Notices. Notice of affirmation
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BILLING CODE 4910-60-P 71 18 Friday, January 27, 2006 Notices DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request January 24, 2006. The Department of Agriculture has submitted the following information collection requirement(s) to OMB for review and clearance under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, Public Law 104-13. Comments regarding
(a)Whether the collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information will have practical utility;
(b)the accuracy of the agency's estimate of burden including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;
(c)ways to enhance the quality, utility and clarity of the information to be collected;
(d)ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, including through the use of appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology should be addressed to: Desk Officer for Agriculture, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget (OMB), *OIRA_Submission@OMB.EOP.GOV* or fax
(202)395-5806 and to Departmental Clearance Office, USDA, OCIO, Mail Stop 7602, Washington, DC 20250-7602. Comments regarding these information collections are best assured of having their full effect if received within 30 days of this notification. Copies of the submission(s) may be obtained by calling
(202)720-8681. An agency may not conduct or sponsor a collection of information unless the collection of information displays a currently valid OMB control number and the agency informs potential persons who are to respond to the collection of information that such persons are not required to respond to the collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. Rural Utilities Service *Title:* 7 CFR Part 1724, Electric Engineering Architectural Services and Design Policies. *OMB Control Number:* 0572-0118. *Summary of Collection:* The Rural Electrification Act of 1936, 7 U.S.C. 901 *et seq.* , authorization to Rural Utilities Service
(RUS)make loans in several States and Territories of the United States for rural electrification and the furnishing and improving of electric energy to persons in rural areas. Title 7 CFR 1724 requires each borrower to select a qualified architect to perform certain architectural services and to use the designated form that provides for these services. The agency has developed standardized contractual forms used by borrowers to contract for services. *Need and Use of the Information:* The information collected from the forms is on and as needed basis or when the individual borrower undertakes certain projects. The standardization of the forms by RUS has resulted in substantial savings to borrowers by reducing preparation of the documentation and the costly review by the government. *Description of Respondents:* Business or other for-profit; Not-for-profit institutions. *Number of Respondents:* 81. *Frequency of Responses:* Reporting: On occasion. *Total Burden Hours:* 161. Rural Utilities Service *Title:* Advance of Loan Funds and Budgetary Control and Related Burdens. *OMB Control Number:* 0572-0015. *Summary of Collection:* The Rural Utilities Service
(RUS)is authorized by the Rural Electrification Act (RE Act) of 1936, as amended, “to make loans in several States and territories of the United States for rural electrification and for the purpose of furnishing and improving electric and telephone service in rural areas and to assist electric borrowers to implement demand side management, energy conservation programs, and on-grid and off-grid renewable energy systems.” Borrowers will provide the agency with information that supports the use of the funds as well as identify the type of projects for which they will use the funds. *Need and Use of the Information:* RUS electric borrowers will submit RUS form 595 and 219. Form 595, Financial Requirement & Expenditure Statement, to request an advance of loan funds remaining for an existing approved loan and to report on the expenditure of previously advanced loan funds. Form 219, Inventory of Work Orders, serves as a connecting line and provides an audit trail that verifies the evidence supporting the propriety of expenditures for construction of retirement projects that supports the advance of funds. The information collected will ensure that loans funds are expended and advanced for RUS approved budget process and amounts. Failure to collect proper information could result in improper determinations of eligibility or improper use of funds. *Description of Respondents:* Not-for-profit institutions; Business or other for-profit. *Number of Respondents:* 700. *Frequency of Responses:* Reporting: On occasion. *Total Burden Hours:* 14,820. Charlene Parker, Departmental Information Collection Clearance Officer. [FR Doc. E6-1034 Filed 1-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-15-P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Foreign Agricultural Service Affirmation of Total Amounts of the Fiscal Year 2006 Tariff-Rate Quotas for Raw Cane Sugar and Certain Imported Sugars, Syrups, and Molasses (Refined Sugar) AGENCY: Foreign Agricultural Service, USDA. ACTION: Notice of affirmation. SUMMARY: This notice affirms determinations announced by the Secretary of Agriculture on August 12, August 19, September 9, and December 2, 2005, that an aggregate quantity of 1,751,329 metric tons raw value of sugar may be entered under the tariff-rate quota
(TRQ)provisions of Additional U.S. Note 5(a) of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States
(HTS)during fiscal year
(FY)2006. The following TRQ quantities were established for entry: 1,498,212 metric tons raw value of raw sugar under subheading 1701.11.10 of the HTS, and 253,117 metric tons raw value of certain sugars, syrups, and molasses under subheadings 1701.12.10, 1701.91.10, 1701.99.10, 1702.90.10, and 2106.90.44 of the HTS. DATES: *Effective Dates:* Raw cane sugar TRQ—October 1, 2005. Refined sugar TRQ—September 8, 2005. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Robert Curtis, Director, Import Policies and Programs Division, Foreign Agricultural Service, AgStop 1021, South Building, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250-1021 or telephone
(202)720-2916, fax to
(202)720-0876, or e-mail *Robert.Curtis@fas.usda.gov.* SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Paragraph (a)(i) of Additional U.S. Note 5 to chapter 17 of the HTS provides as follows: “The aggregate quantity of raw cane sugar entered, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, under subheading 1701.11.10, during any fiscal year, shall not exceed in the aggregate an amount (expressed in terms of raw value), not less than 1,117,195 metric tons, as shall be established by the Secretary of Agriculture, (‘* * * the Secretary'), and the aggregate quantity of sugars, syrups and molasses entered, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, under subheadings 1701.12.10, 1701.91.10, 1701.99.10, 1702.90.10 and 2106.90.44, during any fiscal year, shall not exceed in the aggregate an amount (expressed in terms of raw value), not less than 22,000 metric tons, as shall be established by the Secretary. With either the aggregate quantity for raw cane sugar or the aggregate quantity for sugars, syrups and molasses other than raw cane sugar, the Secretary may reserve a quota quantity for the importation of specialty sugars as defined by the United States Trade Representative.” Paragraph (a)(iv) provides as follows: “Sugar entering the United States during a quota period established under this note may be charged to the previous or subsequent quota period with the written approval of the Secretary.” The provisions of paragraphs (a)(i) and (a)(iv) of Additional U.S. Note 5 to chapter 17 of the HTS authorize the Secretary to establish the fiscal year TRQ amounts (expressed in terms of raw value) of raw cane sugar and certain other sugars, syrups, and molasses that may be entered under the subheadings of the HTS subject to the lower tier of duties and to charge to those amounts sugar that is entered prior to the beginning of the fiscal year. Allocations of the TRQ amounts among supplying countries and areas will be made by the United States Trade Representative. *Notice:* In accordance with paragraph (a)(i) of Additional U.S. Note 5 to chapter 17 of the HTS, the Secretary of Agriculture announced on August 12, August 19, and December 2, 2005, that an aggregate quantity of up to 1,498,212 metric tons, raw value, of raw cane sugar described in subheading 1701.11.10 of the HTS may be entered or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption during the period from October 1, 2005, through September 30, 2006. This amount includes the minimum amount authorized by the HTS (1,117,195 metric tons, raw value) and an additional amount of 387,017 metric tons, raw value, which represents the amount of the domestic cane sugar allotment that the Commodity Credit Corporation
(CCC)estimates will not be filled in FY 2006. CCC is reassigning this deficit quantity to imports, pursuant to section 359e(b)(1)(D) of the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1359ee(b)(1)(D)). The TRQ is allocated among supplying countries and areas by the United States Trade Representative. Because of changes occurring over time in the domestic marketing of cane sugar, certain shipping pattern restrictions used in previous years are no longer being imposed. On August 12, September 9, and December 2, 2005, an aggregate quantity of up to 253,117 metric tons, raw value, was announced, for certain refined sugars, syrups, and molasses described in subheadings 1701.12.10, 1701.91.10, 1701.99.10, 1702.90.10, and 2106.90.44 of the HTS to be entered or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption during the fiscal year 2006 quota period, ending September 30, 2006. Out of this quantity of 253,117 metric tons, 28,656 metric tons was reserved for the importation of specialty sugars. To allow for the orderly marketing of non-specialty, refined sugars, 117,039 metric tons were allowed to be entered beginning September 8, 2005. This amount was allocated among supplying countries and areas by the United States Trade Representative. In addition, four global-origin tranches of 34,019 metric tons were established opening December 9, 2005, December 29, 2005, January 10, 2006, and January 24, 2006. Beginning with the December 9, 2005 tranche, sugar entering under the global refined TRQ was allowed in containers of 120 metric tons or less. To allow for the orderly marketing of 28,656 metric tons of specialty sugar, 1,656 metric tons were allowed to enter under a first tranche opening October 26, 2005, followed by three tranches of 9,000 metric tons opening November 9, 2005, March 15, 2006, and June 7, 2006. All specialty sugars were allowed to enter under the first tranche. The second, third and fourth tranches are reserved for organic sugar and other specialty sugars not currently commercially produced in the United States of reasonably available from domestic sources. Signed at Washington, DC the 18th day of January, 2006. A. Ellen Terpstra, Administrator Foreign Agricultural Service. [FR Doc. E6-1029 Filed 1-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-10-P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Foreign Agricultural Service Affirmation of the Total Amount of the Fiscal Year 2006 Tariff-Rate Quota for Sugar and Certain Imported Sugars, Syrups, and Molasses (Refined Sugar) Imported From Mexico AGENCY: Foreign Agricultural Service, USDA. ACTION: Notice of Affirmation. SUMMARY: This notice establishes the aggregate quantity of 250,383 metric tons, raw value, of sugar that may enter the United States Customs Territory from Mexico during fiscal year
(FY)2006 under the market access provisions of Chapter 7, Annex 703.2 of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) under subheadings 1701.11.10, 1701.12.10, 1701.91.10, 1701.99.10, 1702.90.10, and 2106.90.44 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS). DATES: *Effective Date:* October 1, 2005. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Robert Curtis, Director, Import Policies and Programs Division, Foreign Agricultural Service, AgStop 1021, South Building, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250-1021 or telephone
(202)720-2916, fax to
(202)720-0876, or e-mail *Robert.Curtis@fas.usda.gov.* SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Annex 703.2 of the NAFTA provides for trade in sugar and syrup goods based on annual estimates of net production surpluses in the United States and Mexico beginning in 2001, the seventh marketing year of the agreement. To facilitate estimates of supply and demand prior to the beginning of each marketing year, Section A, paragraph 13, of the Annex provides for bilateral consultations before July 1. In addition to duty-free access to the U.S. sugar market under NAFTA, Mexico may enter under the provisions of Additional U.S. Note 5 of chapter 17 of the HTS 2,954 metric tons, raw value, of duty-free sugar under subheadings 1701.12.10, 1701.91.10, 1701.99.10, 1702.90.10 and 2106.90.44 during a FY 2006 quota period which opened September 8, 2005. *Notice:* I hereby give notice, in accordance with Annex 703.2 of the NAFTA, that an aggregate quantity of up to 250,383 metric tons, raw value, of sugar described in subheadings 1701.11.10, 1701.12.10, 1701.91.10, 1701.99.10, 1702.90.10 and 2106.90.44, of the HTS may be entered or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption during the period from October 1, 2005, through September 30, 2006. The quantity is based upon the Department's projection of Mexico's net production surplus of sugar which is available for export to the United States. The entire amount, which is authorized for duty-free entry, is accounted for by the domestic cane sugar marketing allotment that the Commodity Credit Corporation
(CCC)estimates will not be filled in FY 2006. CCC is reassigning this deficit quantity to imports, pursuant to section 359e(b)(1)(D) of the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1359ee(b)(1)(D)). I have further determined that all entries of sugar entered from Mexico under the provisions of Annex 703.2 of the NAFTA during FY 2006 require Certificates for Quota Eligibility issued by the USDA Licensing Authority. Signed at Washington, DC the 18th day of January, 2006. A. Ellen Terpstra, Administrator, Foreign Agricultural Service. [FR Doc. E6-1030 Filed 1-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-10-P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Forest Service Notice of Lewis and Clark County Advisory Committee Meeting AGENCY: Forest Service, USDA. ACTION: Notice of meeting. SUMMARY: Pursuant to the authorities in the Federal Advisory Committee Act (Pub. L. 92-463) and under the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000 (Pub. L. 106-393) the Helena National Forest's Lewis and Clark County Resource Advisory Committee will meet on Monday February 27 from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. in Helena, Montana, for a business meeting. The meeting is open to the public. DATES: Monday, February 27, 2006. ADDRESSES: The meeting will be held in the conference room at the Helena Chamber of Commerce, 225 Cruse Avenue, Helena, MT 59601. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Duane H. Harp, Designated Forest Official (DFO), District Ranger, Helena Ranger District, Helena National Forest, at
(406)449-5490. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Agenda topics for this meeting include review of projects proposed for funding and public comment as authorized under Title II of Pub. L. 106-393. If the meeting location is changed, notice will be posted in local newspapers, including the Helena Independent Record. Dated: January 20, 2006. Duane H. Harp, District Ranger. [FR Doc. E6-1028 Filed 1-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-11-P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Rural Housing Service Notice for Requests for Proposals for Guaranteed Loans Under the Section 538 Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program (GRRHP) for Fiscal Year 2006 AGENCY: Rural Housing Service, USDA. ACTION: Notice. SUMMARY: This is a request for proposals for loan guarantees under the section 538 Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program (GRRHP) pursuant to 7 CFR 3565.4 for Fiscal Year
(FY)2006 subject to the availability of funding. FY 2006 funding for the section 538 program is $99 million. Applicants will submit proposals in the form of ”RESPONSES.” The commitment of program dollars will be made to applicants of selected responses that have fulfilled the necessary requirements for obligation. The commitment of program dollars will be made to applicants of selected responses that have fulfilled the necessary requirements for obligation, to the extent an appropriation act provides funding for GRRHP for FY 2006. Expenses incurred in developing applications will be at the applicant's risk. The following paragraphs outline the timeframes, eligibility requirements, lender responsibilities, and the overall response and application processes. The GRRHP operates under 7 CFR part 3565. The GRRHP Origination and Servicing Handbook (HB-1-3565) is available to provide lenders and the general public with guidance on program administration. HB-1-3565, which contains a copy of 7 CFR part 3565 in Appendix 1, can be found at the Rural Development Instructions Web site address *http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/regs/hblist.html#hbw6* . Eligible lenders are invited to submit responses for the development or acquisition with rehabilitation of affordable rental housing to serve rural America. In addition, this fiscal year, guarantees will be available for the revitalization, repair, and transfer cost of existing direct section 515 housing (transfer costs are subject to Agency approval and must be an eligible use of loan proceeds as listed in 7 CFR 3565.205). In order to be considered, direct section 515 housing projects must need repairs and/or undergo revitalization of a minimum of $6,500 per unit. The Rural Housing Service
(RHS)will review responses submitted by eligible lenders, on the lender's letterhead, and signed by both the prospective borrower and lender. Although a complete application is not required in response to this Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA), eligible lenders may submit a complete application concurrently with the response. However, submitting a complete application will not have an effect on the response's score. DATES: The RHS will review and score all responses received through June 16, 2006. Those responses that are selected that subsequently submit complete applications and meet all Federal environmental requirements will receive commitments to the extent an appropriation act provides funding for GRRHP for FY 2006 until all funds are expended. Responses received prior to June 16, 2006, that meet program criteria, but score less than 25 points or score 25 points or more but have a development cost ratio of equal to or more than 70 percent may be selected for obligation after June 16, 2006, with the highest scoring responses receiving priority as long as funds remain available. The Agency will continue to select the highest scoring NOFA responses received after June 16, 2006, notwithstanding the score, as long as the response meets program criteria and funds remain available. A notice will be placed in the **Federal Register** when all funds are committed for FY 2006. Eligible lenders mailing a response or application must provide sufficient time to permit delivery to the “Submission Address” on or before the closing deadline date and time. Acceptance by a U.S. Post Office or private mailer does not constitute delivery. Postage due responses and applications will not be accepted. *Submission Address:* Eligible lenders will send responses to the Multi-Family Housing Director in the State Office where the project will be located. The lender will also send a copy of its NOFA response (copies of “Lender Certification” letter and “Project Specific Data” sheets only; do not include any application supporting documentation, *i.e.* , market studies, plans/specs, etc.) to: C.B. Alonso, Senior Loan Specialist, Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program, Multi-Family Housing Processing Division, U.S. Department of Agriculture, South Agriculture Building, Room 1271, STOP 0781, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-0781. Rural Development State Offices, their addresses, telephone numbers, and person to contact follows: [This information may also be found at *http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/recd_map.html* .] **Note:** Telephone numbers listed are not toll-free. Alabama State Office, Suite 601, Sterling Centre, 4121 Carmichael Road, Montgomery, AL 36106-3683.
(334)279-3455. TDD
(334)279-3495. James B. Harris. Alaska State Office, 800 West Evergreen, Suite 201, Palmer, AK 99645.
(907)761-7740. TDD
(907)761-8905. Deborah Davis. Arizona State Office, Phoenix Courthouse and Federal Building, 230 North First Ave., Suite 206. Phoenix, AZ 85003-1706.
(602)280-8765. TDD
(602)280-8706. Don Irby. Arkansas State Office, 700 W. Capitol Ave., Room 3416, Little Rock, AR 72201-3225.
(501)301-3250. TDD
(501)301-3063. Gregory Kemper. California State Office, 430 G Street, #4169, Davis, CA 95616-4169.
(530)792-5830. TDD
(530)792-5848. Stephen Nnodim. Colorado State Office, 655 Parfet Street, Room E100, Lakewood, CO 80215.
(720)544-2923. TDD
(800)659-2656. Jamie Spakow. Connecticut: Served by Massachusetts State Office. Delaware and Maryland State Office, 4607 South Dupont Highway, PO Box 400, Camden, DE 19934-9998.
(302)697-4353. TDD
(302)697-4303. W. Drew Clendaniel. Florida & Virgin Islands State Office, 4440 NW. 25th Place, Gainesville, FL 32606-6563.
(352)338-3465. TDD
(352)338-3499. Elizabeth M. Whitaker. Georgia State Office, Stephens Federal Building, 355 E. Hancock Avenue, Athens, GA 30601-2768.
(706)546-2164. TDD
(706)546-2034. Wayne Rogers. Hawaii State Office, (Services all Hawaii, American Samoa Guam, and Western Pacific), Room 311, Federal Building, 154 Waianuenue Avenue, Hilo, HI 96720.
(808)933-8305. TDD
(808)933-8321. Jack Mahan. Idaho State Office, Suite A1, 9173 West Barnes Dr., Boise, ID 83709,
(208)378-5630. TDD
(208)378-5644. Roni Atkins. Illinois State Office, 2118 West Park Court, Suite A, Champaign, IL 61821-2986.
(217)403-6222. TDD
(217)403-6240. Barry L. Ramsey. Indiana State Office, 5975 Lakeside Boulevard, Indianapolis, IN 46278.
(317)290-3100 (ext. 423). TDD
(317)290-3343. John Young. Iowa State Office, 210 Walnut Street Room 873, Des Moines, IA 50309.
(515)284-4666. TDD
(515)284-4858. Ambrose H. McGuire. Kansas State Office, 1303 SW. First American Place, Suite 100, Topeka, KS 66604-4040.
(785)271-2721. TDD
(785)271-2767. Tim Rogers. Kentucky State Office, 771 Corporate Drive, Suite 200, Lexington, KY 40503.
(859)224-7325. TDD
(859)224-7422. Paul Higgins. Louisiana State Office, 3727 Government Street, Alexandria, LA 71302.
(318)473-7962. TDD
(318)473-7655. Yvonne R. Emerson. Maine State Office, 967 Illinois Ave., Suite 4, PO Box 405, Bangor, ME 04402-0405.
(207)990-9110. TDD
(207)942-7331. Dale D. Holmes. Maryland: Served by Delaware State Office. Massachusetts, Connecticut, & Rhode Island State Office, 451 West Street, Amherst, MA 01002.
(413)253-4333. TDD
(413)253-4590. Donald Colburn. Michigan State Office, 3001 Coolidge Road, Suite 200, East Lansing, MI 48823.
(517)324-5192. TDD
(517)337-6795. Ghulam R. Sumbal. Minnesota State Office, 375 Jackson Street Building, Suite 410, St. Paul, MN 55101-1853.
(651)602-7782. TDD
(651)602-7830. Jackie Morris. Mississippi State Office, Federal Building, Suite 831, 100 W. Capitol Street, Jackson, MS 39269.
(601)965-4325. TDD
(601)965-5850. Darnella Smith-Murray. Missouri State Office, 601 Business Loop 70 West, Parkade Center, Suite 235, Columbia, MO 65203.
(573)876-0990, TDD
(573)876-9480, Anita J. Dunning. Montana State Office, 900 Technology Blvd. Suite B, Bozeman, MT 59715.
(406)585-2565. TDD
(406)585-2562. Deborah Chorlton. Nebraska State Office, Federal Building, Room 152, 100 Centennial Mall N, Lincoln, NE 68508.
(402)437-5594. TDD
(402)437-5093. Byron L. Fischer. Nevada State Office, 1390 South Curry Street, Carson City, NV 89703-9910.
(775)887-1222 (ext. 25). TDD
(775)885-0633. William Brewer. New Hampshire State Office, Concord Center, Suite 218, Box 317, 10 Ferry Street, Concord, NH 03301-5004.
(603)223-6046. TDD
(603)229-0536. Robert McDonald. New Jersey State Office, 5th Floor North Suite 500, 8000 Midlantic Dr., Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054.
(856)787-7740. TDD
(856)787-7784. George Hyatt, Jr. New Mexico State Office, 6200 Jefferson St., NE., Room 255, Albuquerque, NM 87109.
(505)761-4944. TDD
(505)761-4938. Walter Taylor. New York State Office, The Galleries of Syracuse, 441 S. Salina Street, Suite 357 5th Floor, Syracuse, NY 13202.
(315)477-6419. TDD
(315)477-6447. George N. Von Pless. North Carolina State Office, 4405 Bland Road, Suite 260, Raleigh, NC 27609.
(919)873-2066. TDD
(919)873-2003. William Hobbs. North Dakota State Office, Federal Building, Room 208, 220 East Rosser, PO Box 1737, Bismarck, ND 58502.
(701)530-2049. TDD
(701)530-2113. Donald L. Warren. Ohio State Office, Federal Building, Room 507, 200 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43215-2477.
(614)255-2418. TDD
(614)255-2554. Gerald Arnott. Oklahoma State Office, 100 USDA, Suite 108, Stillwater, OK 74074-2654.
(405)742-1070. TDD
(405)742-1007. Anita Kinyon. Oregon State Office, 101 SW Main, Suite 1410, Portland, OR 97204-3222.
(503)414-3325. TDD
(503)414-3387. Jillene Davis. Pennsylvania State Office, One Credit Union Place, Suite 330, Harrisburg, PA 17110-2996.
(717)237-2281. TDD
(717)237-2261. Frank Wetherhold. Puerto Rico State Office, 654 Munoz Rivera Avenue, IBM Plaza, Suite 601, Hato Rey, PR 00918.
(787)766-5095 (ext. 249). TDD
(787)766-5332. Pedro Gomez. Rhode Island: Served by Massachusetts State Office. South Carolina State Office, Strom Thurmond Federal Building, 1835 Assembly Street, Room 1007, Columbia, SC 29201.
(803)253-3432. TDD
(803)765-5697. Larry D. Floyd. South Dakota State Office, Federal Building, Room 210, 200 Fourth Street, SW., Huron, SD 57350.
(605)352-1132. TDD
(605)352-1147. Roger Hazuka or Pam Reilly. Tennessee State Office, Suite 300, 3322 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203-1084.
(615)783-1375. TDD
(615)783-1397. Don Harris. Texas State Office, Federal Building, Suite 102, 101 South Main, Temple, TX 76501.
(254)742-9758. TDD
(254)742-9712. Gayle Ledyard. Utah State Office, Wallace F. Bennett Federal Building, 125 S. State Street, Room 4311, Salt Lake City, UT 84147-0350.
(801)524-4325. TDD
(801)524-3309. David E. Brown. Vermont State Office, City Center, 3rd Floor, 89 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05602.
(802)828-6021. TDD
(802)223-6365. Robert McDonald. Virgin Islands: Served by Florida State Office. Virginia State Office, Culpeper Building, Suite 238, 1606 Santa Rosa Road, Richmond, VA 23229.
(804)287-1596. TDD
(804)287-1753. Eileen Nowlin. Washington State Office, 1835 Black Lake Blvd., Suite B, Olympia, WA 98512.
(360)704-7730. TDD
(360)704-7760. Robert Lund. Western Pacific Territories: Served by Hawaii State Office. West Virginia State Office, Federal Building, 75 High Street, Room 320, Morgantown, WV 26505-7500.
(304)284-4872. TDD
(304)284-4836. David Cain. Wisconsin State Office, 4949 Kirschling Court, Stevens Point, WI 54481.
(715)345-7615 (ext. 151). TDD
(715)345-7614. Peter Kohnen. Wyoming State Office, PO Box 11005, Casper, WY 82602.
(307)233-6715. TDD
(307)233-6733. Alan Brooks. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: C.B. Alonso, Senior Loan Specialist, Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program, Multi-Family Housing Processing Division, U.S. Department of Agriculture, South Agriculture Building, Room 1271, STOP 0781, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-0781. Email: *cb.alonso@wdc.usda.gov.* Telephone:
(202)720-1624. This number is not toll-free. Hearing or speech-impaired persons may access that number by calling the Federal Information Relay Service toll-free at
(800)877-8339. *Eligibility of Prior Year Selected Notices of Funding Availability Responses:* NOFA response selections prior to FY 2005 that did not develop into a complete application or where funds were not obligated have been cancelled. A new NOFA response for the project may be submitted subject to the conditions of this NOFA. FY 2005 NOFA responses that were selected by the Agency, and a complete application (including all Federal environmental documents required by 7 CFR part 1940, subpart G, a Form RD 3565-1, and the $2,500 application fee) was submitted by the lender within 90 days from the date of notification of response selection (unless an extension was granted by the State office), will be eligible for FY 2006 program dollars and will compete in the FY 2006 priority scoring without having to complete a FY 2006 NOFA response. General Program Information *Program Purpose:* The purpose of the GRRHP is to increase the supply of affordable rural rental housing, through the use of loan guarantees that encourage partnerships between the RHS, private lenders, and public agencies. *Responses Must Be Submitted by:* The Agency will only accept responses from GRRHP eligible or approved lenders as described in 7 CFR 3565.102 and 3565.103 respectively. *Qualifying Properties:* Qualifying properties include new construction for multi-family housing units or the acquisition of existing structures with a minimum per unit rehabilitation expenditure requirement in accordance with 7 CFR 3565.252. In addition, this fiscal year, guarantees will be available for the revitalization, repair and transfer cost of existing direct section 515 housing (transfer costs are subject to Agency approval and must be an eligible use of loan proceeds as listed in 7 CFR 3565.205). In order to be considered, direct section 515 housing projects must need repairs and/or undergo revitalization of a minimum of $6,500 per unit. *Eligible Financing Sources:* Any form of Federal, state, and conventional sources of financing can be used in conjunction with the loan guarantee, including Home Investment Partnership Program
(HOME)grant funds, tax exempt bonds, and low income housing tax credits. *Maximum Guarantee:* The Agency can guarantee the “permanent” portion or both the “construction and permanent” portions of a construction/permanent loan. The Agency cannot, however, guarantee only the “construction” portion of a construction/permanent loan. The maximum guarantee for a permanent loan will be 90 percent of the unpaid principal and interest up to default and accrued interest 90 calendar days from the date the liquidation plan is approved by the Agency, as defined in 7 CFR 3565.452. Penalties incurred as a result of default are not covered by the guarantee. The Agency may provide a lesser guarantee based upon its evaluation of the credit quality of the loan. The Agency liability under any guarantee will decrease or increase, in proportion to any increase or decrease in the amount of the unpaid portion of the loan, up to the maximum amount specified in the Loan Note Guarantee. The maximum guarantee of construction advances will not at any time exceed the lesser of 90 percent of the amount of principal and interest up to default advanced for eligible uses of loan proceeds or 90 percent of the original principal amount and interest up to default of the loan. Penalties incurred as a result of default are not covered by the guarantee. The Agency may provide a lesser guarantee based upon its evaluation of the credit quality of the loan. *Reimbursement of Losses:* Any losses will be split on a pro-rata basis between the lender and the RHS from the first dollar lost. *Interest Rate:* RHS will accept the best rate negotiated between the lender and prospective borrower. The lender is not required to provide the interest rate in the response unless applying for interest credit. The interest rate must be fixed over the term of the loan. *Interest Credit:* For at least 20 percent of the loans made during each fiscal year, the Agency will provide assistance in the form of interest credit, to the extent necessary to reduce the agreed-upon rate of interest to the Long Term Monthly Applicable Federal Rate
(AFR)as such term is used in section 42(I)(2)(D) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, 26 U.S.C. 7805, Sec. 1.42-1T. The interest credit will be paid following the January 1st of the year in which the project has reached occupancy standards, and the permanent loan note guarantee is issued. If 20 percent of the loans have not received interest credit by June 16, 2006, then RHS will award interest credit to those loans that initially requested interest credit and have the highest interest credit priority score until at least 20 percent of the loans have received interest credit. Requests for interest credit must be made in the response. When interest credit assistance is requested, lenders must state in the response the maximum basis points above the Long Term Monthly AFR that will be used to calculate the interest rate. Priority points will be given for basis points equal to or less than 250 above the Long Term Monthly AFR. Lenders are not permitted to make requests for interest credit after the selection process has taken place. Due to limited funding and in order to distribute interest credit assistance as broadly as possible, the Agency has decided to limit the interest credit to $1.5 million per loan. For example, if an eligible request were made for interest credit on a loan of $2.5 million, up to $1.5 million of the loan would receive interest credit. Interest credit is not available for construction loans. Interest credit is only available for permanent loans. Lenders with projects that are viable with or without interest credit are encouraged to submit a response reflecting financial and market feasibility under both funding options. Responses requesting consideration under both options will not affect interest credit selection. Due to limited interest credit funds and the responsibility of RHS to target and give priority to rural areas most in need, responses requesting interest credit must score a minimum of 55 points under the criteria established in this NOFA. In the event of ties, selection between responses will be by lot. *Surcharges for Guarantee of Construction Advances:* There is no surcharge for the guarantee of construction advances for FY 2006. *Program Fees for FY 2006:* As a condition of receiving a loan guarantee, the Agency will charge the following guarantee fees to the lender.
(1)*Initial guarantee fee.* The Agency will charge an initial guarantee fee equal to one percent of the guarantee amount. For purposes of calculating this fee, the guarantee amount is the product of the percentage of the guarantee times the initial principal amount of the guaranteed loan.
(2)Annual guarantee fee. An annual guarantee fee of at least 50 basis points (one-half percent) of the outstanding principal amount of the loan as of December 31 will be charged each year or portion of a year that the guarantee is in effect.
(3)There is a non-refundable application fee of $2,500 when the application is submitted.
(4)There is a flat fee of $500 when a lender requests RHS to extend the term of a guarantee commitment.
(5)There is a flat fee of $500 when a lender requests RHS to reopen an application when a commitment has expired.
(6)There is a flat fee of $1,250 when a lender requests RHS to approve the transfer of property and assumption of the loan to an eligible prospective borrower.
(7)There is no lender application fee for lender approval in FY 2006. *Eligible Lenders:* An eligible lender for the section 538 GRRHP as required by 7 CFR 3565.102 must be a licensed business entity or Housing Finance Agency
(HFA)in good standing in the state or states where it conducts business. Lender eligibility requirements are contained in 7 CFR 3565.102. Below is a list of some of the eligible lender criteria under 7 CFR 3565.102:
(1)Licensed business entity that meets the qualifications and has the approval of the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development
(HUD)to make multi-family housing loans that are insured under the National Housing Act. A complete list of HUD approved lenders can be found on the HUD Web site at *http://www.hud.gov* .
(2)A licensed business entity that meets the qualifications and has the approval of the Ginnie Mae or Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae corporations to make multi-family housing loans that are sold to the same corporations. A complete list of Freddie Mac approved lenders can be found in Freddie Mac's Web site at *http://www.freddiemac.com* . Fannie Mae approved lenders are found at *http://www.fanniemae.com* . For a list of Ginnie Mae issuers, contact Ginnie Mae at *http://www.ginniemae.gov* .
(3)A state or local HFA with a top-tier rating from Moody's or Standard & Poors, or member of the Federal Home Loan Bank system, and the demonstrated ability to underwrite, originate, process, close, service, manage, and dispose of multi-family housing loans in a prudent manner.
(4)Be a GRRHP approved lender, defined as an entity with a current executed multi-family housing Lender's Agreement with RHS.
(5)Lenders that can demonstrate the capacity to underwrite, originate, process, close, service, manage, and dispose of multi-family housing loans in a prudent manner. In order to be approved the lender will have to have an acceptable level of financial soundness as determined by a lender rating service. The submission of materials demonstrating capacity will be required if the lender's response is selected. Lenders who are otherwise ineligible may become eligible if they maintain a correspondent relationship with an eligible lender that does have the capacity to underwrite, originate, process, close, service, manage, and dispose of multi-family housing loans in a prudent manner. In this case, the eligible lender must submit the response and application. All contractual and legal documentation will be signed between RHS and the lender that submitted the response and application. *GRRHP Lender Approval Application:* Lenders whose responses are selected will be notified by the RHS to submit a request for GRRHP lender approval application within 30 days of notification. Lenders who request GRRHP approval must meet the standards in the 7 CFR 3565.102 and 103. Lenders that have received GRRHP lender approval in the past and are in good standing do not need to reapply for GRRHP lender approval. *Submission of Documentation For GRRHP Lender Approval:* All lenders that have not yet received GRRHP lender approval must submit a complete lender application to: Director, Multi-Family Housing Processing Division, Rural Housing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Room 1263, STOP 0781, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-0781. Lender applications must be identified as “Section 538 Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program” on the envelope. As RHS does not have a formal application form, a complete application consists of a cover letter requesting GRRHP lender approval and the following documentation:
(1)Request for GRRHP lender approval on the lender's letterhead;
(2)Lenders who are HUD, Ginnie Mae, Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae multi-family approved lenders are required to show evidence of this status, such as a copy of a letter designating the distinction;
(3)The lender's Loan Origination, Loan Servicing, and Portfolio Management Handbooks. These handbooks should detail the lender's policies and procedures on loan origination through termination for multi-family loans;
(4)Portfolio performance data;
(5)Copies of standard documents that will be used in processing GRRHP loans;
(6)Resumes and qualifications of key personnel that will be involved in the GRRHP;
(7)Identification of standards and processes that deviate from those outlined in the GRRHP Origination and Servicing Handbook (HB-1-3565) found at *http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/regs/hblist.html#hbw6;*
(8)A copy of the most recent audited financial statements;
(9)Lender specific information including:
(a)Legal name and address,
(b)list of principal officers and their responsibilities,
(c)certification that the officers and principals of the lender have not been debarred or suspended from Federal programs,
(d)Form AD 1047,
(e)certification that the lender is not in default or delinquent on any Federal debt or loan, or possesses an outstanding finding of deficiency in a federal housing program, and
(f)certification of the lender's credit rating; and
(10)Documentation on bonding and insurance. Additional Construction Lender Requirements The Agency can guarantee the “permanent” portion or both the “construction and permanent” portions of a construction/permanent loan. The Agency will not, however, guarantee only the “construction” portion of a construction/permanent loan. A lender making a construction loan must demonstrate an ability to originate and service construction loans, in addition to meeting the other requirements of 7 CFR part 3565, subpart C. A lender who originates and services construction/permanent loans must agree to manage the construction and draw activities in the manner described in Chapter 5 of HB-1-3565. Lenders must meet either the basic or the demonstrated eligibility test in paragraphs 2.4 and 2.5 of HB-1-3565 and the lender approval requirements set forth in paragraph 2.6 of HB-1-3565. Lenders must clearly identify policies and processes for multifamily construction lending. Lenders must also provide a summary of their multifamily construction lending activity in the same form as specified in paragraph 2.5 of HB-1-3565. The Agency may, at its discretion, consider other types of construction loans—such as those for commercial development—as a substitute for multifamily construction experience. *Lender Responsibilities:* Lenders will be responsible for the full range of loan origination, underwriting, management, servicing, compliance issues, and property disposition activities associated with their projects. The lender will be expected to provide guidance to the prospective borrower on the RHS requirements during the application phase. Once the guarantee is issued, the lender is expected to service each loan it underwrites or contract these services to another capable entity. Discussion of NOFA *Content of NOFA Responses:* All responses require lender information and project specific data. Incomplete responses will not be considered for funding. Lenders will be notified of incomplete responses. Complete responses are to include a signed cover letter from the lender on the lender's letterhead and the following information:
(1)*Lender certification* —The lender must certify that the lender will make a loan to the prospective borrower for the proposed project, under specified terms and conditions subject to the issuance of the GRRHP guarantee. Lender certification must be on the lender's letterhead and signed by both the lender and the prospective borrower.
(2)*Project specific data—* The lender must submit the project specific data below on the lender's letterhead, signed by both the lender and the prospective borrower. Lender Name Insert the lender's name. Lender Tax ID # Insert lender's tax ID #. Lender Contact Name Name of the lender contact for loan. Mailing Address Lender's complete mailing address. Phone # Phone # for lender contact. Fax # Insert lender's fax #. E-mail Address Insert lender contact e-mail address. Borrower Name and Organization Type State whether borrower is a Limited Partnership, Corporation, Indian Tribe, etc. Tax Classification Type State whether borrower is for profit, not for profit, etc. Borrower Tax ID # Insert borrower's tax ID #. Borrower Address, including County Insert borrower's address and county. Borrower Phone # Insert borrower's phone #. Principal or Key Member for the Borrower Insert name and title. Borrower Information and Statement of Housing Development Experience Attach relevant information. New Construction, Acquisition With Rehabilitation, or the Revitalization, Repair, and Transfer Cost of Existing Direct Section 515 Housing State whether the project is new construction or acquisition with rehabilitation. Transfer costs are subject to Agency approval and must be an eligible use of loan proceeds listed in 7 CFR 3565.205. Project Location Town or City Town or city in which the project is located. Project County County in which the project is located. Project State State in which the project is located. Project Zip Code Insert zip code. Project Congressional District Congressional District for project location. Project Name Insert project name. Project Type Family, senior (all residents 55 years or older), or mixed. Property Description and Proposed Development Schedule Provide as an attachment. Total Project Development Cost Enter amount for total project. # of Units Insert the # of units in the project. Ratio of 3-5 bedroom units to total units Insert percentage of 3-5 bedroom units to total units. Cost Per Unit Total development cost divided by # of units. Rent Proposed rent structure. Median Income for Community Provide median income for the community. Evidence of Site Control Attach relevant information. Description of Any Environmental Issues Attach relevant information. Loan Amount Insert the loan amount. Interest Credit
(IC)Is interest credit requested for this loan? (Yes or No) Basis Points over the Long Term Monthly Applicable Federal Rate Lenders seeking interest credit must provide the maximum basis points above the Long Term Monthly AFR that will be used to calculate the interest rate. Priority points will only be given for basis points equal to or less than 250 above the Long Term Monthly AFR. If Above Is Yes, Should Proposal Be Considered Under Non-Interest Credit Selection If Scoring Does Not Meet the Minimum Point Threshold of 55 Points for an Interest Credit Award? If Yes, proposal must show financial feasibility for Non-IC consideration. Borrower's Proposed Equity Insert amount. Tax Credits Will the project be allocated tax credits? How much? What is the estimated value of the tax credits awarded? Other Sources of Funds List all funding sources other than tax credits and amounts for each source. Loan to Total Development Cost Guaranteed loan divided by the total development costs of project. Debt Coverage Ratio Net Operating Income divided by debt service payments. Percentage of Guarantee Percentage guarantee requested. Collateral Attach relevant information. Empowerment Zone
(EZ)or Enterprise Community (EC), Colonia or Tribal Lands Yes or No. Is the project in a recognized EZ or EC, Colonia or on an Indian Reservation? Population Must be within the 20,000 population limit set for the program. Is a Guarantee for Construction Being Requested? Are Advances Being Requested? State yes or no. The Agency can guarantee the “permanent” portion or both the “construction and permanent” portions of a construction/permanent loan. The Agency will not, however, guarantee only the “construction” portion of a construction/permanent loan. Loan Term Up to a 40-year amortized loan. Balloon mortgages with a minimum 25-year term are eligible. *Scoring of Priority Criteria for Selection of Projects:* All 2006 NOFA responses will be scored based on the criteria set forth below to establish their priority for obligation of funds. Per 7 CFR 3565.5 (b), priority will be given to projects: in smaller rural communities, in the most needy communities having the highest percentage of leveraging, having the lowest interest rate, having the highest ratio of 3-5 bedroom units to total units, or located in Empowerment Zones/Enterprise Communities or on tribal lands. In addition, the Agency may, at its sole discretion, set aside assistance for or rank projects that meet important program goals. In order to meet program goals, the Agency will award additional points to Fiscal Year 2006 NOFA responses for the revitalization, repair, and transfer cost of existing direct Section 515 housing. Prior to June 16, 2006, projects with an overall score of 25 points and a loan to development cost ratio less than 70 percent will be processed and, when ready, obligated on a first-come-first-serve basis, provided funds are available. Projects that score less than 25 points, and projects that score 25 points or more and do not have a loan to development cost ratio less than 70 percent, may be processed up to the point of obligation, but they will not be obligated until after June 16, 2006. Each month after June 16, 2006, the Agency will select the highest scoring proposals, in light of the remaining funding, until all funds are expended. A notice will be placed in the **Federal Register** when all funds are committed for FY 2006. Subject to available funding, all projects scoring 55 points or more on the seven priority criteria below, and that request and demonstrate a need for an interest credit subsidy, will receive interest credit awards. The seven priority criteria for projects are listed below. *Priority 1* —Projects located in eligible rural communities with the lowest populations will receive the highest points. Population size Points 0-5,000 people 15 5,001-10,000 people 10 10,001-15,000 people 5 15,001-20,000 people 0 *Priority 2* —The most needy communities as determined by the median income from the most recent census data will receive points. The RHS will allocate points to projects located in communities having the lowest median income. Points for median income will be awarded as follows: Median income (dollars) Points Less than $35,000 20 $35,000-less than $45,000 15 $45,000-less than $55,000 10 $55,000-less than $65,000 5 $65,000 or more 0 *Priority 3* —Projects that demonstrate partnering and leveraging in order to develop the maximum number of units and promote partnerships with state and local communities will also receive points. Points will be awarded as follows: Loan to total development cost ratio (percentage %) Points 90-100 0 Less than 90-70 15 Less than 70-50 20 Less than 50 30 *Priority 4* —The development of projects on Tribal Lands, or in an Empowerment Zone or Enterprise Community will receive points. The RHS will attribute 20 points to projects that are developed in any of the locations described in this priority. The development of projects in a Colonia or in a place identified in the State's Consolidated Plan or State Needs Assessment as a high need community for multi-family housing will receive points. The RHS will attribute 20 points to projects that are developed in any of the locations described in this priority. *Priority 5* —The RHS will award points to projects with the highest ratio of 3-5 bedroom units to total units as follows: Ratio of 3-5 bedroom units to total units Points More than 50% 6 21%-50% 5 Less than 21%-more than 0% 1 *Priority 6—* RHS will award points for basis points above the long term monthly AFR used to calculate the interest rate. The score for basis points is as follows: Basis points Points More than 250 basis points −20 200 to 250 basis points, inclusive 10 100 to 199 basis points, inclusive 15 0 to 99 basis points, inclusive 20 *Priority 7—* NOFA responses for the revitalization, repair, and transfer cost of existing direct section 515 housing (transfer costs are subject to Agency approval and must be an eligible use of loan proceeds listed in 7 CFR 3565.205) will receive an additional 20 points. *Notifications:* Responses will be reviewed for completeness and eligibility. The RHS will notify those lenders whose responses are selected via letter. The RHS will request lenders without GRRHP lender approval to apply for GRRHP lender approval within 30 days upon receipt of notification of selection. For information regarding GRRHP lender approval, please refer to the section entitled “SUBMISSION OF DOCUMENTATION FOR GRRHP LENDER APPROVAL” in this NOFA. Lenders will also be invited to submit a complete application and the required application fee of $2,500 to the Rural Development State Office where the project is located. *Submission of GRRHP Applications:* Notification letters will instruct lenders to contact the Rural Development State Office immediately following notification of selection to schedule required agency reviews. Rural Development State Office staff will work with lenders in the development of an application package. In response to the NOFA, lenders must submit a NOFA response to the office address identified in the NOFA for the scoring and ranking of a proposed GRRHP project. The lender must provide the requested information concerning the project, to establish the purpose of the proposed project, its location, and how it meets the established priorities for funding. The Agency will determine the highest ranked responses based on priority criteria and a threshold score. NOFA responses will at least include the following [but the Agency, at its sole discretion, may request additional information]:
(1)The Project
(a)A brief description of the proposed location of the project, including town, county, state, and congressional district.
(b)A description of the property and improvements, including lot size, number of units, building type, type of construction, *etc.,* including preliminary drawings, if available.
(c)The proposed development schedule.
(d)Total project development cost.
(e)The proposed rent structure and area median income (HUD published area median incomes can be found online at *http://www.huduser.org* ).
(f)Evidence of site control by the proposed borrower or a purchase option.
(g)Description of any environmental issues that may affect the project.
(h)Amount of loan to be guaranteed.
(i)Type of project ( *e.g.* elderly or family).
(2)The Proposed Financing
(a)Proposed loan amount and the proposed borrower's equity.
(b)Proposed use of interest credit—If the lender proposes to use interest credit, this section should include the maximum basis points the lender will charge the borrower for the project. The interest rate may not be lower than the published Long Term Monthly AFR at the closing of the lender's loan. Selection and scoring criteria that the project must meet to receive interest credit will be published in the NOFA.
(c)Estimated development budget (total and cost/unit) and the proposed sources and uses of funds. This information should include all proposed financing sources—the amount, type, rates and terms of loans, tax credits, or grant funds. Letters of application and commitment letters should be included, if available.
(d)Estimated loan-to-development cost ratio for the guaranteed loan.
(e)Proposed Agency guarantee percentage for guaranteed loan (under no condition can the percentage exceed 90 percent of the loan amount).
(f)Collateral—all security, in addition to the real property, proposed to secure the loan.
(3)The Proposed Borrower
(a)The name of the borrower and the type of ownership entity. List the general partners if a limited partnership, officers if a corporation or members of an Limited Liability Corporation.
(b)Borrower's contact name, mailing address, phone and fax numbers, and e-mail address.
(c)Evidence that the borrower or principals of the ownership are not barred from participating in Federal housing programs and are not delinquent on any Federal debt.
(d)Borrower's unaudited or audited financial statements.
(e)Statement of borrower's housing development experience.
(4)Lender Eligibility and Approval Status Evidence that the lender is either an approved lender for the purposes of the GRRHP or that the lender is eligible to apply for approved lender status. The lender's application for approved lender status can be submitted with the NOFA response but must be submitted to the National Office within 45 calendar days of the lender's receipt of the “notice to proceed with application processing” letter.
(5)Competitive Criteria Information that shows how the proposal is responsive to the selection criteria specified in the NOFA.
(6)Lender Certification A commitment letter signed by the lender, on the lender's letterhead, indicating that the lender will make a loan to the borrower for the proposed project, under specified terms and conditions subject only to the issuance of a guarantee by the Agency. The deadline for the submission of a complete application and application fee is 90 days from the date of notification of response selection. If the application and fee are not received by the appropriate State Office within 90 days from the date of notification, the selection is subject to cancellation, thereby allowing another response that is ready to proceed with processing to be selected. *Obligation of Program Funds:* The RHS will only obligate funds to projects that meet the requirements for obligation, including undergoing a satisfactory environmental review in accordance with the National Environmental Protection Act
(NEPA)and lenders who have submitted the $2,500 application fee and completed Form RD 3565-1 for the selected project. *Conditional Commitment:* Once required documents for obligation and the application fee are received and all NEPA requirements have been met, the Rural Development State Office will issue a conditional commitment, which stipulates the conditions that must be fulfilled before the issuance of a guarantee, in accordance with 7 CFR 3565.303. *Issuance of Guarantee:* The RHS State Office will issue a guarantee to the lender for a project in accordance with 7 CFR 3565.303. No guarantee can be issued without a complete application, review of appropriate certifications, satisfactory assessment of the appropriate level of environmental review, and the completion of any conditional requirements. Dated: January 18, 2006. David J. Villano, Acting Administrator, Rural Housing Service. [FR Doc. E6-1054 Filed 1-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-XV-P COMMITTEE FOR PURCHASE FROM PEOPLE WHO ARE BLIND OR SEVERELY DISABLED Procurement List; Proposed Additions and Deletion AGENCY: Committee for Purchase from People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled. ACTION: Proposed additions to and deletions from Procurement List. SUMMARY: The Committee is proposing to add to the Procurement List products and services to be furnished by nonprofit agencies employing persons who are blind or have other severe disabilities, and to delete a product previously furnished by such agencies. *Comments Must Be Received on or Before:* February 26, 2006. ADDRESSES: Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled, Jefferson Plaza 2, Suite 10800, 1421 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, Virginia 22202-3259. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sheryl D. Kennerly, Telephone:
(703)603-7740, Fax:
(703)603-0655, or e-mail *SKennerly@jwod.gov.* SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This notice is published pursuant to 41 U.S.C. 47(a)
(2)and 41 CFR 51-2.3. Its purpose is to provide interested persons an opportunity to submit comments on the proposed actions. Additions If the Committee approves the proposed additions, the entities of the Federal Government identified in this notice for each product or service will be required to procure the products and services listed below from nonprofit agencies employing persons who are blind or have other severe disabilities. Regulatory Flexibility Act Certification I certify that the following action will not have a significant impact on a substantial number of small entities. The major factors considered for this certification were: 1. If approved, the action will not result in any additional reporting, recordkeeping or other compliance requirements for small entities other than the small organizations that will furnish the products and services to the Government. 2. If approved, the action will result in authorizing small entities to furnish the products and services to the Government. 3. There are no known regulatory alternatives which would accomplish the objectives of the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act (41 U.S.C. 46-48c) in connection with the products and services proposed for addition to the Procurement List. Comments on this certification are invited. Commenters should identify the statement(s) underlying the certification on which they are providing additional information. End of Certification The following products and services are proposed for addition to Procurement List for production by the nonprofit agencies listed: Products Product/NSNs: Specimen Container 6550-00-NIB-0009— 1/4 turn cap, sterile individually wrapped; 6550-00-NIB-0010— 1/4 turn cap, sterile; 6550-00-NIB-0011— 1/4 turn cap, non-sterile; 6550-00-NIB-0013—full turn cap, non-sterile NPA: Alphapointe Association for the Blind, Kansas City, Missouri Contracting Activity: Veterans Affairs National Acquisition Center, Hines, Illinois Services Service Type/Location: Document Destruction. NISH, Vienna, Virginia (PRIME CONTRACTOR). Performance to be allocated to the Nonprofit Agencies identified at the following locations: Internal Revenue Service, 1700 Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard, West Palm Beach, Florida 7410 South U.S. Highway One, Port St. Lucie, Florida. NPA: Association for Retarded Citizens of Indian River County, Vero Beach, Florida. Internal Revenue Service, 2201 Cantu Court, Sarasota, Florida, 2891 Center Point Drive, Fort Myers, Florida, 300 Lock Road, Deerfield Beach, Florida, 51 SW First Avenue, Miami, Florida, 7850 SW 6th Court, Plantation, Florida, Royal Palm One, Suite 34, 1000 South Pine Island Road, Plantation, FL. NPA: Goodwill Industries of South Florida, Inc., Miami, Florida Contracting Activity: U.S. Treasury, IRS, Chamblee, Georgia. Deletion Regulatory Flexibility Act Certification I certify that the following action will not have a significant impact on a substantial number of small entities. The major factors considered for this certification were: 1. If approved, the action may result in additional reporting, recordkeeping or other compliance requirements for small entities. 2. If approved, the action may result in authorizing small entities to furnish the product to the Government. 3. There are no known regulatory alternatives which would accomplish the objectives of the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act (41 U.S.C. 46-48c) in connection with the product proposed for deletion from the Procurement List. End of Certification The following product is proposed for deletion from the Procurement List: Product Product/NSNs: Cloth, Abrasive. 5350-00-187-6296—Cloth, Abrasive. NPA: Louisiana Association for the Blind, Shreveport, Louisiana. Contracting Activity: GSA, Southwest Supply Center, Fort Worth, Texas. Sheryl D. Kennerly, Director, Information Management. [FR Doc. E6-1026 Filed 1-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6353-01-P COMMITTEE FOR PURCHASE FROM PEOPLE WHO ARE BLIND OR SEVERELY DISABLED Procurement List Additions and Deletions AGENCY: Committee for Purchase from People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled. ACTION: Additions to and deletions from Procurement List. SUMMARY: This action adds to the Procurement List products and services to be furnished by nonprofit agencies employing persons who are blind or have other severe disabilities, and deletes from the Procurement List products previously furnished by such agencies. DATES: *Effective Date:* February 26, 2006. ADDRESSES: Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled, Jefferson Plaza 2, Suite 10800, 1421 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, Virginia 22202-3259. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sheryl D. Kennerly, Telephone:
(703)603-7740, Fax:
(703)603-0655, or e-mail *SKennerly@jwod.gov* . SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Additions On November 25, and December 2, 2005, the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled published notice (70 FR 71084, and 27788) of proposed additions to the Procurement List. After consideration of the material presented to it concerning capability of qualified nonprofit agencies to provide the products and services and impact of the additions on the current or most recent contractors, the Committee has determined that the products and services listed below are suitable for procurement by the Federal Government under 41 U.S.C. 46-48c and 41 CFR 51-2.4. Regulatory Flexibility Act Certification I certify that the following action will not have a significant impact on a substantial number of small entities. The major factors considered for this certification were: 1. The action will not result in any additional reporting, recordkeeping or other compliance requirements for small entities other than the small organizations that will furnish the products and services to the Government. 2. The action will result in authorizing small entities to furnish the products and services to the Government. 3. There are no known regulatory alternatives which would accomplish the objectives of the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act (41 U.S.C. 46-48c) in connection with the products and services proposed for addition to the Procurement List. End of Certification Accordingly, the following products and services are added to the Procurement List: Products Product/NSNs: Battery, Nonrechargeable (Silver Oxide). 6135-01-110-9470—Battery, Button, Silver Oxide. 6135-01-106-7740—Battery, Button, Silver Oxide, Miniature. Product/NSNs: Battery, Nonrechargeable (Size N). 6135-01-031-0862—Battery, Size N, Alkaline-Manganese Dioxide. NPA: Eastern Carolina Vocational Center, Inc., Greenville, North Carolina. Contracting Activity: Defense Supply Center Richmond, Richmond, Virginia. Product/NSNs: Paper or Stationer's Shears (GSA Global Supply Only). 5110-00-161-6912—9” Shears have 4 5/8 ” length of cut. Product/NSNs: Straight Trimmer's Shears (GSA Global Supply Only). 5110-00-293-9199—7” Shears have 3” length of cut. NPA: Winston-Salem Industries for the Blind, Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Contracting Activity: GSA, Hardware & Appliances Center, Kansas City, Missouri. Services Service Type/Location: Custodial Services. Cliffside Gas Field Facility, 15 Miles NW of Amarillo, Amarillo, Texas. NPA: World Technical Services, Inc., San Antonio, Texas. Contracting Activity: Bureau of Land Management, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Service Type/Location: Grounds Maintenance. USDA, Agriculture Research Service, Weslaco Center, 2413 E. Highway 83, Weslaco, Texas. NPA: World Technical Services, Inc., San Antonio, Texas. Contracting Activity: USDA, Agriculture Research Service, College Station, Texas. Deletions On December 2, 2005, the Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled published notice (70 FR 72289) of proposed deletions to the Procurement List. After consideration of the relevant matter presented, the Committee has determined that the products listed below are no longer suitable for procurement by the Federal Government under 41 U.S.C. 46-48c and 41 CFR 51-2.4. Regulatory Flexibility Act Certification I certify that the following action will not have a significant impact on a substantial number of small entities. The major factors considered for this certification were: 1. The action may result in additional reporting, recordkeeping or other compliance requirements for small entities. 2. The action may result in authorizing small entities to furnish the products to the Government. 3. There are no known regulatory alternatives which would accomplish the objectives of the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act (41 U.S.C. 46-48c) in connection with the products deleted from the Procurement List. End of Certification Accordingly, the following products are deleted from the Procurement List: Products Product/NSNs: Gloves, Patient Examining. 6515-01-411-4796—Gloves, Patient Examining. 6515-01-441-6103—Gloves, Patient Examining. 6515-01-373-8306—Gloves, Patient Examining. NPA: Bosma Industries for the Blind, Inc., Indianapolis, Indiana. Contracting Activity: Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, DC. Sheryl D. Kennerly, Director, Information Management. [FR Doc. E6-1027 Filed 1-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6353-01-P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration [A-427-801, A-428-801, A-475-801, A-588-804, A-559-801, A-412-801] Ball Bearings and Parts Thereof From France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom: Extension of Time Limit for Preliminary Results of Antidumping Duty Administrative Reviews AGENCY: Import Administration, International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce. EFFECTIVE DATE: January 27, 2006. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Janis Kalnins or Richard Rimlinger, AD/CVD Operations, Office 5, Import Administration, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, 14th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20230; telephone:
(202)482-1392 and
(202)482-4477, respectively. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background At the request of interested parties, the Department of Commerce (the Department) initiated administrative reviews of the antidumping duty orders on antifriction bearings and parts thereof from France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and the United Kingdom for the period May 1, 2004, through April 30, 2005. See *Initiation of Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Administrative Reviews* , 70 FR 37749 (June 30, 2005). On October 21, 2005, we published a notice of rescission and partial rescission of the antidumping duty administrative reviews of ball bearings and parts thereof from Singapore, the United Kingdom, and Japan and of spherical plain bearings from France (70 FR 61251). The preliminary results of the reviews still underway are currently due no later than January 31, 2006. Extension of Time Limit for Preliminary Results of Antidumping Duty Administrative Reviews Section 751(a)(3)(A) of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (the Act), requires the Department to make a preliminary determination within 245 days after the last day of the anniversary month of an order for which a review is requested and a final determination within 120 days after the date on which the preliminary determination is published. If it is not practicable to complete the review within these time periods, section 751(a)(3)(A) of the Act allows the Department to extend the time limit for the preliminary determination to a maximum of 365 days after the last day of the anniversary month. We determine that it is not practicable to complete the preliminary results of these reviews within the original time limit because of the number of respondents in these reviews and the complexity of the issues under analysis. Therefore, we are extending the time period for issuing the preliminary results of these reviews by 30 days until March 2, 2006. This notice is published in accordance with section 751(a)(3)(A) of the Act and 19 CFR 351.213(h)(2). Dated: January 23, 2005. Stephen J. Claeys, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Import Administration. [FR Doc. E6-1056 Filed 1-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-DS-S DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration [A-533-838] Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 from India: Notice of Initiation of Antidumping Duty New Shipper Review AGENCY: Import Administration, International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce. EFFECTIVE DATE: January 27, 2006. SUMMARY: On September 22, 2005, the Department of Commerce received a request to conduct a new shipper review of the antidumping duty order on carbazole violet pigment 23 from India. In accordance with section 751(a)(2)(B) of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended, and 19 CFR 351.214(d) (2005), we are initiating a new shipper review. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dmitry Vladimirov or Minoo Hatten at
(202)482-0665 and
(202)482-1690, respectively, Office 5, AD/CVD Operations, Import Administration, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, 14th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20230. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background The notice announcing the antidumping duty order on carbazole violet pigment 23 from India was published on December 29, 2004. See *Notice of Amended Final Determination of Sales at Less Than Fair Value and Antidumping Duty Order: Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 from India* , 69 FR 77988 (December 29, 2004). On September 22, 2005, the Department of Commerce (the Department) received a timely request for a new shipper review of the antidumping duty order on carbazole violet pigment 23 from India from Gharda Chemicals, Ltd. (Gharda). On January 17, 2006, Gharda submitted additional information to supplement its new shipper review request in response to our January 10, 2006, letter requesting that Gharda correct certain deficiencies in its new shipper review request. Gharda is both the Indian producer and exporter of the subject merchandise to the United States on which its request for a new shipper review is based. Gharda Polymers USA, its U.S. subsidiary, is an importer of the subject merchandise. As required by 19 CFR 351.214(b)(2)(i) and (iii)(A), Gharda certified that it did not export carbazole violet pigment 23 to the United States during the period of investigation
(POI)and that, since the initiation of the investigation, it has never been affiliated with any exporter or producer that exported carbazole violet pigment 23 to the United Stated during the POI. 1 1 See Gharda's Request for New Shipper Review, dated September 22, 2005, and Gharda's Supplemental Submission, dated January 17, 2006. In addition, pursuant to 19 CFR 351.214(b)(2)(iv), the company submitted documentation establishing the following:
(1)the date on which it first shipped the subject merchandise for export to the United States and the date on which its subject merchandise was first entered, or withdrawn from warehouse, for consumption in the United States;
(2)the volume of its first shipment and the volume of subsequent shipments 2 ; and
(3)the date of its first sale to an unaffiliated customer in the United States. 2 In its September 22, 2005, Request for New Shipper Review, Gharda stated that it had no subsequent shipments. Initiation of Review In accordance with section 751(a)(2)(B) of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (the Act), and 19 CFR 351.214(d)(1) we are initiating a new shipper review for shipments of carbazole violet pigment 23 from India produced and exported by Gharda. The period of review is December 1, 2004, through November 30, 2005. See 19 CFR 351.214(g)(1)(i)(A). We intend to issue the preliminary results of this new shipper review no later than 180 days after initiation of this review. We intend to issue final results of this review no later than 90 days after the date on which the preliminary results are issued. See 19 CFR 351.214(i). We will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection to allow, at the option of the importer, the posting, until the completion of the review, of a bond or security in lieu of a cash deposit for each entry of the subject merchandise produced and exported by Gharda Chemicals Ltd. in accordance with section 751(a)(2)(B)(iii) of the Act and 19 CFR 351.214(e). Gharda has certified that it both produced and exported the subject merchandise on which it based the request for a new shipper review. Therefore, we will apply the bonding option only to entries of the subject merchandise that were both produced and exported by Gharda. Interested parties that need access to proprietary information in this new shipper review should submit applications for disclosure under administrative protective orders in accordance with 19 CFR 351.305 and 351.306. This initiation and notice are in accordance with section 751(a)(2)(B) of the Act, 19 CFR 351.214(d), and 19 CFR 351.221(c)(1)(i). Dated: January 23, 2006. Stephen J. Claeys, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Import Administration. [FR Doc. E6-1055 Filed 1-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-DS-S DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE National Institute of Standards and Technology Advanced Technology Program
(ATP)Advisory Committee AGENCY: National Institute of Standards and Technology, Department of Commerce. ACTION: Notice of renewal. In accordance with the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, 5 U.S.C. App. 2, and the General Services Administration
(GSA)rule on Federal Advisory Committee Management, 41 CFR part 101-6, and after consultation with GSA, the Secretary of Commerce has determined that the renewal of the Advanced Technology Program Advisory Committee is in the public interest in connection with the performance of the duties imposed on the Department by law. The Committee was first established in July 1999 to advise ATP regarding their programs, plans, and policies. During the next two years, the Committee is expected to provide advice on ATP programs, plans, and policies; review ATP's efforts to assess the economic impact of the program; and report on the general health of the program and its effectiveness in achieving its legislatively mandated mission. The Committee will consist of 6 to 12 members to be appointed by the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology to assure a balanced membership that will reflect the wide diversity of technical disciplines and industrial sectors represented in ATP projects. The Committee will function solely as an advisory body and in compliance with the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. Copies of the Committee's revised charter will be filed with the appropriate committees of the Congress and with the Library of Congress. Inquiries or comments may be directed to Janet Brumby, Advanced Technology Program, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Stop 4710, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899-4710; telephone: 301-975-3189. Dated: January 19, 2006. William Jeffrey, Director, NIST. [FR Doc. E6-1047 Filed 1-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-13-P DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Patent and Trademark Office Public User ID Badging ACTION: Proposed collection; comment request. SUMMARY: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, invites the general public and other Federal agencies to take this opportunity to comment on the continuing information collection, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, Public Law 104-13 (44 U.S.C. 3506(c)(2)(A)). DATES: Written comments must be submitted on or before March 28, 2006. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments by any of the following methods: E-mail: *Susan.Brown@uspto.gov.* Include “0651-0041 comment” in the subject line of the message. Fax: 571-273-0112, marked to the attention of Susan Brown. Mail: Susan K. Brown, Records Officer, Office of the Chief Information Officer, Architecture, Engineering and Technical Services, Data Architecture and Services Division, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313-1450. Federal e-Rulemaking Portal: *http://www.regulations.gov.* FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Requests for additional information regarding online access cards or user training should be directed to Diane Lewis, Manager, Public Search Facilities, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313-1450; by telephone at 571-272-8714; or by electronic mail at *Diane.Lewis@uspto.gov.* Requests for additional information regarding security identification badges should be directed to J.R. Garland, Director, Security Office, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313-1450; by telephone at 571-272-6247; or by electronic mail at *Calib.Garland@uspto.gov.* SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Abstract The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required by 35 U.S.C. 41(i)(1) to maintain a Public Search Facility to provide patent and trademark collections for searching and retrieval of information. The Public Search Facilities are maintained for public use with paper and electronic search files and trained staff to assist searchers. The USPTO also offers training courses to assist the public with using the advanced electronic search systems available at the facilities. In order to manage the patent and trademark collections that are available to the public, the USPTO issues online access cards to customers who wish to use the electronic search systems at the Public Search Facility. Customers may obtain an online access card by completing the application at the Public Search Facility reference desk and providing proper identification. The plastic online access cards include a bar-coded user number and an expiration date. Users may renew their cards by validating and updating the required information and may obtain a replacement for a lost card by providing proper identification. Under the authority provided in 41 CFR Part 102-81, the USPTO issues security identification badges to members of the public who wish to use the facilities at the USPTO. Public users may apply for a security badge in person at the USPTO Office of Security by providing the necessary information and presenting a valid form of identification with photograph. The security badges include a color photograph of the user and must be worn at all times while at the USPTO facilities. The USPTO is updating this information collection to include the renewal of security identification badges for public users. The security badges must be renewed annually and there is no fee. The USPTO is also deleting the previous $15 fee for obtaining a replacement online access card from this collection because that fee has been eliminated. Finally, the USPTO is revising the estimated annual responses for this collection to reflect current submissions related to online access cards, training courses, and security badges for users of the Public Search Facilities. II. Method of Collection The applications for online access cards and security identification badges are completed on site and handed to a USPTO staff member for issuance. User training application forms may be mailed, faxed, or hand delivered to the USPTO. III. Data *OMB Number:* 0651-0041. *Form Number(s):* PTO-2030, PTO-2224. *Type of Review:* Revision of a currently approved collection. *Affected Public:* Individuals or households; businesses or other for-profits; not-for-profit institutions; farms; the Federal Government; and state, local or tribal governments. *Estimated Number of Respondents:* 11,369 responses per year. *Estimated Time Per Response:* The USPTO estimates that it will take the public approximately five to 10 minutes (0.08 to 0.17 hours) to complete the information in this collection, including gathering the necessary information, preparing the appropriate form, and submitting the completed request. *Estimated Total Annual Respondent Burden Hours:* 1,097 hours per year. *Estimated Total Annual Respondent Cost Burden:* $163,453 per year. The USPTO estimates that approximately 1/3 of the users responding to this collection are attorneys and 2/3 are paraprofessionals. Using 1/3 of the professional rate of $286 per hour for associate attorneys in private firms and 2/3 of the paraprofessional rate of $81 per hour, the estimated rate for respondents to this collection is approximately $149 per hour. Item Estimated time for response (minutes) Estimated annual responses Estimated annual burden hours Application for Public User ID (Online Access Card) (PTO-2030) 5 2,951 236 Issue Online Access Card 10 1,975 336 Renew Online Access Card 5 1,975 158 Replace Online Access Card 5 70 6 User Training Application Forms 10 98 17 Security Identification Badges for Public Users (PTO-2224) 5 1,000 80 Renew Security Identification Badges for Public Users 5 3,200 256 Replace Security Identification Badge 5 100 8 Total 11,369 1,097 *Estimated Total Annual Non-hour Respondent Cost Burden:* $4,152. There are no capital start-up, maintenance, or recordkeeping costs associated with this information collection. However, this collection does have annual (non-hour) costs in the form of filing fees and postage costs. There are no application or renewal fees for online access cards or security identification badges. However, there is a $15 fee for issuing a replacement security identification badge. The previous $15 fee for obtaining a replacement online access card has been eliminated. The USPTO estimates that it will reissue approximately 100 security badges annually that have been lost or need to be replaced, for a total of $1,500 per year in replacement fees. There are registration fees for the user training courses offered at the Public Search Facilities. The regular cost for a public course is $25 per class, and individual instruction may also be arranged for $120 per class. The USPTO estimates that it will receive 96 registrations for public courses and 2 registrations for individual instruction per year, for a total of $2,640 in training registration fees. Therefore, this collection has a total of $4,140 per year in filing fees in the form of security badge replacement fees and training registration fees. Item Estimated annual responses Fee amount Estimated annual fee costs Application for Public User ID (Online Access Card) (PTO-2030) 2,951 $0.00 $0.00 Issue Online Access Card 1,975 0.00 0.00 Renew Online Access Card 1,975 0.00 0.00 Replace Online Access Card 70 0.00 0.00 User Training Application Forms (Public Course) 96 25.00 2,400.00 User Training Application Forms (Individual Course) 2 120.00 240.00 Security Identification Badges for Public Users (PTO-2224) 1,000 0.00 0.00 Renew Security Identification Badges for Public Users 3,200 0.00 0.00 Replace Security Identification Badge 100 15.00 1,500.00 Total 11,369 4,140.00 Users may incur postage costs when submitting a user training application form to the USPTO by mail. The USPTO expects that approximately 30 of the estimated 98 training forms received per year will be submitted by mail. The USPTO estimates that the average first-class postage cost for a mailed training form will be 39 cents, for a total postage cost of approximately $12 per year for this collection. The total annual (non-hour) respondent cost burden for this collection in the form of filing fees and postage costs is estimated to be $4,152 per year. IV. Request for Comments Comments are invited on:
(a)Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information shall have practical utility;
(b)the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden (including hours and cost) of the proposed collection of information;
(c)ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and
(d)ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on respondents, *e.g.* , the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology. Comments submitted in response to this notice will be summarized or included in the request for OMB approval of this information collection; they also will become a matter of public record. Dated: January 23, 2006. Susan K. Brown, Records Officer, USPTO, Office of the Chief Information Officer, Architecture, Engineering and Technical Services, Data Architecture and Services Division. [FR Doc. E6-1025 Filed 1-26-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3510-16-P DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE Office of the Secretary Notice of Availability of the Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement for DTRA Activities on White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico AGENCY: Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, Defense Threat Reduction Agency, DoD. ACTION: Notice of availability. SUMMARY: Pursuant to section 102(2)(c) of the National Environmental Act (NEPA), 42 U.S.C. 4321-4370, as implemented by the Council of Environmental Quality Regulations (40 CFR parts 1500-1508), the Defense Threat Reduction Agency
(DTRA)announces the availability of the Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement
(PEIS)for DTRA activities on White Sands Missile Range (WSMR), New Mexico. As a major cooperating agency, WSMR has participated in the preparation of the PEIS. Future development of DTRA's testing facilities and program, and its scope require a PEIS to adequately address potential environmental impacts. ADDRESSES: Written comments may be forwarded to the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, ATTN: WSMR PEIS Comments, 1680 Texas St., SE., Kirtland AFB, NM 87117-5669; faxed to
(505)853-1793; or emailed to *WSMR_PEIS_Comments@abq.dtra.mil.* FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: DTRA Public Affairs at
(703)767-5870 or
(800)701-5096. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: White Sands Missile Range covers approximately 8,288 km 2 (3,200 mi 2 ) of south-central New Mexico. Proposed DTRA activities at WSMR have the potential to significantly impact certain natural, social, cultural, and economic resources in the region. The study area for environmental analyses includes the Hard Target Defeat Test bed (HTDT), Permanent High Explosive Test Site (PHETS), Seismic hardrock In Situ Test site (SHIST), Alternate SHIST, and Large Blast/Thermal Simulator (LBTS). The objective has been to provide a thorough, comprehensive and PEIS that will serve as a planning and decision-making tool, a public information source, and a reference for mitigation tracking concerning DTRA future activities. Alternatives consist of modifications of specific activities; variations in type and toxicity of simulants; and the No Action alternative. These alternatives were developed during preparation of the Draft PEIS as a result of environmental analyses of the activities and public input. Significant Issues: Certain biologically diverse areas on White Sands Missile Range utilized by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency serve as habitat or potential habitat for protected floral and faunal (plant and animal) species. To date, several locations in the areas studied have been identified as important cultural resources. The most significant are Ground Zero and McDonald Ranch House, part of Trinity Site National Historic Landmark located within the Permanent High Explosive Test Site boundaries. Significant issues that are addressed in the Draft PEIS include: 1. The continued operation and maintenance of various test structures used as targets for weapon system evaluations. 2. Construction of new test structures, enlargement of existing test beds, and possible development of new test beds. 3. Testing, operations and maintenance activities at tunnel targets in the Capitol Canyon area (HTDT). 4. The use of chemical and biological simulants in collateral damage tests. 5. Planned improvements to the DTRA Administrative Park within the PHETS boundaries. Public hearings will be held on Tuesday, February 28, 2006, at the Civic Center in Alamogordo, NM (800 East First Street, Alamagordo, NM); on Wednesday, March 1, 2006, at the Ramada Palms in Las Cruces, NM (201 E University Ave., Las Cruces, NM); and on Thursday, March 2, 2006, at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, Macey Center, in Socorro, NM (801 Leroy Place, Socorro, NM) to facilitate public input to the PEIS. All hearings will begin at 5 p.m. with a 2-hour open house session for the public to ask questions of subject matter experts. These sessions will be followed by the public hearings, beginning at 7 p.m. in order to receive public comments. Please note any changes to the times, dates, and locations for the hearings will be published in local newspapers and on the PEIS Web site at *www.dtra.mil/Toolbox/Directorates/TD/programs/dpeis/index.cfm.* For those that cannot attend the public hearings, written comments via mail or e-mail are encouraged. Comments should clearly identify and describe the specific issue(s) or topics that the PEIS should address. To be considered in the Final PEIS, comments and suggestions must be postmarked no later than 60 days following this **Federal Register** announcement. Dated: January 23, 2006. L.M. Bynum, Alternate OSD Federal Register Liaison Officer, Department of Defense. [FR Doc. 06-815 Filed 1-26-06; 8:45 am]
Connectionstraces to 9
Traces to 9 documents
U.S. Code
CFR
- Administrative review of orders and suspension agreements under section 751(a)(1) of the Act.§ 351.213
- New shipper reviews under section 751(a)(2)(B) of the Act; expedited reviews in countervailing duty proceedings.§ 351.214
- Access to business proprietary information.§ 351.305
- Review procedures.§ 351.221
19 references not yet in our index
- Pub. L. 104-13
- 7 CFR 1724
- Pub. L. 92-463
- Pub. L. 106-393
- 7 CFR 3565.4
- 7 CFR 3565
- 7 CFR 3565.205
- 7 CFR 1940
- 7 CFR 3565.102
- 7 CFR 3565.252
- 7 CFR 3565.452
- 7 CFR 3565.5
- 7 CFR 3565.303
- 41 USC 47(a)
- 41 CFR 51
- 41 USC 46-48c
- 41 CFR 101
- 41 CFR 102
- 42 USC 4321-4370
Citation graph
cites case law
Notices
Notice of affirmation
Pub. L.Pub. L. 104-13
Cite7 CFR 1724
Pub. L.Pub. L. 92-463
Cites 28 · showing 12Cited by 0 across 0 sources