered by CNCS. The other two programs were, and continue to be: (1) The AmeriCorps State and National program; and (2) the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC). Since 1994, the VISTA program continues to be primarily operated and administered under the DVSA. The other two AmeriCorps programs are operated under the National and Community Service Act of 1990 (NCSA).
In 2009, Congress enacted the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act of 2009 (Serve America Act), which contained certain amendments to both the DVSA and the NCSA. With regard to the VISTA program, the Serve America Act amendments largely related to the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award, a type of end-of-service award for which a VISTA member may be eligible upon successful completion of a term of VISTA service.
This proposed rule covers core aspects of the VISTA program: (a) Entities that are sponsors for VISTA projects; and (b) individuals who are applicants, candidates, and VISTAs (including VISTA leaders and VISTA summer associates), serving at project sites. This proposed rule has four purposes.
First, it conforms the existing regulations to the fact that CNCS administers the VISTA program. References in the existing regulations to the former Federal agency, ACTION, and the administrative structure of ACTION are changed to reflect CNCS and its administrative structure.
Second, this proposed rule codifies the VISTA rules in the same location as the rules for CNCS's other programs. The existing VISTA regulations are codified at 45 CFR parts 1206, 1210, 1211, 1216-1220, 1222, and 1226. This proposed rule places the VISTA regulations within the regulations for CNCS and the other CNCS programs at 45 CFR parts 2505-2556.
On a related note, existing program regulations at 45 CFR parts 1206, 1216, 1220, and 1226, currently apply both to the VISTA program, and to CNCS's National Senior Service Corps programs. This proposed rule places existing program regulations, as they apply to the VISTA program, at 45 CFR parts 2505-2556. Existing program regulations as they apply to the National Senior Service Corps programs will remain, at this time, at 45 CFR parts 1206, 1216, 1220, and 1226. To accommodate the relocation of the existing program regulations as applied to the VISTA program, certain technical changes to the existing program regulations, as applied to the National Senior Service Corps programs, are warranted. These technical changes are not substantive, but are necessary to address the removal of references to the VISTA program and to reflect CNCS and its current administrative structure.
Third, this proposed rule addresses regulations on the VISTA program's elements. The existing regulations cover a limited range of topics. This proposed rule covers a wide range of topics, and updates the topics covered under existing regulations, including: VISTA application and termination processes, volunteer grievance procedures, competitive service eligibility, payment of volunteer legal expenses, nondisplacement of workers, VISTA leaders and summer associates, restrictions for VISTAs on certain political activities under the Hatch Act and other federal laws, and participation of program beneficiaries. Subpart A gives general program information: Purpose, basic program design, definitions used in the proposed rule, and waiver. Subpart B sets out requirements for a VISTA sponsor, and for a sponsor to support a VISTA. Subpart C pertains to being a VISTA, and the requirements for applying to become a VISTA. Subpart D provides the service terms, protections, and benefits that apply to a VISTA. Subpart E addresses termination for cause procedures. Subparts F and G, concern, respectively, VISTA projects with summer associates, and VISTA projects with VISTA leaders. Subpart H gives restrictions and prohibitions on certain political activities for all VISTAs, sponsors, and project sites.
Fourth, this proposed rule updates the provisions of the existing regulations. These changes are described here:
As it applies to the VISTA program, 45 CFR part 1206, which deals with project suspension and termination, is moved to 45 CFR part 2556, subpart B with most substantive provisions remaining unchanged. Under the proposed rule the provisions for suspension remain unchanged, except that the provisions for summary suspension are eliminated and the provisions for suspension on notice are retained. This has the effect of giving notice to sponsors for all suspensions. Under the proposed rule the provisions for termination remain unchanged, Start Printed Page 25639except that a second CNCS review has been eliminated. Experience has shown that a lengthy termination review process is not beneficial to VISTAs at the project in question, unduly consumes the sponsor's staff time and other resources, creates uncertainty for project beneficiaries, and exhausts VISTA resources that could be put to use for the benefit of project beneficiaries.
45 CFR part 1210, which deals chiefly with early termination of a VISTA, is moved to 45 CFR part 2556, subpart E and changed to improve the cost-effectiveness of the provisions and increase efficiency of VISTA program functions. The new provisions for early termination remain substantively the same in many respects. However, the early termination for cause process is modified. While the process retains more than sufficient due process in the form of written notification and appeals at two levels, the inclusion of a hearing examiner in that process is removed. Experience has shown that a multi-layered termination process is protracted, unduly burdensome, and incompatible with a service term that can last no more than a year's time. Such a process creates potential harm to the operations of the project and its beneficiaries where the VISTA had been assigned, prolongs uncertainty for the VISTA subject to the process, and inordinately consumes VISTA program resources that could be put to use for the benefit of project beneficiaries.
45 CFR part 1211 on grievance procedures for VISTAs is moved to 45 CFR 2556.345-2556.365 and updated to reflect the use of electronic communication technology and the speed at which it can operate. At sections 2556.345-2556.365, the proposed rule clarifies when a VISTA may present a grievance, what matters are considered grievances, and specific steps for bringing a grievance and appealing a response, while eliminating the inclusion of a grievance examiner in the process. Longstanding experience has shown that CNCS has used its administrative review and oversight to afford complaining parties more than sufficient due process, and has effectively remedied inappropriate conditions leading to grievances, without need of grievance examiner services. When grievance examiner services have been invoked, the time, resources and expense incurred by the VISTA program have substantially outweighed the value provided to the parties involved.
45 CFR part 1216 on non-displacement of employed workers and non-impairment of contracts for service is moved to 45 CFR 2556.150(b) -2556.150(e), and the substantive provisions remain unchanged.
45 CFR part 1217 on leaders is moved to 45 CFR part 2556, subpart G and clarifies primary aspects of the leader position in a project.
45 CFR part 1219 on non-competitive eligibility for VISTAs is moved to 45 CFR 2556.340, and its substantive provisions remain unchanged.
45 CFR part 1220 on payment of legal expenses resulting from service activities is moved to 45 CFR 2556.325-2556.335, and its substantive provisions remain unchanged.
45 CFR part 1222 on participation of project beneficiaries is moved to 45 CFR 2556.120, and its substantive provisions remain unchanged.
45 CFR part 1226 on prohibitions and restrictions on certain political activities is moved to 45 CFR part 2556, subpart H and is revised to complement the current limitations and permitted political activities under the Hatch Act, 5 U.S.C. chapter 73, subchapter III. As provided in the DVSA, VISTAs are subject to the requirements of the Hatch Act because they are considered federal employees for purposes of the Hatch Act, 42 U.S.C. 5055(b)(1).
This proposed rule addresses the requirement that entities that wish to apply to be VISTA sponsors complete an application to be a VISTA sponsor that manages at least one VISTA project. Consistent with this requirement is a document: the VISTA program's Project Application (http://www.nationalservice.gov/​programs/​americorps/​americorps-vista/​sponsor-vista-project). Additionally this proposed rule addresses the requirement that individuals who wish to apply to serve as VISTAs in the federal VISTA program complete an application to serve as a VISTA. This document is called an AmeriCorps Member Application and can be found online at http://www.nationalservice.gov/​programs/​americorps/​americorps-vista.
These requirements constitute two sets of information under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA), 44 U.S.C. 507 et seq. OMB, in accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act, has previously approved these information collections for use. The OMB Control Number for the two collections of the Project Application and AmeriCorps Application are 3045-0038 and 3045-0054, respectively.Start Printed Page 25640
Under the PRA, an agency may not conduct or sponsor a collection of information unless the collections of information displays valid control numbers. This proposed rule's collections of information are contained in 45 CFR 2556.120 and 2556.205 for the Project Application and AmeriCorps Application, respectively.
This information is necessary to ensure that only eligible and qualified entities serve as VISTA sponsors. This information is also necessary to ensure that only eligible and suitable individuals are approved by the VISTA program to serve as VISTAs in the VISTA program.
The likely respondents to these collections of information are entities interested in or seeking to become VISTA sponsors, current VISTA sponsors, and current and prospective VISTAs.
For the reasons discussed in the preamble, under the authority of 42 U.S.C. 12651c(c), the Corporation for National and Community Service proposes to amend chapters XII and XXV, title 45 of the Code of Federal Regulations as follows:
Authority: 42 U.S.C. 5052.
2. In § 1206.1-1, revise paragraph (a) to read as follows:
§ 1206.1-1
(a) This subpart establishes rules and review procedures for the suspension and termination of assistance of National Senior Service Corps grants of assistance provided by the Corporation for National and Community Service pursuant to sections of title II of the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973, Public Law 93-113, 87 Stat. 413 (hereinafter the DVSA) because a recipient failed to materially comply with the terms and conditions of any grant or contract providing assistance under these sections of the DVSA, including applicable laws, regulations, issued program guidelines, instructions, grant conditions or approved work programs.
3. Revise § 1206.1-2 to read as follows:
§ 1206.1-2
This subpart applies to programs authorized under title II of the DVSA.
4. In § 1206.1-3, revise paragraphs (c)-(f) to read as follows:
§ 1206.1-3
(c) The term responsible Corporation official means the CEO, Chief Financial Officer, the Director of the National Senior Service Corps programs, the appropriate Service Center Director and any Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) Headquarters or State office official who is authorized to make the grant or assistance in question. In addition to the foregoing officials, in the case of the suspension proceedings described in § 1206.1-4, the term “responsible Corporation official” shall also include a designee of a CNCS official who is authorized to make the grant of assistance in question.
(d) The term assistance means assistance under title II of the DVSA in the form of grants or contracts involving Federal funds for the administration for which the Director of the National Senior Service Corps programs has responsibility.
(e) The term recipient means a public or private agency, institution or organization or a State or other political jurisdiction which has received assistance under title II of the DVSA. The term “recipient” does not include individuals who ultimately receive benefits under any DVSA program of assistance or National Senior Service Corps volunteers participating in any program.
(f) The term agency means a public or private agency, institution, or organization or a State or other political jurisdiction with which the recipient has entered into an arrangement, contract or agreement to assist in its carrying out the development, conduct and administration of part of a project or program assisted under title II of the DVSA.
5. Revise § 1206.2-1 to read as follows:
§ 1206.2-1
This subpart applies to grantees and contractors receiving financial assistance under title II of the DVSA. The procedures in the subpart do not apply to review of applications for sponsors who receive VISTA members under the DVSA.
6. Revise § 1206.2-3 to read as follows:
§ 1206.2-3
As used in this subpart, “Corporation”, “CEO”, and “recipient” are defined in accordance with § 1206.1-3.
Financial assistance and assistance include the services of National Senior Service Corps volunteers supported in whole or in part with CNCS funds under the DVSA.
Program account includes assistance provided by CNCS to support a particular program activity; for example, Foster Grandparent Program, Senior Companion Program and Retired Senior Volunteer Program.
Refunding includes renewal of an application for the assignment of National Senior Service Corps volunteers.
7. In § 1206.2-4, revise paragraph (g) to read as follows:
§ 1206.2-4
(g) If the recipient's budget period expires prior to the final decision by the deciding official, the recipient's Start Printed Page 25641authority to continue program operations shall be extended until such decision is made and communicated to the recipient. If a National Senior Service Corps volunteer's term of service expires after receipt by a sponsor of a tentative decision not to refund a project, the period of service of the volunteer may be similarly extended. No volunteers may be reenrolled for a period of service while a tentative decision not to refund is pending. If program operations are so extended, CNCS and the recipient shall provide, subject to the availability of funds, operating funds at the same levels as in the previous budget period to continue program operations.
8. Remove and reserve Part 1210.
9. Remove and reserve Part 1211.
10. The authority citation for part 1216 is revised to read as follows:
Authority: 42 U.S.C. 5044(a).
11. Revise § 1216.1-1 to read as follows:
§ 1216.1-1
This part establishes rules to assure that the services of volunteers in the Foster Grandparent Program, the Senior Companion Program, and The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), are limited to activities which would not otherwise be performed by employed workers and which will not supplant the hiring of, or result in the displacement of employed workers or impair existing contracts for service. This part implements section 404(a) of the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973, Pub. L. 93-113 (the “Act”).
12. In § 1216.1-2, revise paragraph (a) to read as follows:
§ 1216.1-2
(a) All volunteers in either the Foster Grandparent Program, the Senior Companion Program, or The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), who are assigned, referred or serving pursuant to grants, contracts, or agreements made pursuant to the Act.
13. Remove and reserve Part 1217.
14. Remove and reserve Part 1218.
15. Remove and reserve Part 1219.
16. The authority citation for part 1220 is revised to read as follows:
Authority: 42 U.S.C. 5059.
17. Revise § 1220.1-1 to read as follows:
§ 1220.1-1
This part implements section 419 of the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973, Public Law 93-113 (the “Act”). This part provides rules to ensure that the Corporation for National and Community Service, which administers the three federal programs, the Foster Grandparent Program (FGP), the Senior Companion Program (SCP), and The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), pays the expenses incurred in judicial and administrative proceedings for the defense of those volunteers serving in those programs. Payment of such expenses by CNCS for those volunteers include payment of counsel fees, court costs, bail or other expenses incidental to the volunteer's defense.
18. In § 1220.2-1, revise paragraph (a)(1) to read as follows:
§ 1220.2-1
Full-time volunteers.
(a)(1) The Corporation for National and Community Service will pay all reasonable expenses for defense of full-time volunteers up to and including the arraignment of Federal, state, and local criminal proceedings, except in cases where it is clear that the charged offense results from conduct which is not related to his service as a volunteer.
19. In § 1220.2-1, revise paragraph (c) to read as follows:
(c) Notwithstanding the foregoing, there may be situations in which the criminal proceeding results from a situation which could give rise to a civil claim under the Federal Tort Claims Act. In such situations, the Justice Department may agree to defend the volunteer. In those cases, unless there is a conflict between the volunteer's interest and that of the government, the Corporation for National and Community Service will not pay for additional private representation for the volunteer.
20. In § 1220.2-2, revise paragraph (a) introductory text and paragraphs (a)(2) and (b) to read as follows:
§ 1220.2-2
Part-time volunteers.
(a) With respect to a part-time volunteer, the Corporation for National and Community Service will reimburse a sponsor for the reasonable expense it incurs for the defense of the volunteer in Federal, state and local criminal proceedings, including arraignment, only under the following circumstances:
(2) The volunteer receives, or is eligible to receive, compensation, including allowances, stipend, or reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses, under a Corporation for National and Community Service grant project; and
(b) In certain circumstances volunteers who are ineligible for reimbursement of legal expenses by the Corporation for National and Community Service may be eligible for representation under the Criminal Justice Act (18 U.S.C. 3006A).
21. In § 1220.2-3, revise paragraphs (a), (b) and (d) to read as follows:
§ 1220.2-3
(a) Immediately upon the arrest of any volunteer under circumstances in which the payment or bail to prevent incarceration or other serious consequences to the volunteer or the retention of an attorney prior to arraignment is necessary and is covered under §§ 1220.2-1 or 1220.2-2, sponsors shall immediately notify the appropriate Corporation for National and Community Service state office or if the state office cannot be reached, the appropriate Area Manager.
(b) Immediately after notification of the appropriate state office, and with the approval thereof, the sponsor shall advance up to $500 for the payment of bail or such other legal expenses as are necessary prior to arraignment to prevent the volunteer from being incarcerated. In the event it is subsequently determined that the Corporation for National and Community Service or a sponsor is not responsible under this policy for the volunteer's defense, any such advance may be recovered directly from the volunteer or from allowances, stipends, Start Printed Page 25642or out-of-pocket expenses which are payable or become payable to the volunteer. In the case of a grassroots sponsor of full-time volunteers that is not able to provide the $500, the Corporation for National and Community Service state office or Area Manager shall immediately make such sum available to the sponsor.
(d) The General Counsel shall, upon notification by the state office or Area Manager, determine the extent to which the Corporation for National and Community Service will provide funds for the volunteer's defense or reimburse a sponsor for funds it spends on the volunteer's behalf. Included in this responsibility shall be the negotiation of fees and approval of other costs and expenses. State offices and Area Managers are not authorized to commit the Corporation for National and Community Service to the payment of volunteers' legal expenses or to reimburse a sponsor except as provided above, without the express consent of the General Counsel. Additionally, the General Counsel shall, in cases arising directly out of the performance of authorized project activities, ascertain whether the services of the United States Attorney can be made available to the volunteer.
22. In § 1220.3-1, revise the introductory text and paragraph (a) as follows:
§ 1220.3-1
The Corporation for National and Community Service will pay reasonable expenses incurred in the defense of full-time volunteers in Federal, state, and local civil judicial and administrative proceedings where:
(a) The complaint or charge against the volunteer is directly related to his volunteer service and not to his personal activities or obligations.
23. Revise § 1220.3-2 as follows:
§ 1220.3-2
The Corporation for National and Community Service will reimburse sponsors for the reasonable expenses incidental to the defense of part-time volunteers in Federal, state, and local civil judicial and administrative proceedings where:
(a) The proceeding arises directly out of the volunteer's performance of activities pursuant to the Act;
(b) The volunteer receives or is eligible to receive compensation, including allowances, stipend, or reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses under the Corporation for National and Community Service grant; and
(c) The conditions specified in paragraphs (b) and (c) in § 1220.3-1 are met.
24. Revise § 1220.3-3 as follows:
§ 1220.3-3
Immediately upon the receipt by a volunteer of any court papers or administrative orders making a party to any proceeding covered under § 1220.3-1 or § 1220.3-2, the volunteer shall immediately notify his sponsor who in turn shall notify the appropriate Corporation for National and Community Service state office. The procedures referred to in § 1220.2-3, paragraphs (c) through (e), shall thereafter be followed as appropriate.
25. Remove and reserve Part 1222.
26. The authority citation for part 1226 is revised to read as follows:
27. Revise § 1226.1 to read as follows:
§ 1226.1
28. Revise § 1226.2 to read as follows:
§ 1226.2
29. In § 1226.7, revise the introductory text and paragraph (a) to read as follows:
§ 1226.7
The provisions in this subpart are applicable to full time volunteers as described in § 1226.3(c), and to such part-time volunteers as may be otherwise specified herein. Full time volunteers are deemed to be acting in their capacity as volunteers:
30. Remove §§ 1226.10 and 1226.11 and redesignate §§ 1226.12 and 1226.13 as §§ 1226.10 and 1226.11, respectively.
31. Revise § 1226.10 as follows:
§ 1226.10
Sponsor employees.
Sponsor employees whose salaries or other compensation are paid, in whole or in part, with agency funds are subject to the restrictions described in § 1226.8(a), (b), (c) and (d) and the exceptions in § 1226.9:
32. Add part 2556 to read as follows:
What is the purpose of the VISTA program?
2556.3
Who should read Part 2556?
What definitions apply in Part 2556?
Are waivers of the regulations in this Part allowed?
2556.100
Which entities are eligible to apply to become VISTA sponsors?
2556.105
Which entities are prohibited from being VISTA sponsors?
2556.110
What VISTA assistance is available to a sponsor?
2556.115
Is a VISTA sponsor required to provide a cash or in-kind match?
2556.120
How does a VISTA sponsor ensure the participation of people in the communities to be served?
2556.125
May CNCS deny or reduce VISTA assistance to an existing VISTA project?
2556.130
What is the procedure for denial or reduction of VISTA assistance to an existing VISTA project?
2556.135
What is suspension? When may CNCS suspend a VISTA project?
2556.140
What is termination? When may CNCS terminate a VISTA project?
2556.145
May CNCS pursue other remedies against a VISTA project for a sponsor's material failure to comply with any other requirement not set forth in this Subpart?Start Printed Page 25643
2556.150
What activities are VISTA members not permitted to perform as part of service?
2556.155
May a sponsor manage a project through a subrecipient?
2556.160
What are the sponsor's requirements for cost share projects?
2556.165
What Fair Labor Standards apply to sponsors and projects?
2556.170
What nondiscrimination requirements apply to VISTA sponsors?
2556.175
What limitations are VISTA sponsors subject to regarding religious activities?
2556.200
Who may apply to serve as a VISTA?
2556.205
What commitments and agreements must an individual make to serve in the VISTA program?
2556.210
Who reviews and approves an application for VISTA service?
2556.300
Is a VISTA considered a federal employee? Is a VISTA considered an employee of the sponsor?
2556.305
What is the duration and scope of service for a VISTA?
2556.310
What are the lines of supervision or oversight of a VISTA, a VISTA sponsor, and CNCS during a VISTA's term of service?
2556.315
What are terms and conditions for official travel for a VISTA?
2556.320
What benefits may a VISTA receive during VISTA service?
2556.325
May a VISTA be provided coverage for legal defense expenses related to VISTA service?
2556.330
When may a VISTA be provided coverage for legal defense expenses related to criminal proceedings?
2556.335
When may a VISTA be provided coverage for legal defense expenses related to civil or administrative proceedings?
2556. 340
What is non-competitive eligibility and who is eligible for it?
2556.345
Who may present a grievance?
2556.350
What matters are considered grievances?
2556.355
May a VISTA have access to records as part of the VISTA grievance procedure?
2556.360
How may a VISTA bring a grievance?
2556.365
May a VISTA appeal a grievance?
2556.400
What is termination for cause? What are the criteria for termination for cause?
2556.405
Who has sole authority to remove a VISTA from a VISTA project? Who has sole authority to terminate a VISTA from a VISTA project or the VISTA program?
2556.410
May a sponsor request that a VISTA be removed from its project?
2556.415
May CNCS remove a VISTA from a project without the sponsor's request for removal?
2556.420
What are termination for cause proceedings?
2556.425
May a VISTA appeal his or her termination for cause?
2556.430
Is a VISTA who is terminated early from the VISTA program for other than cause entitled to appeal under these procedures?
2556.500
How is a position for a summer associate established in a project?
2556.505
How do summer associates differ from other VISTAs?
2556.600
How is a position for a leader established in a project, or in multiple projects within a contiguous geographic region?
2556.605
Who is eligible to serve as a leader?
2556.610
What is the application process to apply to become a leader?
2556.615
Who reviews a leader application? Who approves or disapproves a leader application?
2556.620
How does a leader differ from other VISTAs?
2556.625
What are terms and conditions of service for a leader?
2556.700
Who is covered by this subpart?
2556.705
What is prohibited political activity?
What political activities are VISTAs prohibited from engaging in?
2556.711
What political activities may a VISTA participate in?
2556.712
May VISTAs participate in political organizations?
2556.713
May VISTAs participate in political campaigns?
2556.714
May VISTAs participate in elections?
2556.715
May a VISTA be a candidate for public office?
2556.716
May VISTAs participate in political fundraising activities?
2556.717
Are VISTAs prohibited from soliciting or discouraging the political participation of certain individuals?
2556.718
What restrictions and prohibitions are VISTAs subject to who campaign for a spouse or family member?
2556.719
May VISTAs participate in lawful demonstrations?
2556.720
May a sponsor approve the participation of a VISTA in a demonstration or other political meeting?
2556.721
What disciplinary actions are VISTAs subject to for violating restrictions or prohibitions on political activities?
2556.722
What are the requirements of VISTA sponsors regarding political activities?
2556.723
What prohibitions and restrictions on political activity apply to employees of VISTA sponsors or projects?
2556.724
What prohibitions on lobbying activities apply to VISTA sponsors and projects?
Authority: Secs. 101, 102, and 103, Pub. L. 93-113, as amended; 5 CFR part 734.
§ 2556.1
§ 2556.3
§ 2556.5
“Act” or “DVSA” means the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973, as amended, Public Law 93-113 (42 U.S.C. 4951 et seq.).
“Alternative oath or affirmation” means a pledge of VISTA service taken by an individual who legally resides within a State, but who is not a citizen or national of the United States, upon that individual's enrollment into the VISTA program as a VISTA.
“Applicant for VISTA service” means an individual who is in the process of completing, or has completed, an application for VISTA service as prescribed by CNCS, but who has been not been approved by CNCS to be a candidate.
“Application for VISTA service” means the materials prescribed by CNCS Start Printed Page 25644to ascertain information on an individual's eligibility and suitability for VISTA service.
“Area Manager” means a CNCS official who is head of a designated, regional set, or cluster of CNCS State Offices, or equivalent CNCS official.
“Assistance” means VISTAs, leaders, or summer associates. “Assistance” also means technical assistance or training of VISTAs, leaders, summer associates, candidates, sponsors, or supervisors that are provided from funds appropriated by Congress for the purpose of supporting activities under the DVSA. “Assistance” also means grant funds.
“Candidate”, when used in the context of an individual who has applied for VISTA service, means an individual whose application for VISTA service has been approved by CNCS, but who has not taken an oath, alternative oath or affirmation to serve in the VISTA program. Candidates may include those who were enrolled in the VISTA program at a prior time.
“Cost share” means when an entity, such as a VISTA sponsor, reimburses CNCS part or all of the expenses associated with the operation of a VISTA project, such as the costs for one or more VISTAs, leaders, or summer associates placed in a VISTA project.
“CNCS” means the Corporation for National and Community Service, established pursuant to section 191 of the National and Community Service Act of 1990, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 12651. CNCS is also sometimes referred to as “the Corporation.”
“Education award” or “Segal AmeriCorps Education Award” means an end-of-service monetary benefit from CNCS's National Service Trust that is directed to designated educational institutions and is awarded to certain qualifying VISTAs who successfully complete an established term of VISTA service.
“Enroll”, “enrolled” or “enrollment”, when used in the context of VISTA service, refers to the status of an individual admitted to serve in the VISTA program. The enrollment period commences when the Oath to serve in the VISTA program is taken by the candidate and ends upon termination from a term of service in the VISTA program. The enrollment period may commence on a date earlier than the first day of a service assignment of an enrolled VISTA member.
“Full-time”, when used in the context of VISTA service means service in which a VISTA, leader, or summer associate remains available for service without regard to regular working hours.
“Leader”, “a leader”, or “a VISTA leader” means a VISTA member who is enrolled for full-time VISTA service, and who is also subject to the terms of Subpart G of this Part.
“Living allowance” or “living allowance payment” means a monetary benefit paid for subsistence purposes to a VISTA member during VISTA service.
“Memorandum of Agreement” means a written agreement between CNCS and a sponsor regarding the terms of the sponsor's involvement and responsibilities in the VISTA program.
“Nonpartisan election” means—(1) An election in which none of the candidates is to be nominated or elected as representing a political party any of whose candidates for Presidential elector received votes in the last preceding election at which Presidential electors were selected; or (2) An election involving a question or issue which is not specifically identified with a political party, such as a constitutional amendment, referendum, approval of a municipal ordinance, or any question or issue of a similar character.
“Oath” means an avowal to VISTA service, taken in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 3331, by an individual who is a U.S. citizen or national. The taking of the Oath effects an individual's enrollment into the VISTA program.
“On-duty” or “during service time” means when a VISTA is either performing VISTA service or scheduled to do so.
“Project” or “VISTA project” means a set of VISTA activities operated and overseen by, and the responsibility of, a sponsor, and assisted under this Part to realize the goals of title I of the DVSA.
“Project applicant” or “VISTA project applicant” means an entity that submits an application to CNCS to operate, oversee, and be responsible for a VISTA project.
“Project application” or “VISTA project application” means the application materials prescribed by CNCS to ascertain information on an applying entity's eligibility and suitability to operate, oversee, and be responsible for, a VISTA project.
“Project director” or “VISTA project director” means a staff person, of legal age, of the sponsor, who has been assigned by the sponsor the overall responsibility for the management of the VISTA project.
“Sponsor”, “VISTA sponsor” or “VISTA project sponsor” means a public agency or private non-profit organization that receives assistance under title I of the DVSA, and is responsible for operating and overseeing a VISTA project. A public agency may be a federal, state, local or tribal government.
“State”, when used as a noun, means one of the several states in the United States of America, District of Columbia, Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
“State Program Director” means a CNCS official who reports to an Area Manager or equivalent CNCS official, and who is the head of a CNCS State Office.
“Stipend” or “end-of-service stipend” means an end-of-service lump-sum monetary benefit from CNCS that is awarded to certain qualifying VISTAs, who successfully complete an established term of VISTA service.
“Subrecipient” means a public agency or private non-profit organization that enters into an agreement with a VISTA sponsor to receive one or more VISTAs, and to carry out a set of activities, assisted under this Part, to realize the goals of title I of the DVSA. A public agency may be a federal, state, local or tribal government.
“Summer associate” means a VISTA member who is enrolled for VISTA service, during a period between May 1 and September 15, and who is also subject to the terms of Subpart I of this Part. A summer associate must be available to provide continuous full-time service, without other commitments, for a period of at least eight weeks and a maximum of ten weeks.
“Supervisor” or “VISTA Supervisor” means a staff member, of legal age, of the sponsor or a subrecipient, who has been assigned by the sponsor or the subrecipient, the responsibility for the day-to-day oversight of one or more VISTAs.
“Tribe” means any Indian tribe, band, nation, or other organized group or community, including any Alaskan native village or regional village corporation as defined in or established pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, which is recognized by the United States or the State in which it resides as eligible for special programs and services provided to Indians because of their status as Indians.
“VISTA member”, “a VISTA” or “the VISTA” means an individual enrolled full-time for VISTA service in the VISTA program, as authorized under title I of the DVSA.
“VISTA program” means the Federal government program named Volunteers in Service to America and authorized under title I of the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 4950 et seq.
“VISTA service” means VISTA service activities performed by a VISTA Start Printed Page 25645member while enrolled in the VISTA program.
§ 2556.7
Upon a determination of good cause, the Chief Executive Officer of CNCS may, subject to statutory limitations, waive any provisions of Part 2556.
Authority: Secs. 103(a), 103(f), 104(b), 104(e), 105(b), 106, 403(a), 403(b), 403(c), 404(a), 404(b), 404(c), 404(e), 406, 412, 416, and 417, Pub. L. 93-113, as amended; Sec. 192A(g)(10), Pub. L. 101-610, as amended; Presidential Executive Order 13279 (67 FR 77141, Dec. 16, 2002).
§ 2556.100
§ 2556.105
(b) Any organization that, subsequent to the receipt of VISTA assistance, makes as one of its principal purposes or activities any of the activities described in section 2556.105(a) shall be subject to the procedures in sections 2556.125 through 2556.145.
§ 2556.110
§ 2556.115
(a) A sponsor is not required to provide a cash match for any of the assistance listed in § 2556.110.
§ 2556.120
§ 2556.125
(3) Material failure to comply with applicable term(s) or condition(s) of the DVSA, the regulations in this Part, VISTA program policy, or an applicable Memorandum of Agreement;
(5) Substantial failure to comply with CNCS policy and overall objectives under a contract, or applicable Memorandum of Agreement or grant agreement; or
§ 2556.130
(a) CNCS shall notify the sponsor in writing, at least 75 calendar days before the anticipated denial or reduction of VISTA assistance,that CNCS proposes to deny or reduce VISTA assistance. CNCS's written notice shall state the reasons for the decision to deny or reduce assistance and shall provide an opportunity period for the sponsor to respond to the merits of the proposed decision. CNCS retains sole authority to make the final determination whether the VISTA assistance at issue shall be denied or reduced, as appropriate.
(b) Where CNCS's notice of proposed decision is based upon a specific charge of the sponsor's material failure to comply with an applicable term(s) or condition(s) of the DVSA, the regulations in this Part, VISTA program policy, or an applicable Memorandum of Agreement, the notice shall offer the sponsor an opportunity period to respond in writing to the notice, with any affidavits or other supporting documentation, and to request an informal hearing before a mutually agreed-upon impartial hearing officer. The authority of such a hearing officer shall be limited to conducting the hearing and offering recommendations to CNCS. Regardless of whether or not an informal hearing takes place, CNCS shall retain full authority to make the final determination whether the VISTA assistance is denied or reduced, as appropriate.
(c) If the recipient requests an informal hearing, as set forth above in accordance with paragraph (b) of this section, such hearing shall be held at a date specified by CNCS and held at a location convenient to the sponsor.
(d) If CNCS's proposed decision is based, in whole or in part, on a specific charge(s) of a sponsor's material failure to comply with an applicable term(s) or condition(s) of an applicable Start Printed Page 25646Memorandum of Agreement, CNCS shall inform the sponsor in the notice of proposed decision of the opportunity to show cause why VISTA assistance should not be denied or reduced, as appropriate. The notice shall provide specific instructions regarding the sponsor's opportunity to respond in writing to the notice and to request an informal hearing before a mutually agreed-upon impartial hearing officer. Regardless of whether or not such an informal hearing takes place, CNCS shall retain full authority to make the final determination whether the VISTA assistance at issue shall be denied or reduced, as appropriate.
§ 2556.135
§ 2556.140
§ 2556.145
May CNCS pursue other remedies against a VISTA project for a sponsor's material failure to comply with any other requirement not set forth in this Subpart?
§ 2556.150
(a) A VISTA may not perform any activities in the project application that do not correspond with the purpose of the VISTA program, as described in § 2556.1, or that the Director has otherwise prohibited.
(e) The requirements of paragraphs 2556.150(b)-(d) of this section do not apply when the sponsor requires the service in order to avoid or relieve suffering threatened by, or resulting Start Printed Page 25647from, a disaster, civil disturbance, terrorism, or war.
(f) A sponsor or project shall not request or receive any compensation from a VISTA; from a beneficiary of VISTA project services; or any other source for services of a VISTA.
§ 2556.155
May a sponsor manage a VISTA project through a subrecipient?
(a) A sponsor may carry out a VISTA project through one or more subrecipients that meet the eligibility criteria of § 2556.100.
§ 2556.160
§ 2556.165
What Fair Labor Standards apply to VISTA sponsors and projects?
All sponsors and projects that employ laborers and mechanics for construction, alteration, or repair of facilities shall pay wages at prevailing rates as determined by the Secretary of Labor in accordance with the Davis-Bacon Act, as amended, 40 U.S.C. 276a.
§ 2556.170
What nondiscrimination requirements apply to sponsors?
§ 2556.175
(b) A sponsor or project may retain its independence and may continue to carry out its mission, including the definition, development, practice, and expression of its religious beliefs, provided that it does not use any CNCS assistance, including the services of any VISTA or VISTA assistance, to support any inherently religious activities, such as worship, religious instruction, or proselytizing, as part of the programs or services assisted by the VISTA program. If a VISTA sponsor or project conducts such inherently religious activities, the activities must be offered separately, in time or location, from the programs or services assisted under this Part by the VISTA program.
Authority: Secs. 103(b)(3), 103(f), 104(a), 104(b), 104(c), and 404(e), Pub. L. 93-113, as amended.
§ 2556.200
§ 2556.205
(a) To the maximum extent practicable, the individual must make a full-time commitment to remain available for service without regard to regular working hours, at all times during his or her period of service, except for authorized periods of leave.Start Printed Page 25648
§ 2556.210
Authority: Secs. 104(a), 104(b), 104(d), 105, 404(e), 415, and 419 of Pub. L. 93-113, as amended; Sec. 146(c) of Pub. L. 101-610, as amended.
§ 2556.300
(e) A VISTA is not, under any circumstances, considered an employee of the sponsor or project to which he or she is assigned to serve. No VISTA is in an employment relationship with the sponsor or project to which he or she is assigned. The sponsor is not authorized to make contributions to any state unemployment compensation fund on a VISTA's behalf.
§ 2556.305
(b) A VISTA carries out activities in accordance with the purpose of the VISTA program, as described in section 2556.1 of this Part.
§ 2556.310
What are the lines of supervision or oversight of a VISTA, a VISTA sponsor and CNCS during a VISTA's term of service?
§ 2556.315
§ 2556.320
(2) A VISTA who elects a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award is eligible to request forbearance of a student loan from his or her loan-holder. A VISTA who elects a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award may, upon successful completion of service, be eligible to receive up to 100 percent of the interest accrued on a qualified student loan, consistent with the applicable provisions of 45 CFR 2529.
(3) A VISTA is not eligible to receive more than an amount equal to the Start Printed Page 25649aggregate value of two full-time Segal AmeriCorps Education Awards in his or her lifetime.
§ 2556.325
Under certain circumstances, as set forth below in sections 2556.330 through 2556.335, CNCS may pay reasonable legal defense expenses incurred in judicial or administrative proceedings for the defense of a VISTA serving in the VISTA program. Such covered legal expenses consist of counsel fees, court costs, bail, and other expenses incidental to a VISTA's legal defense.
§ 2556.330
(d) Notwithstanding the above paragraphs (a)-(c) of this section, there may be situations in which the criminal proceedings at issue arise from a matter that also gives rise to a civil claim under the Federal Tort Claims Act. In such a situation, the U.S. Department of Justice may, on behalf of the United States, agree to defend the VISTA. If the U.S. Department of Justice agrees to defend the VISTA member, unless there is a conflict between the VISTA member's interest and that of the United States, CNCS will not pay for expenses associated with any additional legal representation (such as counsel fees for private counsel) for the VISTA member.
§ 2556.335
§ 2556.340
(c) In addition to the retention of the one year of non-competitive eligibility status as provided in (b) of this section, an individual's non-competitive eligibility status may extend for two more years to a total of three years if the individual is:
(3) In another activity which, in the view of the federal agency referenced in part (a) of this section, warrants extension.
§ 2556.345
(a) Under the VISTA program grievance procedure, a grievance may be presented by any individual who is Start Printed Page 25650currently enrolled as a VISTA in the VISTA program or who was enrolled as a VISTA in the VISTA program within the past 30 calendar days.
§ 2556.350
(b) Matters not within the definition of a grievance as defined above in section (a) are not grievable, and therefore, are excluded from the VISTA program grievance procedure. Though not exhaustive, examples of matters excluded from the VISTA program grievance procedure are:
(6) Those matters related to actions taken, or not taken, by a VISTA sponsor or project, or CNCS, in compliance with or in order to fulfill the terms of a contract, grant, or other agreement related to the VISTA program.
§ 2556.355
§ 2556.360
(a) Bringing a grievance—Step 1:—(1) While currently enrolled in the VISTA program, or enrolled in the VISTA program within the past 30 calendar days, a VISTA may bring a grievance to the sponsor or project where he or she is assigned to serve within 15 calendar days that the event giving rise to the grievance occurs, or within 15 calendar days after becoming aware of the event. If the grievance arises out of a continuing condition or practice that individually affects a VISTA, while enrolled the VISTA may bring it at any time while he or she is affected by a continuing condition or practice.
(4) If the grievance brought by a VISTA involves a matter over which the sponsor has no substantial control or if the sponsor's representative is the supervisor of the VISTA, the VISTA may pass over the procedure set forth above in paragraphs (a)(1)-(a)(3) of this section, and present the grievance in writing directly to the State Program Director, as described below in (b) of this section.
(b) Bringing a grievance—Step 2:— (1) If, after a VISTA brings a grievance as set forth above in paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) of this section, the matter is not resolved, he or she may submit the grievance in writing to the appropriate State Program Director. The VISTA must submit the grievance to the State Program Director either:
(2) If the grievance involves a matter over which either the sponsor or project has no substantial control or if the sponsor's representative is the supervisor of the VISTA, as described above in paragraph (a)(4) of this section, the VISTA may pass over the procedure set forth in above in paragraphs (a)(1)-(a)(3) of this section, and submit the grievance in writing directly to the State Program Director. In such a case, the VISTA must submit the grievance to the State Program Director within 15 calendar days of the event giving rise to the grievance occurs, or within 15 calendar days after becoming aware of the event.
§ 2556.365
(a) The VISTA may appeal in writing to the appropriate Area Manager the response of the State Program Director to the grievance, as set forth in § 2556.360(b)(3). To be eligible to appeal a grievance response to the Area Manager, the VISTA must have Start Printed Page 25651exhausted all appropriate actions as set forth in § 2556.360.
(1) The grievance appeal was not submitted to the appropriate Area Manager within the time limit specified above in (c) of this section;
(2) The grievance appeal consists of matters not contained within the definition of a grievance, as specified in section § 2556.350(a);
(3) The grievance appeal consists of matters excluded from the VISTA program grievance procedure, as specified in § 2556.350(b); or
Authority: Secs. 103(b), 103(c), 103(f), and 404(e), Pub. L. 93-113, as amended.
§ 2556.400
§ 2556.405
Who has sole authority to remove a VISTA from a VISTA project? Who has sole authority to terminate a VISTA from the VISTA program?
§ 2556.410
(c) When an alternative solution, as referenced above in 2556.410(b) of this section is not sought, or is not reached within a reasonable time period, the State Program Director shall remove the VISTA from the project.
§ 2556.415
§ 2556.420
(b) The State Program Director or other CNCS State Office staff, to the extent practicable, communicates the matter with the VISTA who is removed from a VISTA project and the administrative procedures as set forth below in §§ 2556.420(c) through (e) are followed.
§ 2556.425
(a) Within 10 calendar days of the appropriate State Program Director's issuance of the decision to terminate the VISTA for cause, as set forth above in § 2556.420(d), the VISTA may appeal the decision to the appropriate Area Manager. The appeal must be in writing and specify the reasons for the VISTA's disagreement with the decision.Start Printed Page 25652
§ 2556.430
(a) Only a VISTA whose early termination from the VISTA program is for cause, and who has answered the proposal to terminate him or her for cause in a timely manner, as set forth in § 2556.420(c), is entitled to appeal the early termination action, as referenced in § 2556.425. A termination for cause is based on a deficiency, or deficiencies, in the performance or conduct of a VISTA.
(b) The following types of early terminations from the VISTA program are not terminations for cause, and are not entitled to appeal under the early termination appeal procedure set forth in §§ 2556.420 and 2556.425:
(1) Resignation from the VISTA program prior to the issuance of a decision to terminate for cause, as set forth in § 2556.420(d);
Authority: Secs. 104(d) and 104(e), Pub. L. 93-113, as amended.
§ 2556.500
§ 2556.505
(c) CNCS may discharge a summer associate due to a deficiency, or deficiencies, in conduct or performance. Summer associates are not subject to Subpart E of this Part, or to the grievance procedures provided to VISTAs set forth above in sections 2556.345 through 2556.365.
Authority: Sec. 104(b), Pub. L. 93-113, as amended.
§ 2556.600
§ 2556.605
Who is eligible to apply to serve as a leader?
a) At least one year of service as a VISTA;
b) At least one full term of service as a full-time AmeriCorps State and National member;
c) At least one full term of service as a member of the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC); or
d) At least one traditional term of service as a Peace Corps Volunteer.
§ 2556.610
(a) Application Package: An eligible individual must apply in writing to CNCS to become a leader. The sponsor's recommendation and related materials, described below in 2556.610 (b) of this section, must be included with the individual's application to become a leader.
(b) Sponsor Recommendation: A sponsor where an individual is seeking to serve as a leader must recommend in writing to CNCS the individual to Start Printed Page 25653become a leader. Included with the recommendation must be an evaluation of the individual's performance while in previous service, a description of specific tasks, responsibilities, qualifications, and other relevant information that justifies the placement of the individual in a leader position, and if appropriate, the establishment of a leader position.
(c) Selection: CNCS shall have sole authority to select a leader. The criteria for selection shall include consideration of the individual's application and the sponsor's recommendation described in § 2556.610(b).
§ 2556.615
§ 2556.620
The application process to apply to become a leader, as described in § 2556.610, is separate and distinct from the application process to apply to enroll as a VISTA in the VISTA program;
(b) A leader is subject to all the terms and conditions of service described in § 2556.625 of this subpart.
§ 2556.625
Authority Secs. 104(a), 403, and 415(b), Pub. L. 93-113, as amended.
§ 2556.700
(b) All employees of VISTA sponsors and projects, whose salaries or other compensation are paid, in whole or in part, with VISTA grant assistance are subject to this Subpart.
(c) All VISTA sponsors and projects are subject to this subpart.
§ 2556.705
§ 2556.710
(4) While using a vehicle owned or leased by a sponsor or project, or while using a privately-owned vehicle in the discharge of VISTA duties.
§ 2556.711
(b) A VISTA may participate in political activities set forth above in paragraph (a) as long as such participation:
§ 2556.712
(a) Provided that paragraph (b) of this section is fully adhered to, and in accordance with the prohibitions set forth in § 2556.710, a VISTA may:
§ 2556.713
(a) Provided that paragraph (b) of this section is fully adhered to, and in accordance with the prohibitions set forth above in § 2556.710, a VISTA may:
(1) Display pictures, signs, stickers, badges, or buttons associated with political parties, candidates for partisan political office, or partisan political groups, as long as these items are displayed in accordance with the prohibitions set forth above in § 2556.710;
§ 2556.714
§ 2556.715
(b) In accordance with the prohibitions set forth in § 2556.710, a VISTA may participate in elections as long as such participation:
(c) Provided that paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section are adhered to, and in accordance with the prohibitions set forth in § 2556.710, a VISTA may:
§ 2556.716
(a) Provided that paragraphs (b)-(d) below of this section are fully adhered to, and in accordance with the prohibitions set forth in § 2556.710, a VISTA may:
(2) Attend a political fundraiser; andStart Printed Page 25655
§ 2556.717
§ 2556.718
A VISTA who is the spouse or family member of either a candidate for partisan political office, candidate for political party office, or candidate for public office in a nonpartisan election, is subject to the same restrictions and prohibitions as other VISTAs, as set forth in § 2556.713.
§ 2556.719
In accordance with the prohibitions set forth in § 2556.710, VISTAs may participate in lawful demonstrations, political rallies, and other political meetings, so long as such participation is in conformance with all of the following:
§ 2556.720
(a) No VISTA sponsor shall approve a VISTA to be involved in planning, initiating, participating in, or otherwise aiding or assisting in any demonstration or other political meeting.
(b) Any VISTA sponsor which, subsequent to the receipt of any CNCS financial assistance, including the assignment of VISTAs, approves the participation of a VISTA in a demonstration or other political meeting, shall be subject to procedures related to the suspension or termination of such assistance, as provided in Subpart B, §§ 2556.135 to 2556.140.
§ 2556.721
Violations by a VISTA of any of the prohibitions or restrictions set forth in this Subpart may warrant termination for cause, in accordance with proceedings set forth at §§ 2556.420, 2556.425, and 2556.430.
§ 2556.722
(a) All sponsors are required to:
(b) Failure of a sponsor to comply with the requirements of this Subpart, or a violation of the requirements contained in this Subpart by the sponsor or project, sponsor or project's covered employees, agents, or VISTAs, may be deemed to be a material failure to comply with terms or conditions of the VISTA program. In such a case, the sponsor shall be subject to procedures related to the denial or reduction, or suspension or termination, of such assistance, as provided in §§ 2556.125, 2556.130, and 2556.140.
§ 2556.723
(a) All employees of VISTA sponsors and projects, whose salaries or other compensation are paid, in whole or in part, with VISTA funds are subject to all applicable prohibitions and restrictions described in this Subpart in the following circumstances:
(1) Whenever they are engaged in an activity that is supported by CNCS or VISTA funds or assistance; and
(2) Whenever they identify themselves as acting in their capacity as an official of a VISTA project that receives CNCS or VISTA funds or assistance, or could reasonably be perceived by others as acting in such a capacity.
§ 2556.724
What prohibitions on lobbying activities apply to VISTA sponsors?
(a) No VISTA sponsor shall assign a VISTA to perform service or engage in activities related to influencing the passage or defeat of legislation or proposals by initiative petition.
(b) No VISTA sponsor shall use any CNCS financial assistance, such as VISTA funds or the services of a VISTA, for any activity related to influencing the passage or defeat of legislation or proposals by initiative petition.
[FR Doc. 2015-09998 Filed 5-4-15; 8:45 am]