-CITE- 15 USC CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -MISC1- Sec. 631. Declaration of policy. 631a. Congressional declaration of small business economic policy. 631b. Reports to Congress; state of small business. 631c. Small Business Manufacturing Task Force. 632. Small-business concern. 633. Small Business Administration. 634. General powers. 634a. Office of Advocacy within Small Business Administration; Chief Counsel for Advocacy. 634b. Primary functions of Office of Advocacy. 634c. Additional duties of Office of Advocacy. 634d. Staff and powers of Office of Advocacy. 634e. Assistance of Government agencies. 634f. Reports. 634g. Authorization of appropriations. 635. Deposit of moneys; depositaries, custodians, and fiscal agents; contributions to employees' compensation funds. 636. Additional powers. 636a. Repealed. 636b. Disaster loan interest rates. 636c. Age of applicant for disaster loans. 636d. Disaster aid to major sources of employment. 636e. Definitions. 636f. Coordination of efforts between the Administrator and the Internal Revenue Service to expedite loan processing. 636g. Development and implementation of major disaster response plan. 636h. Disaster planning responsibilities. 636i. Small business bonding threshold. 636j. Expedited disaster assistance loan program. 636k. Reports on disaster assistance. 637. Additional powers. 637a. Repealed. 637b. Availability of information. 637c. Definitions. 638. Research and development. 639. Reporting requirements and agency cooperation. 639a. Review of loan program; submission of estimated needs for additional authorization. 640. Voluntary agreements among small-business concerns. 641. Transfer to Administration of other functions, powers, and duties. 642. Requirements for loans. 643. Fair charge for use of Government-owned property. 644. Awards or contracts. 645. Offenses and penalties. 646. Liens. 647. Duplication of activities of other Federal departments or agencies. 648. Small business development center program authorization. 648a. Repealed. 649. Office of International Trade. 649a. Omitted. 649b. Grants, contracts and cooperative agreements for international marketing programs. 649c. Authorization of appropriations. 649d. Central information clearinghouse. 650. Supervisory and enforcement authority for small business lending companies. 651. National small business tree planting program. 652. Central European Enterprise Development Commission. 653. Office of Rural Affairs. 654. Paul D. Coverdell drug-free workplace program. 655. Pilot Technology Access Program. 656. Women's business center program. 657. Oversight of regulatory enforcement. 657a. HUBZone program. 657b. Veterans programs. 657c. National Veterans Business Development Corporation. 657d. Federal and State Technology Partnership Program. 657e. Mentoring Networks. 657f. Procurement program for small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans. 657g. Participation in federally funded projects. 657h. Small business energy efficiency. 657i. Coordination of disaster assistance programs with FEMA. 657j. Information tracking and follow-up system for disaster assistance. 657k. Disaster processing redundancy. 657l. Comprehensive disaster response plan. 657m. Plans to secure sufficient office space. 657n. Immediate Disaster Assistance program. 657o. Annual reports on disaster assistance. -End- -CITE- 15 USC Sec. 631 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- Sec. 631. Declaration of policy -STATUTE- (a) Aid, counsel, assistance, etc., to small business concerns The essence of the American economic system of private enterprise is free competition. Only through full and free competition can free markets, free entry into business, and opportunities for the expression and growth of personal initiative and individual judgment be assured. The preservation and expansion of such competition is basic not only to the economic well-being but to the security of this Nation. Such security and well-being cannot be realized unless the actual and potential capacity of small business is encouraged and developed. It is the declared policy of the Congress that the Government should aid, counsel, assist, and protect, insofar as is possible, the interests of small-business concerns in order to preserve free competitive enterprise, to insure that a fair proportion of the total purchases and contracts or subcontracts for property and services for the Government (including but not limited to contracts or subcontracts for maintenance, repair, and construction) be placed with small- business enterprises, to insure that a fair proportion of the total sales of Government property be made to such enterprises, and to maintain and strengthen the overall economy of the Nation. (b) Assistance to compete in international markets (1) It is the declared policy of the Congress that the Federal Government, through the Small Business Administration, acting in cooperation with the Department of Commerce and other relevant State and Federal agencies, should aid and assist small businesses, as defined under this chapter, to increase their ability to compete in international markets by - (A) enhancing their ability to export; (B) facilitating technology transfers; (C) enhancing their ability to compete effectively and efficiently against imports; (D) increasing the access of small businesses to long-term capital for the purchase of new plant and equipment used in the production of goods and services involved in international trade; (E) disseminating information concerning State, Federal, and private programs and initiatives to enhance the ability of small businesses to compete in international markets; and (F) ensuring that the interests of small businesses are adequately represented in bilateral and multilateral trade negotiations. (2) The Congress recognizes that the Department of Commerce is the principal Federal agency for trade development and export promotion and that the Department of Commerce and the Small Business Administration work together to advance joint interests. It is the purpose of this chapter to enhance, not alter, their respective roles. (c) Aid for agriculturally related industries; financial assistance It is the declared policy of the Congress that the Government, through the Small Business Administration, should aid and assist small business concerns which are engaged in the production of food and fiber, ranching, and raising of livestock, aquaculture, and all other farming and agricultural related industries; and the financial assistance programs authorized by this chapter are also to be used to assist such concerns. (d) Use of assistance programs to establish, preserve, and strengthen small business concerns (1) The assistance programs authorized by sections 636(i) and 636(j) of this title are to be utilized to assist in the establishment, preservation, and strengthening of small business concerns and improve the managerial skills employed in such enterprises, with special attention to small business concerns (1) located in urban or rural areas with high proportions of unemployed or low-income individuals; or (2) owned by low-income individuals; and to mobilize for these objectives private as well as public managerial skills and resources. (2)(A) With respect to the programs authorized by section 636(j) of this title, the Congress finds - (i) that ownership and control of productive capital is concentrated in the economy of the United States and certain groups, therefore, own and control little productive capital; (ii) that certain groups in the United States own and control little productive capital because they have limited opportunities for small business ownership; (iii) that the broadening of small business ownership among groups that presently own and control little productive capital is essential to provide for the well-being of this Nation by promoting their increased participation in the free enterprise system of the United States; (iv) that such development of business ownership among groups that presently own and control little productive capital will be greatly facilitated through the creation of a small business ownership development program, which shall provide services, including, but not limited to, financial, management, and technical assistance.(!1) (v) that the power to let Federal contracts pursuant to section 637(a) of this title can be an effective procurement assistance tool for development of business ownership among groups that own and control little productive capital; and (vi) that the procurement authority under section 637(a) of this title shall be used only as a tool for developing business ownership among groups that own and control little productive capital. (B) It is therefore the purpose of the programs authorized by section 636(j) of this title to - (i) foster business ownership and development by individuals in groups that own and control little productive capital; and (ii) promote the competitive viability of such firms in the marketplace by creating a small business and capital ownership development program to provide such available financial, technical, and management assistance as may be necessary. (e) Assistance to victims of floods, etc., and those displaced as result of federally aided construction programs Further, it is the declared policy of the Congress that the Government should aid and assist victims of floods and other catastrophes, and small-business concerns which are displaced as a result of federally aided construction programs. (f) Findings; purpose (1) with (!2) respect to the Administration's business development programs the Congress finds - (A) that the opportunity for full participation in our free enterprise system by socially and economically disadvantaged persons is essential if we are to obtain social and economic equality for such persons and improve the functioning of our national economy; (B) that many such persons are socially disadvantaged because of their identification as members of certain groups that have suffered the effects of discriminatory practices or similar invidious circumstances over which they have no control; (C) that such groups include, but are not limited to, Black Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, Indian tribes, Asian Pacific Americans, Native Hawaiian Organizations, and other minorities; (D) that it is in the national interest to expeditiously ameliorate the conditions of socially and economically disadvantaged groups; (E) that such conditions can be improved by providing the maximum practicable opportunity for the development of small business concerns owned by members of socially and economically disadvantaged groups; (F) that such development can be materially advanced through the procurement by the United States of articles, equipment, supplies, services, materials, and construction work from such concerns; and (G) that such procurements also benefit the United States by encouraging the expansion of suppliers for such procurements, thereby encouraging competition among such suppliers and promoting economy in such procurements. (2) It is therefore the purpose of section 637(a) of this title to - (A) promote the business development of small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals so that such concerns can compete on an equal basis in the American economy; (B) promote the competitive viability of such concerns in the marketplace by providing such available contract, financial, technical, and mangement (!3) assistance as may be necessary; and (C) clarify and expand the program for the procurement by the United States of articles, supplies, services, materials, and construction work from small business concerns owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. (g) Assistance to disaster victims under disaster loan program In administering the disaster loan program authorized by section 636 of this title, to the maximum extent possible, the Administration shall provide assistance and counseling to disaster victims in filing applications, providing information relevant to loan processing, and in loan closing and prompt disbursement of loan proceeds and shall give the disaster program a high priority in allocating funds for administrative expenses. (h) Assistance to women owned business (1) With respect to the programs and activities authorized by this chapter, the Congress finds that - (A) women owned business has become a major contributor to the American economy by providing goods and services, revenues, and jobs; (B) over the past two decades there have been substantial gains in the social and economic status of women as they have sought economic equality and independence; (C) despite such progress, women, as a group, are subjected to discrimination in entrepreneurial endeavors due to their gender; (D) such discrimination takes many overt and subtle forms adversely impacting the ability to raise or secure capital, to acquire managerial talents, and to capture market opportunities; (E) it is in the national interest to expeditiously remove discriminatory barriers to the creation and development of small business concerns owned and controlled by women; (F) the removal of such barriers is essential to provide a fair opportunity for full participation in the free enterprise system by women and to further increase the economic vitality of the Nation; (G) increased numbers of small business concerns owned and controlled by women will directly benefit the United States Government by expanding the potential number of suppliers of goods and services to the Government; and (H) programs and activities designed to assist small business concerns owned and controlled by women must be implemented in such a way as to remove such discriminatory barriers while not adversely affecting the rights of socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. (2) It is, therefore, the purpose of those programs and activities conducted under the authority of this chapter that assist women entrepreneurs to - (A) vigorously promote the legitimate interests of small business concerns owned and controlled by women; (B) remove, insofar as possible, the discriminatory barriers that are encountered by women in accessing capital and other factors of production; and (C) require that the Government engage in a systematic and sustained effort to identify, define and analyze those discriminatory barriers facing women and that such effort directly involve the participation of women business owners in the public/private sector partnership. (i) Prohibition on use of funds for individuals not lawfully within United States None of the funds made available pursuant to this chapter may be used to provide any direct benefit or assistance to any individual in the United States if the Administrator or the official to which the funds are made available receives notification that the individual is not lawfully within the United States. (j) Contract bundling In complying with the statement of congressional policy expressed in subsection (a) of this section, relating to fostering the participation of small business concerns in the contracting opportunities of the Government, each Federal agency, to the maximum extent practicable, shall - (1) comply with congressional intent to foster the participation of small business concerns as prime contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers; (2) structure its contracting requirements to facilitate competition by and among small business concerns, taking all reasonable steps to eliminate obstacles to their participation; and (3) avoid unnecessary and unjustified bundling of contract requirements that precludes small business participation in procurements as prime contractors. -SOURCE- (Pub. L. 85-536, Sec. 2[2], July 18, 1958, 72 Stat. 384; Pub. L. 87- 70, title III, Sec. 305(b), June 30, 1961, 75 Stat. 167; Pub. L. 87-305, Sec. 6, Sept. 26, 1961, 75 Stat. 667; Pub. L. 93-386, Sec. 2(a)(1), Aug. 23, 1974, 88 Stat. 742; Pub. L. 94-305, title I, Sec. 112(a), June 4, 1976, 90 Stat. 667; Pub. L. 95-507, title II, Secs. 201, 203, Oct. 24, 1978, 92 Stat. 1760, 1763; Pub. L. 96-302, title I, Sec. 118(a), July 2, 1980, 94 Stat. 840; Pub. L. 99-272, title XVIII, Sec. 18015(a), Apr. 7, 1986, 100 Stat. 370; Pub. L. 100-418, title VIII, Sec. 8002, Aug. 23, 1988, 102 Stat. 1553; Pub. L. 100- 533, title I, Sec. 101, Oct. 25, 1988, 102 Stat. 2689; Pub. L. 100- 590, title I, Sec. 118, Nov. 3, 1988, 102 Stat. 2999; Pub. L. 100- 656, title II, Secs. 204, 207(b), Nov. 15, 1988, 102 Stat. 3859, 3861; Pub. L. 101-37, Sec. 6(c), June 15, 1989, 103 Stat. 72; Pub. L. 103-403, title VI, Sec. 609, Oct. 22, 1994, 108 Stat. 4204; Pub. L. 105-135, title IV, Sec. 411, Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2617.) -COD- CODIFICATION This chapter was originally enacted as title II of act July 30, 1953, ch. 282, 67 Stat. 232, and designated as the "Small Business Act of 1953". Title II of act July 30, 1953, was amended by acts June 30, 1955, ch. 251, Sec. 4, 69 Stat. 225; Aug. 9, 1955, ch. 628, 69 Stat. 547; Feb. 2, 1956, ch. 29, Secs. 1, 2, 70 Stat. 10; Pub. L. 85-4, Secs. 1, 2, Feb. 11, 1957, 71 Stat. 1; Pub. L. 85- 120, Secs. 1, 2, Aug. 3, 1957, 71 Stat. 341; Pub. L. 85-335, Feb. 22, 1958, 72 Stat. 27. Section 1 of Pub. L. 85-536 withdrew title II of act July 30, 1953, as part of that act, and made title II a separate act to be known as the "Small Business Act". The Small Business Act, as amended by Pub. L. 85-536, is classified to this chapter. -MISC1- AMENDMENTS 1997 - Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 105-135 added subsec. (j). 1994 - Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 103-403 added subsec. (i). 1989 - Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 101-37 made technical correction to directory language of Pub. L. 100-656, Sec. 207(b), which did not result in any change in text, see 1988 Amendment note below. 1988 - Subsecs. (b), (c). Pub. L. 100-418 added subsec. (b) and redesignated former subsec. (b) as (c). Former subsec. (c) redesignated (d). Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 100-418 redesignated subsec. (c) as (d). Former subsec. (d) redesignated (e). Subsec. (d)(2)(A)(v). Pub. L. 100-656, Sec. 204(b), which directed amendment of subsec. (c)(2)(A)(v) by striking out "sole source" after "power to let" was executed to subsec. (d)(2)(A)(v) to reflect the probable intent of Congress and the intervening redesignation of subsec. (c) as (d) by Pub. L. 100-418. Subsec. (d)(2)(B). Pub. L. 100-656, Sec. 204(a)(1), which directed general amendment of subsec. (c)(2)(B), was executed to subsec. (d)(2)(B) to reflect the probable intent of Congress and the intervening redesignation of subsec. (c) as (d) by Pub. L. 100- 418. Prior to amendment, subpar. (B) read as follows: "It is, therefore, the purpose of the programs authorized by section 636(j) of this title to - "(i) foster business ownership by individuals in groups that own and control little productive capital; and "(ii) promote the competitive viability of such firms by creating a small business and capital ownership development program to provide such available financial, technical, and management assistance as may be necessary." Subsecs. (e), (f). Pub. L. 100-418 redesignated subsecs. (d) and (e) as (e) and (f), respectively. Subsec. (f)(1)(C). Pub. L. 100-656, Sec. 207(b), as amended by Pub. L. 101-37, which directed amendment of subsec. (e)(1)(C) by inserting "Native Hawaiian Organizations," was executed to subsec. (f)(1)(C) to reflect the probable intent of Congress and the intervening redesignation of subsec. (e) as (f) by Pub. L. 100-418. Subsec. (f)(2). Pub. L. 100-656, Sec. 204(a)(2), which directed general amendment of subsec. (e)(2), was executed to subsec. (f)(2) to reflect the probable intent of Congress and the intervening redesignation of subsec. (e) as (f) by Pub. L. 100-418. Prior to amendment, par. (2) read as follows: "It is, therefore, the purpose of section 637(a) of this title to - "(A) foster business ownership by individuals who are both socially and economically disadvantaged; "(B) promote the competitive viability of such firms by providing such available contract, financial, technical, and management assistance as may be necessary; and "(C) clarify and expand the program for the procurement by the United States of articles, equipment, supplies, services, materials, and construction work from small business concerns owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals." Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 100-590, Sec. 118, added subsec. (g). Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 100-533 added subsec. (h). 1986 - Subsec. (e)(1)(C). Pub. L. 99-272 inserted "Indian tribes,". 1980 - Subsec. (e)(1)(C). Pub. L. 96-302 included among the disadvantaged minorities Asian Pacific Americans. 1978 - Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 95-507, Sec. 203, designated existing provisions as par. (1) and added par. (2). Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 95-507, Sec. 201, added subsec. (e). 1976 - Subsecs. (b) to (d). Pub. L. 94-305 added subsec. (b) and redesignated former subsecs. (b) and (c) as (c) and (d), respectively. 1974 - Subsecs. (b), (c). Pub. L. 93-386 added subsec. (b) and redesignated former subsec. (b) as (c). 1961 - Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 87-305 inserted "or subcontracts" after "contracts" in two places. Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 87-70 included small-business concerns which are displaced as a result of federally aided construction programs. EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1997 AMENDMENT Section 3 of Pub. L. 105-135 provided that: "This Act [see Short Title of 1997 Amendment note below] and the amendments made by this Act shall take effect on October 1, 1997." EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1989 AMENDMENT Section 32 of Pub. L. 101-37 provided that: "The amendments made by this Act [see Short Title of 1989 Amendment note below] shall apply as if included in the Business Opportunity Development Reform Act of 1988 [Pub. L. 100-656]." EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1988 AMENDMENTS Section 803 of Pub. L. 100-656, as amended by Pub. L. 101-37, Sec. 31, June 15, 1989, 103 Stat. 76, provided that: "(a) In General. - Except as otherwise provided, the following provisions (and the amendments made by such provisions) shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 15, 1988]: "(1) Sections 1 and 2 [enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and section 636 of this title]. "(2) Section 101 [enacting provisions set out as a note under section 636 of this title]. "(3) Sections 202, 203, 204, 206, and 207 [amending this section and sections 636 and 637 of this title]. "(4) Sections 301(a) and 303(d), (e), and (f) [amending sections 636 and 637 of this title and enacting provisions set out as a note under section 637 of this title]. "(5) Sections 405, 406, 408, and 410 [amending sections 636, 639, and 645 of this title and enacting provisions set out as a note under section 636 of this title]. "(6) Sections 504 and 505 [amending section 636 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under section 636 of this title]. "(7) Sections 601 and 603 [amending section 644 of this title]. "(8) Titles VII and VIII [amending section 632 of this title and section 541 of former Title 40, Public Buildings, Property, and Works, enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 632, 636, and 644 of this title, and amending provisions set out as a note under section 644 of this title]. "(9) Sections 7(j)(13)(G) and 7(j)(13)(I) of the Small Business Act [section 636(j)(13)(G), (I) of this title] (as added by section 301(b)). "(b) Special Rules. - (1) Except as otherwise provided, the following sections (and the amendments made by such sections) shall take effect on August 15, 1989: "(A) Sections 201, 205, and 208 [amending sections 636 and 637 of this title]. "(B) Sections 301(b), 301(c), 303(a), 303(c), 303(g), 303(h), and 304 [amending sections 636 and 637 of this title and enacting provisions set out as a note under section 637 of this title]. "(C) Sections 401, 402, 403, 404, and 409 [amending sections 633 and 637 of this title and enacting provisions set out as a note under section 633 of this title]. "(D) Section 602 [enacting provisions set out as a note under section 637 of this title]. "(2) Section 302 [amending section 636 of this title] shall take effect on June 1, 1989. "(3) Section 407 [amending section 637 of this title] shall take effect with respect to contracts entered into on or after June 1, 1989. "(4) The following sections (and the amendments made by such sections) shall take effect on October 1, 1989: "(A) Section 209 [amending section 637 of this title]. "(B) Section 303(b) [amending section 637 of this title]. "(C) Sections 501, 502, and 503 [amending sections 637 and 644 of this title]. "(D) Section 7(j)(13)(E) of the Small Business Act [section 636(j)(13)(E) of this title] (as added by section 301(b) of this Act)." Section 137 of title I of Pub. L. 100-590 provided that: "This title [enacting sections 687m and 697c of this title, amending this section and sections 631b, 632, 633, 634, 636, 637, 638, 644, 648, 681, 687, and 695 to 697b of this title, repealing section 694 of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 636, 637, 639, 644, 694, and 697 of this title, and amending provisions set out as notes under this section and section 637 of this title] shall be effective on the date of enactment [Nov. 3, 1988], except that sections 118 through 122 [amending this section and sections 632 and 636 of this title] shall be effective for all loan applications resulting from disaster declarations made on or after August 1, 1988, or from disaster declarations whose filing periods were open on October 1, 1988. Any new credit authority provided for in this Act [see Short Title of 1988 Amendment note below] is to be effective for any fiscal year only to such extent or in such amounts as are provided in appropriation Acts." Section 8014 of title VIII of Pub. L. 100-418 provided that: "This title [amending this section and sections 636, 648, 649, and 696 of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section, and amending provisions set out as notes under this section and section 638 of this title] shall become effective on the date of its enactment [Aug. 23, 1988]." EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1981 AMENDMENT Section 1918 of Pub. L. 97-35 provided that: "Sections 1908, 1909, and 1913 of this title [amending sections 633, 636, and 696 of this title] shall be effective October 1, 1981, and section 1910 of this title [amending section 636 of this title] shall be effective as provided therein [Oct. 1, 1985]. All other provisions of this title [amending sections 632, 633, 636, and 639 of this title, repealing section 636a of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and section 636 of this title, and amending provisions set out as notes under this section] shall be effective immediately [Aug. 13, 1981] but shall not affect any financing made, obligated, or committed under the Small Business Act [this chapter] or the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [chapter 14B of this title] prior to the effective date hereof." EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1980 AMENDMENT Section 507 of Pub. L. 96-302 provided that: "This Act [enacting sections 631a, 631b, 648, and 697 of this title, amending this section, sections 632, 633, 634, 634d, 636, 637, 644, 647, 694-2, 694b, and 694c of this title, section 5315 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees, and sections 1961 and 1964 of Title 7, Agriculture, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 636, 637, and 648 of this title, and amending provisions set out as a note under this section] shall take effect October 1, 1980." SHORT TITLE OF 2008 AMENDMENT Pub. L. 110-234, title XII, Sec. 12051, May 22, 2008, 122 Stat. 1406, and Pub. L. 110-246, Sec. 4(a), title XII, Sec. 12051, June 18, 2008, 122 Stat. 1664, 2168, provided that: "This subtitle [subtitle B (Secs. 12051-12091) of title XII of Pub. L. 110-246, enacting sections 636e to 636k and 657i to 657o of this title, amending sections 632, 633, and 636 of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under section 636 of this title, and amending provisions set out as a note under this section] may be cited as the 'Small Business Disaster Response and Loan Improvements Act of 2008'." [Pub. L. 110-234 and Pub. L. 110-246 enacted identical provisions. Pub. L. 110-234 was repealed by section 4(a) of Pub. L. 110-246, set out as a note under section 8701 of Title 7, Agriculture.] Pub. L. 110-186, Sec. 1, Feb. 14, 2008, 122 Stat. 623, provided that: "This Act [amending sections 632, 636, 648, 657b, and 657c of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 636 and 637 of this title, and amending provisions set out as a note under section 657b of this title] may be cited as the 'Military Reservist and Veteran Small Business Reauthorization and Opportunity Act of 2008'." SHORT TITLE OF 2007 AMENDMENT Pub. L. 110-28, title VIII, Sec. 8301, May 25, 2007, 121 Stat. 204, provided that: "This subtitle [subtitle C (Secs. 8301-8306) of title VIII of Pub. L. 110-28, amending section 656 of this title and section 10a of Title 41, Public Contracts, enacting provisions set out as notes under section 656 of this title and section 9858 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, and amending provisions set out as a note under section 601 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees] may be cited as the 'Small Business and Work Opportunity Act of 2007'." SHORT TITLE OF 2004 AMENDMENT Pub. L. 108-447, div. K, Sec. 1(a), Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3441, provided that: "This division [enacting sections 631c and 657g of this title, amending sections 632 to 634, 636, 637, 648, 650, 654, 657a to 657c, 683, 687, 694b, and 695 to 697 of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 632, 633, 636, and 637 of this title, amending provisions set out as notes under this section and section 657b of this title, and repealing provisions set out as a note under section 694b of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Reauthorization and Manufacturing Assistance Act of 2004'." SHORT TITLE OF 2001 AMENDMENT Pub. L. 107-50, Sec. 1, Oct. 15, 2001, 115 Stat. 263, provided that: "This Act [amending sections 638 and 657d of this title and enacting provisions set out as a note under section 638 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Technology Transfer Program Reauthorization Act of 2001'." SHORT TITLE OF 2000 AMENDMENT Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [Sec. 1(a)], Dec. 21, 2000, 114 Stat. 2763, 2763A-667, provided that: "This Act [H.R. 5667, as enacted by section 1(a)(9) of Pub. L. 106-554, see Tables for classification] may be cited as the 'Small Business Reauthorization Act of 2000'." Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title I, Sec. 101], Dec. 21, 2000, 114 Stat. 2763, 2763A-668, provided that: "This title [enacting sections 657d and 657e of this title, amending section 638 of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 638 and 657d of this title, and amending provisions set out as notes under this section and section 638 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Innovation Research Program Reauthorization Act of 2000'." Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title II, Sec. 201], Dec. 21, 2000, 114 Stat. 2763, 2763A-681, provided that: "This title [amending sections 634, 636, and 696 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Loan Improvement Act of 2000'." Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title V, Sec. 501], Dec. 21, 2000, 114 Stat. 2763, 2763A-691, provided that: "This title [amending sections 637, 648, 654, and 657a of this title and amending provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 637 and 644 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Programs Reauthorization Act of 2000'." Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VI, subtitle A, Sec. 601], Dec. 21, 2000, 114 Stat. 2763, 2763A-697, provided that: "This subtitle [amending section 632 of this title] may be cited as the 'HUBZones in Native America Act of 2000'." SHORT TITLE OF 1999 AMENDMENTS Pub. L. 106-165, Sec. 1, Dec. 9, 1999, 113 Stat. 1795, provided that: "This Act [amending section 656 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under section 656 of this title] may be cited as the 'Women's Business Centers Sustainability Act of 1999'." Pub. L. 106-50, Sec. 1, Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 233, provided that: "This Act [enacting sections 657b and 657c of this title, amending sections 631b, 632, 633, 634b, 636, 637, 644, and 695 of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 633, 636, 637, 657b, and 657c of this title, and amending provisions set out as a note under this section] may be cited as the 'Veterans Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development Act of 1999'." Pub. L. 106-22, Sec. 1, Apr. 27, 1999, 113 Stat. 36, provided that: "This Act [amending section 636 of this title] may be cited as the 'Microloan Program Technical Corrections Act of 1999'." Pub. L. 106-17, Sec. 1, Apr. 6, 1999, 113 Stat. 27, provided that: "This Act [amending section 656 of this title and enacting provisions set out as a note under section 656 of this title] may be cited as the 'Women's Business Center Amendments Act of 1999'." Pub. L. 106-8, Sec. 1, Apr. 2, 1999, 113 Stat. 13, provided that: "This Act [amending section 636 of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under section 636 of this title, and repealing provisions set out as a note under section 636 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Year 2000 Readiness Act'." SHORT TITLE OF 1998 AMENDMENT Pub. L. 105-277, div. C, title IX, Sec. 901, Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681-707, provided that: "This title [enacting section 654 of this title, amending section 648 of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under section 654 of this title] may be cited as the 'Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1998'." SHORT TITLE OF 1997 AMENDMENT Pub. L. 105-135, Sec. 1(a), Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2592, provided that: "This Act [enacting sections 657a and 7109 of this title and former section 7109 of this title, amending this section, sections 631b, 632, 636, 637, 638, 644, 645, 648, 656, 662, 681 to 683, 687b, 687m, 694b, 696, 697, 697e, 7103, 7104, 7106, 7107, and 7110 of this title, section 2323 of Title 10, Armed Forces, section 1441a of Title 12, Banks and Banking, sections 3718, 6701, and 7505 of Title 31, Money and Finance, sections 405 and 417a of Title 41, Public Contracts, section 13556 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, and sections 47107 and 47113 of Title 49, Transportation, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section, sections 632 to 634, 636, 637, 638, 656, 657a, and 697e of this title, and section 405 of Title 41, and amending provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 637, 644, 694b, and 697e of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Reauthorization Act of 1997'." Section 601 of title VI of Pub. L. 105-135 provided that: "This title [enacting section 657a of this title, amending sections 631b, 632, 637, 644, 645, and 694b of this title, section 2323 of Title 10, Armed Forces, section 1441a of Title 12, Banks and Banking, sections 3718, 6701, and 7505 of Title 31, Money and Finance, sections 405 and 417a of Title 41, Public Contracts, section 13556 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, and sections 47107 and 47113 of Title 49, Transportation, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 632 and 657a of this title, and amending provisions set out as notes under this section] may be cited as the 'HUBZone Act of 1997'." SHORT TITLE OF 1996 AMENDMENT Pub. L. 104-208, div. D, Sec. 1(a), Sept. 30, 1996, 110 Stat. 3009-724, provided that: "This division [amending sections 80a-18, 632 to 634, 636, 638, 648, 662, 681 to 683, 687, 687b, 687d, 687k to 687m, 694b, 696, 697, 697b, and 697f of this title and section 1431 of Title 12, Banks and Banking, repealing sections 687i and 687j of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 632 to 634, 636, 681, 683, 694b, and 695 of this title, amending provisions set out as notes under this section and section 644 of this title, and repealing provisions set out as a note under section 634 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Programs Improvement Act of 1996'." SHORT TITLE OF 1995 AMENDMENT Pub. L. 104-36, Sec. 1, Oct. 12, 1995, 109 Stat. 295, provided that: "This Act [amending sections 634, 636, and 697 of this title, enacting provisions set out as a note under section 634 of this title, and amending provisions set out as a note under section 694b of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Lending Enhancement Act of 1995'." SHORT TITLE OF 1994 AMENDMENT Pub. L. 103-403, Sec. 1(a), Oct. 22, 1994, 108 Stat. 4175, provided that: "This Act [enacting chapter 97 of this title and sections 697d to 697f of this title, amending this section and sections 632 to 634, 634d, 636 to 638, 644, 648, 652, 656, 683, 687, and 697 of this title, repealing section 697e of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 634b, 636, 637, 644, 661, and 697d to 697f of this title, amending provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 633, 636, 637, and 694b of this title, and repealing provisions set out as a note under section 697 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Administration Reauthorization and Amendments Act of 1994'." SHORT TITLE OF 1993 AMENDMENT Pub. L. 103-81, Sec. 1(a), Aug. 13, 1993, 107 Stat. 780, provided that: "This Act [amending sections 634, 636, 648, 652, and 7107 of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 634 and 636 of this title, amending provisions set out as notes under this section and section 648 of this title, and repealing provisions set out as notes under sections 634 and 636 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Guaranteed Credit Enhancement Act of 1993'." SHORT TITLE OF 1992 AMENDMENTS Pub. L. 102-564, Sec. 1(a), Oct. 28, 1992, 106 Stat. 4249, provided that: "This Act [amending sections 634, 636, 637, and 638 of this title and section 4124 of Title 18, Crimes and Criminal Procedure, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and section 638 of this title, amending provisions set out as notes under sections 644 and 648 of this title, and repealing provisions set out as a note under section 638 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Research and Development Enhancement Act of 1992'." Pub. L. 102-564, title I, Sec. 101, Oct. 28, 1992, 106 Stat. 4249, provided that: "This title [amending section 638 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under section 638 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Innovation Research Program Reauthorization Act of 1992'." Pub. L. 102-564, title II, Sec. 201, Oct. 28, 1992, 106 Stat. 4256, provided that: "This title [amending section 638 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under section 638 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Technology Transfer Act of 1992'." Pub. L. 102-366, Sec. 1(a), Sept. 4, 1992, 106 Stat. 986, provided that: "This Act [amending sections 632, 636, 637, 644, 648, 661, 662, 682, 683, 685, 686, 687, 687b, and 687l of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 632, 634, 636, 644, 648, 661, 681, 687b, and 694b of this title, and amending provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 633, 636, and 644 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Credit and Business Opportunity Enhancement Act of 1992'." Pub. L. 102-366, title I, Sec. 101, Sept. 4, 1992, 106 Stat. 987, provided that: "This subtitle [subtitle A (Secs. 101-104) of title I of Pub. L. 102-366, amending section 636 of this title and enacting and amending provisions set out as notes under this section] may be cited as the 'Small Business Credit Crunch Relief Act of 1992'." Pub. L. 102-366, title I, Sec. 111, Sept. 4, 1992, 106 Stat. 989, provided that: "This subtitle [subtitle B (Secs. 111-115) of title I of Pub. L. 102-366, amending section 636 of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under section 636 of this title, and amending provisions set out as a note under this section] may be cited as the 'Microlending Expansion Act of 1992'." SHORT TITLE OF 1991 AMENDMENT Pub. L. 102-191, Sec. 1, Dec. 5, 1991, 105 Stat. 1589, provided that: "This Act [enacting section 656 of this title, amending sections 636, 637, and 7103 of this title, enacting provisions set out as a note under section 637 of this title] may be cited as the 'Women's Business Development Act of 1991'." SHORT TITLE OF 1990 AMENDMENT Pub. L. 101-574, Sec. 1, Nov. 15, 1990, 104 Stat. 2814, provided that: "This Act [enacting sections 653 and 654 of this title, amending sections 633, 636, 637, 639, 644, 648, 683, 695, and 696 of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 633, 637, 648, 648a, 653, and 683 of this title and section 601 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees, amending provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 633, 636, 637, 644, and 694b of this title and section 502 of Title 44, Public Printing and Documents, and repealing provisions set out as a note under section 648 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Administration Reauthorization and Amendments Act of 1990'." Pub. L. 101-574, title III, Sec. 301, Nov. 15, 1990, 104 Stat. 2827, provided that: "This title [enacting sections 653 and 654 of this title, amending sections 631b, 636, and 648 of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under section 653 of this title and section 601 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees] may be cited as the 'Rural Small Business Enhancement Act of 1990'." SHORT TITLE OF 1989 AMENDMENT Section 1 of Pub. L. 101-37 provided that: "This Act [amending this section and sections 633, 636, 637, 639, and 644 of this title, enacting provisions set out as a note under this section, and amending provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 633, 636, 637, and 644 of this title] may be cited as the 'Business Opportunity Development Reform Act Technical Corrections Act'." SHORT TITLE OF 1988 AMENDMENTS Section 1(a) of Pub. L. 100-656 provided that: "This Act [amending this section, sections 632, 633, 636, 637, 639, 644, and 645 of this title, and section 541 of former Title 40, Public Buildings, Property, and Works, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 632, 633, 636, and 637 of this title, and amending provisions set out as a note under section 644 of this title] may be cited as the 'Business Opportunity Development Reform Act of 1988'." Section 1(a) of Pub. L. 100-590 provided that: "This Act [enacting sections 687m and 697c of this title, amending this section and sections 631b, 632, 633, 634, 636, 637, 638, 644, 648, 681, 687b, and 694b to 697b of this title, repealing section 694 of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 636, 637, 639, 644, 661, 694, 694b, and 697 of this title, and amending provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 633 and 637 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Administration Reauthorization and Amendment Act of 1988'." Pub. L. 100-533, Sec. 1, Oct. 25, 1988, 102 Stat. 2689, provided in part that Pub. L. 100-533 "[enacting chapter 97 of this title and section 417a of Title 41, Public Contracts, amending this section and sections 631b, 636, 637, and 1691b of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section, sections 636 and 637 of this title, and section 131 of Title 13, Census] may be cited as the 'Women's Business Ownership Act of 1988'." Section 8001 of title VIII of Pub. L. 100-418 provided that: "This title [amending this section and sections 636, 648, 649, and 696 of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section, and amending provisions set out as notes under this section and section 638 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business International Trade and Competitiveness Act'." SHORT TITLE OF 1984 AMENDMENTS Pub. L. 98-395, Sec. 1, Aug. 21, 1984, 98 Stat. 1366, provided that: "This Act [amending sections 636 and 648 of this title and provisions set out as notes under this section and section 648 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Development Center Improvement Act of 1984'." Pub. L. 98-362, Sec. 1, July 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 431, provided that: "This Act [amending sections 632, 633, and 637 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 633 and 637 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Computer Security and Education Act of 1984'." Pub. L. 98-352, Sec. 1, July 10, 1984, 98 Stat. 329, provided that: "This Act [amending sections 633, 634, and 639 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under section 634 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Secondary Market Improvements Act of 1984'." SHORT TITLE OF 1982 AMENDMENT Section 1 of Pub. L. 97-219 provided that: "This Act [amending section 638 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under section 638 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Innovation Development Act of 1982'." SHORT TITLE OF 1981 AMENDMENT Pub. L. 97-35, title XIX, Sec. 1901, Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 767, provided that: "This title [amending sections 632, 633, 636, 639, and 696 of this title, repealing section 636a of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 632 and 636 of this title, and amending provisions set out as notes under this section] may be cited as the 'Small Business Budget Reconciliation and Loan Consolidation/Improvement Act of 1981'." SHORT TITLE OF 1980 AMENDMENTS Pub. L. 96-481, title I, Sec. 110, Oct. 21, 1980, 94 Stat. 2323, provided that: "This part [part B (Secs. 110-113) of title I of Pub. L. 96-481 enacting section 649 of this title, amending section 636 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under section 649 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Export Expansion Act of 1980'." Section 201 of title II of Pub. L. 96-302 provided that: "This title [enacting section 648, amending section 636, and enacting provisions set out as a note under section 648 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Development Center Act of 1980'." Section 301 of title III of Pub. L. 96-302 provided that: "This title [enacting sections 631a and 631b of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Economic Policy Act of 1980'." Section 501 of title V of Pub. L. 96-302 provided that: "This title [amending sections 632 and 636 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 631 and 636 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Employee Ownership Act of 1980'." SHORT TITLE OF 1978 AMENDMENT Pub. L. 95-315, Sec. 1, July 4, 1978, 92 Stat. 377, provided: "That this Act [amending sections 633, 636, and 639 of this title and provisions set out as notes under this section] may be cited as the 'Small Business Energy Loan Act'." SHORT TITLE OF 1974 AMENDMENT Section 1 of Pub. L. 93-386 provided: "That this Act [enacting section 694c of this title, amending this section, sections 633, 634, 636, 639, 647, 694, and 694b of this title, and sections 2855, 2942, 2949, and 2982 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, repealing sections 2901, 2902, 2905, 2906, 2906a, 2906b, 2906c, and 2907 of Title 42, and enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 633 and 694 of this title] may be cited as the 'Small Business Amendments of 1974'." SHORT TITLE OF 1967 AMENDMENT Section 101 of Pub. L. 90-104, title I, Oct. 11, 1967, 81 Stat. 268, provided that: "This title [amending sections 633, 636, and 637 of this title and section 2902 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare] may be cited as the 'Small Business Act Amendments of 1967'." SHORT TITLE OF 1961 AMENDMENT Section 1 of Pub. L. 87-305 provided: "That this Act [amending this section, sections 633, 634, 636, 637, and 639 of this title, and section 2158 of Appendix to Title 50, War and National Defense] may be cited as the 'Small Business Act Amendments of 1961'." SHORT TITLE Section 2[1] of Pub. L. 85-536 provided that this chapter should be known as the "Small Business Act". REPEAL OF INCONSISTENT LAWS Section 2[44], formerly section 2[21], of Pub. L. 85-536, renumbered Sec. 2[30] by Pub. L. 96-302, title II, Sec. 202, July 2, 1980, 94 Stat. 843; renumbered Sec. 2[31] by Pub. L. 104-121, title II, Sec. 222(1), Mar. 29, 1996, 110 Stat. 860; renumbered Sec. 2[32] by Pub. L. 105-135, title VI, Sec. 602(b)(1)(A), Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2629; renumbered Sec. 2[34] by Pub. L. 106-50, title II, Sec. 201(b)(1), Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 235; renumbered Sec. 2[36] by Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title I, Sec. 111(b)(1)], Dec. 21, 2000, 114 Stat. 2763, 2763A-674; renumbered Sec. 2[37] by Pub. L. 108-183, title III, Sec. 308, Dec. 16, 2003, 117 Stat. 2662; renumbered Sec. 2[44] by Pub. L. 110-234, title XII, Sec. 12062(1), May 22, 2008, 122 Stat. 1407; Pub. L. 110-246, Sec. 4(a), title XII, Sec. 12062(1), June 18, 2008, 122 Stat. 1664, 2169, provided that: "All laws and parts of laws inconsistent with this Act [this chapter] are hereby repealed to the extent of such inconsistency." REGULATIONS Section 417 of title IV of Pub. L. 105-135 provided that: "(a) Proposed Regulations. - Proposed amendments to the Federal Acquisition Regulation or proposed Small Business Administration regulations under this subtitle [subtitle B (Secs. 411-417) of title IV of Pub. L. 105-135, amending this section and sections 632, 637 and 644 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under section 637 of this title and section 405 of Title 41, Public Contracts] and the amendments made by this subtitle shall be published not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 2, 1997] for the purpose of obtaining public comment pursuant to section 22 of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act (41 U.S.C. 418b), or chapter 5 of title 5, United States Code, as appropriate. The public shall be afforded not less than 60 days to submit comments. "(b) Final Regulations. - Final regulations shall be published not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act. The effective date for such final regulations shall be not less than 30 days after the date of publication." Section 136 of title I of Pub. L. 100-590 provided that: "Notwithstanding any law, rule or regulation, the Small Business Administration shall promulgate final regulations to be effective on publication to carry out the provisions of this title [see Effective Date of 1988 Amendments note above] within six months after the date of enactment [Nov. 3, 1988]." Section 8013 of title VIII of Pub. L. 100-418 provided that: "Notwithstanding any law, rule, or regulation, the Small Business Administration shall promulgate final regulations to carry out the provisions of this title [see Short Title of 1988 Amendments note above] within six months after the date of enactment of this title [Aug. 23, 1988]." SEPARABILITY Section 2[19] of Pub. L. 85-536 provided that: "If any provision of this Act [this chapter], or the application thereof to any person or circumstances, is held invalid, the remainder of this Act [this chapter], and the application of such provision to other persons or circumstances, shall not be affected thereby." AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS Pub. L. 85-536, Sec. 2[20], July 18, 1958, 72 Stat. 396, as amended by Pub. L. 87-341, Sec. 11(h)(2), Oct. 3, 1961, 75 Stat. 757; Pub. L. 95-89, title I, Sec. 102, Aug. 4, 1977, 91 Stat. 553; Pub. L. 95-315, Secs. 5, 7, July 4, 1978, 92 Stat. 379; Pub. L. 96- 302, title I, Secs. 101, 110, July 2, 1980, 94 Stat. 833, 837; Pub. L. 97-35, title XIX, Secs. 1905, 1906, Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 772-777; Pub. L. 98-270, title III, Secs. 302, 305, Apr. 18, 1984, 98 Stat. 160, 161; Pub. L. 98-395, Sec. 3, Aug. 21, 1984, 98 Stat. 1367; Pub. L. 99-272, title XVIII, Secs. 18001, 18002, 18012, Apr. 7, 1986, 100 Stat. 361, 363, 369; Pub. L. 100-72, Sec. 1, July 11, 1987, 101 Stat. 477; Pub. L. 100-418, title VIII, Secs. 8004, 8006(a), Aug. 23, 1988, 102 Stat. 1556, 1557; Pub. L. 100-590, title I, Secs. 101, 135(1), (2), Nov. 3, 1988, 102 Stat. 2990, 3007; Pub. L. 101-574, title I, Secs. 101, 102, Nov. 15, 1990, 104 Stat. 2815, 2817; Pub. L. 102-83, Sec. 5(c)(2), Aug. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 406; Pub. L. 102-366, title I, Secs. 102, 115(a), title IV, Secs. 405, 414, Sept. 4, 1992, 106 Stat. 987, 993, 1014, 1018; Pub. L. 103-81, Sec. 2, Aug. 13, 1993, 107 Stat. 780; Pub. L. 103-282, Sec. 1, July 22, 1994, 108 Stat. 1422; Pub. L. 103-403, title I, Sec. 101, Oct. 22, 1994, 108 Stat. 4176; Pub. L. 104-208, div. D, title II, Sec. 208(i)(2), Sept. 30, 1996, 110 Stat. 3009-747; Pub. L. 105-135, title I, Sec. 101, title II, Sec. 211, title VI, Sec. 607, Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2594, 2600, 2635; Pub. L. 106-9, Sec. 2(b), Apr. 5, 1999, 113 Stat. 17; Pub. L. 106-24, Sec. 1(b), Apr. 27, 1999, 113 Stat. 39; Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(8) [Sec. 1(c)], Sec. 1(a)(9) [title V, Sec. 502, title VIII, Sec. 804(a)], Dec. 21, 2000, 114 Stat. 2763, 2763A-664, 2763A-691, 2763A-703; Pub. L. 107- 20, title II, Sec. 2203(a), July 24, 2001, 115 Stat. 170; Pub. L. 108-217, Sec. 3, Apr. 5, 2004, 118 Stat. 591; Pub. L. 108-447, div. K, title I, Sec. 121, Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3446, provided that: "(a)(1) For fiscal year 2000 and each fiscal year thereafter, there are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary and appropriate, to remain available until expended, and to be available solely - "(A) to carry out the Small Business Development Center Program under section 21 [section 648 of this title], but not to exceed the annual funding level, as specified in section 21(a); "(B) to pay the expenses of the National Small Business Development Center Advisory Board, as provided in section 21(i); "(C) to pay the expenses of the information sharing system, as provided in section 21(c)(8); "(D) to pay the expenses of the association referred to in section 21(a)(3)(A) for conducting the accreditation program, as provided in section 21(k)(2); "(E) to pay the expenses of the Administration, including salaries of examiners, for conducting examinations as part of the accreditation program conducted by the association referred to in section 21(a)(3)(A); and "(F) to pay for small business development center grants as mandated or directed by Congress. "(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Administration shall enter into commitments for direct loans and to guarantee loans, debentures, payment of rentals, or other amounts due under qualified contracts and other types of financial assistance and enter into commitments to purchase debentures and preferred securities and to guarantee sureties against loss pursuant to programs under this Act [this chapter] and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [chapter 14B of this title], in the full amounts provided by law subject only to (A) the availability of qualified applications, and (B) limitations contained in appropriations Acts. Nothing in this paragraph authorizes the Administration to reduce or limit its authority to enter into such commitments. Subject to approval in appropriations Acts, amounts authorized for preferred securities, debentures or participating securities under title III of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [subchapter III of chapter 14B of this title] may be obligated in one fiscal year and disbursed or guaranteed in any 1 or more of the 4 subsequent fiscal years. "(3) There are authorized to be transferred from the disaster loan revolving fund such sums as may be necessary and appropriate for administrative expenses of the Administration. "(4) Except as may be otherwise specifically provided by law, the amount of deferred participation loans authorized in this section - "(A) shall mean the net amount of the loan principal guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (and does not include any amount which is not guaranteed); and "(B) shall be available for a national program, except that the Administration may use not more than an amount equal to 10 percent of the amount authorized each year for any special or pilot program directed to identified sectors of the small business community or to specific geographic regions of the United States. "(b) There are authorized to be appropriated to the Administration for fiscal year 1991 such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act [this chapter] and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [chapter 14B of this title]. There also are hereby authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary and appropriate for the carrying out of the provisions and purposes, including administrative expenses, of sections 7(b)(1) and 7(b)(2) of this Act [section 636(b)(1), (2) of this title]; and there are authorized to be transferred from the disaster loan revolving fund such sums as may be necessary and appropriate for such administrative expenses. "(c) Disaster Mitigation Pilot Program. - The following program levels are authorized for loans under section 7(b)(1)(C) [section 636(b)(1)(C) of this title]: "(1) $15,000,000 for fiscal year 2005. "(2) $15,000,000 for fiscal year 2006. "(d) Fiscal Year 2005. - "(1) Program levels. - The following program levels are authorized for fiscal year 2005: "(A) For the programs authorized by this Act [this chapter], the Administration is authorized to make - "(i) $75,000,000 in technical assistance grants, as provided in section 7(m) [section 636(m) of this title]; and "(ii) $105,000,000 in direct loans, as provided in 7(m). "(B) For the programs authorized by this Act, the Administration is authorized to make $23,050,000,000 in deferred participation loans and other financings. Of such sum, the Administration is authorized to make - "(i) $16,500,000,000 in general business loans, as provided in section 7(a) [section 636(a) of this title]; "(ii) $6,000,000,000 in certified development company financings, as provided in section 7(a)(13) and as provided in section 504 of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [section 697a of this title]; "(iii) $500,000,000 in loans, as provided in section 7(a)(21); and "(iv) $50,000,000 in loans, as provided in section 7(m). "(C) For the programs authorized by title III of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [subchapter III of chapter 14B of this title], the Administration is authorized to make - "(i) $4,250,000,000 in purchases of participating securities; and "(ii) $3,250,000,000 in guarantees of debentures. "(D) For the programs authorized by part B of title IV of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [part B of subchapter IV- A of chapter 14B of this title], the Administration is authorized to enter into guarantees not to exceed $6,000,000,000, of which not more than 50 percent may be in bonds approved pursuant to section 411(a)(3) of that Act [section 694b(a)(3) of this title]. "(E) The Administration is authorized to make grants or enter into cooperative agreements for a total amount of $7,000,000 for the Service Corps of Retired Executives program authorized by section 8(b)(1) [section 637(b)(1) of this title]. "(2) Additional authorizations. - "(A) There are authorized to be appropriated to the Administration for fiscal year 2005 such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act not elsewhere provided for, including administrative expenses and necessary loan capital for disaster loans pursuant to section 7(b) [section 636(b) of this title], and to carry out the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [chapter 14B of this title], including salaries and expenses of the Administration. "(B) Notwithstanding any other provision of this paragraph, for fiscal year 2005 - "(i) no funds are authorized to be used as loan capital for the loan program authorized by section 7(a)(21) except by transfer from another Federal department or agency to the Administration, unless the program level authorized for general business loans under paragraph (1)(B)(i) is fully funded; and "(ii) the Administration may not approve loans on its own behalf or on behalf of any other Federal department or agency, by contract or otherwise, under terms and conditions other than those specifically authorized under this Act or the Small Business Investment Act of 1958, except that it may approve loans under section 7(a)(21) of this Act in gross amounts of not more than $2,000,000. "(e) Fiscal Year 2006. - "(1) Program levels. - The following program levels are authorized for fiscal year 2006: "(A) For the programs authorized by this Act [this chapter], the Administration is authorized to make - "(i) $80,000,000 in technical assistance grants, as provided in section 7(m) [section 636(m) of this title]; and "(ii) $110,000,000 in direct loans, as provided in 7(m). "(B) For the programs authorized by this Act, the Administration is authorized to make $25,050,000,000 in deferred participation loans and other financings. Of such sum, the Administration is authorized to make - "(i) $17,000,000,000 in general business loans, as provided in section 7(a) [section 636(a) of this title]; "(ii) $7,500,000,000 in certified development company financings, as provided in section 7(a)(13) and as provided in section 504 of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [section 697a of this title]; "(iii) $500,000,000 in loans, as provided in section 7(a)(21); and "(iv) $50,000,000 in loans, as provided in section 7(m). "(C) For the programs authorized by title III of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [subchapter III of chapter 14B of this title], the Administration is authorized to make - "(i) $4,500,000,000 in purchases of participating securities; and "(ii) $3,500,000,000 in guarantees of debentures. "(D) For the programs authorized by part B of title IV of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [part B of subchapter IV- A of chapter 14B of this title], the Administration is authorized to enter into guarantees not to exceed $6,000,000,000, of which not more than 50 percent may be in bonds approved pursuant to section 411(a)(3) of that Act [section 694b(a)(3) of this title]. "(E) The Administration is authorized to make grants or enter into cooperative agreements for a total amount of $7,000,000 for the Service Corps of Retired Executives program authorized by section 8(b)(1) [section 637(b)(1) of this title]. "(2) Additional authorizations. - "(A) There are authorized to be appropriated to the Administration for fiscal year 2006 such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act not elsewhere provided for, including administrative expenses and necessary loan capital for disaster loans pursuant to section 7(b) [section 636(b) of this title], and to carry out the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [chapter 14B of this title], including salaries and expenses of the Administration. "(B) Notwithstanding any other provision of this paragraph, for fiscal year 2006 - "(i) no funds are authorized to be used as loan capital for the loan program authorized by section 7(a)(21) except by transfer from another Federal department or agency to the Administration, unless the program level authorized for general business loans under paragraph (1)(B)(i) is fully funded; and "(ii) the Administration may not approve loans on its own behalf or on behalf of any other Federal department or agency, by contract or otherwise, under terms and conditions other than those specifically authorized under this Act or the Small Business Investment Act of 1958, except that it may approve loans under section 7(a)(21) of this Act in gross amounts of not more than $2,000,000. "[(f) to (i) Repealed. Pub. L. 108-447, div. K, title I, Sec. 121(2), Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3446.] "(j) Fiscal Year 2004 Purchase and Guarantee Authority Under Title III of Small Business Investment Act of 1958. - For fiscal year 2004, for the programs authorized by title III of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 (15 U.S.C. 681 et seq.), the Administration is authorized to make - "(1) $4,000,000,000 in purchases of participating securities; and "(2) $3,000,000,000 in guarantees of debentures." LOAN APPLICATION PROCESSING Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VIII, Sec. 801], Dec. 21, 2000, 114 Stat. 2763, 2763A-702, provided that: "(a) Study. - The Administrator of the Small Business Administration shall conduct a study to determine the average time that the Administration requires to process an application for each type of loan or loan guarantee made under the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.). "(b) Transmittal. - Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 21, 2000], the Administrator shall transmit to Congress the results of the study conducted under subsection (a)." SERVICE DISABLED VETERANS Sections 701 to 704, 707, and 709 of title VII of Pub. L. 105-135 provided that: "SEC. 701. PURPOSES. "The purposes of this title [amending sections 631b, 636, and 637 of this title and enacting this note] are - "(1) to foster enhanced entrepreneurship among eligible veterans by providing increased opportunities; "(2) to vigorously promote the legitimate interests of small business concerns owned and controlled by eligible veterans; and "(3) to ensure that those concerns receive fair consideration in purchases made by the Federal Government. "SEC. 702. DEFINITIONS. "In this title: "(1) Eligible veteran. - The term 'eligible veteran' means a disabled veteran (as defined in section 4211(3) of title 38, United States Code). "(2) Small business concern owned and controlled by eligible veterans. - The term 'small business concern owned and controlled by eligible veterans' means a small business concern (as defined in section 3 of the Small Business Act [15 U.S.C. 632]) - "(A) that is at least 51 percent owned by 1 or more eligible veterans, or in the case of a publicly owned business, at least 51 percent of the stock of which is owned by 1 or more eligible veterans; and "(B) whose management and daily business operations are controlled by eligible veterans. "SEC. 703. REPORT BY SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION. "(a) Study and Report. - "(1) In general. - Not later than 9 months after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 2, 1997], the Administrator shall conduct a comprehensive study and submit to the Committees a final report containing findings and recommendations of the Administrator on - "(A) the needs of small business concerns owned and controlled by eligible veterans; "(B) the availability and utilization of Administration programs by small business concerns owned and controlled by eligible veterans; "(C) the percentage, and dollar value, of Federal contracts awarded to small business concerns owned and controlled by eligible veterans in the preceding 5 fiscal years; and "(D) methods to improve Administration and other agency programs to serve the needs of small business concerns owned and controlled by eligible veterans. "(2) Contents. - The report under paragraph (1) shall include recommendations to Congress concerning the need for legislation and recommendations to the Office of Management and Budget, relevant offices within the Administration, and the Department of Veterans Affairs. "(b) Conduct of Study. - In carrying out subsection (a), the Administrator - "(1) may conduct surveys of small business concerns owned and controlled by eligible veterans and service disabled veterans, including those who have sought financial assistance or other services from the Administration; "(2) shall consult with the appropriate committees of Congress, relevant groups and organizations in the nonprofit sector, and Federal or State government agencies; and "(3) shall have access to any information within other Federal agencies that pertains to such veterans and their small businesses, unless such access is specifically prohibited by law. "SEC. 704. INFORMATION COLLECTION. "After the date of issuance of the report required by section 703(a), the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall, in consultation with the Assistant Secretary for Veterans' Employment and Training and the Administrator, engage in efforts each fiscal year to identify small business concerns owned and controlled by eligible veterans in the United States. The Secretary shall inform each small business concern identified under this section that information on Federal procurement is available from the Administrator. "SEC. 707. ENTREPRENEURIAL TRAINING, COUNSELING, AND MANAGEMENT ASSISTANCE. "The Administrator shall take such actions as may be necessary to ensure that small business concerns owned and controlled by eligible veterans have access to programs established under the Small Business Act [15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.] that provide entrepreneurial training, business development assistance, counseling, and management assistance to small business concerns, including, among others, the Small Business Development Center program and the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) program. "SEC. 709. OUTREACH FOR ELIGIBLE VETERANS. "The Administrator, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans' Employment and Training, shall develop and implement a program of comprehensive outreach to assist eligible veterans, which program shall include business training and management assistance, employment and relocation counseling, and dissemination of information on veterans' benefits and veterans' entitlements." TRANSITION REIMBURSEMENT Pub. L. 103-403, title IV, Sec. 414, Oct. 22, 1994, 108 Stat. 4197, authorized payment, for a 90-day period of time, of reasonable amounts of funds to pay salaries and expenses of members and staff of the National Women's Business Council appointed on or before Oct. 22, 1994. BUY AMERICAN PREFERENCE IN PROVISION OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Pub. L. 102-366, title I, Sec. 103, Sept. 4, 1992, 106 Stat. 988, provided that: "In providing financial assistance with amounts appropriated pursuant to the amendments made by this Act [see Short Title of 1992 Amendment note above], the Administrator of the Small Business Administration shall, when practicable, accord preference to small business concerns which use or purchase equipment and supplies produced in the United States. The Administrator shall also encourage small business concerns receiving such assistance to purchase such equipment and supplies." NATIONAL SEMINAR ON SMALL BUSINESS EXPORTS Pub. L. 102-366, title II, Sec. 224, Sept. 4, 1992, 106 Stat. 1000, directed Small Business Administration to conduct a National Seminar on Small Business Exports in Buffalo, New York, in connection with the World University Games Buffalo '93 during July, 1993, in order to develop recommendations designed to stimulate exports from small companies, with such Seminar to build upon the information collected by Administration through previously conducted regional small business trade conferences and prior conference in State of Washington and to specifically consider utility of, and make recommendations regarding, subsequent International Conference on Small Business and Trade. FEASIBILITY STUDY OF BUSINESS COOPERATION NETWORK Pub. L. 101-574, title II, Sec. 233, Nov. 15, 1990, 104 Stat. 2825, directed Administrator of the Small Business Administration to conduct a study of feasibility of establishing a business cooperation system similar to Business Cooperation Network developed by the European Economic Community, specified the purpose of the study, and directed Administrator, not later than one year after Nov. 15, 1990, to transmit to Congress a report containing the results of the study together with recommendations for such legislative and administrative actions as the Administrator considered appropriate. DEVELOPMENT OF WOMEN'S BUSINESS ENTERPRISE Title IV of Pub. L. 100-533, Oct. 25, 1988, 102 Stat. 2694, as amended, formerly set out as a note under this section, was transferred to chapter 97 (Sec. 7101 et seq.) of this title. DISADVANTAGED SMALL BUSINESSES Section 504 of Pub. L. 100-533 provided that: "Nothing contained in this Act [see Short Title of 1988 Amendment note above] is intended to reduce or limit any programs, benefit, or activity that is authorized by law to assist small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals as defined pursuant to section 8(d)(3) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(d)(3))." GLOBALIZATION OF PRODUCTION; REPORT TO CONGRESS Section 8009 of Pub. L. 100-418 directed Administrator of Small Business Administration, within one year after Aug. 23, 1988, to submit a written report to Committees on Small Business of House of Representatives and Senate, prepared by Administration in conjunction with Bureau of Census and in cooperation with other relevant agencies, that would analyze to extent possible the effect of increased outsourcing and other shifts in production arrangements on small firms, particularly manufacturing firms, within United States subcontractor tier and to extent that such data is not available determine methods by which such data might be collected; assess the impact of specific economic policies, including, but not limited to, procurement, tax and trade policies, in facilitating outsourcing and other international production arrangements; and make recommendations as to changes in Government policy that would improve competitive position of smaller United States subcontractors, including recommendations as to incentives which could be provided to larger corporations to maximize their use of United States subcontractors and assist these subcontractors in changing production and marketing strategies and in obtaining new business in domestic and foreign markets. NATIONAL SEMINAR ON SMALL BUSINESS EXPORTS Section 8011 of Pub. L. 100-418 directed Small Business Administration to conduct a National Seminar on Small Business Exports within one year after Aug. 23, 1988, in order to develop recommendations designed to stimulate exports from small companies. APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATOR OF SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION TO TRADE POLICY COMMITTEE; SPECIAL TRADE ASSISTANT FOR SMALL BUSINESS IN OFFICE OF UNITED STATES TRADE REPRESENTATIVE Section 8012 of Pub. L. 100-418 provided that: "It is the sense of the Congress that the interests of the small business community have not been adequately represented in trade policy formulation and in trade negotiations. Therefore, it is the sense of the Congress that the Administrator of the Small Business Administration should be appointed as a member of the Trade Policy Committee and that the United States Trade Representative should consult with the Small Business Administration and its Office of Advocacy in trade policy formulation and in trade negotiations. "Further, it is the sense of the Congress that the United States Trade Representative would better serve the needs of the small business community with full-time staff assistance with responsibilities for small business trade issues. "Further, it is the sense of the Congress that the United States Trade Representative should appoint a special trade assistant for small business." WHITE HOUSE CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS Pub. L. 101-409, Oct. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 885, as amended by Pub. L. 103-81, Sec. 10, Aug. 13, 1993, 107 Stat. 783, directed President to conduct National White House Conference on Small Business not earlier than May 1, 1995, and not later than Sept. 30, 1995, to increase public awareness of essential contribution of small business, to identify obstacles to small business, to examine status of women and minorities as small business owners, and to develop specific recommendations for action to maintain and encourage economic viability of small business, further provided for creation of White House Conference on Small Business Commission to oversee preparation for Conference, further provided for selection of Conference participants as well as planning and administration of Conference, further provided for final report to be submitted not later than four months after convening of Conference as well as annual follow-up reports by Small Business Administration for three years after submission of final report, and further provided for authorization of appropriations. Pub. L. 98-276, May 8, 1984, 98 Stat. 169, directed President to call and conduct a National White House Conference on Small Business not later than Sept. 1, 1986, with Conference to submit a final report to President and Congress not more than six months from date on which Conference convened, and with that final report to include finding and recommendations of Conference as well as proposals for any legislative action necessary to implement Conference's recommendations; and required Small Business Administration to report to Congress annually during the 3-year period following submission of final report on status and implementation of findings and recommendations of Conference. ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICANS AS DISADVANTAGED MINORITY IN 1978 Section 118(c)(1) of Pub. L. 96-302 provided that 1980 Amendment of subsec. (e)(1)(C) by Pub. L. 96-302, Sec. 118(a), which included Asian Pacific Americans among the disadvantaged minorities, shall apply as if included in the 1978 Amendment made by Pub. L. 95-507, Sec. 201, enacting subsec. (e) of this section. ASSISTANCE TO AUTOMOBILE DEALERS; CONGRESSIONAL FINDINGS; INVESTIGATION BY ADMINISTRATOR; REPORT TO CONGRESS Pub. L. 96-185, Sec. 17, Jan. 7, 1980, 93 Stat. 1335, directed Administrator of Small Business Administration to investigate financial problems faced by small automobile dealers and determine what assistance through loans and loan guarantees may be needed to alleviate such problems and to report results of such investigation to Senate and House of Representatives not later than sixty days after Jan. 7, 1980. -EXEC- EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 11458 Ex. Ord. No. 11458, Mar. 5, 1969, 34 F.R. 4937, which related to a national program for minority business enterprise, was superseded by Ex. Ord. No. 11625, Oct. 13, 1971, 36 F.R. 19967, set out below. EX. ORD. NO. 11625. NATIONAL PROGRAM FOR MINORITY BUSINESS ENTERPRISE Ex. Ord. No. 11625, Oct. 13, 1971, 36 F.R. 19967, as amended by Ex. Ord. No. 12007, Aug. 22, 1977, 42 F.R. 42839, provided: The opportunity for full participation in our free enterprise system by socially and economically disadvantaged persons is essential if we are to obtain social and economic justice for such persons and improve the functioning of our national economy. The Office of Minority Business Enterprise, established in 1969, greatly facilitated the strengthening and expansion of our minority enterprise program. In order to take full advantage of resources and opportunities in the minority enterprise field, we now must build on this foundation. One important way of improving our efforts is by clarifying the authority of the Secretary of Commerce (a) to implement Federal policy in support of the minority business enterprise program; (b) provide additional technical and management assistance to disadvantaged business; (c) to assist in demonstration projects; and (d) to coordinate the participation of all Federal departments and agencies in an increased minority enterprise effort. NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the authority vested in me as President of the United States, it is ordered as follows: Section 1. Functions of the Secretary of Commerce. (a) The Secretary of Commerce (hereinafter referred to as "the Secretary") shall - (1) Coordinate as consistent with law the plans, programs, and operations of the Federal Government which affect or may contribute to the establishment, preservation, and strengthening of minority business enterprise. (2) Promote the mobilization of activities and resources of State and local governments, businesses and trade associations, universities, foundations, professional organizations, and volunteer and other groups towards the growth of minority business enterprises, and facilitate the coordination of the efforts of these groups with those of Federal departments and agencies. (3) Establish a center for the development, collection, summarization, and dissemination of information that will be helpful to persons and organizations throughout the Nation in undertaking or promoting the establishment and successful operation of minority business enterprise. (4) Within constraints of law and appropriations therefor, and according to his discretion, provide financial assistance to public and private organizations so that they may render technical and management assistance to minority business enterprises, and defray all or part of the costs of pilot or demonstration projects conducted by public or private agencies or organizations which are designed to overcome the special problems of minority business enterprises or otherwise to further the purposes of this order. (b) The Secretary, as he deems necessary or appropriate to enable him to better fulfill the responsibilities vested in him by subsection (a), may - (1) With the participation of other Federal departments and agencies as appropriate, develop comprehensive plans and specific program goals for the minority enterprise program; establish regular performance monitoring and reporting systems to assure that goals are being achieved; and evaluate the impact of Federal support in achieving the objectives established by this order. (2) Require a coordinated review of all proposed Federal training and technical assistance activities in direct support of the minority enterprise program to assure consistency with program goals and to avoid duplication. (3) Convene, for purposes of coordination, meetings of the heads of such departments and agencies, or their designees, whose programs and activities may affect or contribute to the purposes of this order. (4) Convene business leaders, educators, and other representatives of the private sector who are engaged in assisting the development of minority business enterprise or who could contribute to its development, for the purpose of proposing, evaluating and coordinating governmental and private activities in furtherance of the objectives of this order. (5) Confer with and advise officials of State and local governments. (6) Provide the managerial and organizational framework through which joint or collaborative undertakings with Federal departments or agencies or private organizations can be planned and implemented. (7) Recommend appropriate legislative or executive actions. Sec. 2. [Revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 12007, Aug. 22, 1977, 42 F.R. 42839.] Sec. 3. Responsibilities of Other Federal Departments and Agencies. (a) The head of each Federal department and agency, or a representative designated by him, when and in the manner so requested by the Secretary, shall furnish information, assistance, and reports to, and shall otherwise cooperate with, the Secretary in the performance of his functions hereunder. (b) The head of each Federal department or agency shall, when so requested by the Secretary, designate his Under Secretary or such other similar official to have primary and continuing responsibility for the participation and cooperation of that department or agency in matters concerning minority business enterprise. (c) The officials designated under the preceding paragraph, when so requested, shall review and report to the Secretary upon the policies and programs of the minority business enterprise program, and shall keep the Secretary informed of all proposed budgets, plans and programs of his department or agency affecting minority business enterprise. (d) The head of each Federal department or agency, or a representative designated by him, shall, to the extent provided under regulations issued by the Secretary after consultation with the official designated in paragraph (b) above, report to the Secretary on any activity that falls within the scope of the minority business enterprise program as defined herein and in those regulations. (e) Each Federal department or agency shall, within constraints of law and appropriations therefor, continue all current efforts to foster and promote minority business enterprises and to support the program herein set forth, and shall cooperate with the Secretary of Commerce in increasing the total Federal effort. Sec. 4. Reports. The Secretary shall, not later than 120 days after the close of each fiscal year, submit to the President a full report of his activities hereunder during the previous fiscal year. Further, the Secretary shall, from time to time, submit to the President his recommendations for legislation or other action as he deems desirable to promote the purposes of this order. Each Federal department or agency shall report to the Secretary as hereinabove provided on a timely basis so that the Secretary may consider such reports for his report and recommendations to the President. Each Federal department or agency shall develop and implement systematic data collection processes which will provide to the Office of Minority Business Enterprise Information Center current data helpful in evaluating and promoting the efforts herein described. Sec. 5. Policies and Standards. The Secretary may establish such policies, standards, definitions, criteria, and procedures to govern the implementation, interpretation, and application of this order, and generally perform such functions and take such steps as he may deem to be necessary or appropriate to achieve the purposes and carry out the provisions hereof. Sec. 6. Definitions. For purposes of this order, the following definitions shall apply: (a) "Minority business enterprise" means a business enterprise that is owned or controlled by one or more socially or economically disadvantaged persons. Such disadvantage may arise from cultural, racial, chronic economic circumstances or background or other similar cause. Such persons include, but are not limited to, Negroes, Puerto Ricans, Spanish-speaking Americans, American Indians, Eskimos, and Aleuts. (b) "State" means the States of the United States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the territories and possessions of the United States, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. Sec. 7. Construction. Nothing in this order shall be construed as subjecting any function vested in, or assigned pursuant to law to, any Federal department or agency or head thereof to the authority of any other agent or office exclusively, or as abrogating or restricting any such function in any manner. Sec. 8. Prior Executive Order. Executive Order No. 11458 of March 5, 1969, is hereby superseded. ADVISORY COUNCIL FOR MINORITY ENTERPRISE For provisions relating to termination of, see Ex. Ord. No. 12007, Aug. 22, 1977, 42 F.R. 42839, set out as a note under section 14 of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, set out in the Appendix to Title 5, Government Organization and Employees. Term of the Advisory Council for Minority Enterprise extended until Dec. 31, 1978, see Ex. Ord. No. 11948, Dec. 20, 1976, 41 F.R. 55705, set out as a note under section 14 of Pub. L. 92-463, Oct. 6, 1972, 86 Stat. 770, Title 5, Appendix, Government Organization and Employees. EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 12061 Ex. Ord. No. 12061, May 18, 1978, 43 F.R. 21865, as amended by Ex. Ord. No. 12091, Nov. 1, 1978, 43 F.R. 51373, which related to the Small Business Conference Commission, was revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 12258, Dec. 31, 1980, 46 F.R. 1251, set out as a note under section 14 of the Appendix to Title 5, Government Organization and Employees. EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 12269 Ex. Ord. No. 12269, Jan. 15, 1981, 46 F.R. 4673, which established a seven member President's Committee on Small Business Policy to advise the President on appropriate responses to the recommendations of the White House Conference on Small Business, designated the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to perform the functions of the President under Federal advisory committee provisions, and terminated the Committee on Dec. 31, 1982, was revoked by Ex. Ord. No. 12553, Feb. 25, 1986, 51 F.R. 7237. EX. ORD. NO. 12432. MINORITY BUSINESS ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT Ex. Ord. No. 12432, July 14, 1983, 48 F.R. 32551, provided: By virtue of the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and laws of the United States of America, including Section 205(a) of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (40 U.S.C. 486(a)) [now 40 U.S.C. 121(a)], in order to provide guidance and oversight for programs for the development of minority business enterprise pursuant to my statement of December 17, 1982 concerning Minority Business Development; and to implement the commitment of the Federal government to the goal of encouraging greater economic opportunity for minority entrepreneurs, it is hereby ordered as follows: Section 1. Minority Business Development Plans. (a) Minority business enterprise development plans shall be developed by each Federal agency having substantial procurement or grantmaking authority. Such agencies shall submit these plans to the Cabinet Council on Commerce and Trade on an annual basis. (b) These annual plans shall establish minority enterprise development objectives for the participating agencies and methods for encouraging both prime contractors and grantees to utilize minority business enterprises. The plans shall, to the extent possible, build upon the programs administered by the Minority Business Development Agency and the Small Business Administration, including the goals established pursuant to Public Law 95-507 [see Tables for classification]. (c) The Secretary of Commerce and the Administrator of the Small Business Administration, in consultation with the Cabinet Council on Commerce and Trade, shall establish uniform guidelines for all Federal agencies to be utilized in establishing the minority business programs set forth in Section 2 of this Order. (d) The participating agencies shall furnish an annual report regarding the implementation of their programs in such form as the Cabinet Council on Commerce and Trade may request, and at such time as the Secretary of Commerce shall designate. (e) The Secretary of Commerce shall provide an annual report to the President, through the Cabinet Council on Commerce and Trade, on activities under this Order and agency implementation of minority business development programs. Sec. 2. Minority Business Development Responsibilities of Federal Agencies. (a) To the extent permitted by law and consistent with its primary mission, each Federal agency which is required to develop a minority business development plan under Section 1 of this Order shall, to accomplish the objectives set forth in its plan, establish programs concerning provision of direct assistance, procurement assistance, and management and technical assistance to minority business enterprises. (b) Each Federal agency shall, to the extent permitted by law and consistent with its primary mission, establish minority business development programs, consistent with Section 211 of Public Law 95- 507 [amending 15 U.S.C. 637(d)] to develop and implement incentive techniques to encourage greater minority business subcontracting by Federal prime contractors. (c) Each Federal agency shall encourage recipients of Federal grants and cooperative agreements to achieve a reasonable minority business participation in contracts let as a result of its grants and agreements. In cases where State and local governments are the recipients, such encouragement shall be consistent with principles of federalism. (d) Each Federal agency shall provide the Cabinet Council on Commerce and Trade such information as it shall request from time to time concerning the agency's progress in implementing these programs. Ronald Reagan. EX. ORD. NO. 12523. NATIONAL WHITE HOUSE CONFERENCE ON SMALL BUSINESS Ex. Ord. No. 12523, June 27, 1985, 50 F.R. 26963, provided: By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and laws of the United States of America, and in order to implement the White House Conference on Small Business Authorization Act (Public Law 98-276) [set out above] it is hereby ordered as follows: Notwithstanding the provisions of any other Executive order, the functions of the President under the Federal Advisory Committee Act [5 U.S.C. App.] applicable to the White House Conference on Small Business Authorization Act, except that of reporting annually to the Congress, shall be performed by the Administrator of the Small Business Administration in accordance with the guidelines and procedures established by the Administrator of General Services. Ronald Reagan. EX. ORD. NO. 12928. PROMOTING PROCUREMENT WITH SMALL BUSINESSES OWNED AND CONTROLLED BY SOCIALLY AND ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED INDIVIDUALS, HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES, AND MINORITY INSTITUTIONS Ex. Ord. No. 12928, Sept. 16, 1994, 59 F.R. 48377, provided: By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, in order to enforce rigorously the letter and spirit of public laws that promote increased participation in Federal procurement by Small Businesses Owned and Controlled by Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individuals (SDBs) as described in section 8 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637), Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) as described in 34 C.F.R. 608.2, and Minority Institutions (MIs) as referred to in sections 1046(3) and 316(b)(1) of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (20 U.S.C. 1135d-5(3) and 1059c(b)(1), respectively), it is hereby ordered as follows: Section 1. Policy Statement. It is the policy of the United States Government that all department and agency heads and all Federal employees involved in the procurement of any and all goods and services shall assist SDBs, HBCUs, and MIs, as applicable, to develop viable, self-sustaining businesses capable of competing on an equal basis in the mainstream of the American economy. To that end, all Federal personnel shall commit to the letter and spirit of all laws promoting the participation of SDBs, HBCUs, and MIs in Federal procurement. The laws promote: (a) the award of contracts to SDBs, HBCUs, and MIs through the Small Business Administration Section 8(a) [15 U.S.C. 637(a)] Program, the Department of Defense Small and Disadvantaged Business Program, other agency programs, and through other specific statutory authority or appropriate means; (b) the establishment of particular goals for SDBs, HBCUs, or MIs on an agency-by-agency basis and the requirement that prime contractors and other recipients of Federal funds attain similar goals in their procurement; and (c) the establishment of other mechanisms that ensure that SDBs, HBCUs, and MIs have a fair opportunity to participate in Federal procurement. Sec. 2. Attainment of Goals. All departments and agencies are required by law to establish participation goals of not less than 5 percent (15 U.S.C. 644(g)) or a greater percentage where otherwise required by law, as further provided in the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Letter No. 91-1 of March 11, 1991. Although the Federal Government has made substantial strides toward meeting established SDB, HBCU, and MI participation goals, certain departments and agencies have from time to time failed to aggressively pursue such goals. Department and agency heads are henceforth directed to execute, implement, and otherwise aggressively strive to fulfill the statutorily-mandated procurement participation goals. In addition, all departments and agencies are encouraged to set reasonable participation goals that exceed statutory requirements, to the extent permitted by law. Sec. 3. Subcontracting Plans. The Small Business Act, (15 U.S.C. 637(d)) and other related laws require certain prime contractors to maximize the use of SDBs in subcontracting plans and strive to achieve stated goals through prime contractors' subcontracting practices. Department and agency heads are directed to aggressively enforce these prime contractors' obligations to maximize awards of subcontracts to eligible SDBs. Sec. 4. Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization ("OSDBU"). (a) Section 15(k) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 644(k)) establishes in each Federal department and agency an OSDBU and requires that the Director of the OSDBU "be responsible only to, and report directly to, the head of such agency or to the deputy of such head" (15 U.S.C. 644(k)(3)). To the extent not prohibited by law, each department and agency shall ensure that the aforementioned direct reporting requirements are henceforth vigorously enforced. (b) Because of the importance of the OSDBU function, each department and agency shall also, to the extent not prohibited by law, comply with the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Letter No. 79-1 of March 7, 1979, which provides implementation guidance on section 15k [15(k)] and the organizational placement and functions of the OSDBU. Sec. 5. Anti-fraud Enforcement. All department and agency heads shall ensure that in enforcing the laws and requirements mentioned in this order, Federal benefits or contracts intended for SDBs, HBCUs, and MIs are not awarded to entities that are not legitimate SDBs, HBCUs, and MIs. Department and agency anti-fraud enforcement, however, shall not diminish agency vigor in achieving the aforementioned participation goals, which exist to promote the development of legitimate SDBs, HBCUs, and MIs. Nothing herein is intended to change self-certification requirements. Sec. 6. Periodic Reports to the President. The Administrator of the Small Business Administration and the Administrator of the Office of Federal Procurement Policy shall report to the President periodically on the progress of all departments and agencies in complying with the laws and requirements mentioned in this order. Sec. 7. Independent Agencies. Independent agencies are requested to comply with the provisions of this order. Sec. 8. This order shall be effective immediately. William J. Clinton. EX. ORD. NO. 13169. ASSISTANCE TO SMALL BUSINESS EXPORTERS AND DISLOCATED WORKERS Ex. Ord. No. 13169, Oct. 6, 2000, 65 F.R. 60581, provided: By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the Small Business Act, 15 U.S.C. 631 et seq., the Workforce Investment Act, 29 U.S.C. 2801 et seq., and the Trade Act of 1974, 19 U.S.C. 2271 et seq. [19 U.S.C. 2101 et seq.], and in order to assist small businesses, including businesses headed by underserved populations, in participating in the export of products, and to expedite the delivery of adjustment assistance to dislocated workers, it is hereby ordered as follows: Section 1. Policy. By its accession to the World Trade Organization, the People's Republic of China will be required to open its markets to a wide range of products and services provided by Americans. In addition, the United States has recently enacted a new law to facilitate trade with the countries of Sub-Saharan Africa and the Caribbean Basin. Federal agencies should take steps to assist small businesses, including businesses headed by underserved populations, in capitalizing on these new opportunities. The agencies should also take steps to assist workers who lose their jobs as a result of competition from imports in their efforts to secure adjustment assistance benefits for which they are eligible. Sec. 2. Interagency Task Force on Small Business Exports. (a) The Secretaries of Commerce and Labor, the Administrator of the Small Business Administration, the United States Trade Representative, and the Chairman of the Export-Import Bank shall, within 60 days from the date of this order, establish an interagency task force through the Trade Promotion Coordinating Committee (TPCC). The task force shall facilitate exports by United States small businesses, including businesses headed by underserved populations, particularly with respect to the People's Republic of China and the countries of Sub-Saharan Africa and the Caribbean Basin. The TPCC shall submit an annual report to the President on the functions carried out by this task force during the preceding year. As part of its work, the task force shall assess the extent to which the establishment of permanent normal trade relations with the People's Republic of China, and the United States enactment of the African Growth and Opportunity Act, 19 U.S.C.A. 3701 et seq., and the United States-Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act, 19 U.S.C.A. 2701 note, may contribute to the creation of export opportunities for small businesses including businesses headed by underserved populations. (b) For the purposes of this order, "businesses headed by underserved populations" means businesses headed by women or minorities, and/or located in rural communities. Sec. 3. Expedited Response to Worker Dislocation. (a) The Secretary of Labor shall expedite the Federal response to worker dislocation through the Workforce Investment Act and the Trade Adjustment Assistance program by proactively seeking information, from a variety of sources, on actual or prospective layoffs, including the media and community and labor union members, and by sharing such information with appropriate state workforce officials. In addition, the Department of Labor (Labor) shall undertake a number of proactive steps to support public outreach activities aimed at workers, employers, the media, local officials, the community, and labor organizations and their members to improve awareness of the adjustment assistance available through Labor programs, including, but not limited to: (1) developing a set of methods to inform employers of the services available through Labor workforce programs, which will explain the requirements of the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, 29 U.S.C. 2101 et seq., and provide information on worker adjustment programs, including the Trade Adjustment Assistance and the basic dislocated worker programs, emphasizing the importance of early intervention to minimize the affects of work layoffs; (2) improving websites and other modes of communication to provide basic information on dislocated worker and Trade Adjustment Assistance program contacts at the State and local level; (3) developing a National Toll-Free Help Line to provide universal, accurate, and easy access to information about public workforce services to workers and employers; (4) providing on-site technical assistance, in partnership with other Federal agencies, when there are layoffs or closures with multi-State impact, or when there are dislocations with significant community impact (such as areas that have been affected by numerous layoffs of apparel and textile workers); (5) informing States directly when a secondary worker impact has been affirmed by Labor; and (6) to the extent permitted by law, and subject to the availability of appropriations, providing funding or an outreach campaign for secondary workers (i.e., individuals indirectly affected by increased imports from other countries). (b) The Secretary of Labor, in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce and the United States Trade Representative, shall report annually on the employment effects of the establishment of permanent normal trade relations with the People's Republic of China. Sec. 4. Judicial Review. This order does not create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law by a party against the United States, its officers, its employees, or any other person. William J. Clinton. EX. ORD. NO. 13360. PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR SERVICE-DISABLED VETERAN BUSINESSES TO INCREASE THEIR FEDERAL CONTRACTING AND SUBCONTRACTING Ex. Ord. No. 13360, Oct. 20, 2004, 69 F.R. 62549, provided: By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and in order to strengthen opportunities in Federal contracting for service- disabled veteran businesses, it is hereby ordered as follows: Section 1. Policy. America honors the extraordinary service rendered to the United States by veterans with disabilities incurred or aggravated in the line of duty during active service with the armed forces. Heads of agencies shall provide the opportunity for service-disabled veteran businesses to significantly increase the Federal contracting and subcontracting of such businesses. To achieve that objective, agencies shall more effectively implement section 15(g) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 644(g)), which provides that the President must establish a goal of not less than 3 percent for participation by service- disabled veteran businesses in Federal contracting, and section 36 of that Act (15 U.S.C. 657f), which gives agency contracting officers the authority to reserve certain procurements for service- disabled veteran businesses. Sec. 2. Duties of Agency Heads. To implement the policy set forth in section 1, heads of agencies shall: (a) develop a strategy to implement the policy set forth in section 1; (b) make the agency's strategy publicly available and report annually to the Administrator of the Small Business Administration on implementation of the agency's strategy; (c) designate a senior-level official who shall be responsible for developing and implementing the agency's strategy; (d) include development and implementation of the agency's strategy and achievements in furtherance of the strategy as significant elements in any performance plans of the agency's designated agency senior-level official, chief acquisition officer, and director of small and disadvantaged business utilization; and (e) include in the agency's strategy plans for: (i) reserving agency contracts exclusively for service-disabled veteran businesses; (ii) encouraging and facilitating participation by service- disabled veteran businesses in competitions for award of agency contracts; (iii) encouraging agency contractors to subcontract with service-disabled veteran businesses and actively monitoring and evaluating agency contractors' efforts to do so; (iv) training agency personnel on applicable law and policies relating to participation of service-disabled veteran businesses in Federal contracting; and (v) disseminating information to service-disabled veteran businesses that would assist these businesses in participating in awards of agency contracts. Sec. 3. Additional Duties of Administrator of the Small Business Administration. The Administrator of the Small Business Administration shall: (a) designate an appropriate entity within the Small Business Administration that shall, in coordination with the Veterans Affairs' Center for Veterans Enterprise (CVE), provide to service- disabled veteran businesses information and assistance concerning participation in Federal contracting; (b) advise and assist heads of agencies in their implementation of section 2 of this order; and (c) make available to service-disabled veteran businesses training in Federal contracting law, procedures, and practices that would assist such businesses in participating in Federal contracting. Sec. 4. Additional Duties of Administrator of General Services. The Administrator of General Services shall: (a) establish a Government-wide Acquisition Contract reserved for participation by service-disabled veteran businesses; and (b) assist service-disabled veteran businesses to be included in Federal Supply Schedules. Sec. 5. Additional Duties of the Secretary of Defense. The Secretary of Defense shall direct the Defense Acquisition University (DAU) to develop training on contracting with service- disabled veteran businesses and make this training available on line through the DAU continuous learning program. Sec. 6. Additional Duties of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall assist agencies by making available services of the CVE and assist in verifying the accuracy of contractor registration databases with regard to service- disabled veteran businesses. Sec. 7. Additional Duties of the Secretary of Labor and Secretary of Veterans Affairs. The Secretary of Labor and Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall, respectively, direct the Transition Assistance Program and the Disability Transition Assistance Program to educate separating service members as to the benefits available to service-disabled veteran businesses and as to potential entrepreneurial opportunities. Sec. 8. Definitions. As used in this order: (a) the term "agency" means an "executive agency" as that term is defined in section 105 of title 5, United States Code, excluding an executive agency that has fewer than 500 employees, the Government Accountability Office, or a Government corporation; (b) the term "service-disabled" means, with respect to disability, that the disability was incurred or aggravated in the line of duty in the active service in the United States Armed Forces; (c) the term "service-disabled veteran" means a veteran, as defined in 38 U.S.C. 101(2), with a disability that is service- connected, as defined in 38 U.S.C. 101(16); (d) the term "service-disabled veteran business" means a small business concern owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, as defined in section 3(q) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632(q)); and (e) the term "small business concern" has the meaning specified in section 3(a) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632(a)) and the definitions and standards issued under that section. Sec. 9. General Provisions. (a) Heads of agencies shall carry out duties assigned by sections 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 of this order to the extent consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations. (b) To the extent permitted by law, an agency shall disclose personally identifying information on service-disabled veterans to other agencies who require such information in order to discharge their responsibilities under this order. (c) An agency that consists of a multi-member commission shall implement this order to the extent it determines appropriate to the accomplishment of the agency's mission. (d) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, instrumentalities or entities, its officers, employees or agents, or any other person. George W. Bush. -CROSS- DEFINITIONS Pub. L. 105-135, Sec. 2, Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2593, provided that: "In this Act [see Short Title of 1997 Amendment note above] - "(1) the term 'Administration' means the Small Business Administration; "(2) the term 'Administrator' means the Administrator of the Small Business Administration; "(3) the term 'Committees' means the Committees on Small Business of the House of Representatives and the Senate [Committee on Small Business of Senate now Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of Senate]; and "(4) the term 'small business concern' has the meaning given the term in section 3 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632)." Pub. L. 104-208, div. D, Sec. 2, Sept. 30, 1996, 110 Stat. 3009- 725, provided that: "For purposes of this Act [probably should be "division", see Short Title of 1996 Amendment note above], the term 'Administrator' means the Administrator of the Small Business Administration." -FOOTNOTE- (!1) So in original. The period probably should be a semicolon. (!2) So in original. Probably should be capitalized. (!3) So in original. Probably should be "management". -End- -CITE- 15 USC Sec. 631a 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- Sec. 631a. Congressional declaration of small business economic policy -STATUTE- (a) Foster small business For the purpose of preserving and promoting a competitive free enterprise economic system, Congress hereby declares that it is the continuing policy and responsibility of the Federal Government to use all practical means and to take such actions as are necessary, consistent with its needs and obligations and other essential considerations of national policy, to implement and coordinate all Federal department, agency, and instrumentality policies, programs, and activities in order to: foster the economic interests of small businesses; insure a competitive economic climate conducive to the development, growth and expansion of small businesses; establish incentives to assure that adequate capital and other resources at competitive prices are available to small businesses; reduce the concentration of economic resources and expand competition; and provide an opportunity for entrepreneurship, inventiveness, and the creation and growth of small businesses. (b) Capital availability to small business Congress further declares that the Federal Government is committed to a policy of utilizing all reasonable means, consistent with the overall economic policy goals of the Nation and the preservation of the competitive free enterprise system of the Nation, to establish private sector incentives that will help assure that adequate capital at competitive prices is available to small businesses. To fulfill this policy, departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the Federal Government shall use all reasonable means to coordinate, create, and sustain policies and programs which promote investment in small businesses, including those investments which expand employment opportunities and which foster the effective and efficient use of human and natural resources in the economy of the Nation. -SOURCE- (Pub. L. 96-302, title III, Sec. 302, July 2, 1980, 94 Stat. 848.) -COD- CODIFICATION Section was enacted as part of the Small Business Economic Policy Act of 1980, and not as part of the Small Business Act which comprises this chapter. -MISC1- EFFECTIVE DATE Section effective Oct. 1, 1980, see section 507 of Pub. L. 96- 302, set out as an Effective Date of 1980 Amendment note under section 631 of this title. SHORT TITLE For short title of title III of Pub. L. 96-302, as the Small Business Economic Policy Act of 1980, see Short Title of 1980 Amendments note set out under section 631 of this title. -End- -CITE- 15 USC Sec. 631b 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- Sec. 631b. Reports to Congress; state of small business -STATUTE- (a) Report on Small Business and Competition The President shall transmit to the Congress not later than January 20 of each year a Report on Small Business and Competition which shall - (1) examine the current role of small business in the economy on an industry-by-industry basis; (2) present current and historical data on production, employment, investment, population, job creation and retention, annual business failures, annual business startups, and other economic variables for small business in the economy as a whole and for small business in each sector of the economy, with, to the extent practicable, specific statistics divided as to urban, suburban, and rural areas; (3) identify economic trends which will or may affect the small business sector and the state of competition; (4) examine the effects on small business and competition of policies, programs, and activities, including, but not limited to the Internal Revenue Code [26 U.S.C. 1 et seq.], the Employee Retirement Income Security Act [29 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.], the Securities Act of 1933 [15 U.S.C. 77a et seq.], and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 [15 U.S.C. 78a et seq.], and regulations promulgated thereunder; identify problems generated by such policies, programs, and activities; and recommend legislative and administrative solutions to such problems; and (5) recommend a program for carrying out the policy declared in section 631a of this title, together with such recommendations for legislation as he may deem necessary or desirable. (b) Appendix to report The President also shall transmit simultaneously as an appendix to such annual report, a report, by agency and department, on the total dollar value of all Federal contracts exceeding $10,000 in amount and the dollar amount (including the subcontracts thereunder in excess of $10,000) awarded to small, minority-owned, female- owned, and veteran-owned businesses. (c) Supplementary reports The President may transmit from time to time to the Congress reports supplementary to the Report on Small Business and Competition, each of which shall include such supplementary or revised recommendations as he may deem necessary or desirable to achieve the policy declared in section 631a of this title. (d) Referral to Congressional committees The Report on Small Business and Competition and all supplementary reports transmitted under subsections (b) and (c) of this section shall, when transmitted to Congress, be referred to the Senate Select Committee on Small Business and the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives. (e) Small business concerns owned by disadvantaged individuals and by women (!1) The information and data required to be reported pursuant to subsection (a) of this section shall separately detail those portions of such information and data that are relevant to - (1) small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, by gender, as defined pursuant to section 637(d) of this title; (2) small business concerns owned and controlled by women; and (3) (!2) qualified HUBZone small business concern (as defined in section 632(p) of this title). (3) (!2) small business concerns owned and controlled by veterans, as defined in section 632(q) of this title, and small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, as defined in such section 632(q) of this title. -SOURCE- (Pub. L. 96-302, title III, Sec. 303, July 2, 1980, 94 Stat. 848; Pub. L. 100-533, title V, Sec. 503, Oct. 25, 1988, 102 Stat. 2697; Pub. L. 100-590, title I, Sec. 124, Nov. 3, 1988, 102 Stat. 3000; Pub. L. 101-574, title III, Sec. 305, Nov. 15, 1990, 104 Stat. 2829; Pub. L. 105-135, title VI, Sec. 604(c), title VII, Sec. 705, Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2633, 2637; Pub. L. 106-50, title VI, Sec. 602, Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 248.) -REFTEXT- REFERENCES IN TEXT The Internal Revenue Code, referred to in subsec. (a)(4), is classified to Title 26, Internal Revenue Code. The Employee Retirement Income Security Act, referred to in subsec. (a)(4), is Pub. L. 93-406, Sept. 2, 1974, 88 Stat. 829, as amended, which is classified principally to chapter 18 (Sec. 1001 et seq.) of Title 29, Labor. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 1001 of Title 29 and Tables. The Securities Act of 1933, referred to in subsec. (a)(4), is act May 27, 1933, ch. 38, title I, 48 Stat. 74, as amended, which is classified generally to subchapter I (Sec. 77a et seq.) of chapter 2A of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 77a of this title and Tables. The Securities Exchange Act of 1934, referred to in subsec. (a)(4), is act June 6, 1934, ch. 404, 48 Stat. 881, as amended, which is classified principally to chapter 2B (Sec. 78a et seq.) of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 78a of this title and Tables. -COD- CODIFICATION Section was enacted as part of the Small Business Economic Policy Act of 1980, and not as part of the Small Business Act which comprises this chapter. -MISC1- AMENDMENTS 1999 - Subsec. (e)(1). Pub. L. 106-50, Sec. 602(1), which directed amendment of par. (1) by striking "and" after the semicolon, could not be executed because the word "and" did not appear after the semicolon. Subsec. (e)(2). Pub. L. 106-50, Sec. 602(2), which directed amendment of par. (2) by substituting "; and" for the period, could not be executed because par. (2) did not contain a period. Subsec. (e)(3). Pub. L. 106-50, Sec. 602(3), added par. (3) relating to small business concerns owned and controlled by veterans. 1997 - Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 105-135, Sec. 705, substituted ", female-owned, and veteran-owned businesses" for "and female-owned businesses". Subsec. (e)(3). Pub. L. 105-135, Sec. 604(c), added par. (3). 1990 - Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 101-574 added par. (2) and struck out former par. (2) which read as follows: "present current and historical data on production, employment, investment, and other economic variables for small business in the economy as a whole and for small business in each sector of the economy;". 1988 - Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 100-533 and Pub. L. 100-590 added subsecs. (e) which were identical, except that the subsec. (e) added by Pub. L. 100-533, which is set out as text of this section, contained the phrase ", by gender," in par. (1). -CHANGE- CHANGE OF NAME Committee on Small Business of Senate changed to Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of Senate. See Senate Resolution No. 123, One Hundred Seventh Congress, June 29, 2001. Previously, Select Committee on Small Business of Senate became Committee on Small Business of Senate. See Senate Resolution No. 101, Ninety-Seventh Congress, Mar. 25, 1981. -MISC2- EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1997 AMENDMENT Amendment by Pub. L. 105-135 effective Oct. 1, 1997, see section 3 of Pub. L. 105-135, set out as a note under section 631 of this title. EFFECTIVE DATE Section effective Oct. 1, 1980, see section 507 of Pub. L. 96- 302, set out as an Effective Date of 1980 Amendment note under section 631 of this title. TERMINATION OF REPORTING REQUIREMENTS For termination, effective May 15, 2000, of reporting provisions in subsecs. (a) and (b) of this section, see section 3003 of Pub. L. 104-66, as amended, set out as a note under section 1113 of Title 31, Money and Finance, and pages 17 and 34 of House Document No. 103-7. -FOOTNOTE- (!1) See 1988 Amendment note below. (!2) So in original. Two pars. (3) have been enacted. -End- -CITE- 15 USC Sec. 631c 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- Sec. 631c. Small Business Manufacturing Task Force -STATUTE- (a) Establishment The Administrator of the Small Business Administration (referred to in this subtitle (!1) as the "Administrator") shall establish a Small Business Manufacturing Task Force (referred to in this section as the "Task Force") to address the concerns of small manufacturers. (b) Chair The Administrator shall assign a member of the Task Force to serve as chair of the Task Force. (c) Duties The Task Force shall - (1) evaluate and identify whether programs and services are sufficient to serve the needs of small manufacturers; (2) actively promote the programs and services of the Small Business Administration that serve small manufacturers; and (3) identify and study the unique conditions facing small manufacturers and develop and propose policy initiatives to support and assist small manufacturers. (d) Meetings (1) Frequency The Task Force shall meet not less than 4 times per year, and more frequently if necessary to perform its duties. (2) Quorum A majority of the members of the Task Force shall constitute a quorum to approve recommendations or reports. (e) Personnel matters (1) Compensation of members Each member of the Task Force shall serve without compensation in addition to that received for services rendered as an officer or employee of the United States. (2) Detail of SBA employees Any employee of the Small Business Administration may be detailed to the Task Force without reimbursement, and such detail shall be without interruption or loss of civil service status or privilege. (f) Report Not later than 1 year after December 8, 2004, and annually thereafter, the Task Force shall submit a report containing the findings and recommendations of the task force to - (1) the President; (2) the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate; and (3) the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives. -SOURCE- (Pub. L. 108-447, div. K, title I, Sec. 147, Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3455.) -REFTEXT- REFERENCES IN TEXT This subtitle, referred to in subsec. (a), is subtitle D (Secs. 141-147) of title I of div. K of Pub. L. 108-447, Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3453, which enacted this section, amended sections 637, 648, 657b, and 657c of this title, enacted provisions set out as note under section 637 of this title, and amended provisions set out as a note under section 657b of this title. For complete classification of subtitle D to the Code, see Tables. -COD- CODIFICATION Section was enacted as part of the Small Business Reauthorization and Manufacturing Assistance Act of 2004, and also as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2005, and not as part of the Small Business Act which comprises this chapter. -FOOTNOTE- (!1) See References in Text note below. -End- -CITE- 15 USC Sec. 632 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- Sec. 632. Small-business concern -STATUTE- (a) Criteria (1) For the purposes of this chapter, a small-business concern, including but not limited to enterprises that are engaged in the business of production of food and fiber, ranching and raising of livestock, agriculture, and all other farming and agricultural related industries, shall be deemed to be one which is independently owned and operated and which is not dominant in its field of operation: Provided, That notwithstanding any other provision of law, an agricultural enterprise shall be deemed to be a small business concern if it (including its affiliates) has annual receipts not in excess of $750,000. (2) Establishment of size standards. - (A) In general. - In addition to the criteria specified in paragraph (1), the Administrator may specify detailed definitions or standards by which a business concern may be determined to be a small business concern for the purposes of this chapter or any other Act. (B) Additional criteria. - The standards described in paragraph (1) may utilize number of employees, dollar volume of business, net worth, net income, a combination thereof, or other appropriate factors. (C) Requirements. - Unless specifically authorized by statute, no Federal department or agency may prescribe a size standard for categorizing a business concern as a small business concern, unless such proposed size standard - (i) is proposed after an opportunity for public notice and comment; (ii) provides for determining - (I) the size of a manufacturing concern as measured by the manufacturing concern's average employment based upon employment during each of the manufacturing concern's pay periods for the preceding 12 months; (II) the size of a business concern providing services on the basis of the annual average gross receipts of the business concern over a period of not less than 3 years; (III) the size of other business concerns on the basis of data over a period of not less than 3 years; or (IV) other appropriate factors; and (iii) is approved by the Administrator. (3) When establishing or approving any size standard pursuant to paragraph (2), the Administrator shall ensure that the size standard varies from industry to industry to the extent necessary to reflect the differing characteristics of the various industries and consider other factors deemed to be relevant by the Administrator. (4) Exclusion of certain security expenses from consideration for purpose of small business size standards. - (A) Determination required. - Not later than 30 days after January 6, 2006, the Administrator shall review the application of size standards established pursuant to paragraph (2) to small business concerns that are performing contracts in qualified areas and determine whether it would be fair and appropriate to exclude from consideration in the average annual gross receipts of such small business concerns any payments made to such small business concerns by Federal agencies to reimburse such small business concerns for the cost of subcontracts entered for the sole purpose of providing security services in a qualified area. (B) Action required. - Not later than 60 days after January 6, 2006, the Administrator shall either - (i) initiate an adjustment to the size standards, as described in subparagraph (A), if the Administrator determines that such an adjustment would be fair and appropriate; or (ii) provide a report to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate and the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives explaining in detail the basis for the determination by the Administrator that such an adjustment would not be fair and appropriate. (C) Qualified areas. - In this paragraph, the term "qualified area" means - (i) Iraq, (ii) Afghanistan, and (iii) any foreign country which included a combat zone, as that term is defined in section 112(c)(2) of title 26, at the time of performance of the relevant Federal contract or subcontract. (b) "Agency" defined For purposes of this chapter, any reference to an agency or department of the United States, and the term "Federal agency", shall have the meaning given the term "agency" by section 551(1) of title 5, but does not include the United States Postal Service or the Government Accountability Office. (c) Qualified employee trust; eligibility for loan guarantee; "qualified employee trust" defined; regulations for treatment of trust as qualified employee trust (1) For purposes of this chapter, a qualified employee trust shall be eligible for any loan guarantee under section 636(a) of this title with respect to a small business concern on the same basis as if such trust were the same legal entity as such concern. (2) For purposes of this chapter, the term "qualified employee trust" means, with respect to a small business concern, a trust - (A) which forms part of an employee stock ownership plan (as defined in section 4975(e)(7) of title 26) - (i) which is maintained by such concern, and (ii) which provides that each participant in the plan is entitled to direct the plan as to the manner in which voting rights under qualifying employer securities (as defined in section 4975(e)(8) of title 26) which are allocated to the account of such participant are to be exercised with respect to a corporate matter which (by law or charter) must be decided by a majority vote of outstanding common shares voted; and (B) in the case of any loan guarantee under section 636(a) of this title, the trustee of which enters into an agreement with the Administrator which is binding on the trust and on such small business concern and which provides that - (i) the loan guaranteed under section 636(a) of this title shall be used solely for the purchase of qualifying employer securities of such concern, (ii) all funds acquired by the concern in such purchase shall be used by such concern solely for the purposes for which such loan was guaranteed, (iii) such concern will provide such funds as may be necessary for the timely repayment of such loan, and the property of such concern shall be available as security for repayment of such loan, and (iv) all qualifying employer securities acquired by such trust in such purchase shall be allocated to the accounts of participants in such plan who are entitled to share in such allocation, and each participant has a nonforfeitable right, not later than the date such loan is repaid, to all such qualifying employer securities which are so allocated to the participant's account. (3) Under regulations which may be prescribed by the Administrator, a trust may be treated as a qualified employee trust with respect to a small business concern if - (A) the trust is maintained by an employee organization which represents at least 51 percent of the employees of such concern, and (B) such concern maintains a plan - (i) which is an employee benefit plan which is designed to invest primarily in qualifying employer securities (as defined in section 4975(e)(8) of title 26), (ii) which provides that each participant in the plan is entitled to direct the plan as to the manner in which voting rights under qualifying employer securities which are allocated to the account of such participant are to be exercised with respect to a corporate matter which (by law or charter) must be decided by a majority vote of the outstanding common shares voted, (iii) which provides that each participant who is entitled to distribution from the plan has a right, in the case of qualifying employer securities which are not readily tradeable on an established market, to require that the concern repurchase such securities under a fair valuation formula, and (iv) which meets such other requirements (similar to requirements applicable to employee stock ownership plans as defined in section 4975(e)(7) of title 26) as the Administrator may prescribe, and (C) in the case of a loan guarantee under section 636(a) of this title, such organization enters into an agreement with the Administration which is described in paragraph (2)(B). (d) "Qualified Indian tribe" defined For purposes of section 636 of this title, the term "qualified Indian tribe" means an Indian tribe as defined in section 450b(e) of title 25, which owns and controls 100 per centum of a small business concern. (e) "Public or private organization for the handicapped" defined For purposes of section 636 of this title, the term "public or private organization for the handicapped" means one - (1) which is organized under the laws of the United States or of any State, operated in the interest of handicapped individuals, the net income of which does not inure in whole or in part to the benefit of any shareholder or other individuals; (2) which complies with any applicable occupational health and safety standard prescribed by the Secretary of Labor; and (3) which, in the production of commodities and in the provision of services during any fiscal year in which it received financial assistance under this subsection, employs handicapped individuals for not less than 75 per centum of the man-hours required for the production or provision of the commodities or services. (f) "Handicapped individual" defined For purposes of section 636 of this title, the term "handicapped individual" means an individual - (1) who has a physical, mental, or emotional impairment, defect, ailment, disease, or disability of a permanent nature which in any way limits the selection of any type of employment for which the person would otherwise be qualified or qualifiable; or (2) who is a service-disabled veteran. (g) "Energy measures" defined For purposes of section 636 of this title, the term "energy measures" includes - (1) solar thermal energy equipment which is either of the active type based upon mechanically forced energy transfer or of the passive type based on convective, conductive, or radiant energy transfer or some combination of these types; (2) photovoltaic cells and related equipment; (3) a product or service the primary purpose of which is conservation of energy through devices or techniques which increase the energy efficiency of existing equipment, methods of operation, or systems which use fossil fuels, and which is on the Energy Conservation Measures list of the Secretary of Energy or which the Administrator determines to be consistent with the intent of this subsection; (4) equipment the primary purpose of which is production of energy from wood, biological waste, grain, or other biomass source of energy; (5) equipment the primary purpose of which is industrial cogeneration of energy, district heating, or production of energy from industrial waste; (6) hydroelectric power equipment; (7) wind energy conversion equipment; and (8) engineering, architectural, consulting, or other professional services which are necessary or appropriate to aid citizens in using any of the measures described in paragraph (1) through (7). (h) "Credit elsewhere" defined For purposes of this chapter the term "credit elsewhere" means the availability of credit from non-Federal sources on reasonable terms and conditions taking into consideration the prevailing rates and terms in the community in or near where the concern transacts business, or the homeowner resides, for similar purposes and periods of time. (i) "Homeowners" defined For purposes of section 636 of this title, the term "homeowners" includes owners and lessees of residential property and also includes personal property. (j) "Small agricultural cooperative" defined For the purposes of this chapter, the term "small agricultural cooperative" means an association (corporate or otherwise) acting pursuant to the provisions of the Agricultural Marketing Act (12 U.S.C. 1141j), whose size does not exceed the size standard established by the Administration for other similar agricultural small business concerns. In determining such size, the Administration shall regard the association as a business concern and shall not include the income or employees of any member shareholder of such cooperative. (k) "Disaster" defined (1) For the purposes of this chapter, the term "disaster" means a sudden event which causes severe damage including, but not limited to, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, fires, explosions, volcanoes, windstorms, landslides or mudslides, tidal waves, commercial fishery failures or fishery resource disasters (as determined by the Secretary of Commerce under section 4107(b) of title 16), ocean conditions resulting in the closure of customary fishing waters, riots, civil disorders or other catastrophes, except it does not include economic dislocations. (2) For purposes of section 636(b)(2) of this title, the term "disaster" includes - (A) drought; (B) below average water levels in the Great Lakes, or on any body of water in the United States that supports commerce by small business concerns; and (C) ice storms and blizzards. (l) "Computer crime" defined For purposes of this chapter - (1) (!1) the term "computer crime" means - (A) any crime committed against a small business concern by means of the use of a computer; and (B) any crime involving the illegal use of, or tampering with, a computer owned or utilized by a small business concern. (m) "Simplified acquisition threshold" defined For purposes of this chapter, the term "simplified acquisition threshold" has the meaning given such term in section 403(11) of title 41. (n) "Small business concern owned and controlled by women" defined For the purposes of this chapter, a small business concern is a small business concern owned and controlled by women if - (1) at least 51 percent of small business concern is owned by one or more women or, in the case of any publicly owned business, at least 51 percent of the stock of which is owned by one or more women; and (2) the management and daily business operations of the business are controlled by one or more women. (o) Definitions of bundling of contract requirements and related terms In this chapter: (1) Bundled contract The term "bundled contract" means a contract that is entered into to meet requirements that are consolidated in a bundling of contract requirements. (2) Bundling of contract requirements The term "bundling of contract requirements" means consolidating 2 or more procurement requirements for goods or services previously provided or performed under separate smaller contracts into a solicitation of offers for a single contract that is likely to be unsuitable for award to a small-business concern due to - (A) the diversity, size, or specialized nature of the elements of the performance specified; (B) the aggregate dollar value of the anticipated award; (C) the geographical dispersion of the contract performance sites; or (D) any combination of the factors described in subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C). (3) Separate smaller contract The term "separate smaller contract", with respect to a bundling of contract requirements, means a contract that has been performed by 1 or more small business concerns or was suitable for award to 1 or more small business concerns. (p) Definitions relating to HUBZones In this chapter: (1) Historically underutilized business zone The term "historically underutilized business zone" means any area located within 1 or more - (A) qualified census tracts; (B) qualified nonmetropolitan counties; (C) lands within the external boundaries of an Indian reservation; (D) redesignated areas; or (E) base closure areas. (2) HUBZone The term "HUBZone" means a historically underutilized business zone. (3) HUBZone small business concern The term "HUBZone small business concern" means - (A) a small business concern that is at least 51 percent owned and controlled by United States citizens; (B) a small business concern that is - (i) an Alaska Native Corporation owned and controlled by Natives (as determined pursuant to section 1626(e)(1) of title 43); or (ii) a direct or indirect subsidiary corporation, joint venture, or partnership of an Alaska Native Corporation qualifying pursuant to section 1626(e)(1) of title 43, if that subsidiary, joint venture, or partnership is owned and controlled by Natives (as determined pursuant to section 1626(e)(2) of title 43); (C) a small business concern - (i) that is wholly owned by one or more Indian tribal governments, or by a corporation that is wholly owned by one or more Indian tribal governments; or (ii) that is owned in part by one or more Indian tribal governments, or by a corporation that is wholly owned by one or more Indian tribal governments, if all other owners are either United States citizens or small business concerns; (D) a small business concern that is - (i) wholly owned by a community development corporation that has received financial assistance under part 1 of subchapter A of the Community Economic Development Act of 1981 (42 U.S.C. 9805 et seq.); or (ii) owned in part by one or more community development corporations, if all other owners are either United States citizens or small business concerns; or (E) a small business concern that is - (i) a small agricultural cooperative organized or incorporated in the United States; (ii) wholly owned by 1 or more small agricultural cooperatives organized or incorporated in the United States; or (iii) owned in part by 1 or more small agricultural cooperatives organized or incorporated in the United States, if all owners are small business concerns or United States citizens. (4) Qualified areas (A) Qualified census tract The term "qualified census tract" has the meaning given that term in section 42(d)(5)(C)(ii) (!2) of title 26. (B) Qualified nonmetropolitan county The term "qualified nonmetropolitan county" means any county - (i) that was not located in a metropolitan statistical area (as defined in section 143(k)(2)(B) of title 26) at the time of the most recent census taken for purposes of selecting qualified census tracts under section 42(d)(5)(C)(ii) (!2) of title 26; and (ii) in which - (I) the median household income is less than 80 percent of the nonmetropolitan State median household income, based on the most recent data available from the Bureau of the Census of the Department of Commerce; (II) the unemployment rate is not less than 140 percent of the average unemployment rate for the United States or for the State in which such county is located, whichever is less, based on the most recent data available from the Secretary of Labor; or (III) there is located a difficult development area, as designated by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development in accordance with section 42(d)(5)(C)(iii) (!2) of title 26, within Alaska, Hawaii, or any territory or possession of the United States outside the 48 contiguous States. (C) Redesignated area The term "redesignated area" means any census tract that ceases to be qualified under subparagraph (A) and any nonmetropolitan county that ceases to be qualified under subparagraph (B), except that a census tract or a nonmetropolitan county may be a "redesignated area" only until the later of - (i) the date on which the Census Bureau publicly releases the first results from the 2010 decennial census; or (ii) 3 years after the date on which the census tract or nonmetropolitan county ceased to be so qualified. (D) Base closure area The term "base closure area" means lands within the external boundaries of a military installation that were closed through a privatization process under the authority of - (i) the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 (part A of title XXIX of division B of Public Law 101-510; 10 U.S.C. 2687 note); (ii) title II of the Defense Authorization Amendments and Base Closure and Realignment Act (Public Law 100-526; 10 U.S.C. 2687 note); (iii) section 2687 of title 10; or (iv) any other provision of law authorizing or directing the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of a military department to dispose of real property at the military installation for purposes relating to base closures of redevelopment, while retaining the authority to enter into a leaseback of all or a portion of the property for military use. (5) Qualified HUBZone small business concern (A) In general A HUBZone small business concern is "qualified", if - (i) the small business concern has certified in writing to the Administrator (or the Administrator otherwise determines, based on information submitted to the Administrator by the small business concern, or based on certification procedures, which shall be established by the Administration by regulation) that - (I) it is a HUBZone small business concern - (aa) pursuant to subparagraph (A), (B), (C), (D), or (E) of paragraph (3), and that its principal office is located in a HUBZone and not fewer than 35 percent of its employees reside in a HUBZone; or (bb) pursuant to paragraph (3)(C), and not fewer than 35 percent of its employees engaged in performing a contract awarded to the small business concern on the basis of a preference provided under section 657a(b) of this title reside within any Indian reservation governed by one or more of the tribal government owners, or reside within any HUBZone adjoining any such Indian reservation; (II) the small business concern will attempt to maintain the applicable employment percentage under subclause (I) during the performance of any contract awarded to the small business concern on the basis of a preference provided under section 657a(b) of this title; and (III) with respect to any subcontract entered into by the small business concern pursuant to a contract awarded to the small business concern under section 657a of this title, the small business concern will ensure that - (aa) in the case of a contract for services (except construction), not less than 50 percent of the cost of contract performance incurred for personnel will be expended for its employees or for employees of other HUBZone small business concerns; (bb) in the case of a contract for procurement of supplies (other than procurement from a regular dealer in such supplies), not less than 50 percent of the cost of manufacturing the supplies (not including the cost of materials) will be incurred in connection with the performance of the contract in a HUBZone by 1 or more HUBZone small business concerns; and (cc) in the case of a contract for the procurement by the Secretary of Agriculture of agricultural commodities, none of the commodity being procured will be obtained by the prime contractor through a subcontract for the purchase of the commodity in substantially the final form in which it is to be supplied to the Government; and (ii) no certification made or information provided by the small business concern under clause (i) has been, in accordance with the procedures established under section 657a(c)(1) of this title - (I) successfully challenged by an interested party; or (II) otherwise determined by the Administrator to be materially false. (B) Change in percentages The Administrator may utilize a percentage other than the percentage specified in item (aa) or (bb) of subparagraph (A)(i)(III), if the Administrator determines that such action is necessary to reflect conventional industry practices among small business concerns that are below the numerical size standard for businesses in that industry category. (C) Construction and other contracts The Administrator shall promulgate final regulations imposing requirements that are similar to those specified in items (aa) and (bb) of subparagraph (A)(i)(III) on contracts for general and specialty construction, and on contracts for any other industry category that would not otherwise be subject to those requirements. The percentage applicable to any such requirement shall be determined in accordance with subparagraph (B). (D) List of qualified small business concerns The Administrator shall establish and maintain a list of qualified HUBZone small business concerns, which list shall, to the extent practicable - (i) once the Administrator has made the certification required by subparagraph (A)(i) regarding a qualified HUBZone small business concern and has determined that subparagraph (A)(ii) does not apply to that concern, include the name, address, and type of business with respect to each such small business concern; (ii) be updated by the Administrator not less than annually; and (iii) be provided upon request to any Federal agency or other entity. (6) Native American small business concerns (A) Alaska Native Corporation The term "Alaska Native Corporation" has the same meaning as the term "Native Corporation" in section 1602 of title 43. (B) Alaska Native Village The term "Alaska Native Village" has the same meaning as the term "Native village" in section 1602 of title 43. (C) Indian reservation The term "Indian reservation" - (i) has the same meaning as the term "Indian country" in section 1151 of title 18, except that such term does not include - (I) any lands that are located within a State in which a tribe did not exercise governmental jurisdiction on December 21, 2000, unless that tribe is recognized after December 21, 2000, by either an Act of Congress or pursuant to regulations of the Secretary of the Interior for the administrative recognition that an Indian group exists as an Indian tribe (part 83 of title 25, Code of Federal Regulations); and (II) lands taken into trust or acquired by an Indian tribe after December 21, 2000, if such lands are not located within the external boundaries of an Indian reservation or former reservation or are not contiguous to the lands held in trust or restricted status on December 21, 2000; and (ii) in the State of Oklahoma, means lands that - (I) are within the jurisdictional areas of an Oklahoma Indian tribe (as determined by the Secretary of the Interior); and (II) are recognized by the Secretary of the Interior as eligible for trust land status under part 151 of title 25, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on December 21, 2000). (7) Agricultural commodity The term "agricultural commodity" has the same meaning as in section 5602 of title 7. (q) Definitions relating to veterans In this chapter, the following definitions apply: (1) Service-disabled veteran The term "service-disabled veteran" means a veteran with a disability that is service-connected (as defined in section 101(16) of title 38). (2) Small business concern owned and controlled by service- disabled veterans The term "small business concern owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans" means a small business concern - (A) not less than 51 percent of which is owned by one or more service-disabled veterans or, in the case of any publicly owned business, not less than 51 percent of the stock of which is owned by one or more service-disabled veterans; and (B) the management and daily business operations of which are controlled by one or more service-disabled veterans or, in the case of a veteran with permanent and severe disability, the spouse or permanent caregiver of such veteran. (3) Small business concern owned and controlled by veterans The term "small business concern owned and controlled by veterans" means a small business concern - (A) not less than 51 percent of which is owned by one or more veterans or, in the case of any publicly owned business, not less than 51 percent of the stock of which is owned by one or more veterans; and (B) the management and daily business operations of which are controlled by one or more veterans. (4) Veteran The term "veteran" has the meaning given the term in section 101(2) of title 38. (5) Relief from time limitations (A) In general Any time limitation on any qualification, certification, or period of participation imposed under this chapter on any program that is available to small business concerns shall be extended for a small business concern that - (i) is owned and controlled by - (I) a veteran who was called or ordered to active duty under a provision of law specified in section 101(a)(13)(B) of title 10 on or after September 11, 2001; or (II) a service-disabled veteran who became such a veteran due to an injury or illness incurred or aggravated in the active military, naval, or air service during a period of active duty pursuant to a call or order to active duty under a provision of law referred to in subclause (I) on or after September 11, 2001; and (ii) was subject to the time limitation during such period of active duty. (B) Duration Upon submission of proper documentation to the Administrator, the extension of a time limitation under subparagraph (A) shall be equal to the period of time that such veteran who owned or controlled such a concern was on active duty as described in that subparagraph. (C) Exception for programs subject to Federal Credit Reform Act of 1990 The provisions of subparagraphs (A) and (B) shall not apply to any programs subject to the Federal Credit Reform Act of 1990 (2 U.S.C. 661 et seq.). (r) Definitions relating to small business lending companies As used in section 650 of this title: (1) Small business lending company The term "small business lending company" means a business concern that is authorized by the Administrator to make loans pursuant to section 636(a) of this title and whose lending activities are not subject to regulation by any Federal or State regulatory agency. (2) Non-Federally regulated SBA lender The term "non-Federally regulated SBA lender" means a business concern if - (A) such concern is authorized by the Administrator to make loans under section 636 of this title; (B) such concern is subject to regulation by a State; and (C) the lending activities of such concern are not regulated by any Federal banking authority. (s) Major disaster In this chapter, the term "major disaster" has the meaning given that term in section 5122 of title 42. -SOURCE- (Pub. L. 85-536, Sec. 2[3], July 18, 1958, 72 Stat. 384; Pub. L. 94- 305, title I, Sec. 112(b), June 4, 1976, 90 Stat. 667; Pub. L. 95- 507, title II, Sec. 224(b), Oct. 24, 1978, 92 Stat. 1772; Pub. L. 96-302, title V, Sec. 504, July 2, 1980, 94 Stat. 851; Pub. L. 96- 481, title I, Sec. 108, Oct. 21, 1980, 94 Stat. 2323; Pub. L. 97- 35, title XIX, Sec. 1903, Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 771; Pub. L. 98- 270, title III, Sec. 310, Apr. 18, 1984, 98 Stat. 161; Pub. L. 98- 362, Sec. 6, July 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 434; Pub. L. 98-473, title I, Sec. 111A(b), Oct. 12, 1984, 98 Stat. 1966; Pub. L. 99-272, title XVIII, Sec. 18016, Apr. 7, 1986, 100 Stat. 371; Pub. L. 99-500, Sec. 101(c) [title X, Sec. 921(f)], Oct. 18, 1986, 100 Stat. 1783- 82, 1783-149, and Pub. L. 99-591, Sec. 101(c) [title X, Sec. 921(f)], Oct. 30, 1986, 100 Stat. 3341-82, 3341-149; Pub. L. 99- 514, Sec. 2, Oct. 22, 1986, 100 Stat. 2095; Pub. L. 99-661, div. A, title IX, formerly title IV, Sec. 921(f), Nov. 14, 1986, 100 Stat. 3929, renumbered title IX, Pub. L. 100-26, Sec. 3(5), Apr. 21, 1987, 101 Stat. 273; Pub. L. 100-26, Sec. 10(b)(2), Apr. 21, 1987, 101 Stat. 288; Pub. L. 100-456, div. A, title VIII, Sec. 845, Sept. 29, 1988, 102 Stat. 2027; Pub. L. 100-590, title I, Sec. 119(b), Nov. 3, 1988, 102 Stat. 2999; Pub. L. 100-656, title VII, Sec. 732, Nov. 15, 1988, 102 Stat. 3897; Pub. L. 101-510, div. A, title VIII, Sec. 806(e)(1), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1592; Pub. L. 102-366, title II, Sec. 222(a), Sept. 4, 1992, 106 Stat. 999; Pub. L. 103-355, title IV, Sec. 4404(a), title VII, Sec. 7106(d), Oct. 13, 1994, 108 Stat. 3349, 3376; Pub. L. 103-403, title III, Sec. 301, Oct. 22, 1994, 108 Stat. 4187; Pub. L. 104-208, div. D, title I, Sec. 104(b)(1), Sept. 30, 1996, 110 Stat. 3009-730; Pub. L. 105- 135, title IV, Sec. 412, title VI, Sec. 602(a), Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2617, 2627; Pub. L. 106-50, title I, Sec. 103(a), title IV, Sec. 401(a), Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 234, 243; Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VI, Secs. 602-604, 611, 612(b)-615(a), title VIII, Sec. 806(b)], Dec. 21, 2000, 114 Stat. 2763, 2763A-697 to 2763A-701, 2763A-706; Pub. L. 108-271, Sec. 8(b), July 7, 2004, 118 Stat. 814; Pub. L. 108-447, div. K, title I, Secs. 151, 152(a)(1), (3)-(c)(1), 162, Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3456, 3457, 3465; Pub. L. 109-59, title X, Sec. 10203, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1933; Pub. L. 109-163, div. A, title VIII, Secs. 844, 845(a)(1), Jan. 6, 2006, 119 Stat. 3389, 3390; Pub. L. 110-186, title II, Sec. 205, Feb. 14, 2008, 122 Stat. 629; Pub. L. 110-234, title XII, Secs. 12063(c)(1), 12071, May 22, 2008, 122 Stat. 1408, 1411; Pub. L. 110-246, Sec. 4(a), title XII, Secs. 12063(c)(1), 12071, June 18, 2008, 122 Stat. 1664, 2170, 2173.) -REFTEXT- REFERENCES IN TEXT The Agricultural Marketing Act (12 U.S.C. 1141j), referred to in subsec. (j), is act June 15, 1929, ch. 24, 46 Stat. 11, which is classified generally to chapter 7A (Sec. 1141 et seq.) of Title 12, Banks and Banking. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 1141j(e) of Title 12 and Tables. The Community Economic Development Act of 1981, referred to in subsec. (p)(3)(D)(i), is subchapter A (Secs. 611-633) of chapter 8 of subtitle A of title VI of Pub. L. 97-35, Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 489, as amended. Part 1 of subchapter A of the Act is classified generally to part A (Sec. 9805 et seq.) of subchapter I of chapter 105 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 9801 of Title 42 and Tables. Subpar. (C) of section 42(d)(5) of title 26, referred to in subsec. (p)(4)(A), (B)(i), (ii)(III), was redesignated (B) by Pub. L. 110-289, div. C, title I, Sec. 3003(g)(3), July 30, 2008, 122 Stat. 2882. The Federal Credit Reform Act of 1990, referred to in subsec. (q)(5)(C), is title V of Pub. L. 93-344, as added by Pub. L. 101- 508, title XIII, Sec. 13201(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1388-609, which is classified generally to subchapter III (Sec. 661 et seq.) of chapter 17A of Title 2, The Congress. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 621 of Title 2 and Tables. -COD- CODIFICATION "Section 450b(e) of title 25", referred to in subsec. (d), was in the original "section 4(a) of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act" which is classified to section 450b(a) of Title 25, Indians, but has been editorially translated as section 450b(e) of Title 25 as the probable intent of Congress, in that the definition of "Indian Tribes" is set out in subsec. (e) of section 450b of Title 25. Pub. L. 110-234 and Pub. L. 110-246 made identical amendments to this section. The amendments by Pub. L. 110-234 were repealed by section 4(a) of Pub. L. 110-246. Pub. L. 99-591 is a corrected version of Pub. L. 99-500. PRIOR PROVISIONS Prior similar provisions were contained in section 203 of act July 30, 1953, ch. 282, title II, 67 Stat. 233, which was previously classified to this section. See Codification note set out under section 631 of this title. -MISC1- AMENDMENTS 2008 - Subsec. (k)(2)(C). Pub. L. 110-246, Sec. 12071, added subpar. (C). Subsec. (q)(5). Pub. L. 110-186 added par. (5). Subsec. (s). Pub. L. 110-246, Sec. 12063(c)(1), added subsec. (s). 2006 - Subsec. (a)(4). Pub. L. 109-163, Sec. 844, added par. (4). Subsec. (k). Pub. L. 109-163, Sec. 845(a)(1), designated existing provisions as par. (1) and added par. (2). 2005 - Subsec. (p)(4)(B)(ii)(III). Pub. L. 109-59 added subcl. (III). 2004 - Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 108-271 substituted "Government Accountability Office" for "General Accounting Office". Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 108-447, Sec. 151(b), struck out "of section 636(b)(2)" after "For the purposes". Subsec. (p)(1)(E). Pub. L. 108-447, Sec. 152(a)(1), added subpar. (E). Subsec. (p)(3)(A). Pub. L. 108-447, Sec. 151(a)(1)(A), amended subpar. (A) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (A) read as follows: "a small business concern that is owned and controlled by one or more persons, each of whom is a United States citizen;". Subsec. (p)(3)(E). Pub. L. 108-447, Sec. 151(a)(1)(B)-(D), added subpar. (E). Subsec. (p)(4)(B)(ii)(II). Pub. L. 108-447, Sec. 152(b), amended subcl. (II) generally. Prior to amendment, subcl. (II) read as follows: "the unemployment rate is not less than 140 percent of the Statewide average unemployment rate for the State in which the county is located, based on the most recent data available from the Secretary of Labor." Subsec. (p)(4)(C). Pub. L. 108-447, Sec. 152(c)(1), substituted "only until the later of - "(i) the date on which the Census Bureau publicly releases the first results from the 2010 decennial census; or "(ii) 3 years after" for "only for the 3-year period following". Subsec. (p)(4)(D). Pub. L. 108-447, Sec. 152(a)(3), added subpar. (D). Subsec. (p)(5)(A)(i)(I)(aa). Pub. L. 108-447, Sec. 151(a)(2), substituted "(C), (D), or (E)" for "or (D)". Subsec. (r). Pub. L. 108-447, Sec. 162, added subsec. (r). 2000 - Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VIII, Sec. 806(b)], substituted "$750,000" for "$500,000". Subsec. (p)(1)(D). Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VI, Sec. 613(1)], added subpar. (D). Subsec. (p)(3). Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VI, Sec. 602], amended heading and text of par. (3) generally, substituting present provisions for provisions which had defined "HUBZone small business concern" as a small business concern that is owned and controlled by 1 or more persons, each of whom is a United States citizen, and the principal office of which is located in a HUBZone. Subsec. (p)(3)(D). Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VI, Sec. 614(1)], added subpar. (D). Subsec. (p)(4)(A). Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VI, Sec. 611(a)], substituted "section 42(d)(5)(C)(ii)" for "section 42(d)(5)(C)(ii)(I)". Subsec. (p)(4)(B). Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VI, Sec. 611(b)], added subpar. (B) and struck out heading and text of former subpar. (B). Text read as follows: "The term 'qualified nonmetropolitan county' means any county - "(i) that, based on the most recent data available from the Bureau of the Census of the Department of Commerce - "(I) is not located in a metropolitan statistical area (as defined in section 143(k)(2)(B) of title 26); and "(II) in which the median household income is less than 80 percent of the nonmetropolitan State median household income; or "(ii) that, based on the most recent data available from the Secretary of Labor, has an unemployment rate that is not less than 140 percent of the statewide average unemployment rate for the State in which the county is located." Subsec. (p)(4)(C). Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VI, Sec. 613(2)], added subpar. (C). Subsec. (p)(5)(A)(i)(I). Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VI, Sec. 603(a)], added subcl. (I) and struck out former subcl. (I) which read as follows: "it is a HUBZone small business concern;". Subsec. (p)(5)(A)(i)(I)(aa). Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VI, Sec. 614(2)], substituted "subparagraph (A), (B), or (D)" for "subparagraph (A) or (B)". Subsec. (p)(5)(A)(i)(II). Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VI, Sec. 603(a)], added subcl. (II) and struck out former subcl. (II) which read as follows: "not less than 35 percent of the employees of the small business concern reside in a HUBZone, and the small business concern will attempt to maintain this employment percentage during the performance of any contract awarded to the small business concern on the basis of a preference provided under section 657a(b) of this title; and". Subsec. (p)(5)(A)(i)(III)(cc). Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VI, Sec. 612(b)(1)], added item (cc). Subsec. (p)(5)(C). Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VI, Sec. 615(a)], which directed amendment of subpar. (C) by substituting "items (aa) and (bb) of subparagraph (A)(i)(III)" for "subclause (IV) and (V) of subparagraph (A)(i)", was executed by making the substitution for "subclauses (IV) and (V) of subparagraph (A)(i)", to reflect the probable intent of Congress. Subsec. (p)(5)(D)(i). Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VI, Sec. 603(b)], inserted "once the Administrator has made the certification required by subparagraph (A)(i) regarding a qualified HUBZone small business concern and has determined that subparagraph (A)(ii) does not apply to that concern," before "include". Subsec. (p)(6). Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VI, Sec. 604], added par. (6). Subsec. (p)(7). Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title VI, Sec. 612(b)(2)], added par. (7). 1999 - Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 106-50, Sec. 401(a), amended subsec. (f) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (f) read as follows: "For purposes of section 636 of this title, the term 'handicapped individual' means a person who has a physical, mental, or emotional impairment, defect, ailment, disease, or disability of a permanent nature which in any way limits the selection of any type of employment for which the person would otherwise be qualified or qualifiable." Subsec. (q). Pub. L. 106-50, Sec. 103(a), added subsec. (q). 1997 - Subsec. (o). Pub. L. 105-135, Sec. 412, added subsec. (o). Subsec. (p). Pub. L. 105-135, Sec. 602(a), added subsec. (p). 1996 - Subsec. (k). Pub. L. 104-208 inserted "commercial fishery failures or fishery resource disasters (as determined by the Secretary of Commerce under section 4107(b) of title 16)," after "tidal waves,". 1994 - Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 103-403 amended par. (2) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (2) read as follows: "In addition to the criteria specified in paragraph (1), the Administrator may specify detailed definitions or standards (by number of employees or dollar volume of business) by which a business concern is to be recognized as a small business concern for the purposes of this chapter or any other Act. Unless specifically authorized by statute, the Secretary of a department or the head of a Federal agency may not prescribe for the use of such department or agency a size standard for categorizing a business concern as a small business concern, unless such proposed size standard - "(A) is being proposed after an opportunity for public notice and comment; "(B) provides for determining, over a period of not less than 3 years - "(i) the size of a manufacturing concern on the basis of the number of its employees during that period; and "(ii) the size of a concern providing services on basis of the average gross receipts of the concern during that period; and "(C) is approved by the Administrator." Subsec. (m). Pub. L. 103-355, Sec. 4404(a), substituted " 'simplified acquisition threshold' " for " 'small purchase threshold' ". Subsec. (n). Pub. L. 103-355, Sec. 7106(d), added subsec. (n). 1992 - Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 102-366 added pars. (2) and (3) and struck out at end of par. (1) "In addition to the foregoing criteria the Administrator, in making a detailed definition, may use these criteria, among others: Number of employees and dollar volume of business: Provided, That the Administration shall not promulgate, amend, or rescind any rule [or] regulation with respect to size standards prior to March 31, 1981. Where the number of employees is used as one of the criteria in making such definition for any of the purposes of this chapter, the maximum number of employees which a small-business concern may have under the definition shall vary from industry to industry to the extent necessary to reflect differing characteristics of such industries and to take proper account of other relevant factors." 1990 - Subsec. (m). Pub. L. 101-510 added subsec. (m). 1988 - Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 100-656 struck out pars. (2) to (5) which established a program for review of size standards for eligibility of business concerns in certain industry categories for a procurement restricted to small business concerns under section 637(a) or 644(a) of this title and provided for adjustment of those standards and periodic review of the program. Pub. L. 100-456 inserted provisions in par. (4)(C) respecting applicability of regulations to contracts entered into on or after Oct. 1, 1988. Subsecs. (j) to (l). Pub. L. 100-590 added subsec. (k) and redesignated subsec. (j), defining "computer crime", as (l). 1987 - Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 100-26, Sec. 10(b)(2)(A), substituted "dollar value of the contracts to be awarded in that industry category" for "value of contracts to be awarded under such sections". Subsec. (a)(4)(A)(i). Pub. L. 100-26, Sec. 10(b)(2)(B), substituted "paragraph (3)" for "paragraph (3)(A)". Subsec. (a)(5). Pub. L. 100-26, Sec. 10(b)(2)(C), substituted "shall be made not later than 180 days after the end of each such" for "made with the expiration of 180 days after each". 1986 - Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 99-500, Pub. L. 99-591, and Pub. L. 99-661 amended subsec. (a) identically designating existing provision as par. (1) and adding pars. (2) to (5). Pub. L. 99-272 inserted proviso that notwithstanding any other provision of law, an agricultural enterprise shall be deemed to be a small business concern if it, including its affiliates, has annual receipts not in excess of $500,000. Subsec. (c)(2)(A), (3)(B)(i), (iv). Pub. L. 99-514 substituted "Internal Revenue Code of 1986" for "Internal Revenue Code of 1954", which for purposes of codification was translated as "title 26" thus requiring no change in text. 1984 - Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 98-473 in subsec. (j) added by Pub. L. 98-270 substituted "as a business concern and shall not include the income or employees of any member shareholder of such cooperative" for "as an entity and shall not include the income or employees of any member shareholder of such cooperative: Provided, That such an association shall not be deemed to be a small agricultural cooperative unless each member of the board of directors of the association, or each member of the governing body of the association if it is not incorporated, also individually qualifies as a small business concern". Pub. L. 98-362 added subsec. (j) defining "computer crime". Pub. L. 98-270 added subsec. (j) defining "small agricultural cooperative". 1981 - Subsecs. (d) to (i). Pub. L. 97-35 added subsecs. (d) to (i). 1980 - Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 96-481, in the additional criteria inserted proviso that the Administration shall not promulgate, amend, or rescind any rule or regulation with respect to size standards prior to March 31, 1981. Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 96-302 added subsec. (c). 1978 - Pub. L. 95-507 designated existing provisions as subsec. (a) and added subsec. (b). 1976 - Pub. L. 94-305 inserted reference to enterprises that are engaged in business of production of food and fiber, ranching and raising of livestock, aquaculture, and all other farming and agricultural related industries. EFFECTIVE DATE OF 2008 AMENDMENT Amendment of this section and repeal of Pub. L. 110-234 by Pub. L. 110-246 effective May 22, 2008, the date of enactment of Pub. L. 110-234, see section 4 of Pub. L. 110-246, set out as an Effective Date note under section 8701 of Title 7, Agriculture. EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1997 AMENDMENT Amendment by Pub. L. 105-135 effective Oct. 1, 1997, see section 3 of Pub. L. 105-135, set out as a note under section 631 of this title. EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1996 AMENDMENT Section 104(b)(2) of div. D of Pub. L. 104-208 provided that: "The amendment made by paragraph (1) [amending this section] shall be effective with respect to any disaster occurring on or after March 1, 1994." EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1994 AMENDMENT For effective date and applicability of amendment by Pub. L. 103- 355, see section 10001 of Pub. L. 103-355, set out as a note under section 251 of Title 41, Public Contracts. EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1987 AMENDMENT Section 12(c) of Pub. L. 100-26 provided that: "The amendments made by sections 5 [amending section 2365 of Title 10, Armed Forces, and amending provisions set out as notes under sections 1621, 2326, and 2437 of Title 10] and 10 [amending this section, sections 637 and 644 of this title, and provisions set out as a note under this section] shall apply as if included in each instance of the Defense Acquisition Improvement Act (as specified in section 2) [title X of section 101(c) of Pub. L. 99-500 and Pub. L. 99-591, and title IX of div. A of Pub. L. 99-661] when each was enacted [Oct. 18, 1986, Oct. 30, 1986, and Nov. 14, 1986, respectively]." EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1986 AMENDMENT; INITIAL REVIEW OF STANDARDS Section 101(c) [title X, Sec. 921(g), (h)] of Pub. L. 99-500 and Pub. L. 99-591, and section 921(g), (h) of title IX, formerly title IV, of Pub. L. 99-661; renumbered title IX and amended by Pub. L. 100-26, Secs. 3(5), 10(a)(2), Apr. 21, 1987, 101 Stat. 273, 288; Pub. L. 100-180, div. A, title VIII, Sec. 809(d), Dec. 4, 1987, 101 Stat. 1130, provided that: "(g) Effective Dates. - Except as otherwise provided in subsection (h), the amendments made by this section [amending this section and sections 637 and 644 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes below] shall take effect on October 1, 1987. "(h) Initial Review of Size Standards. - (1) Paragraph (2) of section 3(a) of the Small Business Act (as added by subsection (f)) [15 U.S.C. 632(a)(2)] shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 18, 1986]. "(2) The first review conducted by the Administrator under such paragraph shall review the periods beginning on October 1, 1983, and ending on September 30, 1986, and shall be completed not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act. "(3) If the Administrator of the Small Business Administration determines, on the basis of the review referred to in paragraph (2), that contracts awarded under the set-aside programs under sections 8(a) and 15(a) of the Small Business Act [15 U.S.C. 637(a), 644(a)] in any industry category subject to that review exceed 30 percent of the dollar value of the total contract awards for that industry category, as determined in accordance with the last sentence of section 15(a)(3) of such Act, the Administrator shall propose adjustments to the size standards for such industry category establishing eligibility for a set-aside program to a size that will likely reduce the number of contracts which may be set aside to approximately 30 percent of the dollar value of the contracts to be awarded in that industry category. The Administrator shall publish proposed regulations, including any revised size standards, in the Federal Register by November 30, 1987, or the date of enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1988 and 1989 [Pub. L. 100-180, Dec. 4, 1987], whichever is later. The proposed regulations shall provide not less than 60 days for public comment. The Administrator shall issue final regulations not later than May 31, 1988. EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1984 AMENDMENTS Section 312 of title III of Pub. L. 98-270 provided that: "The amendments made by sections 310 and 311 of this title [amending this section and section 636 of this title] shall apply to loans granted on the basis of any disaster with respect to which a declaration has been issued after September 1, 1982, under section 7(b)(2) (A), (B), or (C) of the Small Business Act [15 U.S.C. 636(b)(2)(A), (B), (C)] or with respect to which a certification has been made after such date under section 7(b)(2)(D) of such Act." Section 313 of title III of Pub. L. 98-270 provided that: "This title [amending this section and sections 633, 636, and 647 of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 632 and 636 of this title, and amending provisions set out as a note under section 631 of this title] shall take effect October 1, 1983." Amendment by Pub. L. 98-362 effective Oct. 1, 1984, see section 7(a) of Pub. L. 98-362, set out as an Effective and Termination Dates of 1984 Amendments note under section 633 of this title. EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1981 AMENDMENT Amendment by Pub. L. 97-35 effective Aug. 13, 1981, but shall not affect any financing made, obligated, or committed under this chapter or chapter 14B of this title prior to Aug. 13, 1981, see section 1918 of Pub. L. 97-35, set out as a note under section 631 of this title. EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1980 AMENDMENT Amendment by Pub. L. 96-302 effective Oct. 1, 1980, see section 507 of Pub. L. 96-302, set out as a note under section 631 of this title. REGULATIONS Pub. L. 109-163, div. A, title VIII, Sec. 845(d), Jan. 6, 2006, 119 Stat. 3391, provided that: "Not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Jan. 6, 2006], the Administrator of the Small Business Administration shall promulgate final rules to carry out this section [amending this section and section 636 of this title] and the amendments made by this section." Section 605 of title VI of Pub. L. 105-135 provided that: "(a) In General. - Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 2, 1997], the Administrator shall publish in the Federal Register such final regulations as may be necessary to carry out this title [see Short Title of 1997 Amendment note set out under section 631 of this title] and the amendments made by this title. "(b) Federal Acquisition Regulation. - Not later than 180 days after the date on which final regulations are published under subsection (a), the Federal Acquisition Regulatory Council shall amend the Federal Acquisition Regulation in order to ensure consistency between the Federal Acquisition Regulation, this title and the amendments made by this title, and the final regulations published under subsection (a)." Section 222(b) of Pub. L. 102-366 provided that: "(1) In general. - Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Sept. 4, 1992], the Administrator of the Small Business Administration shall issue proposed regulations to implement the amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section]. Final regulations shall be issued not later than 270 days after such date of enactment. "(2) Listing of additional size standards. - The regulations required by paragraph (1) shall include a listing of all small business size standards prescribed by statute or by individual Federal departments and agencies, identifying the programs or purposes to which such size standards apply." HUBZONE STATUS TIME LINE AND COMMENCEMENT Pub. L. 108-447, div. K, title I, Sec. 152(a)(2), Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3457, provided that: "A base closure area that has undergone final closure shall be treated as a HUBZone for purposes of the Small Business Act [15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.] for a period of 5 years." CONTINUED EFFECTIVENESS OF NUMERICAL SIZE STANDARDS IN EFFECT ON SEPTEMBER 30, 1988 The last sentence of section 732 of Pub. L. 100-656 which provided that any numerical size standard that pertained to any of the designated industry groups, and that was in effect on Sept. 30, 1988, was to remain in effect for the duration of the Program, was repealed by Pub. L. 103-160, div. A, title VIII, Sec. 850(1), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1726. See section 717(f) of Pub. L. 100-656, set out as a note under section 644 of this title. REPORT ON EFFECT OF 1986 AMENDMENTS Section 101(c) [title X, Sec. 921(i)] of Pub. L. 99-500 and Pub. L. 99-591, and section 921(i) of title IX, formerly title IV, of Pub. L. 99-661; renumbered title IX, Pub. L. 100-26, Sec. 3(5), Apr. 21, 1987, 101 Stat. 273, directed Administrator of the Small Business Administration, not later than July 15, 1987, to submit to Congress a report on the amendments to sections 632, 637, and 644 of this title made by this section which was to include Administrator's views on the advisability and feasibility of implementing such amendments, Administrator's findings and determinations under the review of size standards for businesses that qualify as small businesses carried out pursuant to 15 U.S.C. 632(a)(2)(B), a determination of whether or not the amendments to section 632 of this title would further the interests of the set- aside program, and recommendations for furthering certain interests in a more efficient or effective manner than provided in such amendments. -FOOTNOTE- (!1) So in original. No par. (2) has been enacted. (!2) See References in Text note below. -End- -CITE- 15 USC Sec. 633 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- Sec. 633. Small Business Administration -STATUTE- (a) Creation; principal, branch, and regional offices In order to carry out the policies of this chapter there is created an agency under the name "Small Business Administration" (herein referred to as the Administration), which Administration shall be under the general direction and supervision of the President and shall not be affiliated with or be within any other agency or department of the Federal Government. The principal office of the Administration shall be located in the District of Columbia. The Administration may establish such branch and regional offices in other places in the United States as may be determined by the Administrator of the Administration. As used in this chapter, the term "United States" includes the several States, the Territories and possessions of the United States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, and the District of Columbia. (b) Appointment of Administrator, Deputy Administrator, and Associate Administrators; duties of Administrator: preparation of data base and publication of economic indices and annual report; risk management database; computer security and education program (1) The management of the Administration shall be vested in an Administrator who shall be appointed from civilian life by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, and who shall be a person of outstanding qualifications known to be familiar and sympathetic with small-business needs and problems. The Administrator shall not engage in any other business, vocation, or employment than that of serving as Administrator. In carrying out the programs administered by the Small Business Administration including its lending and guaranteeing functions, the Administrator shall not discriminate on the basis of sex or marital status against any person or small business concern applying for or receiving assistance from the Small Business Administration, and the Small Business Administration shall give special consideration to veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States and their survivors or dependents. The President also may appoint a Deputy Administrator, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. The Administrator is authorized to appoint five Associate Administrators (including the Associate Administrator specified in section 671 of this title) to assist in the execution of the functions vested in the Administration. One such Associate Administrator shall be the Associate Administrator for Veterans Business Development, who shall administer the Office of Veterans Business Development established under section 657b of this title. One of the Associate Administrators shall be designated at the time of his appointment as the Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development who shall be an employee in the competitive service or in the Senior Executive Service and a career appointee and shall be responsible to the Administrator for the formulation and execution of the policies and programs under sections 636(j) and 637(a) of this title which provide assistance to minority small business concerns. The Deputy Administrator shall be Acting Administrator of the Administration during the absence or disability of the Administrator or in the event of a vacancy in the office of the Administrator. (2) The Administrator also shall be responsible for - (A) establishing and maintaining an external small business economic data base for the purpose of providing the Congress and the Administration information on the economic condition and the expansion or contraction of the small business sector. To that end, the Administrator shall publish on a regular basis national small business economic indices and, to the extent feasible, regional small business economic indices, which shall include, but need not be limited to, data on - (i) employment, layoffs, and new hires; (ii) number of business establishments and the types of such establishments such as sole proprietorships, corporations, and partnerships; (iii) number of business formations and failures; (iv) sales and new orders; (v) back orders; (vi) investment in plant and equipment; (vii) changes in inventory and rate of inventory turnover; (viii) sources and amounts of capital investment, including debt, equity, and internally generated funds; (ix) debt to equity ratios; (x) exports; (xi) number and dollar amount of mergers and acquisitions by size of acquiring and acquired firm; and (xii) concentration ratios; and (B) publishing annually a report giving a comparative analysis and interpretation of the historical trends of the small business sector as reflected by the data acquired pursuant to subparagraph (A) of this subsection. (3) Risk management database. - (A) Establishment. - The Administration shall establish, within the management system for the loan programs authorized by subsections (a) and (b) of section 636 of this title and title V of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [15 U.S.C. 695 et seq.], a management information system that will generate a database capable of providing timely and accurate information in order to identify loan underwriting, collections, recovery, and liquidation problems. (B) Information to be maintained. - In addition to such other information as the Administration considers appropriate, the database established under subparagraph (A) shall, with respect to each loan program described in subparagraph (A), include information relating to - (i) the identity of the institution making the guaranteed loan or issuing the debenture; (ii) the identity of the borrower; (iii) the total dollar amount of the loan or debenture; (iv) the total dollar amount of government exposure in each loan; (v) the district of the Administration in which the borrower has its principal office; (vi) the principal line of business of the borrower, as identified by Standard Industrial Classification Code (or any successor to that system); (vii) the delinquency rate for each program (including number of instances and days overdue); (viii) the number and amount of repurchases, losses, and recoveries in each program; (ix) the number of deferrals or forbearances in each program (including days and number of instances); (x) comparisons on the basis of loan program, lender, Administration district and region, for all the data elements maintained; and (xi) underwriting characteristics of each loan that has entered into default, including term, amount and type of collateral, loan-to-value and other actual and projected ratios, line of business, credit history, and type of loan. (C) Deadline for operational capability. - The database established under subparagraph (A) shall - (i) be operational not later than June 30, 1997; and (ii) capture data beginning on the first day of the second quarter of fiscal year 1997 beginning after such date and thereafter. (4)(A) The Administrator shall establish a small business computer security and education program to - (i) provide small business concerns information regarding - (I) utilization and management of computer technology; (II) computer crimes committed against small business concerns; and (III) security for computers owned or utilized by small business concerns; (ii) provide for periodic forums for small business concerns to improve their knowledge of the matters described in clause (i); and (iii) provide training opportunities to educate small business users on computer security techniques. (B) The Administrator, after consultation with the Director of the Institute of Computer Sciences and Technology within the Department of Commerce, shall develop information and materials to carry out the activities described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph. (c) Revolving funds; disaster loan fund; business loan and investment fund; payments into funds; appropriations; reports to Congress; business-type budgets; borrowing authority: terms and conditions of notes, interest rate, public debt transactions; payments into miscellaneous receipts; authorization of appropriations for losses and interest subsidies (1) There are established in the Treasury the following revolving funds: (A) a disaster loan fund which shall be available for financing functions performed under sections 634(e), 636(b)(1), 636(b)(2), 636(b)(3), 636(b)(4), 636(d)(2), and 636(m) of this title; and (B) a business loan and investment fund which shall be available for financing functions performed under sections 634(g), 636(a) and 637(a) of this title, and titles III, IV and V of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [15 U.S.C. 681 et seq., 692 et seq., 695 et seq.]. (2) All repayments of loans and debentures, payments of interest and other receipts arising out of transactions heretofore or hereafter entered into by the Administration (A) pursuant to sections 634(e), 636(b)(1), 636(b)(2), 636(b)(3), 636(b)(4), 636(b)(5), 636(b)(6), 636(b)(7), 636(b)(8), 636(d)(2), and 636(g) of this title, shall be paid into a disaster loan fund; and (B) pursuant to sections 634(g), 636(a), 636(h), 636(i), 636(l),(!1) 636(m), and 637(a) of this title, and titles III, IV and V of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [15 U.S.C. 681 et seq., 692 et seq., 695 et seq.], shall be paid into the business loan and investment fund. (3) Unexpended balances of appropriations made to the fund pursuant to this subsection, as in effect immediately prior to the effective date of this paragraph, shall be allocated, together with related assets and liabilities, to the funds established by paragraph (1) in such amounts as the Administrator shall determine. (4) The Administration shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations, Senate Select Committee on Small Business, and the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives, as soon as possible after the beginning of each calendar quarter, a full and complete report on the status of each of the funds established by paragraph (1). Business-type budgets for each of the funds established by paragraph (1) shall be prepared, transmitted to the Committees on Appropriations, the Senate Select Committee on Small Business, and the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives, and considered, and enacted in the manner prescribed by law (sections 9103 and 9104 of title 31) for wholly owned Government corporations. (5)(A) The Administration is authorized to make and issue notes to the Secretary of the Treasury for the purpose of obtaining funds necessary for discharging obligations under the revolving funds created by paragraph (1) and for authorized expenditures out of the funds. Such notes shall be in such form and denominations and have such maturities and be subject to such terms and conditions as may be prescribed by the Administration with the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury. Such notes shall bear interest at a rate fixed by the Secretary of the Treasury, taking into consideration the current average market yield of outstanding marketable obligations of the United States having maturities comparable to the notes issued by the Administration under this paragraph. The Secretary of the Treasury is authorized and directed to purchase any notes of the Administration issued hereunder, and, for that purpose, the Secretary of the Treasury is authorized to use as a public debt transaction the proceeds from the sale of any securities issued under chapter 31 of title 31, and the purposes for which such securities may be issued under such chapter are extended to include the purchase of notes issued by the Administration. All redemptions, purchases, and sales by the Secretary of the Treasury of such notes shall be treated as public debt transactions of the United States. All borrowing authority contained herein shall be effective only to such extent or in such amounts as are provided in advance in appropriation Acts. (B)(i) Moneys in the funds established in paragraph (1) not needed for current operations may be paid into miscellaneous receipts of the Treasury. (ii) Following the close of each fiscal year, the Administration shall pay into the miscellaneous receipts of the United States Treasury the actual interest that the Administration collects during that fiscal year on all financings made under this chapter. (C) Except on those loan disbursements on which interest is paid under paragraph (5)(B)(ii), the Administration shall pay into miscellaneous receipts of the Treasury, following the close of each fiscal year, interest received by the Administration on financing functions performed under this chapter and titles III and V of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [15 U.S.C. 681 et seq., 695 et seq.] providing the capital used to perform such functions originated from appropriated funds. Such payments shall be treated by the Department of the Treasury as interest income, not as retirement of indebtedness. (D) There are authorized to be appropriated, in any fiscal year, such sums as may be necessary for losses and interest subsidies incurred by the funds established by paragraph (1), but not previously reimbursed. (d) Creation and composition of Loan Policy Board; establishment of policies There is created the Loan Policy Board of the Small Business Administration, which shall consist of the following members, all ex officio: The Administrator, as Chairman, the Secretary of the Treasury, and the Secretary of Commerce. Either of the said Secretaries may designate an officer of his Department, who has been appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, to act in his stead as a member of the Loan Policy Board with respect to any matter or matters. The Loan Policy Board shall establish general policies (particularly with reference to the public interest involved in the granting and denial of applications for financial assistance by the Administration and with reference to the coordination of the functions of the Administration with other activities and policies of the Government), which shall govern the granting and denial of applications for financial assistance by the Administration. (e) Prohibition on provision of assistance Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Administration is prohibited from providing any financial or other assistance to any business concern or other person engaged in the production or distribution of any product or service that has been determined to be obscene by a court of competent jurisdiction. (f) Certification of compliance with child support obligations (1) In general For financial assistance approved after the promulgation of final regulations to implement this section, each recipient of financial assistance under this chapter, including a recipient of a direct loan or a loan guarantee, shall certify that the recipient is not more than 60 days delinquent under the terms of any - (A) administrative order; (B) court order; or (C) repayment agreement entered into between the recipient and the custodial parent or State agency providing child support enforcement services, that requires the recipient to pay child support, as such term is defined in section 662(b) (!1) of title 42. (2) Enforcement Not later than 6 months after October 22, 1994, the Administration shall promulgate such regulations as may be necessary to enforce compliance with the requirements of this subsection. -SOURCE- (Pub. L. 85-536, Sec. 2[4], July 18, 1958, 72 Stat. 384; Pub. L. 85- 699, title II, Sec. 202, formerly Sec. 202(a), Aug. 21, 1958, 72 Stat. 690, renumbered Pub. L. 87-341, Sec. 11(h)(1), Oct. 3, 1961, 75 Stat. 757; amended Pub. L. 86-367, Sec. 1, Sept. 22, 1959, 73 Stat. 647; Pub. L. 87-70, title III, Sec. 305(c), June 30, 1961, 75 Stat. 167; Pub. L. 87-198, Sept. 5, 1961, 75 Stat. 468; Pub. L. 87- 305, Sec. 3, Sept. 26, 1961, 75 Stat. 666; Pub. L. 87-341, Secs. 11(h)(3), (4), 12, Oct. 3, 1961, 75 Stat. 757; Pub. L. 87-550, Sec. 1(a), July 25, 1962, 76 Stat. 220; Pub. L. 89-59, Secs. 1(c), 2, June 30, 1965, 79 Stat. 207; Pub. L. 89-78, July 21, 1965, 79 Stat. 243; Pub. L. 89-117, title III, Sec. 316(d), Aug. 10, 1965, 79 Stat. 484; Pub. L. 89-334, Nov. 8, 1965, 79 Stat. 1294; Pub. L. 89- 409, Secs. 1, 2, May 2, 1966, 80 Stat. 132; Pub. L. 89-779, Sec. 8(a), (b), Nov. 6, 1966, 80 Stat. 1364; Pub. L. 90-104, title I, Sec. 102, Oct. 11, 1967, 81 Stat. 268; Pub. L. 90-448, title XVII, Sec. 1721, Aug. 1, 1968, 82 Stat. 610; Pub. L. 91-173, title V, Sec. 504(c), Dec. 30, 1969, 83 Stat. 802; Pub. L. 91-558, title I, Sec. 101, Dec. 17, 1970, 84 Stat. 1468; Pub. L. 91-596, Sec. 28(c), Dec. 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 1618; Pub. L. 91-597, Sec. 25(c), Dec. 29, 1970, 84 Stat. 1634; Pub. L. 92-16, May 18, 1971, 85 Stat. 39; Pub. L. 92-320, Sec. 1, June 27, 1972, 86 Stat. 382; Pub. L. 92-385, Sec. 2(b), Aug. 16, 1972, 86 Stat. 556; Pub. L. 92-500, Sec. 8(b), Oct. 18, 1972, 86 Stat. 899; Pub. L. 92-595, Sec. 3(a), Oct. 27, 1972, 86 Stat. 1316; Pub. L. 93-237, Secs. 1, 3(b), 8, Jan. 2, 1974, 87 Stat. 1023-1025; Pub. L. 93-386, Secs. 2(a)(2), (3), 7, Aug. 23, 1974, 88 Stat. 742, 748; Pub. L. 94-273, Sec. 2(5), Apr. 21, 1976, 90 Stat. 375; Pub. L. 95-14, Secs. 1-3, Mar. 24, 1977, 91 Stat. 25; Pub. L. 95-89, title I, Sec. 101(a)-(c), title II, Secs. 201, 202, title III, Sec. 304, title IV, Sec. 401, Aug. 4, 1977, 91 Stat. 553, 557, 559; Pub. L. 95-315, Sec. 4, July 4, 1978, 92 Stat. 379; Pub. L. 95-507, title II, Sec. 206, Oct. 24, 1978, 92 Stat. 1766; Pub. L. 96-302, title I, Sec. 121, title IV, Sec. 401, July 2, 1980, 94 Stat. 842, 849; Pub. L. 96-481, title I, Sec. 103, Oct. 21, 1980, 94 Stat. 2321; Pub. L. 97-35, title XIX, Secs. 1908, 1913(b), 1915, Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 778, 780; Pub. L. 98-270, title III, Sec. 306, Apr. 18, 1984, 98 Stat. 161; Pub. L. 98-352, Sec. 5, July 10, 1984, 98 Stat. 331; Pub. L. 98-362, Secs. 3, 4, July 16, 1984, 98 Stat. 431, 433; Pub. L. 100-590, title I, Sec. 111(a), Nov. 3, 1988, 102 Stat. 2995; Pub. L. 100-656, title IV, Sec. 401(a), Nov. 15, 1988, 102 Stat. 3873; Pub. L. 101-37, Sec. 11(a), June 15, 1989, 103 Stat. 73; Pub. L. 101-515, title V, Sec. 1(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 2140; Pub. L. 101-574, title II, Sec. 221(a), Nov. 15, 1990, 104 Stat. 2823; Pub. L. 102-140, title VI, Sec. 609(k), Oct. 28, 1991, 105 Stat. 831; Pub. L. 103-403, title VI, Secs. 601, 611, 612, Oct. 22, 1994, 108 Stat. 4201, 4204; Pub. L. 104-208, div. D, title I, Sec. 102, Sept. 30, 1996, 110 Stat. 3009-725; Pub. L. 106-50, title II, Sec. 201(a), Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 235; Pub. L. 108-447, div. K, title I, Sec. 132(a), (c), Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3452, 3453; Pub. L. 110-234, title XII, Sec. 12068(b)(1), May 22, 2008, 122 Stat. 1410; Pub. L. 110-246, Sec. 4(a), title XII, Sec. 12068(b)(1), June 18, 2008, 122 Stat. 1664, 2172.) -REFTEXT- REFERENCES IN TEXT The effective date of this paragraph, referred to in subsec. (c)(3), is July 1, 1966, pursuant to Pub. L. 89-409, Sec. 2. The Small Business Investment Act of 1958, referred to in subsecs. (b)(3)(A) and (c)(1), (2), (5)(C), is Pub. L. 85-699, Aug. 21, 1958, 72 Stat. 689, as amended. Titles III, IV, and V of the Act are classified generally to subchapters III (Sec. 681 et seq.), IV (Sec. 692 et seq.), and V (Sec. 695 et seq.) of chapter 14B of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 661 of this title and Tables. Section 636(l) of this title, referred to in subsec. (c)(2)(B), was amended generally to read "[RESERVED]." by Pub. L. 104-208, div. D, title I, Sec. 107(d), Sept. 30, 1996, 110 Stat. 3009-732. Section 662 of title 42, referred to in subsec. (f)(1), was repealed by Pub. L. 104-193, title III, Sec. 362(b)(1), Aug. 22, 1996, 110 Stat. 2246. -COD- CODIFICATION In subsec. (c)(4), (5)(A), "(sections 9103 and 9104 of title 31)" substituted for "(sections 102, 103, and 104 of the Government Corporation Control Act (31 U.S.C. 847-849))", and "chapter 31 of title 31" and "such chapter" substituted for "the Second Liberty Bond Act, as amended" and "such Act, as amended,", respectively, on authority of Pub. L. 97-258, Sec. 4(b), Sept. 13, 1982, 96 Stat. 1067, the first section of which enacted Title 31, Money and Finance. Pub. L. 110-234 and Pub. L. 110-246 made identical amendments to this section. The amendments by Pub. L. 110-234 were repealed by section 4(a) of Pub. L. 110-246. -MISC1- PRIOR PROVISIONS Prior similar provisions were contained in section 204 of act July 30, 1953, ch. 282, title II, 67 Stat. 233, as amended by acts Aug. 9, 1955, ch. 628, Sec. 3, 69 Stat. 547; Feb. 2, 1956, ch. 29, Sec. 1, 70 Stat. 10; July 31, 1956, ch. 804, title I, Secs. 106(a), 107(b), 70 Stat. 737; Pub. L. 85-4, Secs. 1, 2, Feb. 11, 1957, 71 Stat. 1; Pub. L. 85-120, Sec. 1, Aug. 3, 1957, 71 Stat. 341, which was previously classified to this section. See Codification note set out under section 631 of this title. AMENDMENTS 2008 - Subsec. (c)(1), (2). Pub. L. 110-246, Sec. 12068(b)(1), in pars. (1) and (2) substituted "636(d)(2)" for "636(c)(2)" and in par. (2) struck out "636(e)," after "636(a),". 2004 - Subsecs. (g), (h). Pub. L. 108-447, Sec. 132(a), (c), temporarily added subsecs. (g) and (h), which related to gifts and co-sponsorship of events, respectively. See Termination Date of 2004 Amendment note below. 1999 - Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 106-50 substituted "five Associate Administrators" for "four Associate Administrators" in fifth sentence and inserted after fifth sentence "One such Associate Administrator shall be the Associate Administrator for Veterans Business Development, who shall administer the Office of Veterans Business Development established under section 657b of this title." 1996 - Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 104-208 added par. (3). 1994 - Subsec. (c)(5)(B)(ii). Pub. L. 103-403, Sec. 601, amended cl. (ii) generally. Prior to amendment, cl. (ii) read as follows: "The Administration shall pay into miscellaneous receipts of the Treasury, following the close of each fiscal year, interest on the average of loan disbursements outstanding throughout the year providing such disbursements are made from amounts appropriated for the disaster loan fund after October 1, 1980 or are made from repayments of principal of loans made from funds appropriated to the disaster loan fund, or from amounts appropriated to the business loan and investment fund on or after October 1, 1981 or are made from repayments of principal of loans made from funds appropriated to the business loan and investment fund and received on or after October 1, 1981. This interest shall be calculated solely on the amount of loan disbursements net of losses at the rate provided under paragraph (5)(A)." Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 103-403, Sec. 611, added subsec. (e). Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 103-403, Sec. 612, added subsec. (f). 1991 - Subsec. (c)(1)(A), (2)(B). Pub. L. 102-140 inserted reference to section 636(m). 1990 - Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 101-515 and Pub. L. 101-574 amended par. (1) identically, substituting "The President also may appoint a Deputy Administrator, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. The Administrator is authorized to appoint" for "The Administrator is authorized to appoint a Deputy Administrator and". 1989 - Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 101-37 made technical correction to directory language of Pub. L. 100-656, Sec. 401(a), see 1988 Amendment note below. 1988 - Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 100-656, Sec. 401(a), as amended by Pub. L. 101-37, inserted "who shall be an employee in the competitive service or in the Senior Executive Service and a career appointee" after "Capital Ownership Development". Subsec. (c)(1)(B), (2)(B). Pub. L. 100-590, Sec. 111(a), substituted "III, IV" for "III". 1984 - Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 98-362, Secs. 3, 7(b), added par. (3) and provided for future repeal of par. (3). See Effective and Termination Dates of 1984 Amendment note below. Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 98-362, Sec. 4, added par. (4). Subsec. (c)(1)(A). Pub. L. 98-270 inserted reference to section 636(b)(4). Subsec. (c)(1)(B), (2)(B). Pub. L. 98-352 inserted reference to section 634(g). 1981 - Subsec. (c)(1)(A). Pub. L. 97-35, Sec. 1913(b), substituted "636(c)(2) of this title" for "636(b)(4), 636(b)(5), 636(b)(6), 636(b)(7), 636(b)(8), 636(c)(2), and 636(g) of this title". Subsec. (c)(1)(B). Pub. L. 97-35, Sec. 1908, struck out reference to sections 636(e), 636(h), 636(i), and 636(l). Subsec. (c)(5)(B)(ii). Pub. L. 97-35, Sec. 1915, substituted "for the disaster loan fund after October 1, 1980 or are made from repayments of principal of loans made from funds appropriated to the disaster loan fund, or from amounts appropriated to the business loan and investment fund on or after October 1, 1981 or are made from repayments of principal of loans made from funds appropriated to the business loan and investment fund and received on or after October 1, 1981" for "after October 1, 1980 or are made from repayments of principal of loans made from appropriated funds". 1980 - Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 96-302, Sec. 401, designated existing provisions as par. (1) and added par. (2). Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 96-481, which provided for "striking all after the phrase 'Capital Ownership Development' through the period" and inserting new text in lieu thereof was executed by striking all after "Capital Ownership Development" through period at end of sentence and not at end of paragraph which resulted in substituting provisions that the Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development shall be responsible to the Administrator for the formulation and execution of the policies and programs under sections 636(j) and 637(a) of this title for provisions, that such Administrator shall be responsible for the formulation of policy relating to the Administration's programs which provide assistance to minority small business concerns and in the review of the Administration's execution of such programs in light of such policy. Subsec. (c)(5). Pub. L. 96-302, Sec. 121, inserted provisions other than subpar. (B)(ii) and incorporated partly in subpar. (A) and in subpar. (B)(ii) prior par. (5) provisions requiring Administration payment of interest on outstanding cash disbursements at close of each fiscal year into the miscellaneous receipts of the Treasury from par. (1) funds at rates that consider current average yields on outstanding interest-bearing marketable Federal debt obligations of comparable maturities as calculated for the September preceding the fiscal year. 1978 - Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 95-507 substituted "Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development" for "Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business". Subsec. (c)(1)(B), (2)(B). Pub. L. 95-315 inserted reference to section 636(l). 1977 - Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 95-89, Secs. 101(a), 304, 401(1), struck out end text from cls. (A) and (B) reading ", including administrative expenses in connection with such functions"; inserted in cl. (A) reference to section 634(e); and inserted in cl. (A) and struck out from cl. (B) reference to section 636(b)(3). Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 95-89, Secs. 201, 304, 401(2), inserted in cl. (A) reference to section 636(g); inserted in cl. (A) reference to section 634(e); and inserted in cl. (A) and struck out from cl. (B) reference to section 636(b)(3). Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 95-89, Sec. 101(b), struck out last sentence authorization of appropriations of capital for the funds in amounts necessary to carry out the functions of the Administration to remain available until expended. Subsec. (c)(4). Pub. L. 95-89, Secs. 101(c), 202, repealed provisions of par. (4) which limited the total amount of loans, guarantees, and other obligations, to be outstanding at any one time: under sections 636(a), (b)(3), (e), (h), (i) and 637(a) of this title to $7,400,000,000; under title III of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to $887,500,000; under title V of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to $525,000,000; and under section 636(i) of this title to $525,000,000; redesignated par. (5) as (4) and substituted reference to submission of reports to the Senate Select Committee on Small Business and the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives for the prior reference the Committees on Banking and Currency of the Senate and House of Representatives; substituted reference to transmission of business- type budgets to the Committees on Appropriations, the Senate Select Committee on Small Business, and the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives for prior reference to such transmission to the Congress; and deleted the second sentence providing that if at the close of the preceding calendar quarter the aggregate amount outstanding or committed by the Administration in carrying out its functions under the sections or titles referred to in former par. (4) exceeded 75 per centum of the total amount authorized to be outstanding under such sections or titles, the Administration's report shall include its recommendations for such additional authority as it deems appropriate. Pub. L. 95-14 substituted "$7,400,000,000" for "$6,000,000,000", "$525,000,000" for "$450,000,000", and "$887,500,000" for "$725,000,000". Subsec. (c)(5), (6). Pub. L. 95-89, Sec. 202, redesignated pars. (5) and (6) as (4) and (5), respectively. 1976 - Subsec. (c)(6). Pub. L. 94-273 substituted "September" for "June". 1974 - Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 93-386, Sec. 7, in fourth sentence increased from three to four the number of Associate Administrators authorized to be appointed and inserted fifth sentence authorizing one of the Associate Administrators at the time of appointment to be designated as Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business. As enacted section 7 of Pub. L. 93-386 amended the third sentence and inserted a fourth sentence to subsec. (b), however the amendment was executed to fourth sentence and the new sentence was inserted as a fifth sentence editorially since this would appear to be the probable intent of Congress. Pub. L. 93-237, Sec. 8, inserted provisions that the Administrator shall not discriminate on the basis of sex or marital status against any person or small business concern applying for or receiving assistance from the Administration and that the Administration shall give special consideration to veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States and their survivors or dependents in carrying out the programs administered by the Administration. Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 93-386, Sec. 2(a)(2), inserted references to sections 636(b)(8) and 636(i) and struck out reference to title IV of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964. Pub. L. 93-237, Sec. 3(b), substituted "636(h)" for "636(g)" in cl. (B). Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 93-386, Sec. 2(a)(2), inserted references to sections 636(b)(8) and 636(i) of this title and struck out reference to title IV of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964. Pub. L. 93-237, Sec. 3(b), substituted "636(h)" for "636(g)" in cl. (B). Subsec. (c)(4). Pub. L. 93-386, Sec. 2(a)(3), in cl. (A) substituted "636(i), and 637(a) of this title, shall not exceed $6,000,000,000" for "and 637(a) of this title, and title IV of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, shall not exceed $4,875,000,000", in cl. (B) substituted "$725,000,000" for "$556,250,000", and in cl. (D) substituted "section 636(i) of this title, shall not exceed $450,000,000" for "title IV of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 shall not exceed $381,250,000". Pub. L. 93-237, Secs. 1, 3(b), substituted "$4,875,000,000" for "$4,300,000,000" and "636(h)" for "636(g)" in cl. (A), "$556,250,000" for "$500,000,000" in cl. (B), "$525,000,000" for "$500,000,000" in cl. (C) and "$381,250,000" for "$350,000,000" in cl. (D). 1972 - Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 92-595 inserted reference to section 636(g). Pub. L. 92-500 made disaster loan fund available for financing functions performed under section 636(g) of this title. Pub. L. 92-385, Sec. 2(b)(1), inserted reference to section 636(b)(7). Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 92-595 inserted reference to section 636(g). Pub. L. 92-385, Sec. 2(b)(2), inserted reference to sections 636(b)(5), 636(b)(6), 636(b)(7). Subsec. (c)(4). Pub. L. 92-595 inserted reference to section 636(g). Pub. L. 92-320 substituted "$4,300,000,000", "$500,000,000", and "$350,000,000" for "$3,100,000,000", "$450,000,000" and "$300,000,000", respectively. 1971 - Subsec. (c)(4)(A). Pub. L. 92-16 substituted "$3,100,000,000" for "$2,200,000,000". 1970 - Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 91-597 made disaster loan fund available for financing requirements imposed by section 636(b)(5) of this title relating to additions and alterations pursuant to the Egg Products Inspection Act, etc. See, also, 1969 Amendment note hereunder. Pub. L. 91-596 made disaster loan fund available for financing functions under section 636(b)(6) of this title. Subsec. (c)(4). Pub. L. 91-558 substituted "$2,200,000,000" for "$1,900,000,000" in cl. (A), "$500,000,000" for "$300,000,000" in cl. (C), and "$300,000,000" for "$200,000,000" in cl. (D). 1969 - Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 91-173 made disaster loan fund available for financing functions under section 636(b)(5) of this title, relating to loans to coal mine operators. 1968 - Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 90-448 inserted "the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands,". 1967 - Subsec. (c)(4). Pub. L. 90-104, Sec. 102(1)-(4), substituted $1,900,000,000 for $1,400,000,000 in cl. (A), $450,000,000 for $400,000,000 in cl. (B), $300,000,000 for $200,000,000 in cl. (C), and $200,000,000 for $100,000,000 in cl. (D). 1966 - Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 89-779 substituted "a Deputy Administrator and three Associate Administrators (including the Associate Administrator specified in section 671 of this title)" for "three Deputy Administrators" as the officers to be appointed by the Administrator to assist in the execution of the functions vested in the Administration, and inserted provision that the Deputy Administrator shall be acting Administrator of the Administration during the absence or disability of the Administrator or in the event of a vacancy in the office of the Administrator. Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 89-409, Sec. 1, increased by $125 million the appropriation authorization for the single SBA fund from $1,841 million to $1,966 million and the authorization for outstanding loans and commitments for regular business loans, disaster loans, and prime contract authority from $1,375 million to $1,500 million. Pub. L. 89-409, Sec. 2, provided for a disaster loan fund and business loan and investment fund in place of one prior SBA fund, incorporated existing provisions in par. (2), provided for allocation of unexpended balances of appropriations for prior single fund and for an appropriation authorization in par. (3), removed disaster loans from any limitation, provided limitations in par. (4) of $1,400 million for regular business loans, displaced business disaster loans, trade adjustment loans, prime contract authority, and loans under title IV of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, $400 million for small business investment companies, $200 million for loans to State and local development companies, $100 million for loans under title IV of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, incorporated existing reporting provisions in par. (4), including additional requirement of inclusion of recommendations whenever 75 percent of any ceiling in outstanding obligations is exceeded, required establishment of business-type loans, and incorporated existing provisions in par. (6). 1965 - Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 89-334 substituted "$1,841,000,000" for "$1,721,000,000". Pub. L. 89-117 substituted "$1,721,000,000" for "$1,716,000,000" and inserted proviso that the limitation imposed by fifth sentence concerning the maximum aggregate permitted to be outstanding from the fund for functions under the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 be inapplicable to functions under title IV thereof. Pub. L. 89-78 increased from $341,000,000 to $461,000,000 the limit on the aggregate permissible amount outstanding from the fund at any time for the exercise of the functions of the Administration under the Small Business Investment Act of 1958. Pub. L. 89-59 inserted references to section 636(c)(2) in first sentence and in fourth sentence, where first appearing and in cl. (2) thereof, and increased the authorized appropriations to the revolving fund from $1,666,000,000 to $1,716,000,000 and the aggregate amount outstanding at any one time for regular business loans, disaster loans, and prime contract authority from $1,325,000,000 to $1,375,000,000. 1962 - Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 87-550 increased the authorized appropriations to the revolving fund from $1,200,000,000 to $1,666,000,000, and the aggregate amount outstanding for purposes of sections 636(a), 636(b), and 637(a) of this title from $875,000,000 to $1,325,000,000, and for functions under the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 from $325,000,000 to $341,000,000 directed that appropriations to the revolving fund shall remain available until expended, required all repayments of loans and debentures, payments of interest, and other receipts arising out of transactions financed from the fund to be paid into the fund, and a report to Congressional committees whenever the aggregate amount outstanding for the purposes of sections 636(a) and 637(a) of this title exceeds $1,222,000,000, or for the purpose of section 636(b) of this title exceeds $103,000,000, changed the method of computing interest paid into miscellaneous receipts by substituting provisions requiring payment, following the close of each fiscal year, of interest on the outstanding cash disbursements from the fund, at rates determined by the Secretary of the Treasury, taking into consideration the current average yields on outstanding interest-bearing marketable public debt obligations of the United States of comparable maturities as calculated for the month of June preceding such fiscal year, for provisions which required payment of interest, at the close of each fiscal year, on the net amount of cash disbursements from advances at a rate determined by the Secretary of the Treasury, taking into consideration the current average rate on outstanding interest-bearing marketable public debt obligations of the United States of comparable maturities, and eliminated provisions which authorized advances from the revolving fund when requested by the Administration. 1961 - Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 87-341, among other changes, substituted "$1,200,000,000" for "$1,125,000,000" wherever appearing, and "$325,000,000" for "$250,000,000". Pub. L. 87-305 substituted "$1,125,000,000" for "$1,020,000,000" wherever appearing, and "$725,000,000" for "$595,000,000". Pub. L. 87-198 substituted "$1,020,000,000" for "$1,000,000,000" wherever appearing, and "$595,000,000" for "$575,000,000". Pub. L. 87-70 substituted "$1,000,000,000" for "$975,000,000" wherever appearing, and "$150,000,000" for "$125,000,000". 1959 - Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 86-367 substituted "$975,000,000" for "$900,000,000" wherever appearing, and "$575,000,000" for "$500,000,000". 1958 - Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 85-699 substituted "$900,000,000" for "$650,000,000" wherever appearing, and inserted provisions authorizing the revolving fund to be used in the exercise of the functions of the Administration under the Small Business Investment Act of 1958, and providing that not more than an aggregate of $250,000,000 shall be outstanding at any one time for the exercise of the functions under the Small Business Investment Act of 1958. -CHANGE- CHANGE OF NAME Committee on Small Business of Senate changed to Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of Senate. See Senate Resolution No. 123, One Hundred Seventh Congress, June 29, 2001. Previously, Select Committee on Small Business of Senate became Committee on Small Business of Senate. See Senate Resolution No. 101, Ninety-Seventh Congress, Mar. 25, 1981. -MISC2- EFFECTIVE DATE OF 2008 AMENDMENT Amendment of this section and repeal of Pub. L. 110-234 by Pub. L. 110-246 effective May 22, 2008, the date of enactment of Pub. L. 110-234, see section 4 of Pub. L. 110-246, set out as an Effective Date note under section 8701 of Title 7, Agriculture. TERMINATION DATE OF 2004 AMENDMENT Pub. L. 108-447, div. K, title I, Sec. 132(c), Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3453, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and section 637 of this title] are repealed on October 1, 2006." EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1996 AMENDMENT Section 3 of div. D of Pub. L. 104-208 provided that: "Except as otherwise expressly provided, this Act [probably should be "division", see Short Title of 1996 Amendment note set out under section 631 of this title] and the amendments made by this Act shall take effect on October 1, 1996." EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1990 AMENDMENTS Section 221(b) of Pub. L. 101-574 provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall apply to any vacancy in the position of Deputy Administrator of the Small Business Administration after the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 15, 1990]." Section 1(b) of Pub. L. 101-515 provided that: "The provisions of subsection (a) of this section [amending this section] shall apply to any vacancy in the position of Deputy Administrator of the Small Business Administration after the effective date of this Act [Nov. 5, 1990]." EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1989 AMENDMENT Amendment by Pub. L. 101-37 applicable as if included in Pub. L. 100-656, see section 32 of Pub. L. 101-37, set out as a note under section 631 of this title. EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1988 AMENDMENT Amendment by Pub. L. 100-656 effective Aug. 15, 1989, see section 803(b)(1)(C) of Pub. L. 100-656, as amended, set out as a note under section 631 of this title. EFFECTIVE AND TERMINATION DATES OF 1984 AMENDMENTS Section 7 of Pub. L. 98-362, as amended by Pub. L. 100-590, title I, Sec. 131(a), Nov. 3, 1988, 102 Stat. 3004; Pub. L. 101-515, title V, Sec. 11, Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 2145; Pub. L. 101-574, title II, Sec. 212, Nov. 15, 1990, 104 Stat. 2821; Pub. L. 102-140, title VI, Sec. 609(g), Oct. 28, 1991, 105 Stat. 826; Pub. L. 102- 366, title II, Sec. 225, Sept. 4, 1992, 106 Stat. 1001; Pub. L. 103-403, title IV, Sec. 401(b), Oct. 22, 1994, 108 Stat. 4190, provided that: "(a) This Act [amending this section and sections 632 and 637 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 631 and 637 of this title] shall take effect on October 1, 1984. "(b) The amendments made to section 4(b)(3) of the Small Business Act [15 U.S.C. 633(b)(3)] by section 3 of this Act are repealed on October 1, 1988. The amendments made to section 8(b)(1)(A) of the Small Business Act [15 U.S.C. 637(b)(1)(A)] by section 5(a)(2) of this Act are repealed on October 1, 1994. Nothing in this section shall preclude the Administrator from continuing such committee under the authority of section 8(b)(3) of the Small Business Act and the Federal Advisory Committee Act [5 U.S.C. App.]." [Section 401(b) of Pub. L. 103-403, which directed that section 7(b) of Pub. L. 98-362, set out above, be amended in the second sentence by striking out "and the amendments made to section 8(b)(1)(A) of the Small Business Act by section 5(a)(2) of this Act are" and inserting "is", could not be executed, because the language sought to be struck out begins with "The amendments" and not "and the amendments", and because the amendment would result in an incomplete sentence.] Amendment by Pub. L. 98-270 effective Oct. 1, 1983, see section 313 of Pub. L. 98-270, set out as an Effective Date of 1984 Amendments note under section 632 of this title. EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1981 AMENDMENT Amendment by sections 1908 and 1913(b) of Pub. L. 97-35 effective Oct. 1, 1981, and amendment by section 1915 of Pub. L. 97-35 effective Aug. 13, 1981, but not to affect any financing made, obligated, or committed under this chapter or chapter 14B of this title prior to Aug. 13, 1981, see section 1918 of Pub. L. 97-35, set out as a note under section 631 of this title. EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1980 AMENDMENT Amendment by Pub. L. 96-302 effective Oct. 1, 1980, see section 507 of Pub. L. 96-302, set out as a note under section 631 of this title. EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1977 AMENDMENT Section 106 of Pub. L. 95-89 provided that: "This title [amending this section, sections 636, 694, 694-2, and 694c of this title, and provisions set out as a note under section 631 of this title] shall become effective on October 1, 1977." EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1970 AMENDMENTS For effective date of amendment by Pub. L. 91-597, see section 29 of Pub. L. 91-597, set out as a note under section 1031 of Title 21, Food and Drugs. Amendment by Pub. L. 91-596 effective 120 days after Dec. 29, 1970, see section 34 of Pub. L. 91-596, set out as a note under section 651 of Title 29, Labor. EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1966 AMENDMENT Section 2 of Pub. L. 89-408 provided that the amendment made by that section is effective July 1, 1966. -TRANS- TERMINATION OF TRUST TERRITORY OF THE PACIFIC ISLANDS For termination of Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, see note set out preceding section 1681 of Title 48, Territories and Insular Possessions. TRANSFER OF FUNCTIONS Functions, powers, and duties of Office of Audits and Investigations in Small Business Administration transferred to Office of Inspector General in Small Business Administration, as established by Pub. L. 95-452, Sec. 2, Oct. 12, 1978, 92 Stat. 1101, set out in the Appendix to Title 5, Government Organization and Employees. See section 9(a)(1)(T) of Pub. L. 95-452 set out in the Appendix to Title 5. Loan Policy Board, provided for in subsec. (d) of this section, abolished and functions, including functions of chairman and other officers, transferred to Administrator of Small Business Administration by sections 11(b) and 13(a) of Reorg. Plan No. 4 of 1965, eff. July 27, 1965, 30 F.R. 9353, 79 Stat. 1321, set out in the Appendix to Title 5. -MISC3- ADMINISTRATOR'S ORDER Pub. L. 106-50, title VII, Sec. 701, Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 249, provided that: "The Administrator of the Small Business Administration shall strengthen and reissue the Administrator's order regarding the third sentence of section 4(b)(1) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 633(b)(1)), relating to nondiscrimination and special considerations for veterans, and take all necessary steps to ensure that its provisions are fully and vigorously implemented." COMPLETION OF PLANNING FOR LOAN MONITORING SYSTEM Pub. L. 105-135, title II, Sec. 233, Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2607, provided that: "(a) In General. - The Administrator shall perform and complete the planning needed to serve as the basis for funding the development and implementation of the computerized loan monitoring system, including - "(1) fully defining the system requirement using on-line, automated capabilities to the extent feasible; "(2) identifying all data inputs and outputs necessary for timely report generation; "(3) benchmark loan monitoring business processes and systems against comparable industry processes and, if appropriate, simplify or redefine work processes based on these benchmarks; "(4) determine data quality standards and control systems for ensuring information accuracy; "(5) identify an acquisition strategy and work increments to completion; "(6) analyze the benefits and costs of alternatives and use to demonstrate the advantage of the final project; "(7) ensure that the proposed information system is consistent with the agency's information architecture; and "(8) estimate the cost to system completion, identifying the essential cost element. "(b) Report. - "(1) In general. - On the date that is 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 2, 1997], the Administrator shall submit a report on the progress of the Administrator in carrying out subsection (a) to - "(A) the Committees; and "(B) the Comptroller General of the United States. "(2) Evaluation. - Not later than 28 days after receipt of the report under paragraph (1)(B), the Comptroller General of the United States shall - "(A) prepare a written evaluation of the report for compliance with subsection (a); and "(B) submit the evaluation to the Committees. "(3) Limitation. - None of the funds provided for the purchase of the loan monitoring system may be obligated or expended until 45 days after the date on which the Committees and the Comptroller General of the United States receive the report under paragraph (1)." ASSOCIATE ADMINISTRATOR FOR MINORITY SMALL BUSINESS AND CAPITAL OWNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Section 401(b) of Pub. L. 100-656, as amended by Pub. L. 101-37, Sec. 11(b), June 15, 1989, 103 Stat. 73, provided that: "The position of Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development referred to in paragraph (1) of section 4(b) of the Small Business Act [15 U.S.C. 633(b)(1)] shall be a career reserved position." AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS Pub. L. 100-71, title I, July 11, 1987, 101 Stat. 396, provided in part that: "hereafter, notwithstanding any law, rule or regulation, moneys in any fund established by the Small Business Act [15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.] which are not needed for current operations shall remain in such funds and shall be available solely to carry out the provisions and purposes of programs operated from such funds pursuant to law as provided in appropriations Acts." FINDING AND PURPOSE OF 1984 AMENDMENT Section 2 of Pub. L. 98-362 provided that: "(a) The Congress hereby finds that - "(1) there is increased dependency on, and proliferation of, information technology (including computers, data networks, and other communication devices) in the small business community; "(2) such technology has permitted an increase in criminal activity against small business; "(3) small businesses in particular frequently lack the education and awareness of computer security techniques and technologies which would enable them to protect their computer systems from unauthorized access and the manipulation or destruction of their computer hardware, software, and stored data; "(4) profitmaking organizations have substantial expertise in computer technology, communications, and management assistance that is not otherwise available; and "(5) the use of this expertise in the Small Business Administration's training delivery system would improve substantially the quantity and quality of the agency's management assistance programs. "(b) The purposes of this Act [amending this section and sections 632 and 637 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 631 and 637 of this title] are - "(1) to improve the management by small businesses of their information technology, "(2) to educate and encourage small businesses to protect such technology from intentional or unintentional manipulation or destruction; and "(3) to permit cooperation with profitmaking organizations in providing management assistance to small business." AUDIT BY GENERAL ACCOUNTING OFFICE OF SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION; REPORT TO CONGRESS Section 13 of Pub. L. 93-386 directed General Accounting Office to conduct a full-scale audit of Small Business Administration, including all field offices and to submit audit to House and Senate not later than six months from Aug. 23, 1974. NONAVAILABILITY OF UNOBLIGATED FUNDS AFTER JUNE 30, 1974 Section 1 of Pub. L. 93-237 provided in part that any additional amounts authorized by Pub. L. 93-237 [amending this section, sections 636 and 639 of this title, section 1961 of Title 7, Agriculture, and section 3142-1 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section, section 636 of this title, and sections 1961 and 1969 of Title 7] which were not obligated by June 30, 1974, were no longer to be available after that date. ADDITIONAL CAPITAL FOR REVOLVING FUND The following acts appropriated additional capital: 1965 - $76,000,000 - Pub. L. 89-309, ch. IX, Oct. 31, 1965, 79 Stat. 1151. $84,000,000 - Pub. L. 89-309, ch. IX, Oct. 31, 1965, 79 Stat. 1151 [effective only upon enactment into law of authorizing legislation]. $150,000,000 - Pub. L. 89-164, title V, Sept. 2, 1965, 79 Stat. 641. $100,000,000 - Pub. L. 89-16, title I, ch. IX, Apr. 30, 1965, 79 Stat. 92. 1964 - $45,000,000 - Pub. L. 88-635, ch. IX, Oct. 7, 1964, 78 Stat. 1032. 1963 - $90,000,000 - Pub. L. 88-245, title V, Dec. 30, 1963, 77 Stat. 798. 1962 - $300,000,000 - Pub. L. 87-843, title V, Oct. 18, 1962, 76 Stat. 1102. $40,000,000 - Pub. L. 87-545, title I, July 25, 1962, 76 Stat. 213. 1961 - $160,000,000 - Pub. L. 87-332, Sept. 30, 1961, 75 Stat. 742. $20,000,000 - Pub. L. 87-125, title IV, Aug. 3, 1961, 75 Stat. 281. 1960 - $50,000,000 - Pub. L. 86-451, title III, May 13, 1960, 74 Stat. 102. 1959 - $150,000,000 - Pub. L. 86-88, title III, July 13, 1959, 73 Stat. 209. 1958 - $200,000,000 - Pub. L. 85-766, ch. II, Aug. 27, 1958, 72 Stat. 867. $20,000,000 - Pub. L. 85-457, June 13, 1958, 72 Stat. 186. 1957 - $100,000,000 - Pub. L. 85-170, ch. II, Aug. 28, 1957, 71 Stat. 428. $45,000,000 - Pub. L. 85-19, ch. I, Apr. 20, 1957, 71 Stat. 16. 1956 - $50,000,000 - Act June 20, 1956, ch. 415, title III, 70 Stat. 325. BUSINESS LOAN AND INVESTMENT FUND; INCREASE IN FINANCING FUNCTIONS; MONTHLY REPORTS TO CONGRESS Pub. L. 91-151, title III, Dec. 23, 1969, 83 Stat. 378, provided that: "The Small Business Administration shall promptly increase the level of its financing functions utilizing the business loan and investment fund established under section 4(c)(1)(B) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 633(c)(1)(B)) [subsec. (c)(1)(B) of this section] by $70,000,000 above the level prevailing at the time of enactment of this Act [Dec. 23, 1969]. The Small Business Administration shall submit to Congress a monthly report of its implementation of this section." TRANSFER OF FUNDS FOR TRADE ADJUSTMENT LOANS Section 3(b) of Pub. L. 89-409 provided in part that any unexpended balances of appropriations heretofore appropriated for the purposes of such section [former section 637a of this title] were transferred to the business loan and investment fund established by section 4(c)(1) of the Small Business Act [subsec. (c)(1) of this section]. Such transfer of funds as effective July 1, 1966, see section 3(c) of Pub. L. 89-409, set out as Effective Date of 1966 Amendment note under section 636 of this title. -FOOTNOTE- (!1) See References in Text note below. -End- -CITE- 15 USC Sec. 634 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- Sec. 634. General powers -STATUTE- (a) Seal; appointment and compensation of personnel; use of other services and facilities The Administration shall have power to adopt, alter, and use a seal, which shall be judicially noticed. The Administrator is authorized, subject to the civil service and classification laws, to select, employ, appoint, and fix the compensation of such officers, employees, attorneys, and agents as shall be necessary to carry out the provisions of this chapter; to define their authority and duties; and to pay the costs of qualification of certain of them as notaries public. The Administration, with the consent of any board, commission, independent establishment, or executive department of the Government, may avail itself on a reimbursable or nonreimbursable basis of the use of information, services, facilities (including any field service thereof), officers, and employees thereof, in carrying out the provisions of this chapter. (b) Powers of Administrator In the performance of, and with respect to, the functions, powers, and duties vested in him by this chapter the Administrator may - (1) sue and be sued in any court of record of a State having general jurisdiction, or in any United States district court, and jurisdiction is conferred upon such district court to determine such controversies without regard to the amount in controversy; but no attachment, injunction, garnishment, or other similar process, mesne or final, shall be issued against the Administrator or his property; (2) under regulations prescribed by him, assign or sell at public or private sale, or otherwise dispose of for cash or credit, in his discretion and upon such terms and conditions and for such consideration as the Administrator shall determine to be reasonable, any evidence of debt, contract, claim, personal property, or security assigned to or held by him in connection with the payment of loans granted under this chapter, and to collect or compromise all obligations assigned to or held by him and all legal or equitable rights accruing to him in connection with the payment of such loans until such time as such obligations may be referred to the Attorney General for suit or collection; (3) deal with, complete, renovate, improve, modernize, insure, or rent, or sell for cash or credit upon such terms and conditions and for such consideration as the Administrator shall determine to be reasonable, any real property conveyed to or otherwise acquired by him in connection with the payment of loans granted under this chapter; (4) pursue to final collection, by way of compromise or otherwise, all claims against third parties assigned to the Administrator in connection with loans made by him. This shall include authority to obtain deficiency judgments or otherwise in the case of mortgages assigned to the Administrator. Section 5 of title 41 shall not be construed to apply to any contract of hazard insurance or to any purchase or contract for services or supplies on account of property obtained by the Administrator as a result of loans made under this chapter if the premium therefor or the amount thereof does not exceed $1,000. The power to convey and to execute in the name of the Administrator deeds of conveyance, deeds of release, assignments and satisfactions of mortgages, and any other written instrument relating to real property or any interest therein acquired by the Administrator pursuant to the provisions of this chapter may be exercised by the Administrator or by any officer or agent appointed by him without the execution of any express delegation of power or power of attorney. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent the Administrator from delegating such power by order or by power of attorney, in his discretion, to any officer or agent he may appoint; (5) acquire, in any lawful manner, any property (real, personal, or mixed, tangible or intangible), whenever deemed necessary or appropriate to the conduct of the activities authorized in sections 636(a) and 636(b) of this title; (6) make such rules and regulations as he deems necessary to carry out the authority vested in him by or pursuant to this chapter; (7) in addition to any powers, functions, privileges and immunities otherwise vested in him, take any and all actions (including the procurement of the services of attorneys by contract in any office where an attorney or attorneys are not or cannot be economically employed full time to render such services) when he determines such actions are necessary or desirable in making, servicing, compromising, modifying, liquidating, or otherwise dealing with or realizing on loans made under the provisions of this chapter: Provided, That with respect to deferred participation loans, the Administrator may, in the discretion of and pursuant to regulations promulgated by the Administrator, authorize participating lending institutions to take actions relating to loan servicing on behalf of the Administrator, including determining eligibility and creditworthiness and loan monitoring, collection, and liquidation; (8) pay the transportation expenses and per diem in lieu of subsistence expenses, in accordance with subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, for travel of any person employed by the Administration to render temporary services not in excess of six months in connection with any disaster referred to in section 636(b) of this title from place of appointment to, and while at, the disaster area and any other temporary posts of duty and return upon completion of the assignment: Provided, That the Administrator may extend the six-month limitation for an additional six months if the Administrator determines the extension is necessary to continue efficient disaster loan making activities; (9) accept the services and facilities of Federal, State, and local agencies and groups, both public and private, and utilize such gratuitous services and facilities as may, from time to time, be necessary, to further the objectives of section 636(b) of this title; (10) upon purchase by the Administration of any deferred participation entered into under section 636 of this title, continue to charge a rate of interest not to exceed that initially charged by the participating institution on the amount so purchased for the remaining term of the indebtedness; (11) make such investigations as he deems necessary to determine whether a recipient of or participant in any assistance under this chapter or any other person has engaged or is about to engage in any acts or practices which constitute or will constitute a violation of any provision of this chapter, or of any rule or regulation under this chapter, or of any order issued under this chapter. The Administration shall permit any person to file with it a statement in writing, under oath or otherwise as the Administration shall determine, as to all the facts and circumstances concerning the matter to be investigated. For the purpose of any investigation, the Administration is empowered to administer oaths and affirmations, subpena witnesses, compel their attendance, take evidence, and require the production of any books, papers, and documents which are relevant to the inquiry. Such attendance of witnesses and the production of any such records may be required from any place in the United States. In case of contumacy by, or refusal to obey a subpena issued to, any person, including a recipient or participant, the Administration may invoke the aid of any court of the United States within the jurisdiction of which such investigation or proceeding is carried on, or where such person resides or carries on business, in requiring the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production of books, papers, and documents; and such court may issue an order requiring such person to appear before the Administration, there to produce records, if so ordered, or to give testimony touching the matter under investigation. Any failure to obey such order of the court may be punished by such court as a contempt thereof. All process in any such case may be served in the judicial district whereof such person is an inhabitant or wherever he may be found; (12) impose, retain, and use only those fees which are specifically authorized by law or which are in effect on September 30, 1994, and in the amounts and at the rates in effect on such date, except that the Administrator may, subject to approval in appropriations Acts, impose, retain, and utilize, additional fees - (A) not to exceed $100 for each loan servicing action (other than a loan assumption) requested after disbursement of the loan, including any substitution of collateral, release or substitution of a guarantor, reamortization, or similar action; (B) not to exceed $300 for loan assumptions; (C) not to exceed 1 percent of the amount of requested financings under title III of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [15 U.S.C. 681 et seq.] for which the applicant requests a commitment from the Administration for funding during the following year; and (D) to recover the direct, incremental cost involved in the production and dissemination of compilations of information produced by the Administration under the authority of this chapter and the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [15 U.S.C. 661 et seq.]; (13) collect, retain and utilize, subject to approval in appropriations Acts, any amounts collected by fiscal transfer agents and not used by such agent as payment of the cost of loan pooling or debenture servicing operations, except that amounts collected under this paragraph and paragraph (12) shall be utilized solely to facilitate the administration of the program that generated the excess amounts; and (14) require any lender authorized to make loans under section 636 of this title to pay examination and review fees, which shall be deposited in the account for salaries and expenses of the Administration, and shall be available for the costs of examinations, reviews, and other lender oversight activities. (c) Procurement of experts and consultants; compensation and expenses To such extent as he finds necessary to carry out the provisions of this chapter, the Administrator is authorized to procure the temporary (not in excess of one year) or intermittent services of experts or consultants or organizations thereof, including stenographic reporting services, by contract or appointment, and in such cases such services shall be without regard to the civil- service and classification laws and, except in the case of stenographic reporting services by organizations, without regard to section 5 of title 41. Any individual so employed may be compensated at a rate not in excess of the daily equivalent of the highest rate payable under section 5332 of title 5, including travel time, and, while such individual is away from his or her home or regular place of business, he or she may be allowed travel expenses (including per diem in lieu of subsistence) as authorized by section 5703 of title 5. (d) Safety deposit box rentals Section 3324(a) and (b) of title 31 shall not apply to prepayments of rentals made by the Administration on safety deposit boxes used by the Administration for the safeguarding of instruments held as security for loans or for the safeguarding of other documents. (e) Undertaking or suspension of payment obligation; period; extension of maturity; repayment agreement; "required payments" defined (1) Subject to the requirements and conditions contained in this subsection, upon application by a small business concern which is the recipient of a loan made under this chapter, the Administration may undertake the small business concern's obligation to make the required payments under such loan or may suspend such obligation if the loan was a direct loan made by the Administration. While such payments are being made by the Administration pursuant to the undertaking of such obligation or while such obligation is suspended, no such payment with respect to the loan may be required from the small business concern. (2) The Administration may undertake or suspend for a period of not to exceed 5 years any small business concern's obligation under this subsection only if - (A) without such undertaking or suspension of the obligation, the small business concern would, in the sole discretion of the Administration, become insolvent or remain insolvent; (B) with the undertaking or suspension of the obligation, the small business concern would, in the sole discretion of the Administration, become or remain a viable small business entity; and (C) the small business concern executes an agreement in writing satisfactory to the Administration as provided by paragraph (4). (3) Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 636(a)(4)(C) and 636(i)(1) of this title, the Administration may extend the maturity of any loan on which the Administration undertakes or suspends the obligation pursuant to this subsection for a corresponding period of time. (4)(A) Prior to the undertaking or suspension by the Administration of any small business concern's obligation under this subsection, the Administration, consistent with the purposes sought to be achieved herein, shall require the small business concern to agree in writing to repay to it the aggregate amount of the payments which were required under the loan during the period for which such obligation was undertaken or suspended, either - (i) by periodic payments not less in amount or less frequently falling due than those which were due under the loan during such period, or (ii) pursuant to a repayment schedule agreed upon by the Administration and the small business concern, or (iii) by a combination of the payments described in clause (i) and clause (ii). (B) In addition to requiring the small business concern to execute the agreement described in subparagraph (A), the Administration shall, prior to the undertaking or suspension of the obligation, take such action, and require the small business concern to take such action as the Administration deems appropriate in the circumstances, including the provision of such security as the Administration deems necessary or appropriate to insure that the rights and interests of the lender (Small Business Administration or participant) will be safeguarded adequately during and after the period in which such obligation is so undertaken or suspended. (5) The term "required payments" with respect to any loan means payments of principal and interest under the loan. (f) Sale of guaranteed portion of loans by lender or subsequent holder; limitations; secondary market (1) The guaranteed portion of any loan made pursuant to this chapter may be sold by the lender, and by any subsequent holder, consistent with regulations on such sales as the Administration shall establish, subject to the following limitations: (A) prior to the Administration's approval of the sale, or upon any subsequent resale, of any loan guaranteed by the Administration, if the lender certifies that such loan has been properly closed and that the lender has substantially complied with the provisions of the guarantee agreement and the regulations of the Administration, the Administration shall review and approve only materials not previously approved; (B) all fees due the Administration on a guaranteed loan shall have been paid in full prior to any sale; and (C) each loan, except each loan made under section 636(a)(14) of this title, shall have been fully disbursed to the borrower prior to any sale. (2) After a loan is sold in the secondary market, the lender shall remain obligated under its guarantee agreement with the Administration, and shall continue to service the loan in a manner consistent with the terms and conditions of such agreement. (3) The Administration shall develop such procedures as are necessary for the facilitation, administration, and promotion of secondary market operations, and for assessing the increase of small business access to capital at reasonable rates and terms as a result of secondary market operations. Beginning on March 31, 1997, the sale of the unguaranteed portion of any loan made under section 636(a) of this title shall not be permitted until a final regulation that applies uniformly to both depository institutions and other lenders is promulgated by the Administration setting forth the terms and conditions under which such sales can be permitted, including maintenance of appropriate reserve requirements and other safeguards to protect the safety and soundness of the program. (4) Nothing in this subsection or subsection (g) of this section shall be interpreted to impede or extinguish the right of the borrower or the successor in interest to such borrower to prepay (in whole or in part) any loan made pursuant to section 636(a) of this title, the guaranteed portion of which may be included in such trust or pool, or to impede or extinguish the rights of any party pursuant to section 636(a)(6)(C) of this title or subsection (e) of this section. (g) Trust certificates; guarantee of timely payments of principal and interest; full faith and credit of United States; collection of fees; subrogation (1) The Administration is authorized to issue trust certificates representing ownership of all or a fractional part of the guaranteed portion of one or more loans which have been guaranteed by the Administration under this chapter, or under section 696 of this title: Provided, That such trust certificates shall be based on and backed by a trust or pool approved by the Administration and composed solely of the entire guaranteed portion of such loans. (2) The Administration is authorized, upon such terms and conditions as are deemed appropriate, to guarantee the timely payment of the principal of and interest on trust certificates issued by the Administration or its agent for purposes of this subsection. Such guarantee shall be limited to the extent of principal and interest on the guaranteed portions of loans which compose the trust or pool. In the event that a loan in such trust or pool is prepaid, either voluntarily or in the event of default, the guarantee of timely payment of principal and interest on the trust certificates shall be reduced in proportion to the amount of principal and interest such prepaid loan represents in the trust or pool. Interest on prepaid or defaulted loans shall accrue and be guaranteed by the Administration only through the date of payment on the guarantee. During the term of the trust certificate, it may be called for redemption due to prepayment or default of all loans constituting the pool. (3) The full faith and credit of the United States is pledged to the payment of all amounts which may be required to be paid under any guarantee of such trust certificates issued by the Administration or its agent pursuant to this subsection. (4)(A) The Administration may collect a fee for any loan guarantee sold into the secondary market under subsection (f) of this section in an amount equal to not more than 50 percent of the portion of the sale price that exceeds 110 percent of the outstanding principal amount of the portion of the loan guaranteed by the Administration. Any such fee imposed by the Administration shall be collected by the Administration or by the agent which carries out on behalf of the Administration the central registration functions required by subsection (h) of this section and shall be paid to the Administration and used solely to reduce the subsidy on loans guaranteed under section 636(a) of this title: Provided, That such fee shall not be charged to the borrower whose loan is guaranteed: and, Provided further, That nothing herein shall preclude any agent of the Administration from collecting a fee approved by the Administration for the functions described in subsection (h)(2) (!1) of this section. (B) The Administration is authorized to impose and collect, either directly or through a fiscal and transfer agent, a reasonable penalty on late payments of the fee authorized under subparagraph (A) in an amount not to exceed 5 percent of such fee per month plus interest. (C) The Administration may contract with an agent to carry out, on behalf of the Administration, the assessment and collection of the annual fee established under section 636(a)(23) of this title. The agent may receive, as compensation for services, any interest earned on the fee while in the control of the agent before the time at which the agent is contractually required to remit the fee to the Administration. (5)(A) In the event the Administration pays a claim under a guarantee issued under this subsection, it shall be subrogated fully to the rights satisfied by such payment. (B) No State or local law, and no Federal law, shall preclude or limit the exercise by the Administration of its ownership rights in the portions of loans constituting the trust or pool against which the trust certificates are issued. (h) Central registration of loans and trust certificates; contracts with agent; disclosures by sellers of guaranteed portions of loans; regulation of brokers and dealers; electronic registration (1) Upon the adoption of final rules and regulations, the Administration shall - (A) provide for a central registration of all loans and trust certificates sold pursuant to subsections (f) and (g) of this section; (B) contract with an agent to carry out on behalf of the Administration the central registration functions of this section and the issuance of trust certificates to facilitate pooling. Such agent shall provide a fidelity bond or insurance in such amounts as the Administration determines to be necessary to fully protect the interest of the Government; (C) prior to any sale, require the seller to disclose to a purchaser of the guaranteed portion of a loan guaranteed under this chapter and to the purchaser of a trust certificate issued pursuant to subsection (g) of this section, information on the terms, conditions, and yield of such instrument. As used in this paragraph, if the instrument being sold is a loan, the term "seller" does not include (A) an entity which made the loan or (B) any individual or entity which sells three or fewer guaranteed loans per year; and (D) have the authority to regulate brokers and dealers in guaranteed loans and trust certificates sold pursuant to subsections (f) and (g) of this section. (2) The agent described in paragraph (1)(B) may be compensated through any of the fees assessed under this section and any interest earned on any funds collected by the agent while such funds are in the control of the agent and before the time at which the agent is contractually required to transfer such funds to the Administration or to the holders of the trust certificates, as appropriate. (3) Nothing in this subsection shall prohibit the utilization of a book-entry or other electronic form of registration for trust certificates. The Administration may, with the consent of the Secretary of the Treasury, use the book-entry system of the Federal Reserve System. -SOURCE- (Pub. L. 85-536, Sec. 2[5], July 18, 1958, 72 Stat. 385; Pub. L. 87- 305, Sec. 4, Sept. 26, 1961, 75 Stat. 666; Pub. L. 87-367, title I, Sec. 103(3), Oct. 4, 1961, 75 Stat. 787; Pub. L. 92-310, title II, Sec. 224(a), June 6, 1972, 86 Stat. 206; Pub. L. 93-386, Secs. 3(1), 10, Aug. 23, 1974, 88 Stat. 745, 749; Pub. L. 94-305, title II, Sec. 208, June 4, 1976, 90 Stat. 671; Pub. L. 95-89, title III, Sec. 303, Aug. 4, 1977, 91 Stat. 558; Pub. L. 95-510, Sec. 103, Oct. 24, 1978, 92 Stat. 1781; Pub. L. 96-302, title I, Sec. 114, July 2, 1980, 94 Stat. 838; Pub. L. 98-352, Sec. 2, July 10, 1984, 98 Stat. 329; Pub. L. 100-590, title I, Sec. 113, Nov. 3, 1988, 102 Stat. 2997; Pub. L. 102-140, title VI, Sec. 609(a), Oct. 28, 1991, 105 Stat. 825; Pub. L. 102-564, title III, Sec. 307(d), Oct. 28, 1992, 106 Stat. 4264; Pub. L. 103-81, Sec. 3(a), Aug. 13, 1993, 107 Stat. 780; Pub. L. 103-282, Sec. 2, July 22, 1994, 108 Stat. 1422; Pub. L. 103-403, title VI, Sec. 602, Oct. 22, 1994, 108 Stat. 4202; Pub. L. 104-36, Sec. 4(b), Oct. 12, 1995, 109 Stat. 297; Pub. L. 104-208, div. D, title I, Sec. 103(e), title II, Secs. 205(a), 208(i)(1), Sept. 30, 1996, 110 Stat. 3009-727, 3009-738, 3009-747; Pub. L. 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(9) [title II, Sec. 209], Dec. 21, 2000, 114 Stat. 2763, 2763A-683; Pub. L. 108-306, Sec. 3, Sept. 24, 2004, 118 Stat. 1131; Pub. L. 108-447, div. K, title I, Sec. 131, Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3452.) -REFTEXT- REFERENCES IN TEXT The civil service laws, referred to in subsecs. (a) and (c), are set forth in Title 5, Government Organization and Employees. See, particularly, section 3301 et seq. of Title 5. The classification laws, referred to in subsecs. (a) and (c), are set forth in chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of Title 5. The Small Business Investment Act of 1958, referred to in subsec. (b)(12)(C), (D), is Pub. L. 85-699, Aug. 21, 1958, 72 Stat. 689, as amended, which is classified principally to chapter 14B (Sec. 661 et seq.) of this title. Title III of the Act is classified generally to subchapter III (Sec. 681 et seq.) of chapter 14B of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 661 of this title and Tables. Subsection (h)(2) of this section, referred to in subsec. (g)(4)(A), was redesignated subsec. (h)(1)(B) by Pub. L. 104-208, div. D, title II, Sec. 205(a)(1), (2), Sept. 30, 1996, 110 Stat. 3009-738. -COD- CODIFICATION In subsec. (b)(8), "subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5" substituted for "the Travel Expense Act of 1949" on authority of Pub. L. 89-554, Sec. 7(b), Sept. 6, 1966, 80 Stat. 631, the first section of which enacted Title 5, Government Organization and Employees. In subsec. (d), "Section 3324(a) and (b) of title 31" substituted for "Section 3648 of the Revised Statutes (31 U.S.C. 529)" on authority of Pub. L. 97-258, Sec. 4(b), Sept. 13, 1982, 96 Stat. 1067, the first section of which enacted Title 31, Money and Finance. -MISC1- PRIOR PROVISIONS Prior similar provisions were contained in section 205 of act July 30, 1953, ch. 282, title II, 67 Stat. 234, as amended by act Aug. 9, 1955, ch. 628, Sec. 4, 69 Stat. 547, which was classified to this section. See Codification note set out under section 631 of this title. AMENDMENTS 2004 - Subsec. (b)(14). Pub. L. 108-447 added par. (14). Subsec. (g)(4)(C). Pub. L. 108-306, Sec. 3(1), added subpar. (C). Subsec. (h)(2), (3). Pub. L. 108-306, Sec. 3(2), added par. (2) and redesignated former par. (2) as (3). 2000 - Subsec. (f)(1)(C). Pub. L. 106-554 amended subpar. (C) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (C) read as follows: "each loan shall have been fully disbursed to the borrower prior to any sale." 1996 - Subsec. (b)(7). Pub. L. 104-208, Sec. 208(i)(1), substituted ": Provided, That with respect to deferred participation loans, the Administrator may, in the discretion of and pursuant to regulations promulgated by the Administrator, authorize participating lending institutions to take actions relating to loan servicing on behalf of the Administrator, including determining eligibility and creditworthiness and loan monitoring, collection, and liquidation" for ": Provided, That nothing herein shall be construed as authorizing the Administrator to contract or otherwise delegate his responsibility for loan servicing to other than Administration personnel, but with respect to deferred participation loans he may authorize participating lending institutions, in his discretion pursuant to regulations promulgated by him, to take such actions on his behalf, including, but not limited to the determination of eligibility and creditworthiness, and loan monitoring, collection and liquidation". Subsec. (f)(3). Pub. L. 104-208, Sec. 103(e), inserted at end "Beginning on March 31, 1997, the sale of the unguaranteed portion of any loan made under section 636(a) of this title shall not be permitted until a final regulation that applies uniformly to both depository institutions and other lenders is promulgated by the Administration setting forth the terms and conditions under which such sales can be permitted, including maintenance of appropriate reserve requirements and other safeguards to protect the safety and soundness of the program." Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 104-208, Sec. 205(a), designated existing provisions as par. (1), redesignated former pars. (1) to (4) as subpars. (A) to (D), respectively, of par. (1), in subpar. (A) substituted "(A) provide for a central registration of all loans and trust certificates sold pursuant to subsections (f) and (g) of this section;" for "(A) provide for a central registration of all loans and trust certificates sold pursuant to subsections (f) and (g) of this section. Such central registration shall include, with respect to each sale, an identification of each lender who has sold the loan; the interest rate paid by the borrower to the lender; the lender's servicing fee; whether the loan is for a fixed rate or variable rate; an identification of each purchaser of the loan or trust certificate; the price paid by the purchaser for the loan or trust certificate; the interest rate paid on the loan or trust certificate; the fees of an agent for carrying out the functions described in paragraph (2) below; and such other information as the Administration deems appropriate;", and added par. (2). 1995 - Subsec. (g)(4)(A). Pub. L. 104-36 substituted first sentence for former first sentence which read as follows: "The Administration may collect the following fees for loan guarantees sold into the secondary market pursuant to the provisions of subsection (f) of this section: an amount equal to (A) not more than 4/10 of one percent per year of the outstanding principal amount of the portion of such loan guaranteed by the Administration, and (B) not more than 50 percent of the portion of the sale price which is in excess of 110 percent of the outstanding principal amount of the portion of such loan guaranteed by the Administration.", and substituted "such fee" for "such fees" in two places in second sentence. 1994 - Subsec. (b)(8). Pub. L. 103-282 inserted ": Provided, That the Administrator may extend the six-month limitation for an additional six months if the Administrator determines the extension is necessary to continue efficient disaster loan making activities" before semicolon at end. Subsec. (b)(12), (13). Pub. L. 103-403 added pars. (12) and (13). 1993 - Subsec. (g)(4). Pub. L. 103-81 added par. (4) and struck out former par. (4) which read as follows: "The Administration shall not collect any fee for any guarantee under this subsection: Provided, That nothing herein shall preclude any agent of the Administration from collecting a fee approved by the Administration for the functions described in subsection (h)(2) of this section." 1992 - Subsec. (f)(4). Pub. L. 102-564 substituted "section 636(a)(6)(C) of this title or subsection (e) of this section" for "subsection (e) of this section or section 636(a)(6) or 636(a)(8) of this title". 1991 - Subsec. (g)(1). Pub. L. 102-140 substituted "or under section 696 of this title" for "except separate trust certificates shall be issued for loans approved under section 636(a)(13) of this title". 1988 - Subsec. (g)(1). Pub. L. 100-590 substituted "except separate trust certificates shall be issued for loans approved" for "except those". 1984 - Subsecs. (f) to (h). Pub. L. 98-352 added subsecs. (f) to (h). 1980 - Subsec. (b)(7). Pub. L. 96-302 prohibited an interpretation that authorized the Administrator to contract or otherwise delegate his responsibility for loan servicing to other than Administration personnel, but sanctioned, with respect to deferred participation loans, authority for participating lending institutions to take action on behalf of the Administrator determining eligibility and creditworthiness, loan monitoring, collection, and liquidation, etc. 1978 - Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 95-510 substituted "Any individual so employed may be compensated at a rate not in excess of the daily equivalent of the highest rate payable under section 5332 of Title 5, including travel time, and, while such individual is away from his or her home or regular place of business, he or she may be allowed travel expenses (including per diem in lieu of subsistence) as authorized by section 5703 of Title 5" for "Any individual so employed may be compensated at a rate not in excess of $50 per diem, and, while such individual is away from his home or regular place of business, he may be allowed transportation and not to exceed $15 per diem in lieu of subsistence and other expenses". 1977 - Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 95-89 added subsec. (e). 1976 - Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 94-305 struck out subsec. (e) which provided for the appointment, by the Administrator, of the Chief Counsel for Advocacy who would serve as a focal point for complaints and suggestions, counsel small businessmen, develop proposals for change, represent interest of small businesses before federal agencies and enlist the cooperation of public and private agencies. See sections 634a to 634g of this title. 1974 - Subsec. (b)(10), (11). Pub. L. 93-386, Sec. 3(1), added pars. (10) and (11). Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 93-386, Sec. 10, added subsec. (e). 1972 - Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 92-310 struck out provisions which authorized the Administrator to provide bonds for officers, employees, attorneys, and agents. 1961 - Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 87-367 struck out authorization for fifteen additional positions in grades 16, 17, and 18 of the General Schedule of the Classification Act of 1949. Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 87-305 added subsec. (d). EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1996 AMENDMENT Amendment by sections 103 and 205 of Pub. L. 104-208 effective Oct. 1, 1996, see section 3 of Pub. L. 104-208, set out as a note under section 633 of this title. Section 208(j) of div. D of Pub. L. 104-208 provided that: "This section [amending this section, sections 80a-18, 662, 681 to 683, 687, 687b, 687d, 687k to 687m, and 697f of this title, and section 1431 of Title 12, Banks and Banking, repealing sections 687i and 687j of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 681 and 683 of this title, and amending provisions set out as a note under section 631 of this title] and the amendments made by this section shall become effective on the date of enactment of this Act [Sept. 30, 1996]." EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1995 AMENDMENT Section 8 of Pub. L. 104-36 provided that: "(a) In General. - Except as provided in subsection (b), the amendments made by this Act [see Short Title of 1995 Amendment note set out under section 631 of this title] do not apply with respect to any loan made or guaranteed under the Small Business Act [15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.] or the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [15 U.S.C. 661 et seq.] before the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 12, 1995]. "(b) Exceptions. - The amendments made by this Act apply to a loan made or guaranteed under the Small Business Act or the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 before the date of enactment of this Act [Oct. 12, 1995], if the loan is refinanced, extended, restructured, or renewed on or after the date of enactment of this Act." EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1993 AMENDMENT Section 3(b) of Pub. L. 103-81 provided that: "Any new fees imposed by the Administration pursuant to the authority conferred by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall be applicable only to loans initially sold in the secondary market pursuant to the provisions of section 5(f) of the Small Business Act [subsec. (f) of this section] after August 31, 1993." Section 7 of Pub. L. 103-81 which provided that sections 3 and 5 of Pub. L. 103-81, amending this section and section 636 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and section 636 of this title, were repealed on Sept. 30, 1996, was repealed by Pub. L. 104-208, div. D, title I, Sec. 109(a), Sept. 30, 1996, 110 Stat. 3009-733, effective Sept. 29, 1996. EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1980 AMENDMENT Amendment by Pub. L. 96-302 effective Oct. 1, 1980, see section 507 of Pub. L. 96-302, set out as a note under section 631 of this title. EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1978 AMENDMENT Section 105 of Pub. L. 95-510 provided that: "This Act [amending this section and sections 636 and 637 of this title and repealing sections 5031, 5032, and 5083 of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare] shall be effective October 1, 1979." REGULATIONS Section 3 of Pub. L. 98-352 provided that: "(a) Within ninety days after the date of enactment of this Act [July 10, 1984], the Small Business Administration shall develop and promulgate final rules and regulations to implement the central registration provisions provided for in section 5(h)(1) of the Small Business Act [15 U.S.C. 634(h)(1)], and shall contract with an agent for an initial period of not to exceed two years to carry out the functions provided for in section 5(h)(2) of such Act. "(b) Within nine months after the date of enactment of this Act [July 10, 1984], the Small Business Administration shall consult with representatives of appropriate Federal and State agencies and officials, the securities industry, financial institutions and lenders, and small business persons, and shall develop and promulgate final rules and regulations to implement this Act [amending sections 633, 634, and 639 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 631 and 634 of this title] other than as provided for in subsection (a). "(c) The Small Business Administration shall not implement any of the provisions under section 5(g) of the Small Business Act, as amended [15 U.S.C. 634(g)], until final rules and regulations become effective." ASSET SALES Pub. L. 105-135, title V, Sec. 505, Dec. 2, 1997, 111 Stat. 2624, provided that: "In connection with the Administration's implementation of a program to sell to the private sector loans and other assets held by the Administration, the Administration shall provide to the Committees a copy of the draft and final plans describing the sale and the anticipated benefits resulting from such sale." PREFERRED LENDER STANDARD REVIEW PROGRAM Section 103(h) of div. D of Pub. L. 104-208 provided that: "Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act [Sept. 30, 1996], the Administrator shall commence a standard review program for the Preferred Lender Program established by section 5(b)(7) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 634(b)(7)), which shall include annual or more frequent assessments of the participation of the lender in the program, including defaults, loans, and recoveries of loans made by that lender under the authority of this section. The Administrator shall require such standard review for each new entrant to the Preferred Lender Program." STUDY AND REPORT REGARDING 1993 AMENDMENTS TO IMPOSE SECONDARY MARKET FEES AND TO REDUCE LOAN GUARANTEE PERCENTAGES Pub. L. 103-81, Sec. 6, Aug. 13, 1993, 107 Stat. 782, provided that: "The Administration shall study, monitor and evaluate the impact of the amendments made by sections 3 and 5 of this Act [amending this section and section 636 of this title] on the ability of small business concerns and small business concerns owned and controlled by minorities and women, to obtain financing and the impact of such sections on the effectiveness, viability and growth of the secondary market authorized by section 5(f) of the Small Business Act [subsec. (f) of this section]. Not later than 16 months after the date of enactment [Aug. 13, 1993], and annually thereafter, the Administration shall submit to the Committees on Small Business of the Senate and the House of Representatives [Committee on Small Business of Senate now Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of Senate] a report containing the Administration's findings and recommendations on such impact, specifically including changes in the interest rates on financings provided to small business concerns and small business concerns owned and controlled by minorities and women, through the use of the secondary market. The Administration shall segregate such findings and recommendations in the study according to the ethnic and gender components in these categories. Solely for the purposes of the study authorized herein, the term 'small business concerns owned and controlled by minorities', includes businesses owned and controlled by individuals belonging to one of the designated groups listed in section 8(d)(3)(C) of the Small Business Act [15 U.S.C. 637(d)(3)(C)]." REFERENCES IN OTHER LAWS TO GS-16, 17, OR 18 PAY RATES References in laws to the rates of pay for GS-16, 17, or 18, or to maximum rates of pay under the General Schedule, to be considered references to rates payable under specified sections of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees, see section 529 [title I, Sec. 101(c)(1)] of Pub. L. 101-509, set out in a note under section 5376 of Title 5. VIABILITY OF SECONDARY MARKETS Pub. L. 102-366, title II, Sec. 226, Sept. 4, 1992, 106 Stat. 1001, provided that: "The Administrator of the Small Business Administration is authorized and directed to take such actions in the awarding of contracts as is deemed necessary to assure the continued long-term viability of the secondary markets in loans, debentures or other securities guaranteed by the Administration." SMALL BUSINESS LOAN SECONDARY MARKET STUDY Pub. L. 102-366, title III, Sec. 311, Sept. 4, 1992, 106 Stat. 1005, directed Secretary of the Treasury, Director of Congressional Budget Office, and Chairman of Securities and Exchange Commission, in consultation with Administrator of Small Business Administration, to conduct a study of potential benefits of, and legal, regulatory, and market-based barriers to, developing a secondary market for loans to small businesses, specified considerations to be included in the study, and required that, not later than 1 year after Sept. 4, 1992, a report be submitted to Congress on results of the study, including recommendations for legislation to facilitate development of a secondary market for loans to small businesses. APPROPRIATIONS NOT AUTHORIZED Section 6 of Pub. L. 98-352 provided that: "This Act [amending this section and sections 633 and 639 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and section 631 of this title] does not authorize the appropriation of any funds." SMALL BUSINESS PROTECTION Pub. L. 90-104, title III, Secs. 301-303, Oct. 11, 1967, 81 Stat. 272, authorized Administrator of Small Business Administration to conduct a special study of impact on small business concerns of robbery, burglary, shoplifting, vandalism, and other criminal activities, and report to President and to Congress results of study, including such recommendations he deemed appropriate for administrative and legislative action, within one year after Oct. 11, 1967. -FOOTNOTE- (!1) See References in Text note below. -End- -CITE- 15 USC Sec. 634a 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- Sec. 634a. Office of Advocacy within Small Business Administration; Chief Counsel for Advocacy -STATUTE- There is established within the Small Business Administration an Office of Advocacy. The management of the Office shall be vested in a Chief Counsel for Advocacy who shall be appointed from civilian life by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. -SOURCE- (Pub. L. 94-305, title II, Sec. 201, June 4, 1976, 90 Stat. 668.) -COD- CODIFICATION Section was not enacted as part of the Small Business Act which comprises this chapter. -End- -CITE- 15 USC Sec. 634b 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- Sec. 634b. Primary functions of Office of Advocacy -STATUTE- The primary functions of the Office of Advocacy shall be to - (1) examine the role of small business in the American economy and the contribution which small business can make in improving competition, encouraging economic and social mobility for all citizens, restraining inflation, spurring production, expanding employment opportunities, increasing productivity, promoting exports, stimulating innovation and entrepreneurship, and providing an avenue through which new and untested products and services can be brought to the marketplace; (2) assess the effectiveness of existing Federal subsidy and assistance programs for small business and the desirability of reducing the emphasis on such existing programs and increasing the emphasis on general assistance programs designed to benefit all small businesses; (3) measure the direct costs and other effects of government regulation on small businesses; and make legislative and nonlegislative proposals for eliminating excessive or unnecessary regulations of small businesses; (4) determine the impact of the tax structure on small businesses and make legislative and other proposals for altering the tax structure to enable all small businesses to realize their potential for contributing to the improvement of the Nation's economic well-being; (5) study the ability of financial markets and institutions to meet small business credit needs and determine the impact of government demands for credit on small businesses; (6) determine financial resource availability and to recommend methods for delivery of financial assistance to minority enterprises, including methods for securing equity capital, for generating markets for goods and services, for providing effective business education, more effective management and technical assistance, and training, and for assistance in complying with Federal, State, and local law; (7) evaluate the efforts of Federal agencies, business and industry to assist minority enterprises; (8) make such other recommendations as may be appropriate to assist the development and strengthening of minority and other small business enterprises; (9) recommend specific measures for creating an environment in which all businesses will have the opportunity to complete (!1) effectively and expand to their full potential, and to ascertain the common reasons, if any, for small business successes and failures; (10) determine the desirability of developing a set of rational, objective criteria to be used to define small business, and to develop such criteria, if appropriate; (11) advise, cooperate with, and consult with, the Chairman of the Administrative Conference of the United States with respect to section 504(e) of title 5; and (12) evaluate the efforts of each department and agency of the United States, and of private industry, to assist small business concerns owned and controlled by veterans, as defined in section 632(q) of this title, and small business concerns owned and controlled by serviced-disabled (!2) veterans, as defined in such section 632(q) of this title, and to provide statistical information on the utilization of such programs by such small business concerns, and to make appropriate recommendations to the Administrator of the Small Business Administration and to the Congress in order to promote the establishment and growth of those small business concerns. -SOURCE- (Pub. L. 94-305, title II, Sec. 202, June 4, 1976, 90 Stat. 668; Pub. L. 96-481, title II, Sec. 203(b), Oct. 21, 1980, 94 Stat. 2327; Pub. L. 106-50, title VII, Sec. 702, Aug. 17, 1999, 113 Stat. 250.) -COD- CODIFICATION Section was not enacted as part of the Small Business Act which comprises this chapter. -MISC1- AMENDMENTS 1999 - Par. (12). Pub. L. 106-50 added par. (12). 1980 - Par. (11). Pub. L. 96-481 added par. (11). EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1980 AMENDMENT Amendment by Pub. L. 96-481 effective Oct. 1, 1981, and applicable to adversary adjudication as defined in section 504(b)(1)(C) of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees, and to civil actions and adversary adjudications described in section 2412 of Title 28, Judiciary and Judicial Procedure, which are pending on, or commenced on or after Oct. 1, 1981, see section 208 of Pub. L. 96-481, set out as an Effective Date note under section 504 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees. -TRANS- TERMINATION OF ADMINISTRATIVE CONFERENCE OF UNITED STATES For termination of Administrative Conference of United States, see provision of title IV of Pub. L. 104-52, set out as a note preceding section 591 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees. -MISC2- ADVOCACY STUDY OF PAPERWORK AND TAX IMPACT Pub. L. 103-403, title VI, Sec. 613, Oct. 22, 1994, 108 Stat. 4205, directed Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration to conduct a study of the impact of all Federal regulatory, paperwork, and tax requirements upon small business, and report its findings to Congress not later than 1 year after Oct. 22, 1994. -FOOTNOTE- (!1) So in original. Probably should be "compete". (!2) So in original. -End- -CITE- 15 USC Sec. 634c 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- Sec. 634c. Additional duties of Office of Advocacy -STATUTE- The Office of Advocacy shall also perform the following duties on a continuing basis: (1) serve as a focal point for the receipt of complaints, criticisms, and suggestions concerning the policies and activities of the Administration and any other Federal agency which affects small businesses; (2) counsel small businesses on how to resolve questions and problems concerning the relationship of the small business to the Federal Government; (3) develop proposals for changes in the policies and activities of any agency of the Federal Government which will better fulfill the purposes of this chapter and communicate such proposals to the appropriate Federal agencies; (4) represent the views and interests of small businesses before other Federal agencies whose policies and activities may affect small business; and (5) enlist the cooperation and assistance of public and private agencies, businesses, and other organizations in disseminating information about the programs and services provided by the Federal Government which are of benefit to small businesses, and information on how small businesses can participate in or make use of such programs and services. -SOURCE- (Pub. L. 94-305, title II, Sec. 203, June 4, 1976, 90 Stat. 669.) -COD- CODIFICATION Section was not enacted as part of the Small Business Act which comprises this chapter. -End- -CITE- 15 USC Sec. 634d 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- Sec. 634d. Staff and powers of Office of Advocacy -STATUTE- In carrying out the provisions of sections 634a to 634g of this title, the Chief Counsel for Advocacy may - (1) employ and fix the compensation of such additional staff personnel as is deemed necessary, without regard to the provisions of title 5, governing appointments in the competitive service, and without regard to chapter 51, and subchapter III of chapter 53 of such title relating to classification and General Schedule pay rates but at rates not in excess of the lowest rate for GS-15 of the General Schedule: Provided, however, That not more than 14 staff personnel at any one time may be employed and compensated at a rate not in excess of GS-15, step 10, of the General Schedule; (2) procure temporary and intermittent services to the same extent as is authorized by section 3109 of title 5; (3) consult with experts and authorities in the fields of small business investment, venture capital, investment and commercial banking and other comparable financial institutions involved in the financing of business, and with individuals with regulatory, legal, economic, or financial expertise, including members of the academic community, and individuals who generally represent the public interest; (4) utilize the services of the National Advisory Council established pursuant to the provisions of section 637(b)(13) of this title and in accordance with the provisions of such statute, also appoint such other advisory boards or committees as is reasonably appropriate and necessary to carry out the provisions of sections 634a to 634g of this title; and (5) hold hearings and sit and act at such times and places as he may deem advisable. -SOURCE- (Pub. L. 94-305, title II, Sec. 204, June 4, 1976, 90 Stat. 669; Pub. L. 96-302, title IV, Sec. 402, July 2, 1980, 94 Stat. 850; Pub. L. 103-403, title VI, Secs. 605(b), 610, Oct. 22, 1994, 108 Stat. 4203, 4204.) -REFTEXT- REFERENCES IN TEXT The provisions of title 5 governing appointments in the competitive service, referred to in par. (1), are classified to section 3301 et seq. of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees. The General Schedule, referred to in par. (1), is set out under section 5332 of Title 5. -COD- CODIFICATION Section was not enacted as part of the Small Business Act which comprises this chapter. -MISC1- AMENDMENTS 1994 - Pub. L. 103-403, Secs. 605(b), 610(1), in introductory provisions substituted "provisions of sections 634a to 634g of this title, the Chief" for "provisions of section 634b of this title, after consultation with and subject to the approval of the Administrator, the Chief". Par. (1). Pub. L. 103-403, Sec. 610(2), substituted "14" for "ten" before "staff personnel". 1980 - Par. (1). Pub. L. 96-302 authorized employment at any one time of ten staff personnel at rate of compensation not in excess of GS-15, step 10, of the General Schedule. EFFECTIVE DATE OF 1980 AMENDMENT Amendment by Pub. L. 96-302 effective Oct. 1, 1980, see section 507 of Pub. L. 96-302, set out as a note under section 631 of this title. -End- -CITE- 15 USC Sec. 634e 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- Sec. 634e. Assistance of Government agencies -STATUTE- Each department, agency, and instrumentality of the Federal Government is authorized and directed to furnish to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy such reports and other information as he deems necessary to carry out his functions under sections 634a to 634g of this title. -SOURCE- (Pub. L. 94-305, title II, Sec. 205, June 4, 1976, 90 Stat. 670.) -COD- CODIFICATION Section was not enacted as part of the Small Business Act which comprises this chapter. -End- -CITE- 15 USC Sec. 634f 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- Sec. 634f. Reports -STATUTE- The Chief Counsel may from time to time prepare and publish such reports as he deems appropriate. Not later than one year after June 4, 1976, he shall transmit to the Congress, the President and the Administration, a full report containing his findings and specific recommendations with respect to each of the functions referred to in section 634b of this title, including specific legislative proposals and recommendations for administration or other action. Not later than 6 months after June 4, 1976, he shall prepare and transmit a preliminary report on his activities. The reports shall not be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget or to any other Federal agency or executive department for any purpose prior to transmittal to the Congress and the President. -SOURCE- (Pub. L. 94-305, title II, Sec. 206, June 4, 1976, 90 Stat. 670.) -COD- CODIFICATION Section was not enacted as part of the Small Business Act which comprises this chapter. -End- -CITE- 15 USC Sec. 634g 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- Sec. 634g. Authorization of appropriations -STATUTE- There are authorized to be appropriated not to exceed $1,000,000 to carry out the provisions of sections 634a to 634g of this title. Any sums so appropriated shall remain available until expended. -SOURCE- (Pub. L. 94-305, title II, Sec. 207, June 4, 1976, 90 Stat. 671.) -COD- CODIFICATION Section was not enacted as part of the Small Business Act which comprises this chapter. -End- -CITE- 15 USC Sec. 635 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- Sec. 635. Deposit of moneys; depositaries, custodians, and fiscal agents; contributions to employees' compensation funds -STATUTE- (a) All moneys of the Administration not otherwise employed may be deposited with the Treasury of the United States subject to check by authority of the Administration. The Federal Reserve banks are authorized and directed to act as depositaries, custodians, and fiscal agents for the Administration in the general performance of its powers conferred by this chapter. Any banks insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, when designated by the Secretary of the Treasury, shall act as custodians and financial agents for the Administration. Each Federal Reserve bank, when designated by the Administrator as fiscal agent for the Administration, shall be entitled to be reimbursed for all expenses incurred as such fiscal agent. (b) The Administrator shall contribute to the employees' compensation fund, on the basis of annual billings as determined by the Secretary of Labor, for the benefit payments made from such fund on account of employees engaged in carrying out functions financed by the revolving fund established by section 633(c) of this title. The annual billings shall also include a statement of the fair portion of the cost of the administration of such fund, which shall be paid by the Administrator into the Treasury as miscellaneous receipts. -SOURCE- (Pub. L. 85-536, Sec. 2[6], July 18, 1958, 72 Stat. 387.) -MISC1- PRIOR PROVISIONS Prior similar provisions were contained in section 206 of act July 30, 1953, ch. 282, title II, 67 Stat. 235, which was previously classified to this section. See Codification note set out under section 631 of this title. -End- -CITE- 15 USC Sec. 636 01/05/2009 -EXPCITE- TITLE 15 - COMMERCE AND TRADE CHAPTER 14A - AID TO SMALL BUSINESS -HEAD- Sec. 636. Additional powers -STATUTE- (a) Loans to small business concerns; allowable purposes; qualified business; restrictions and limitations The Administration is empowered to the extent and in such amounts as provided in advance in appropriation Acts to make loans for plant acquisition, construction, conversion, or expansion, including the acquisition of land, material, supplies, equipment, and working capital, and to make loans to any qualified small business concern, including those owned by qualified Indian tribes, for purposes of this chapter. Such financings may be made either directly or in cooperation with banks or other financial institutions through agreements to participate on an immediate or deferred (guaranteed) basis. These powers shall be subject, however, to the following restrictions, limitations, and provisions: (1) In general. - (A) Credit elsewhere. - No financial assistance shall be extended pursuant to this subsection if the applicant can obtain credit elsewhere. No immediate participation may be purchased unless it is shown that a deferred participation is not available; and no direct financing may be made unless it is shown that a participation is not available. (B) Background checks. - Prior to the approval of any loan made pursuant to this subsection, or section 503 of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [15 U.S.C. 697], the Administrator may verify the applicant's criminal background, or lack thereof, through the best available means, including, if possible, use of the National Crime Information Center computer system at the Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2) Level of participation in guaranteed loans. - (A) In general. - Except as provided in subparagraph (B), in an agreement to participate in a loan on a deferred basis under this subsection (including a loan made under the Preferred Lenders Program), such participation by the Administration shall be equal to - (i) 75 percent of the balance of the financing outstanding at the time of disbursement of the loan, if such balance exceeds $150,000; or (ii) 85 percent of the balance of the financing outstanding at the time of disbursement of the loan, if such balance is less than or equal to $150,000. (B) Reduced participation upon request. - (i) In general. - The guarantee percentage specified by subparagraph (A) for any loan under this subsection may be reduced upon the request of the participating lender. (ii) Prohibition. - The Administration shall not use the guarantee percentage requested by a participating lender under clause (i) as a criterion for establishing priorities in approving loan guarantee requests under this subsection. (C) Interest rate under preferred lenders program. - (i) In general. - The maximum interest rate for a loan guaranteed under the Preferred Lenders Program shall not exceed the maximum interest rate, as determined by the Administration, applicable to other loans guaranteed under this subsection. (ii) Preferred lenders program defined. - For purposes of this subparagraph, the term "Preferred Lenders Program" means any program established by the Administrator, as authorized under the proviso in section 634(b)(7) of this title, under which a written agreement between the lender and the Administration delegates to the lender - (I) complete authority to make and close loans with a guarantee from the Administration without obtaining the prior specific approval of the Administration; and (II) complete authority to service and liquidate such loans without obtaining the prior specific approval of the Administration for routine servicing and liquidation activities, but shall not take any actions creating an actual or apparent conflict of interest. (D) Participation under export working capital program. - Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), in an agreement to participate in a loan on a deferred basis under the Export Working Capital Program established pursuant to paragraph (14)(A), such participation by the Administration shall not exceed 90 percent. (3) No loan shall be made under this subsection - (A) if the total amount outstanding and committed (by participation or otherwise) to the borrower from the business loan and investment fund established by this chapter would exceed $1,500,000 (or if the gross loan amount would exceed $2,000,000), except as provided in subparagraph (B); (B) if the total amount outstanding and committed (on a deferred basis) solely for the purposes provided in paragraph (16) to the borrower from the business loan and investment fund established by this chapter would exceed $1,750,000, of which not more than $1,250,000 may be used for working capital, supplies, or financings under paragraph (14) for export purposes; and (C) if effected either directly or in cooperation with banks or other lending institutions through agreements to participate on an immediate basis if the amount would exceed $350,000. (4) Interest rates and prepayment charges. - (A) Interest rates. - Notwithstanding the provisions of the constitution of any State or the laws of any State limiting the rate or amount of interest which may be charged, taken, received, or reserved, the maximum legal rate of interest on any financing made on a deferred basis pursuant to this subsection shall not exceed a rate prescribed by the Administration, and the rate of interest for the Administration's share of any direct or immediate participation loan shall not exceed the current average market yield on outstanding marketable obligations of the United States with remaining periods to maturity comparable to the average maturities of such loans and adjusted to the nearest one-eighth of 1 per centum, and an additional amount as determined by the Administration, but not to exceed 1 per centum per annum: Provided, That for those loans to assist any public or private organization for the handicapped or to assist any handicapped individual as provided in paragraph (10) of this subsection, the interest rate shall be 3 per centum per annum. (B) Payment of accrued interest. - (i) In general. - Any bank or other lending institution making a claim for payment on the guaranteed portion of a loan made under this subsection shall be paid the accrued interest due on the loan from the earliest date of default to the date of payment of the claim at a rate not to exceed the rate of interest on the loan on the date of default, minus one percent. (ii) Loans sold on secondary market. - If a loan described in clause (i) is sold on the secondary market, the amount of interest paid to a bank or other lending institution described in that clause from the earliest date of default to the date of payment of the claim shall be no more than the agreed upon rate, minus one percent. (iii) Applicability. - Clauses (i) and (ii) shall not apply to loans made on or after October 1, 2000. (C) Prepayment charges (i) In general. - A borrower who prepays any loan guaranteed under this subsection shall remit to the Administration a subsidy recoupment fee calculated in accordance with clause (ii) if - (I) the loan is for a term of not less than 15 years; (II) the prepayment is voluntary; (III) the amount of prepayment in any calendar year is more than 25 percent of the outstanding balance of the loan; and (IV) the prepayment is made within the first 3 years after disbursement of the loan proceeds. (ii) Subsidy recoupment fee. - The subsidy recoupment fee charged under clause (i) shall be - (I) 5 percent of the amount of prepayment, if the borrower prepays during the first year after disbursement; (II) 3 percent of the amount of prepayment, if the borrower prepays during the second year after disbursement; and (III) 1 percent of the amount of prepayment, if the borrower prepays during the third year after disbursement. (5) No such loans including renewals and extensions thereof may be made for a period or periods exceeding twenty-five years, except that such portion of a loan made for the purpose of acquiring real property or constructing, converting, or expanding facilities may have a maturity of twenty-five years plus such additional period as is estimated may be required to complete such construction, conversion, or expansion. (6) All loans made under this subsection shall be of such sound value or so secured as reasonably to assure repayment: Provided, however, That - (A) for loans to assist any public or private organization or to assist any handicapped individual as provided in paragraph (10) of this subsection any reasonable doubt shall be resolved in favor of the applicant; (B) recognizing that greater risk may be associated with loans for energy measures as provided in paragraph (12) of this subsection, factors in determining "sound value" shall include, but not be limited to, quality of the product or service; technical qualifications of the applicant or his employees; sales projections; and the financial status of the business concern: Provided further, That such status need not be as sound as that required for general loans under this subsection; and (!1) (C) Repealed. Pub. L. 97-35, title XIX, Sec. 1910, Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 778. On that portion of the loan used to refinance existing indebtedness held by a bank or other lending institution, the Administration shall limit the amount of deferred participation to 80 per centum of the amount of the loan at the time of disbursement: Provided further, That any authority conferred by this subparagraph on the Administration shall be exercised solely by the Administration and shall not be delegated to other than Administration personnel. (7) The Administration may defer payments on the principal of such loans for a grace period and use such other methods as it deems necessary and appropriate to assure the successful establishment and operation of such concern. (8) The Administration may make loans under this subsection to small business concerns owned and controlled by disabled veterans (as defined in section 4211(3) of title 38). (9) The Administration may provide loans under this subsection to finance residential or commercial construction or rehabilitation for sale: Provided, however, That such loans shall not be used primarily for the acquisition of land. (10) The Administration may provide guaranteed loans under this subsection to assist any public or private organization for the handicapped or to assist any handicapped individual, including service-disabled veterans, in establishing, acquiring, or operating a small business concern. (11) The Administration may provide loans under this subsection to any small business concern, or to any qualified person seeking to establish such a concern when it determines that such loan will further the policies established in section 631(c) (!2) of this title, with particular emphasis on the preservation or establishment of small business concerns located in urban or rural areas with high proportions of unemployed or low-income individuals or owned by low-income individuals. (12)(A) The Administration may provide loans under this subsection to assist any small business concern, including start up, to enable such concern to design architecturally or engineer, manufacture, distribute, market, install, or service energy measures: Provided, however, That such loan proceeds shall not be used primarily for research and development. (b) (!3) The Administration may provide deferred participation loans under this subsection to finance the planning, design, or installation of pollution control facilities for the purposes set forth in section 404 of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [15 U.S.C. 694-1]. Notwithstanding the limitation expressed in paragraph (3) of this subsection, a loan made under this paragraph may not result in a total amount outstanding and committed to a borrower from the business loan and investment fund of more than $1,000,000. (13) The Administration may provide financings under this subsection to State and local development companies for the purposes of, and subject to the restrictions in, title V of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [15 U.S.C. 695 et seq.]. (14)(A) The Administration may provide extensions of credit, standby letters of credit, revolving lines of credit for export purposes, and other financing to enable small business concerns, including small business export trading companies and small business export management companies, to develop foreign markets. A bank or participating lending institution may establish the rate of interest on such financings as may be legal and reasonable. (B) When considering loan or guarantee applications, the Administration shall give weight to export-related benefits, including opening new markets for United States goods and services abroad and encouraging the involvement of small businesses, including agricultural concerns, in the export market. (C) The Administration shall aggressively market its export financing program to small businesses. (15)(A) The Administration may guarantee loans under this subsection to qualified employee trusts with respect to a small business concern for the purpose of purchasing stock of the concern under a plan approved by the Administrator which, when carried out, results in the qualified employee trust owning at least 51 per centum of the stock of the concern. (B) The plan requiring the Administrator's approval under subparagraph (A) shall be submitted to the Administration by the trustee of such trust with its application for the guarantee. Such plan shall include an agreement with the Administrator which is binding on such trust and on the small business concern and which provides that - (i) not later than the date the loan guaranteed under subparagraph (A) is repaid (or as soon thereafter as is consistent with the requirements of section 401(a) of title 26), at least 51 per centum of the total stock of such concern shall be allocated to the accounts of at least 51 per centum of the employees of such concern who are entitled to share in such allocation, (ii) there will be periodic reviews of the role in the management of such concern of employees to whose accounts stock is allocated, and (iii) there will be adequate management to assure management expertise and continuity. (C) In determining whether to guarantee any loan under this paragraph, the individual business experience or personal assets of employee-owners shall not be used as criteria, except inasmuch as certain employee-owners may assume managerial responsibilities, in which case business experience may be considered. (D) For purposes of this paragraph, a corporation which is controlled by any other person shall be treated as a small business concern if such corporation would, after the plan described in subparagraph (B) is carried out, be treated as a small business concern. (E) The Administration shall compile a separate list of applications for assistance under this paragraph, indicating which applications were accepted and which were denied, and shall report periodically to the Congress on the status of employee- owned firms assisted by the Administration. (16) International trade. - (A) In general. - If the Administrator determines that a loan guaranteed under this subsection will allow an eligible small business concern that is engaged in or adversely affected by international trade to improve its competitive position, the Administrator may make such loan to assist such concern in - (i) the financing of the acquisition, construction, renovation, modernization, improvement, or expansion of productive facilities or equipment to be used in the United States in the production of goods and services involved in international trade; or (ii) the refinancing of existing indebtedness that is not structured with reasonable terms and conditions. (B) Security. - Each loan made under this paragraph shall be secured by a first lien position or first mortgage on the property or equipment financed by the loan or on other assets of the small business concern. (C) Engaged in international trade. - For purposes of this paragraph, a small business concern is engaged in international trade if, as determined by the Administrator, the small business concern is in a position to expand existing export markets or develop new export markets. (D) Adversely affected by international trade. - For purposes of this paragraph, a small business concern is adversely affected by international trade if, as determined by the Administrator, the small business concern - (i) is confronting increased competition with foreign firms in the relevant market; and (ii) is injured by such competition. (E) Findings by certain federal agencies. - For purposes of subparagraph (D)(ii) the Administrator shall accept any finding of injury by the International Trade Commission or any finding of injury by the Secretary of Commerce pursuant to chapter 3 of title II of the Trade Act of 1974 [19 U.S.C. 2341 et seq.]. (17) The Administration shall authorize lending institutions and other entities in addition to banks to make loans authorized under this subsection. (18) Guarantee fees. - (A) In general. - With respect to each loan guaranteed under this subsection (other than a loan that is repayable in 1 year or less), the Administration shall collect a guarantee fee, which shall be payable by the participating lender, and may be charged to the borrower, as follows: (i) A guarantee fee not to exceed 2 percent of the deferred participation share of a total loan amount that is not more than $150,000. (ii) A guarantee fee not to exceed 3 percent of the deferred participation share of a total loan amount that is more than $150,000, but not more than $700,000. (iii) A guarantee fee not to exceed 3.5 percent of the deferred participation share of a total loan amount that is more than $700,000. (iv) In addition to the fee under clause (iii), a guarantee fee equal to 0.25 percent of any portion of the deferred participation share that is more than $1,000,000. (B) Retention of certain fees. - Lenders participating in the programs established under this subsection may retain not more than 25 percent of a fee collected under subparagraph (A)(i). (19)(A) In addition to the Preferred Lenders Program authorized by the proviso in section 634(b)(7) of this title, the Administration is authorized to establish a Certified Lenders Program for lenders who establish their knowledge of Administration laws and regulations concerning the guaranteed loan program and their proficiency in program requirements. The designation of a lender as a certified lender shall be suspended or revoked at any time that the Administration determines that the lender is not adhering to its rules and regulations or that the loss experience of the lender is excessive as compared to other lenders, but such suspension or revocation shall not affect any outstanding guarantee. (B) In order to encourage all lending institutions and other entities making loans authorized under this subsection to provide loans of $50,000 or less in guarantees to eligible small business loan applicants, the Administration shall develop and allow participating lenders to solely utilize a uniform and simplified loan form for such loans. (C) Authority to liquidate loans. - (i) In general. - The Administrator may permit lenders participating in the Certified Lenders Program to liquidate loans made with a guarantee from the Administration pursuant to a liquidation plan approved by the Administrator. (ii) Automatic approval. - If the Administrator does not approve or deny a request for approval of a liquidation plan within 10 business days of the date on which the request is made (or with respect to any routine liquidation activity under such a plan, within 5 business days) such request shall be deemed to be approved. (20)(A) The Administration is empowered to make loans either directly or in cooperation with banks or other financial institutions through agreements to participate on an immediate or deferred (guaranteed) basis to small business concerns eligible for assistance under subsection (j)(10) of this section and section 637(a) of this title. Such assistance may be provided only if the Administration determines that - (i) the type and amount of such assistance requested by such concern is not otherwise available on reasonable terms from other sources; (ii) with such assistance such concern has a reasonable prospect for operating soundly and profitably within a reasonable period of time; (iii) the proceeds of such assistance will be used within a reasonable time for plant construction, conversion, or expansion, including the acquisition of equipment, facilities, machinery, supplies, or material or to supply such concern with working capital to be used in the manufacture of articles, equipment, supplies, or material for defense or civilian production or as may be necessary to insure a well-balanced national economy; and (iv) such assistance is of such sound value as reasonably to assure that the terms under which it is provided will not be breached by the small business concern. (B)(i) No loan shall be made under this paragraph if the total amount outstanding and committed (by participation or otherwise) to the borrower would exceed $750,000. (ii) Subject to the provisions of clause (i), in agreements to participate in loans on a deferred (guaranteed) basis, participation by the Administration shall be not less than 85 per centum of the balance of the financing outstanding at the time of disbursement. (iii) The rate of interest on financings made on a deferred (guaranteed) basis shall be legal and reasonable. (iv) Financings made pursuant to this paragraph shall be subject to the following limitations: (I) No immediate participation may be purchased unless it is shown that a deferred participation is not available. (II) No direct financing may be made unless it is shown that a participation is unavailable. (C) A direct loan or the Administration's share of an immediate participation loan made pursuant to this paragraph shall be any secured debt instrument - (i) that is subordinated by its terms to all other borrowings of the issuer; (ii) the rate of interest on which shall not exceed the current average market yield on outstanding marketable obligations of the United States with remaining periods to maturity comparable to the average maturities of such loan and adjusted to the nearest one-eighth of 1 per centum; (iii) the term of which is not more than twenty-five years; and (iv) the principal on which is amortized at such rate as may be deemed appropriate by the Administration, and the interest on which is payable not less often than annually. (21)(A) The Administration may make loans on a guaranteed basis under the authority of this subsection - (i) to a small business concern that has been (or can reasonably be expected to be) detrimentally affected by - (I) the closure (or substantial reduction) of a Department of Defense installation; or (II) the termination (or substantial reduction) of a Department of Defense program on which such small business was a prime contractor or subcontractor (or supplier) at any tier; or (ii) to a qualified individual or a veteran seeking to establish (or acquire) and operate a small business concern. (B) Recognizing that greater risk may be associated with a loan to a small business concern described in subparagraph (A)(i), any reasonable doubts concerning the firm's proposed business plan for transition to nondefense-related markets shall be resolved in favor of the loan applicant when making any determination regarding the sound value of the proposed loan in accordance with paragraph (6). (C) Loans pursuant to this paragraph shall be authorized in such amounts as provided in advance in appropriation Acts for the purposes of loans under this paragraph. (D) For purposes of this paragraph a qualified individual is - (i) a member of the Armed Forces of the United States, honorably discharged from active duty involuntarily or pursuant to a program providing bonuses or other inducements to encourage voluntary separation or early retirement; (ii) a civilian employee of the Department of Defense involuntarily separated from Federal service or retired pursuant to a program offering inducements to encourage early retirement; or (iii) an employee of a prime contractor, subcontractor, or supplier at any tier of a Department of Defense program whose employment is involuntarily terminated (or voluntarily terminated pursuant to a program offering inducements to encourage voluntary separation or early retirement) due to the termination (or substantial reduction) of a Department of Defense program. (E) Job creation and community benefit. - In providing assistance under this paragraph, the Administration shall develop procedures to ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that such assistance is used for projects that - (i) have the greatest potential for - (I) creating new jobs for individuals whose employment is involuntarily terminated due to reductions in Federal defense expenditures; or (II) preventing the loss of jobs by employees of small business concerns described in subparagraph (A)(i); and (ii) have substantial potential for stimulating new economic activity in communities most affected by reductions in Federal defense expenditures. (22) The Administration is authorized to permit participating lenders to impose and collect a reasonable penalty fee on late payments of loans guaranteed under this subsection in an amount not to exceed 5 percent of the monthly loan payment per month plus interest. (23) Yearly fee. - (A) In general. - With respect to each loan approved under this subsection, the Administration shall assess, collect, and retain a fee, not to exceed 0.55 percent per year of the outstanding balance of the deferred participation share of the loan, in an amount established once annually by the Administration in the Administration's annual budget request to Congress, as necessary to reduce to zero the cost to the Administration of making guarantees under this subsection. As used in this paragraph, the term "cost" has the meaning given that term in section 661a of title 2. (B) Payer. - The yearly fee assessed under subparagraph (A) shall be payable by the participating lender and shall not be charged to the borrower. (C) Lowering of borrower fees. - If the Administration determines that fees paid by lenders and by small business borrowers for guarantees under this subsection may be reduced, consistent with reducing to zero the cost to the Administration of making such guarantees - (i) the Administration shall first consider reducing fees paid by small business borrowers under clauses (i) through (iii) of paragraph (18)(A), to the maximum extent possible; and (ii) fees paid by small business borrowers shall not be increased above the levels in effect on December 8, 2004. (24) Notification requirement. - The Administration shall notify the Committees on Small Business of the Senate and the House of Representatives not later than 15 days before making any significant policy or administrative change affecting the operation of the loan program under this subsection. (25) Limitation on conducting pilot projects. - (A) In general. - Not more than 10 percent of the total number of loans guaranteed in any fiscal year under this subsection may be awarded as part of a pilot program which is commenced by the Administrator on or after October 1, 1996. (B) "Pilot program" defined. - In this paragraph, the term 'pilot program' means any lending program initiative, project, innovation, or other activity not specifically authorized by law. (C) Low documentation loan program. - The Administrator may carry out the low documentation loan program for loans of $100,000 or less only through lenders with significant experience in making small business loans. Not later than 90 days after September 30, 1996, the Administrator shall promulgate regulations defining the experience necessary for participation as a lender in the low documentation loan program. (26) Calculation of subsidy rate. - All fees, interest, and profits received and retained by the Administration under this subsection shall be included in the calculations made by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to offset the cost (as that term is defined in section 661a of title 2) to the Administration of purchasing and guaranteeing loans under this chapter. (27) Repealed. Pub. L. 106-8, Sec. 3(c), Apr. 2, 1999, 113 Stat. 16. (28) Leasing. - In addition to such other lease arrangements as may be authorized by the Administration, a borrower may permanently lease to one or more tenants not more than 20 percent of any property constructed with the proceeds of a loan guaranteed under this subsection, if the borrower permanently occupies and uses not less than 60 percent of the total business space in the property. (29) Real estate appraisals. - With respect to a loan under this subsection that is secured by commercial real property, an appraisal of such property by a State licensed or certified appraiser - (A) shall be required by the Administration in connection with any such loan for more than $250,000; or (B) may be required by the Administration or the lender in connection with any such loan for $250,000 or less, if such appraisal is necessary for appropriate evaluation of creditworthiness. (30) Ownership requirements. - Ownership requirements to determine the eligibility of a small business concern that applies for assistance under any credit program under this chapter shall be determined without regard to any ownership interest of a spouse arising solely from the application of the community property laws of a State for purposes of determining marital interests. (31) Express loans. - (A) Definitions. - As used in this paragraph: (i) The term "express lender" means any lender authorized by the Administration to participate in the Express Loan Program. (ii) The term "express loan" means any loan made pursuant to this paragraph in which a lender utilizes to the maximum extent practicable its own loan analyses, procedures, and documentation. (iii) The term "Express Loan Program" means the program for express loans established by the Administration under paragraph (25)(B), as in existence on April 5, 2004, with a guaranty rate of not more than 50 percent. (B) Restriction to express lender. - The authority to make an express loan shall be limited to those lenders deemed qualified to make such loans by the Administration. Designation as an express lender for purposes of making an express loan shall not prohibit such lender from taking any other action authorized by the Administration for that lender pursuant to this subsection. (C) Grandfathering of existing lenders. - Any express lender shall retain such designation unless the Administration determines that the express lender has violated the law or regulations promulgated by the Administration or modifies the requirements to be an express lender and the lender no longer satisfies those requirements. (D) Maximum loan amount. - The maximum loan amount under the Express Loan Program is $350,000. (E) Option to participate. - Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph, the Administration shall take no regulatory, policy, or administrative action, without regard to whether such action requires notification pursuant to paragraph (24), that has the effect of requiring a lender to make an express loan pursuant to subparagraph (D). (F) Express loans for renewable energy and energy efficiency. - (i) Definitions. - In this subparagraph - (I) the term "biomass" - (aa) means any organic material that is available on a renewable or recurring basis, including - (AA) agricultural crops; (BB) trees grown for energy production; (CC) wood waste and wood residues; (DD) plants (including aquatic plants and grasses); (EE) residues; (FF) fibers; (GG) animal wastes and other waste materials; and (HH) fats, oils, and greases (including recycled fats, oils, and greases); and (bb) does not include - (AA) paper that is commonly recycled; or (BB) unsegregated solid waste; (II) the term "energy efficiency project" means the installation or upgrading of equipment that results in a significant reduction in energy usage; and (III) the term "renewable energy system" means a system of energy derived from - (aa) a wind, solar, biomass (including biodiesel), or geothermal source; or (bb) hydrogen derived from biomass or water using an energy source described in item (aa). (ii) Loans. - The Administrator may make a loan under the Express Loan Program for the purpose of - (I) purchasing a renewable energy system; or (II) carrying out an energy efficiency project for a small business concern. (32) (!4) Loans for energy efficient technologies. - (A) Definitions. - In this paragraph - (i) the term "cost" has the meaning given that term in section 661a of title 2; (ii) the term "covered energy efficiency loan" means a loan - (I) made under this subsection; and (II) the proceeds of which are used to purchase energy efficient designs, equipment, or fixtures, or to reduce the energy consumption of the borrower by 10 percent or more; and (iii) the term "pilot program" means the pilot program established under subparagraph (B) (!5) (B) Establishment. - The Administrator shall establish and carry out a pilot program under which the Administrator shall reduce the fees for covered energy efficiency loans. (C) Duration. - The pilot program shall terminate at the end of the second full fiscal year after the date that the Administrator establishes the pilot program. (D) Maximum participation. - A covered energy efficiency loan shall include the maximum participation levels by the Administrator permitted for loans made under this subsection. (E) Fees. - (i) In general. - The fee on a covered energy efficiency loan shall be equal to 50 percent of the fee otherwise applicable to that loan under paragraph (18). (ii) Waiver. - The Administrator may waive clause (i) for a fiscal year if - (I) for the fiscal year before that fiscal year, the annual rate of default of covered energy efficiency loans exceeds that of loans made under this subsection that are not covered energy efficiency loans; (II) the cost to the Administration of making loans under this subsection is greater than zero and such cost is directly attributable to the cost of making covered energy efficiency loans; and (III) no additional sources of revenue authority are available to reduce the cost of making loans under this subsection to zero. (iii) Effect of waiver. - If the Administrator waives the reduction of fees under clause (ii), the Administrator - (I) shall not assess or collect fees in an amount greater than necessary to ensure that the cost of the program under this subsection is not greater than zero; and (II) shall reinstate the fee reductions under clause (i) when the conditions in clause (ii) no longer apply. (iv) No increase of fees. - The Administrator shall not increase the fees under paragraph (18) on loans made under this subsection that are not covered energy efficiency loans as a direct result of the pilot program. (F) GAO report. - (i) In general. - Not later than 1 year after the date that the pilot program terminates, the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate a report on the pilot program. (ii) Contents. - The report submitted under clause (i) shall include - (I) the number of covered energy efficiency loans for which fees were reduced under the pilot program; (II) a description of the energy efficiency savings with the pilot program; (III) a description of the impact of the pilot program on the program under this subsection; (IV) an evaluation of the efficacy and potential fraud and abuse of the pilot program; and (V) recommendations for improving the pilot program. (32) (!4) Increased veteran participation program. - (A) Definitions. - In this paragraph - (i) the term "cost" has the meaning given that term in section 661a of title 2; (ii) the term "pilot program" means the pilot program established under subparagraph (B); and (iii) the term "veteran participation loan" means a loan made under this subsection to a small business concern owned and controlled by veterans of the Armed Forces or members of the reserve components of the Armed Forces. (B) Establishment. - The Administrator shall establish and carry out a pilot program under which the Administrator shall reduce the fees for veteran participation loans. (C) Duration. - The pilot program shall terminate at the end of the second full fiscal year after the date that the Administrator establishes the pilot program. (D) Maximum participation. - A veteran participation loan shall include the maximum participation levels by the Administrator permitted for loans made under this subsection. (E) Fees. - (i) In general. - The fee on a veteran participation loan shall be equal to 50 percent of the fee otherwise applicable to that loan under paragraph (18). (ii) Waiver. - The Administrator may waive clause (i) for a fiscal year if - (I) for the fiscal year before that fiscal year, the annual estimated rate of default of veteran participation loans exceeds that of loans made under this subsection that are not veteran participation loans; (II) the cost to the Administration of making loans under this subsection is greater than zero and such cost is directly attributable to the cost of making veteran participation loans; and (III) no additional sources of revenue authority are available to reduce the cost of making loans under this subsection to zero. (iii) Effect of waiver. - If the Administrator waives the reduction of fees under clause (ii), the Administrator - (I) shall not assess or collect fees in an amount greater than necessary to ensure that the cost of the program under this subsection is not greater than zero; and (II) shall reinstate the fee reductions under clause (i) when the conditions in clause (ii) no longer apply. (iv) No increase of fees. - The Administrator shall not increase the fees under paragraph (18) on loans made under this subsection that are not veteran participation loans as a direct result of the pilot program. (F) GAO report. - (i) In general. - Not later than 1 year after the date that the pilot program terminates, the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate a report on the pilot program. (ii) Contents. - The report submitted under clause (i) shall include - (I) the number of veteran participation loans for which fees were reduced under the pilot program; (II) a description of the impact of the pilot program on the program under this subsection; (III) an evaluation of the efficacy and potential fraud and abuse of the pilot program; and (IV) recommendations for improving the pilot program. (b) Disaster loans; authorization, scope, terms and conditions, etc. Except as to agricultural enterprises as defined in section 647(b)(1) of this title, the Administration also is empowered to the extent and in such amounts as provided in advance in appropriation Acts - (1)(A) to make such loans (either directly or in cooperation with banks or other lending institutions through agreements to participate on an immediate or deferred (guaranteed) basis) as the Administration may determine to be necessary or appropriate to repair, rehabilitate or replace property, real or personal, damaged or destroyed by or as a result of natural or other disasters: Provided, That such damage or destruction is not compensated for by insurance or otherwise: And provided further, That the Administration may increase the amount of the loan by up to an additional 20 per centum of the aggregate costs of such damage or destruction (whether or not compensated for by insurance or otherwise) if it determines such increase to be necessary or appropriate in order to protect the damaged or destroyed property from possible future disasters by taking mitigating measures, including, but not limited to, construction of retaining walls and sea walls, grading and contouring land, relocating utilities and modifying structures; (B) to refinance any mortgage or other lien against a totally destroyed or substantially damaged home or business concern: Provided, That no loan or guarantee shall be extended unless the Administration finds that (i) the applicant is not able to obtain credit elsewhere; (ii) such property is to be repaired, rehabilitated, or replaced; (iii) the amount refinanced shall not exceed the amount of physical loss sustained; and (iv) such amounts shall be reduced to the extent such mortgage or lien is satisfied by insurance or otherwise; and (C) during fiscal years 2000 through 2004, to establish a predisaster mitigation program to make such loans (either directly or in cooperation with banks or other lending institutions through agreements to participate on an immediate or deferred (guaranteed) basis), as the Administrator may determine to be necessary or appropriate, to enable small businesses to use mitigation techniques in support of a formal mitigation program established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, except that no loan or guarantee may be extended to a small business under this subparagraph unless the Administration finds that the small business is otherwise unable to obtain credit for the purposes described in this subparagraph; (2) to make such loans (either directly or in cooperation with banks or other lending institutions through agreements to participate on an immediate or deferred (guaranteed) basis) as the Administration may determine to be necessary or appropriate to any small business concern, private nonprofit organization, or small agricultural cooperative located in an area affected by a disaster,(!6) (including drought), with respect to both farm- related and nonfarm-related small business concerns, if the Administration determines that the concern, the organization, or the cooperative has suffered a substantial economic injury as a result of such disaster and if such disaster constitutes - (A) a major disaster, as determined by the President under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.); or (B) a natural disaster, as determined by the Secretary of Agriculture pursuant to section 1961 of title 7, in which case, assistance under this paragraph may be provided to farm-related and nonfarm-related small business concerns, subject to the other applicable requirements of this paragraph; or (C) a disaster, as determined by the Administrator of the Small Business Administration; or (D) if no disaster declaration has been issued pursuant to subparagraph (A), (B), or (C), the Governor of a State in which a disaster has occurred may certify to the Small Business Administration that small business concerns, private nonprofit organizations, or small agricultural cooperatives (1) have suffered economic injury as a result of such disaster, and (2) are in need of financial assistance which is not available on reasonable terms in the disaster stricken area. Not later than 30 days after the date of receipt of such certification by a Governor of a State, the Administration shall respond in writing to that Governor on its determination and the reasons therefore,(!7) and may then make such loans as would have been available under this paragraph if a disaster declaration had been issued. Provided, That no loan or guarantee shall be extended pursuant to this paragraph (2) unless the Administration finds that the applicant is not able to obtain credit elsewhere. (3)(A) In this paragraph - (i) the term "essential employee" means an individual who is employed by a small business concern and whose managerial or technical expertise is critical to the successful day-to-day operations of that small business concern; (ii) the term "period of military conflict" has the meaning given the term in subsection (n)(1) of this section; and (iii) the term "substantial economic injury" means an economic harm to a business concern that results in the inability of the business concern - (I) to meet its obligations as they mature; (II) to pay its ordinary and necessary operating expenses; or (III) to market, produce, or provide a product or service ordinarily marketed, produced, or provided by the business concern. (B) The Administration may make such disaster loans (either directly or in cooperation with banks or other lending institutions through agreements to participate on an immediate or deferred basis) to assist a small business concern that has suffered or that is likely to suffer substantial economic injury as the result of an essential employee of such small business concern being ordered to active military duty during a period of military conflict. (C) A small business concern described in subparagraph (B) shall be eligible to apply for assistance under this paragraph during the period beginning on the date on which the essential employee is ordered to active duty and ending on the date that is 1 year after the date on which such essential employee is discharged or released from active duty. The Administrator may, when appropriate (as determined by the Administrator), extend the ending date specified in the preceding sentence by not more than 1 year. (D) Any loan or guarantee extended pursuant to this paragraph shall be made at the same interest rate as economic injury loans under paragraph (2). (E) No loan may be made under this paragraph, either directly or in cooperation with banks or other lending institutions through agreements to participate on an immediate or deferred basis, if the total amount outstanding and committed to the borrower under this subsection would exceed $1,500,000, unless such applicant constitutes, or have (!8) become due to changed economic circumstances, a major source of employment in its surrounding area, as determined by the Administration, in which case the Administration, in its discretion, may waive the $1,500,000 limitation. (F) For purposes of assistance under this paragraph, no declaration of a disaster area shall be required. (G)(i) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Administrator may make a loan under this paragraph of not more than $50,000 without collateral. (ii) The Administrator may defer payment of principal and interest on a loan described in clause (i) during the longer of - (I) the 1-year period beginning on the date of the initial disbursement of the loan; and (II) the period during which the relevant essential employee is on active duty. (H) The Administrator shall give priority to any application for a loan under this paragraph and shall process and make a determination regarding such applications prior to processing or making a determination on other loan applications under this subsection, on a rolling basis. (4) Coordination with fema. - (A) In general. - Notwithstanding any other provision of law, for any disaster declared under this subsection or major disaster (including any major disaster relating to which the Administrator declares eligibility for additional disaster assistance under paragraph (9)), the Administrator, in consultation with the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, shall ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that all application periods for disaster relief under this chapter correspond with application deadlines established under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.), or as extended by the President. (B) Deadlines. - Notwithstanding any other provision of law, not later than 10 days before the closing date of an application period for a major disaster (including any major disaster relating to which the Administrator declares eligibility for additional disaster assistance under paragraph (9)), the Administrator, in consultation with the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, shall submit to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate and the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives a report that includes - (i) the deadline for submitting applications for assistance under this chapter relating to that major disaster; (ii) information regarding the number of loan applications and disbursements processed by the Administrator relating to that major disaster for each day during the period beginning on the date on which that major disaster was declared and ending on the date of that report; and (iii) an estimate of the number of potential applicants that have not submitted an application relating to that major disaster. (5) Public awareness of disasters. - If a disaster is declared under this subsection or the Administrator declares eligibility for additional disaster assistance under paragraph (9), the Administrator shall make every effort to communicate through radio, television, print, and web-based outlets, all relevant information needed by disaster loan applicants, including - (A) the date of such declaration; (B) cities and towns within the area of such declaration; (C) loan application deadlines related to such disaster; (D) all relevant contact information for victim services available through the Administration (including links to small business development center websites); (E) links to relevant Federal and State disaster assistance websites, including links to websites providing information regarding assistance available from the Federal Emergency Management Agency; (F) information on eligibility criteria for Administration loan programs, including where such applications can be found; and (G) application materials that clearly state the function of the Administration as the Federal source of disaster loans for homeowners and renters. (6) Authority for qualified private contractors. - (A) Disaster loan processing. - The Administrator may enter into an agreement with a qualified private contractor, as determined by the Administrator, to process loans under this subsection in the event of a major disaster (including any major disaster relating to which the Administrator declares eligibility for additional disaster assistance under paragraph (9)), under which the Administrator shall pay the contractor a fee for each loan processed. (B) Loan loss verification services. - The Administrator may enter into an agreement with a qualified lender or loss verification professional, as determined by the Administrator, to verify losses for loans under this subsection in the event of a major disaster (including any major disaster relating to which the Administrator declares eligibility for additional disaster assistance under paragraph (9)), under which the Administrator shall pay the lender or verification professional a fee for each loan for which such lender or verification professional verifies losses. (7) Disaster assistance employees. - (A) In general. - In carrying out this section, the Administrator may, where practicable, ensure that the number of full-time equivalent employees - (i) in the Office of the Disaster Assistance is not fewer than 800; and (ii) in the Disaster Cadre of the Administration is not fewer than 1,000. (B) Report. - In carrying out this subsection, if the number of full-time employees for either the Office of Disaster Assistance or the Disaster Cadre of the Administration is below the level described in subparagraph (A) for that office, not later than 21 days after the date on which that staffing level decreased below the level described in subparagraph (A), the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate and the Committee on Appropriations and Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives, a report - (i) detailing staffing levels on that date; (ii) requesting, if practicable and determined appropriate by the Administrator, additional funds for additional employees; and (iii) containing such additional information, as determined appropriate by the Administrator. (8) Increased loan caps. - (A) Aggregate loan amounts. - Except as provided in subparagraph (B), and notwithstanding any other provision of law, the aggregate loan amount outstanding and committed to a borrower under this subsection may not exceed $2,000,000. (B) Waiver authority. - The Administrator may, at the discretion of the Administrator, increase the aggregate loan amount under subparagraph (A) for loans relating to a disaster to a level established by the Administrator, based on appropriate economic indicators for the region in which that disaster occurred. (9) Declaration of eligibility for additional disaster assistance. - (A) In general. - If the President declares a major disaster, the Administrator may declare eligibility for additional disaster assistance in accordance with this paragraph. (B) Threshold. - A major disaster for which the Administrator declares eligibility for additional disaster assistance under this paragraph shall - (i) have resulted in extraordinary levels of casualties or damage or disruption severely affecting the population (including mass evacuations), infrastructure, environment, economy, national morale, or government functions in an area; (ii) be comparable to the description of a catastrophic incident in the National Response Plan of the Administration, or any successor thereto, unless there is no successor to such plan, in which case this clause shall have no force or effect; and (iii) be of such size and scope that - (I) the disaster assistance programs under the other paragraphs under this subsection are incapable of providing adequate and timely assistance to individuals or business concerns located within the disaster area; or (II) a significant number of business concerns outside the disaster area have suffered disaster-related substantial economic injury as a result of the incident. (C) Additional economic injury disaster loan assistance. - (i) In general. - If the Administrator declares eligibility for additional disaster assistance under this paragraph, the Administrator may make such loans under this subparagraph (either directly or in cooperation with banks or other lending institutions through agreements to participate on an immediate or deferred basis) as the Administrator determines appropriate to eligible small business concerns located anywhere in the United States. (ii) Processing time. - (I) In general. - If the Administrator determines that the average processing time for applications for disaster loans under this subparagraph relating to a specific major disaster is more than 15 days, the Administrator shall give priority to the processing of such applications submitted by eligible small business concerns located inside the disaster area, until the Administrator determines that the average processing time for such applications is not more than 15 days. (II) Suspension of applications from outside disaster area. - If the Administrator determines that the average processing time for applications for disaster loans under this subparagraph relating to a specific major disaster is more than 30 days, the Administrator shall suspend the processing of such applications submitted by eligible small business concerns located outside the disaster area, until the Administrator determines that the average processing time for such applications is not more than 15 days. (iii) Loan terms. - A loan under this subparagraph shall be made on the same terms as a loan under paragraph (2). (D) Definitions. - In this paragraph - (i) the term "disaster area" means the area for which the applicable major disaster was declared; (ii) the term "disaster-related substantial economic injury" means economic harm to a business concern that results in the inability of the business concern to - (I) meet its obligations as it matures; (II) meet its ordinary and necessary operating expenses; or (III) market, produce, or provide a product or service ordinarily marketed, produced, or provided by the business concern because the business concern relies on materials from the disaster area or sells or markets in the disaster area; and (iii) the term "eligible small business concern" means a small business concern - (I) that has suffered disaster-related substantial economic injury as a result of the applicable major disaster; and (II)(aa) for which not less than 25 percent of the market share of that small business concern is from business transacted in the disaster area; (bb) for which not less than 25 percent of an input into a production process of that small business concern is from the disaster area; or (cc) that relies on a provider located in the disaster area for a service that is not readily available elsewhere. No loan under this subsection, including renewals and extensions thereof, may be made for a period or periods exceeding thirty years: Provided, That the Administrator may consent to a suspension in the payment of principal and interest charges on, and to an extension in the maturity of, the Federal share of any loan under this subsection for a period not to exceed five years, if (A) the borrower under such loan is a homeowner or a small business concern, (B) the loan was made to enable (i) such homeowner to repair or replace his home, or (ii) such concern to repair or replace plant or equipment which was damaged or destroyed as the result of a disaster meeting the requirements of clause (A) or (B) of paragraph (2) of this subsection, and (C) the Administrator determines such action is necessary to avoid severe financial hardship: Provided further, That the provisions of paragraph (1) of subsection (d) of this section shall not be applicable to any such loan having a maturity in excess of twenty years. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, and except as provided in subsection (d), the interest rate on the Administration's share of any loan made under subsection (b) shall not exceed the average annual interest rate on all interest-bearing obligations of the United States then forming a part of the public debt as computed at the end of the fiscal year next preceding the date of the loan and adjusted to the nearest one-eighth of 1 per centum plus one-quarter of 1 per centum: Provided, however, That the interest rate for loans made under paragraphs (1) and (2) hereof shall not exceed the rate of interest which is in effect at the time of the occurrence of the disaster. In agreements to participate in loans on a deferred basis under this subsection, such participation by the Administration shall not be in excess of 90 per centum of the balance of the loan outstanding at the time of disbursement. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the interest rate on the Administration's share of any loan made pursuant to paragraph (1) of this subsection to repair or replace a primary residence and/or replace or repair damaged or destroyed personal property, less the amount of compensation by insurance or otherwise, with respect to a disaster occurring on or after July 1, 1976, and prior to October 1, 1978, shall be: 1 per centum on the amount of such loan not exceeding $10,000, and 3 per centum on the amount of such loan over $10,000 but not exceeding $40,000. The interest rate on the Administration's share of the first $250,000 of all other loans made pursuant to paragraph (1) of this subsection, with respect to a disaster occurring on or after July 1, 1976, and prior to October 1, 1978, shall be 3 per centum. All repayments of principal on the Administration's share of any loan made under the above provisions shall first be applied to reduce the principal sum of such loan which bears interest at the lower rates provided in this paragraph. The principal amount of any loan made pursuant to paragraph (1) in connection with a disaster which occurs on or after April 1, 1977, but prior to January 1, 1978, may be increased by such amount, but not more than $2,000, as the Administration determines to be reasonable in light of the amount and nature of loss, damage, or injury sustained in order to finance the installation of insulation in the property which was lost, damaged, or injured, if the uninsured, damaged portion of the property is 10 per centum or more of the market value of the property at the time of the disaster. Not later than June 1, 1978, the Administration shall prepare and transmit to the Select Committee on Small Business of the Senate, the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives, and the Committees of the Senate and House of Representatives having jurisdiction over measures relating to energy conservation, a report on its activities under this paragraph, including therein an evaluation of the effect of such activities on encouraging the installation of insulation in property which is repaired or replaced after a disaster which is subject to this paragraph, and its recommendations with respect to the continuation, modification, or termination of such activities. In the administration of the disaster loan program under paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection, in the case of property loss or damage or injury resulting from a major disaster as determined by the President or a disaster as determined by the Administrator which occurs on or after January 1, 1971, and prior to July 1, 1973, the Small Business Administration, to the extent such loss or damage or injury is not compensated for by insurance or otherwise - (A) may make any loan for repair, rehabilitation, or replacement of property damaged or destroyed without regard to whether the required financial assistance is otherwise available from private sources; (B) may, in the case of the total destruction or substantial property damage of a home or business concern, refinance any mortgage or other liens outstanding against the destroyed or damaged property if such property is to be repaired, rehabilitated, or replaced, except that (1) in the case of a business concern, the amount refinanced shall not exceed the amount of the physical loss sustained, and (2) in the case of a home, the amount of each monthly payment of principal and interest on the loan after refinancing under this clause shall not be less than the amount of each such payment made prior to such refinancing; (C) may, in the case of a loan made under clause (A) or a mortgage or other lien refinanced under clause (B) in connection with the destruction of, or substantial damage to, property owned and used as a residence by an individual who by reason of retirement, disability, or other similar circumstances relies for support on survivor, disability, or retirement benefits under a pension, insurance, or other programs, consent to the suspension of the payments of the principal of that loan, mortgage, or lien during the lifetime of that individual and his spouse for so long as the Administration determines that making such payments would constitute a substantial hardship; (D) shall notwithstanding the provisions of any other law and upon presentation by the applicant of proof of loss or damage or injury and a bona fide estimate of cost of repair, rehabilitation, or replacement, cancel the principal of any loan made to cover a loss or damage or injury resulting from such disaster, except that - (i) with respect to a loan made in connection with a disaster occurring on or after January 1, 1971 but prior to January 1, 1972, the total amount so canceled shall not exceed $2,500, and the interest on the balance of the loan shall be at a rate of 3 per centum per annum; and (ii) with respect to a loan made in connection with a disaster occurring on or after January 1, 1972 but prior to July 1, 1973, the total amount so canceled shall not exceed $5,000 and the interest on the balance of the loan shall be at a rate of 1 percentum per annum. (E) (!9) A State grant made on or prior to July 1, 1979, shall not be considered compensation for the purpose of applying the provisions of section 312(a) of the Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act [42 U.S.C. 5155(a)] to a disaster loan under paragraph (1) (2) (!10) of this subsection. With respect to any loan referred to in clause (D) which is outstanding on August 16, 1972, the Administrator shall - (i) make such change in the interest rate on the balance of such loan as is required under that clause effective as of August 16, 1972; and (ii) in applying the limitation set forth in that clause with respect to the total amount of such loan which may be canceled, consider as part of the amount so canceled any part of such loan which was previously canceled pursuant to section 231 of the Disaster Relief Act of 1970 [15 U.S.C. 636a]. Whoever wrongfully misapplies the proceeds of a loan obtained under this subsection shall be civilly liable to the Administrator in an amount equal to one-and-one half times the original principal amount of the loan. (c) Private disaster loans (1) Definitions In this subsection - (A) the term "disaster area" means any area for which the President declared a major disaster relating to which the Administrator declares eligibility for additional disaster assistance under subsection (b)(9), during the period of that major disaster declaration; (B) the term "eligible individual" means an individual who is eligible for disaster assistance under subsection (b)(1) relating to a major disaster relating to which the Administrator declares eligibility for additional disaster assistance under subsection (b)(9); (C) the term "eligible small business concern" means a business concern that is - (i) a small business concern, as defined under this chapter; or (ii) a small business concern, as defined in section 103 of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [15 U.S.C. 662]; (D) the term "preferred lender" means a lender participating in the Preferred Lender Program; (E) the term "Preferred Lender Program" has the meaning given that term in subsection (a)(2)(C)(ii); and (F) the term "qualified private lender" means any privately- owned bank or other lending institution that - (i) is not a preferred lender; and (ii) the Administrator determines meets the criteria established under paragraph (10). (2) Program required The Administrator shall carry out a program, to be known as the Private Disaster Assistance program, under which the Administration may guarantee timely payment of principal and interest, as scheduled, on any loan made to an eligible small business concern located in a disaster area and to an eligible individual. (3) Use of loans A loan guaranteed by the Administrator under this subsection may be used for any purpose authorized under subsection (b). (4) Online applications (A) Establishment The Administrator may establish, directly or through an agreement with another entity, an online application process for loans guaranteed under this subsection. (B) Other Federal assistance The Administrator may coordinate with the head of any other appropriate Federal agency so that any application submitted through an online application process established under this paragraph may be considered for any other Federal assistance program for disaster relief. (C) Consultation In establishing an online application process under this paragraph, the Administrator shall consult with appropriate persons from the public and private sectors, including private lenders. (5) Maximum amounts (A) Guarantee percentage The Administrator may guarantee not more than 85 percent of a loan under this subsection. (B) Loan amount The maximum amount of a loan guaranteed under this subsection shall be $2,000,000. (6) Terms and conditions A loan guaranteed under this subsection shall be made under the same terms and conditions as a loan under subsection (b). (7) Lenders (A) In general A loan guaranteed under this subsection made to - (i) a qualified individual may be made by a preferred lender; and (ii) a qualified small business concern may be made by a qualified private lender or by a preferred lender that also makes loans to qualified individuals. (B) Compliance If the Administrator determines that a preferred lender knowingly failed to comply with the underwriting standards for loans guaranteed under this subsection or violated the terms of the standard operating procedure agreement between that preferred lender and the Administration, the Administrator shall do 1 or more of the following: (i) Exclude the preferred lender from participating in the program under this subsection. (ii) Exclude the preferred lender from participating in the Preferred Lender Program for a period of not more than 5 years. (8) Fees (A) In general The Administrator may not collect a guarantee fee under this subsection. (B) Origination fee The Administrator may pay a qualified private lender or preferred lender an origination fee for a loan guaranteed under this subsection in an amount agreed upon in advance between the qualified private lender or preferred lender and the Administrator. (9) Documentation A qualified private lender or preferred lender may use its own loan documentation for a loan guaranteed by the Administrator under this subsection, to the extent authorized by the Administrator. The ability of a lender to use its own loan documentation for a loan guaranteed under this subsection shall not be considered part of the criteria for becoming a qualified private lender under the regulations promulgated under paragraph (10). (10) Implementation regulations (A) In general Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the Small Business Disaster Response and Loan Improvements Act of 2008, the Administrator shall issue final regulations establishing permanent criteria for qualified private lenders. (B) Report to Congress Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of the Small Business Disaster Response and Loan Improvements Act of 2008, the Administrator shall submit a report on the progress of the regulations required by subparagraph (A) to the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship of the Senate and the Committee on Small Business of the House of Representatives. (11) Authorization of appropriations (A) In general Amounts necessary to carry out this subsection shall be made available from amounts appropriated to the Administration to carry out subsection (b). (B) Authority to reduce interest rates and other terms and conditions Funds appropriated to the Administration to carry out this subsection,(!6) may be used by the Administrator to meet the loan terms and conditions specified in paragraph (6). (12) Purchase of loans The Administrator may enter into an agreement with a qualified private lender or preferred lender to purchase any loan guaranteed under this subsection. (d) Extension or renewal of loans; purchase of participations; assumption of obligations; disaster loans; interest rates; loan amounts (1) The Administration may further extend the maturity of or renew any loan made pursuant to this section, or any loan transferred to the Administration pursuant to Reorganization Plan Numbered 2 of 1954, or Reorganization Plan Numbered 1 of 1957, for additional periods not to exceed ten years beyond the period stated therein, if such extension or renewal will aid in the orderly liquidation of such loan. (2) During any period in which principal and interest charges are suspended on the Federal share of any loan, as provided in subsection (b) of this section, the Administrator shall, upon the request of any person, firm, or corporation having a participation in such loan, purchase such participation, or assume the obligation of the borrower, for the balance of such period, to make principal and interest payments on the non- Federal share of such loan: Provided, That no such payments shall be made by the Administrator in behalf of any borrower unless (i) the Administrator determines that such action is necessary in order to avoid a default, and (ii) the borrower agrees to make payments to the Administration in an aggregate amount equal to the amount paid in its behalf by the Administrator, in such manner and at such times (during or after the term of the loan) as the Administrator shall determine having due regard to the purposes sought to be achieved by this paragraph. (3) With respect to a disaster occurring on or after October 1, 1978, and prior (!11) August 13, 1981, on the Administration's share of loans made pursuant to paragraph (1) of subsection (b) of this section - (A) if the loan proceeds are to repair or replace a primary residence and/or repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, the interest rate shall be 3 percent on the first $55,000 of such loan; (B) if the loan proceeds are to repair or replace property damaged or destroyed and if the applicant is a business concern which is unable to obtain sufficient credit elsewhere, the interest rate shall be as determined by the Administration, but not in excess of 5 percent per annum; and (C) if the loan proceeds are to repair or replace property damaged or destroyed and if the applicant is a business concern which is able to obtain sufficient credit elsewhere, the interest rate shall not exceed the current average market yield on outstanding marketable obligations of the United States with remaining periods to maturity comparable to the average maturities of such loans and adjusted to the nearest one-eighth of 1 percent, and an additional amount as determined by the Administration, but not to exceed 1 percent: Provided, That three years after such loan is fully disbursed and every two years thereafter for the term of the loan, if the Administration determines that the borrower is able to obtain a loan from non-Federal sources at reasonable rates and terms for loans of similar purposes and periods of time, the borrower shall, upon request by the Administration, apply for and accept such a loan in sufficient amount to repay the Administration: Provided further, That no loan under subsection (b)(1) of this section shall be made, either directly or in cooperation with banks or other lending institutions through agreements to participate on an immediate or deferred basis, if the total amount outstanding and committed to the borrower under such subsection would exceed $500,000 for each disaster, unless an applicant constitutes a major source of employment in an area suffering a disaster, in which case the Administration, in its discretion, may waive the $500,000 limitation. (4) Notwithstanding the provisions of any other law, the interest rate on the Federal share of any loan made under subsection (b) of this section shall be - (A) in the case of a homeowner unable to secure credit elsewhere, the rate prescribed by the Administration but not more than one-half the rate determined by the Secretary of the Treasury taking into consideration the current average market yield on outstanding marketable obligations of the United States with remaining periods to maturity comparable to the average maturities of such loans plus an additional charge of not to exceed 1 per centum per annum as determined by the Administrator, and adjusted to the nearest one-eighth of 1 per centum but not to exceed 8 per centum per annum; (B) in the case of a homeowner able to secure credit elsewhere, the rate prescribed by the Administration but not more than the rate determined by the Secretary of the Treasury taking into consideration the current average market yield on outstanding marketable obligations of the United States with remaining periods to maturity comparable to the average maturities of such loans plus an additional charge of not to exceed 1 per centum per annum as determined by the Administrator, and adjusted to the nearest one-eighth of 1 per centum; (C) in the case of a business concern unable to obtain credit elsewhere, not to exceed 8 per centum per annum; (D) in the case of a business concern able to obtain credit elsewhere, the rate prescribed by the Administration but not in excess of the rate prevailing in private market for similar loans and not more than the rate prescribed by the Administration as the maximum interest rate for deferred participation (guaranteed) loans under subsection (a) of this section. Loans under this subparagraph shall be limited to a maximum term of three years. (5) Notwithstanding the provisions of any other law, the interest rate on the Federal share of any loan made under subsection (b)(1) and (b)(2) of this section on account of a disaster commencing on or after October 1, 1982, shall be - (A) in the case of a homeowner unable to secure credit elsewhere, the rate prescribed by the Administration but not more than one-half the rate determined by the Secretary of the Treasury taking into consideration the current average market yield on outstanding marketable obligations of the United States with remaining periods to maturity comparable to the average maturities of such loan plus an additional charge of not to exceed 1 per centum per annum as determined by the Administrator, and adjusted to the nearest one-eighth of 1 per centum, but not to exceed 4 per centum per annum; (B) in the case of a homeowner able to secure credit elsewhere, the rate prescribed by the Administration but not more than the rate determined by the Secretary of the Treasury taking into consideration the current average market yield on outstanding marketable obligations of the United States with remaining periods to maturity comparable to the average maturities of such loans plus an additional charge of not to exceed 1 per centum per annum as determined by the Administrator, and adjusted to the nearest one-eighth of 1 per centum, but not to exceed 8 per centum per annum; (C) in the case of a business, private nonprofit organization, or other concern, including agricultural cooperatives, unable to obtain credit elsewhere, not to exceed 4 per centum per annum; (D) in the case of a business concern able to obtain credit elsewhere, the rate prescribed by the Administration but not in excess of the lowest of (i) the rate prevailing in the private market for similar loans, (ii) the rate prescribed by the Administration as the maximum interest rate for deferred participation (guaranteed) loans under subsection (a) of this section, or (iii) 8 per centum per annum. Loans under this subparagraph shall be limited to a maximum term of three years. (6) Notwithstanding the provisions of any other law, such loans, subject to the reductions required by subparagraphs (A) and (B) of subsection (b)(1) of this section, shall be in amounts equal to 100 per centum of loss. The interest rates for loans made under subsection (b)(1) and (2) of this section, as determined pursuant to paragraph (5), shall be the rate of interest which is in effect on the date of the disaster commenced: Provided, That no loan under subsection (b)(1) and (2) of this section shall be made, either directly or in cooperation with banks or other lending institutions through agreements to participate on an immediate or deferred (guaranteed) basis, if the total amount outstanding and committed to the borrower under subsection (b) of this section would exceed $500,000 for each disaster unless an applicant constitutes a major source of employment in an area suffering a disaster, in which case the Administration, in its discretion, may waive the $500,000 limitation: Provided further, That the Administration, subject to the reductions required by subparagraphs (A) and (B) of subsection (b)(1) of this section, shall not reduce the amount of eligibility for any homeowner on account of loss of real estate to less than $100,000 for each disaster nor for any homeowner or lessee on account of loss of personal property to less than $20,000 for each disaster, such sums being in addition to any eligible refinancing: Provided further, That the Administration shall not require collateral for loans of $14,000 or less (or such higher amount as the Administrator determines appropriate in the event of a major disaster) which are made under paragraph (1) of subsection (b) of this section. Employees of concerns sharing a common business premises shall be aggregated in determining "major source of employment" status for nonprofit applicants owning such premises. With respect to any loan which is outstanding on April 18, 1984, and which was made on account of a disaster commencing on or after October 1, 1982, the Administrator shall make such change in the interest rate on the balance of such loan as is required herein effective as of April 18, 1984. (7) The Administration shall not withhold disaster assistance pursuant to this paragraph to nurseries who are victims of drought disasters. As used in subsection (b)(2) of this section the term "an area affected by a disaster" includes any county, or county contiguous thereto, determined to be a disaster by the President, the Secretary of Agriculture or the Administrator of the Small Business Administration. (e) Funds for small business development centers under section 648 of this title The Administration shall not fund any Small Business Development Center or any variation thereof, except as authorized in section 648 of this title. (f) Additional requirements for subsection (b) loans (1) (!12) Increased deferment authorized (A) In general In making loans under subsection (b), the Administrator may provide, to the person receiving the loan, an option to defer repayment on the loan. (B) Period The period of a deferment under subparagraph (A) may not exceed 4 years. (g) Net earnings clauses prohibited for subsection (b) loans In making loans under subsection (b), the Administrator shall not require the borrower to pay any non-amortized amount for the first five years after repayment begins. (h) Loans to handicapped persons and organizations for handicapped (1) The Administration also is empowered, where other financial assistance is not available on reasonable terms, to make such loans (either directly or in cooperation with Banks or other lending institutions through agreements to participate on an immediate or deferred basis) as the Administration may determine to be necessary or appropriate - (A) to assist any public or private organization - (i) which is organized under the laws of the United States or of any State, operated in the interest of handicapped individuals, the net income of which does not inure in whole or in part to the benefit of any shareholder or other individual; (ii) which complies with any applicable occupational health and safety standard prescribed by the Secretary of Labor; and (iii) which, in the production of commodities and in the provision of services during any fiscal year in which it receives financial assistance under this subsection, employs handicapped individuals for not less than 75 per centum of the man-hours required for the production or provision of the commodities or services; or (B) to assist any handicapped individual in establishing, acquiring, or operating a small business concern. (2) The Administration's share of any loan made under this subsection shall not exceed $350,000, nor may any such loan be made if the total amount outstanding and committed (by participation or otherwise) to the borrower from the business loan and investment fund established by section 633(c)(1)(B) of this title would exceed $350,000. In agreements to participate in loans on a deferred basis under this subsection, the Administration's participation may total 100 per centum of the balance of the loan at the time of disbursement. The Administration's share of any loan made under this subsection shall bear interest at the rate of 3 per centum per annum. The maximum term of any such loan, including extensions and renewals thereof, may not exceed fifteen years. All loans made under this subsection shall be of such sound value or so secured as reasonably to assure repayment: Provided, however, That any reasonable doubt shall be resolved in favor of the applicant. (3) For purposes of this subsection, the term "handicapped individual" means a person who has a physical, mental, or emotional impairment, defect, ailment, disease, or disability of a permanent nature which in any way limits the selection of any type of employment for which the person would otherwise be qualified or qualifiable. (i) Loans to small business concerns located in urban or rural areas with high proportions of unemployed or low-income individuals, or owned by low-income individuals (1) The Administration also is empowered to make, participate (on an immediate basis) in, or guarantee loans, repayable in not more than fifteen years, to any small business concern, or to any qualified person seeking to establish such a concern, when it determines that such loans will further the policies established in section 631(b) (!2) of this title, with particular emphasis on the preservation or establishment of small business concerns located in urban or rural areas with high proportions of unemployed or low- income individuals, or owned by low-income individuals: Provided, however, That no such loans shall be made, participated in, or guaranteed if the total of such Federal assistance to a single borrower outstanding at any one time would exceed $100,000. The Administration may defer payments on the principal of such loans for a grace period and use such other methods as it deems necessary and appropriate to assure the successful establishment and operation of such concern. The Administration may, in its discretion, as a condition of such financial assistance, require that the borrower take steps to improve his management skills by participating in a management training program approved by the Administration: Provided, however, That any management training program so approved must be of sufficient scope and duration to provide reasonable opportunity for the individuals served to develop entrepreneurial and managerial self-sufficiency. (2) The Administration shall encourage, as far as possible, the participation of the private business community in the program of assistance to such concerns, and shall seek to stimulate new private lending activities to such concerns through the use of the loan guarantees, participations in loans, and pooling arrangements authorized by this subsection. (3) To insure an equitable distribution between urban and rural areas for loans between $3,500 and $100,000 made under this subsection, the Administration is authorized to use the agencies and agreements and delegations developed under title III of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, as amended [42 U.S.C. 2841 et seq.], as it shall determine necessary. (4) The Administration shall provide for the continuing evaluation of programs under this subsection, including full information on the location, income characteristics, and types of businesses and individuals assisted, and on new private lending activity stimulated, and the results of such evaluation together with recommendations shall be included in the report required by section 639(a) of this title. (5) Loans made pursuant to this subsection (including immediate participation in and guarantees of such loans) shall have such terms and conditions as the Administration shall determine, subject to the following limitations - (A) there is reasonable assurance of repayment of the loan; (B) the financial assistance is not otherwise available on reasonable terms from private sources or other Federal, State, or local programs; (C) the amount of the loan, together with other funds available, is adequate to assure completion of the project or achievement of the purposes for which the loan is made; (D) the loan bears interest at a rate not less than (i) a rate determined by the Secretary of the Treasury, taking into consideration the average market yield on outstanding Treasury obligations of comparable maturity, plus (ii) such additional charge, if any, toward covering other costs of the program as the Administration may determine to be consistent with its purposes: Provided, however, That the rate of interest charged on loans made in redevelopment areas designated under the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 [42 U.S.C. 3121 et seq.] shall not exceed the rate currently applicable to new loans made under section 201 of that Act [42 U.S.C. 3141]; and (E) fees not in excess of amounts necessary to cover administrative expenses and probable losses may be required on loan guarantees. (6) The Administration shall take such steps as may be necessary to insure that, in any fiscal year, at least 50 per centum of the amounts loaned or guaranteed pursuant to this subsection are allotted to small business concerns located in urban areas identified by the Administration as having high concentrations of unemployed or low-income individuals or to small business concerns owned by low-income individuals. The Administration shall define the meaning of low income as it applies to owners of small business concerns eligible to be assisted under this subsection. (7) No financial assistance shall be extended pursuant to this subsection where the Administration determines that the assistance will be used in relocating establishments from one area to another if such relocation would result in an increase in unemployment in the area of original location. (j) Financial assistance for projects providing technical or management assistance; areas of high concentration of unemployment or low-income; preferences; manner and method of payment; accessible services; program evaluations; establishment of development program; coordination of policies (1) The Administration shall provide financial assistance to public or private organizations to pay all or part of the cost of projects designed to provide technical or management assistance to individuals or enterprises eligible for assistance under subsection (i) of this section, paragraph (10) of this subsection; and section 637(a) of this title, with special attention to small businesses located in areas of high concentration of unemployed or low-income individuals, to small businesses eligible to receive contracts pursuant to section 637(a) of this title. (2) Financial assistance under this subsection may be provided for projects, including, but not limited to - (A) planning and research, including feasibility studies and market research; (B) the identification and development of new business opportunities; (C) the furnishing of centralized services with regard to public services and Federal Government programs including programs authorized under subsection (i) of this section; paragraph (10) of this subsection, and section 637(a) of this title; (D) the establishment and strengthening of business service agencies, including trade associations and cooperatives; and (E) the furnishing of business counseling, management training, and legal and other related services, with special emphasis on the development of management training programs using the resources of the business community, including the development of management training opportunities in existing business, and with emphasis in all cases upon providing management training of sufficient scope and duration to develop entrepreneurial and managerial self-sufficiency on the part of the individuals served. (3) The Administration shall encourage the placement of subcontracts by businesses with small business concerns located in areas of high concentration of unemployed or low-income individuals, with small businesses owned by low-income individuals, and with small businesses eligible to receive contracts pursuant to section 637(a) of this title. The Administration may provide incentives and assistance to such businesses that will aid in the training and upgrading of potential subcontractors or other small business concerns eligible for assistance under subsections (i) and (j) of this section, and section 637(a) of this title. (4) The Administration shall give preference to projects which promote the ownership, participation in ownership, or management of small businesses owned by low-income individuals and small businesses eligible to receive contracts pursuant to section 637(a) of this title. (5) The financial assistance authorized for projects under this subsection includes assistance advanced by grant, agreement, or contract. (6) The Administration is authorized to make payments under grants and contracts entered into under this subsection in lump sum or installments, and in advance or by way of reimbursement, and in the case of grants, with necessary adjustments on account of overpayments or underpayments. (7) To the extent feasible, services under this subsection shall be provided in a location which is easily accessible to the individuals and small business concerns served. (8) Repealed. Pub. L. 101-574, title II, Sec. 242(2), Nov. 15, 1990, 104 Stat. 2827. (9) The Administration shall take such steps as may be necessary and appropriate, in coordination and cooperation with the heads of other Federal departments and agencies, to insure that contracts, subcontracts, and deposits made by the Federal Government or with programs aided with Federal funds are placed in such way as to further the purposes of subsections (i) and (j) of this section and section 637(a) of this title. (10) There is established within the Administration a small business and capital ownership development program (hereinafter referred to as the "Program") which shall provide assistance exclusively for small business concerns eligible to receive contracts pursuant to section 637(a) of this title. The program, and all other services and activities authorized under this subsection and section 637(a) of this title, shall be managed by the Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development under the supervision of, and responsible to, the Administrator. (A) The Program shall - (i) assist small business concerns participating in the Program (either through public or private organizations) to develop and maintain comprehensive business plans which set forth the Program Participant's specific business targets, objectives, and goals developed and maintained in conformity with subparagraph (D).(!13) (ii) provide for such other nonfinancial services as deemed necessary for the establishment, preservation, and growth of small business concerns participating in the Program, including but not limited to (I) loan packaging, (II) financial counseling, (III) accounting and bookkeeping assistance, (IV) marketing assistance, and (V) management assistance; (iii) assist small business concerns participating in the Program to obtain equity and debt financing; (iv) establish regular performance monitoring and reporting systems for small business concerns participating in the Program to assure compliance with their business plans; (v) analyze and report the causes of success and failure of small business concerns participating in the Program; and (vi) provide assistance necessary to help small business concerns participating in the Program to procure surety bonds, with such assistance including, but not limited to, (I) the preparation of application forms required to receive a surety bond, (II) special management and technical assistance designed to meet the specific needs of small business concerns participating in the Program and which have received or are applying to receive a surety bond, and (III) preparation of all forms necessary to receive a surety bond guarantee from the Administration pursuant to title IV, part B of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 [15 U.S.C. 694a et seq.]. (B) Small business concerns eligible to receive contracts pursuant to section 637(a) of this title shall participate in the Program. (C)(i) A small business concern participating in any program or activity conducted under the authority of this paragraph or eligible for the award of contracts pursuant to section 637(a) of this title on September 1, 1988, shall be permitted continued participation and eligibility in such program or activity for a period of time which is the greater of - (I) 9 years less the number of years since the award of its first contract pursuant to section 637(a) of this title; or (II) its original fixed program participation term (plus any extension thereof) assigned prior to November 15, 1988, plus eighteen months. (ii) Nothing contained in this subparagraph shall be deemed to prevent the Administration from instituting a termination or graduation pursuant to subparagraph (F) or (H) for issues unrelated to the expiration of any time period limitation. (D)(i) Promptly after certification under paragraph (11) a Program Participant shall submit a business plan (hereinafter referred to as the "plan") as described in clause (ii) of this subparagraph for review by the Business Opportunity Specialist assigned to assist such Program Participant. The plan may be a revision of a preliminary business plan submitted by the Program Participant or required by the Administration as a part of the application for certification under this section and shall be designed to result in the Program Participant eliminating the conditions or circumstances upon which the Administration determined eligibility pursuant to section 637(a)(6) of this title. Such plan, and subsequent modifications submitted under clause (iii) of this subparagraph, shall be approved by the business opportunity specialist prior to the Program Participant being eligible for award of a contract pursuant to section 637(a) of this title. (ii) The plans submitted under this subparagraph shall include the following: (I) An analysis of market potential, competitive environment, and other business analyses estimating the Program Participant's prospects for profitable operations during the term of program participation and after graduation. (II) An analysis of the Program Participant's strengths and weaknesses with particular attention to correcting any financial, managerial, technical, or personnel conditions which are likely to impede the small business concern from receiving contracts other than those awarded under section 637(a) of this title. (III) Specific targets, objectives, and goals, for the business development of the Program Participant during the next and succeeding years utilizing the results of the analyses conducted pursuant to subclauses (I) and (II). (IV) A transition management plan outlining specific steps to assure profitable business operations after graduation (to be incorporated into the Program Participant's plan during the first year of the transitional stage of Program participation). (V) Estimates of contract awards pursuant to section 637(a) of this title and from other sources, which the Program Participant will require to meet the specific targets, objectives, and goals for the years covered by its plan. The estimates established shall be consistent with the provisions of subparagraph (I) and section 637(a) of this title. (iii) Each Program Participant shall annually review its currently approved plan with its Business Opportunity Specialist and modify such plan as may be appropriate. Any modified plan shall be submitted to the Administration for approval. The currently approved plan shall be considered valid until such time as a modified plan is approved by the Business Opportunity Specialist. Annual reviews pertaining to years in the transitional stage of program participation shall require, as appropriate, a written verification that such Program Participant has complied with the requirements of subparagraph (I) relating to attaining business activity from sources other than contracts awarded pursuant to section 637(a) of this title. (iv) Each Program Participant shall annually forecast its needs for contract awards under section 637(a) of this title for the next program year and the succeeding program year during the review of its business plan, conducted pursuant to clause (iii). Such forecast shall be known as the section 8(a) [15 U.S.C. 637(a)] contract support level and shall be included in the Program Participant's business plan. Such forecast shall include - (I) the aggregate dollar value of contract support to be sought on a noncompetitive basis under section 637(a) of this title, reflecting compliance with the requirements of subparagraph (I) relating to attaining business activity from sources other than contracts awarded pursuant to section 637(a) of this title, (II) the types of contract opportunities being sought, identified by Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) Code or otherwise, (III) an estimate of the dollar value of contract support to be sought on a competitive basis, and (IV) such other information as may be requested by the Business Opportunity Specialist to provide effective business development assistance to the Program Participant. (E) A small business concern participating in the program conducted under the authority of this paragraph and eligible for the award of contracts pursuant to section 637(a) of this title shall be denied all such assistance if such concern - (i) voluntarily elects not to continue participation; (ii) completes the period of Program participation as prescribed by paragraph (15); (iii) is terminated pursuant to a termination proceeding conducted in accordance with section 637(a)(9) of this title; or (iv) is graduated pursuant to a graduation proceeding conducted in accordance with section 637(a)(9) of this title. (F) For purposes of this section and section 637(a) of this title, the term "terminated" and the term "termination" means the total denial or suspension of assistance under this paragraph or under section 637(a) of this title prior to the graduation of the participating small business concern or prior to the expiration of the maximum program participation term. An action for termination shall be based upon good cause, including - (i) the failure by such concern to maintain its eligibility for Program participation; (ii) the failure of the concern to engage in business practices that will promote its competitiveness within a reasonable period of time as evidenced by, among other indicators, a pattern of unjustified delinquent performance or terminations for default with respect to contracts awarded under the authority of section 637(a) of this title; (iii) a demonstrated pattern of failing to make required submissions or responses to the Administration in a timely manner; (iv) the willful violation of any rule or regulation of the Administration pertaining to material issues; (v) the debarment of the concern or its disadvantaged owners by any agency pursuant to subpart 9.4 of title 48, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation); or (vi) the conviction of the disadvantaged owner or an officer of the concern for any offense indicating a lack of business integrity including any conviction for embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or violation of section 645 of this title. For purposes of this clause, no termination action shall be taken with respect to a disadvantaged owner solely because of the conviction of an officer of the concern (who is other than a disadvantaged owner) unless such owner conspired with, abetted, or otherwise knowingly acquiesced in the activity or omission that was the basis of such officer's conviction. (G) The Director of the Division may initiate a termination proceeding by recommending such action to the Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development. Whenever the Associate Administrator, or a designee of such officer, determines such termination is appropriate, within 15 days after making such a determination the Program Participant shall be provided a written notice of intent to terminate, specifying the reasons for such action. No Program Participant shall be terminated from the Program pursuant to subparagraph (F) without first being afforded an opportunity for a hearing in accordance with section 637(a)(9) of this title. (H) For the purposes of this subsection and section 637(a) of this title the term "graduated" or "graduation" means that the Program Participant is recognized as successfully completing the program by substantially achieving the targets, objectives, and goals contained in the concern's business plan thereby demonstrating its ability to compete in the marketplace without assistance under this section or section 637(a) of this title. (I)(i) During the developmental stage of its participation in the Program, a Program Participant shall take all reasonable efforts within its control to attain the targets contained in its business plan for contracts awarded other than pursuant to section 637(a) of this title (hereinafter referred to as "business activity targets."). Such efforts shall be made a part of the business plan and shall be sufficient in scope and duration to satisfy the Administration that the Program Participant will engage a reasonable marketing strategy that will maximize its potential to achieve its business activity targets. (ii) During the transitional stage of the Program a Program Participant shall be subject to regulations regarding business activity targets that are promulgated by the Administration pursuant to clause (iii); (iii) The regulations referred to in clause (ii) shall: (I) establish business activity targets applicable to Program Participants during the fifth year and each succeeding year of Program Participation; such targets, for such period of time, shall reflect a reasonably consistent increase in contracts awarded other than pursuant to section 637(a) of this title, expressed as a percentage of total sales; when promulgating business activity targets the Administration may establish modified targets for Program Participants that have participated in the Program for a period of longer than four years on June 1, 1989; (II) require a Program Participant to attain its business activity targets; (III) provide that, before the receipt of any contract to be awarded pursuant to section 637(a) of this title, the Program Participant (if it is in the transitional stage) must certify that it has complied with the regulations promulgated pursuant to subclause (II), or that it is in compliance with such remedial measures as may have been ordered pursuant to regulations issued under subclause (V); (IV) require the Administration to review each Program Participant's performance regarding attainment of business activity targets during periodic reviews of such Participant's business plan; and (V) authorize the Administration to take appropriate remedial measures with respect to a Program Participant that has failed to attain a required business activity target for the purpose of reducing such Participant's dependence on contracts awarded pursuant to section 637(a) of this title; such remedial actions may include, but are not limited to assisting the Program Participant to expand the dollar volume of its competitive business activity or limiting the dollar volume of contracts awarded to the Program Participant pursuant to section 637(a) of this title; except for actions that would constitute a termination, remedial measures taken pursuant to this subclause shall not be reviewable pursuant to section 637(a)(9) of this title. (J)(i) The Administration shall conduct an evaluation of a Program Participant's eligibility for continued participation in the Program whenever it receives specific and credible information alleging that such Program Participant no longer meets the requirements for Program eligibility. Upon making a finding that a Program Participant is no longer eligible, the Administration shall initiate a termination proceeding in accordance with subparagraph (F). A Program Participant's eligibility for award of any contract under the authority of section 637(a) of this title may be suspended pursuant to subpart 9.4 of title 48, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation). (ii)(I) Except as authorized by subclauses (II) or (III), no award shall be made pursuant to section 637(a) of this title to a concern other than a small business concern. (II) In determining the size of a small business concern owned by a socially and economically disadvantaged Indian tribe (or a wholly owned business entity of such tribe), each firm's size shall be independently determined without regard to its affiliation with the tribe, any entity of the tribal government, or any other business enterprise owned by the tribe, unless the Administrator determines that one or more such tribally owned business concerns have obtained, or are likely to obtain, a substantial unfair competitive advantage within an industry category. (III) Any joint venture established under the authority of section 602(b) of Public Law 100-656, the "Business Opportunity Development Reform Act of 1988", shall be eligible for award of a contract pursuant to section 637(a) of this title. (11)(A) The Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development shall be responsible for coordinating and formulating policies relating to Federal assistance to small business concerns eligible for assistance under subsection (i) of this section and small business concerns eligible to receive contracts pursuant to section 637(a) of this title. (B)(i) Except as provided in clause (iii), no individual who was determined pursuant to section 637(a) of this title to be socially and economically disadvantaged before August 15, 1989, shall be permitted to assert such disadvantage with respect to any other concern making application for certification after August 15, 1989. (ii) Except as provided in clause (iii), any individual upon whom eligibility is based pursuant to section 637(a)(4) of this title shall be permitted to assert such eligibility for only one small business concern. (iii) A socially and economically disadvantaged Indian tribe may own more than one small business concern eligible for assistance pursuant to paragraph (10) and section 637(a) of this title if - (I) the Indian tribe does not own another firm in the same industry which has been determined to be eligible to receive contracts under this program, and (II) the individuals responsible for the management and daily operations of the concern do not manage more than two Program Participants. (C) No concern, previously eligible for the award of contracts pursuant to section 637(a) of this title, shall be subsequently recertified for program participation if its prior participation in the program was concluded for any of the reasons described in paragraph (10)(E). (D) A concern eligible for the award of contracts pursuant to this subsection shall remain eligible for such contracts if there is a transfer of ownership and control (as defined pursuant to section 637(a)(4) of this title) to individuals who are determined to be socially and economically disadvantaged pursuant to section 637(a) of this title. In the event of such a transfer, the concern, if not terminated or graduated, shall be eligible for a period of continued participation in the program not to exceed the time limitations prescribed in paragraph (15). (E) There is established a Division of Program Certification and Eligibility (hereinafter referred to in this paragraph as the "Division") that shall be made part of the Office of Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development. The Division shall be headed by a Director who shall report directly to the Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development. The Division shall establish field offices within such regional offices of the Administration as may be necessary to perform efficiently its functions and responsibilities. (F) Subject to the provisions of section 637(a)(9) of this title, the functions and responsibility of the Division are to - (i) receive, review and evaluate applications for certification pursuant to paragraphs (4), (5), (6) and (7) of section 637(a) of this title; (ii) advise each program applicant within 15 days after the receipt of an application as to whether such application is complete and suitable for evaluation and, if not, what matters must be rectified; (iii) render recommendations on such applications to the Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development; (iv) review and evaluate financial statements and other submissions from concerns participating in the program established by paragraph (10) to ascertain continued eligibility to receive subcontracts pursuant to section 637(a) of this title; (v) make a request for the initiation of termination or graduation proceedings, as appropriate, to the Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development; (vi) make recommendations to the Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development concerning protests from applicants that have been denied program admission; (vii) decide protests regarding the status of a concern as a disadvantaged concern for purposes of any program or activity conducted under the authority of subsection (d) of section 637 of this title, or any other provision of Federal law that references such subsection for a definition of program eligibility; and (viii) implement such policy directives as may be issued by the Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development pursuant to subparagraph (I) regarding, among other things, the geographic distribution of concerns to be admitted to the program and the industrial make-up of such concerns. (G) An applicant shall not be denied admission into the program established by paragraph (10) due solely to a determination by the Division that specific contract opportunities are unavailable to assist in the development of such concern unless - (i) the Government has not previously procured and is unlikely to procure the types of products or services offered by the concern; or (ii) the purchases of such products or services by the Federal Government will not be in quantities sufficient to support the developmental needs of the applicant and other Program Participants providing the same or similar items or services. (H) Not later than 90 days after receipt of a completed application for Program certification, the Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development shall certify a small business concern as a Program Participant or shall deny such application. (I) Thirty days before the conclusion of each fiscal year, the Director of the Division shall review all concerns that have been admitted into the Program during the preceding 12-month period. The review shall ascertain the number of entrants, their geographic distribution and industrial classification. The Director shall also estimate the expected growth of the Program during the next fiscal year and the number of additional Business Opportunity Specialists, if any, that will be needed to meet the anticipated demand for the Program. The findings and conclusions of the Director shall be reported to the Associate Administrator for Minority Small Business and Capital Ownership Development by September 30 of each year. Based on such report and such additional data as may be relevant, the Associate Administrator shall, by October 31 of each year, issue policy and program directives applicable to such fiscal year that - (i) establish priorities for the solicitation of program applications from underrepresented regions and industry categories; (ii) assign staffing levels and allocate other program resources as necessary to meet program needs; and (iii) establish priorities in the processing and admission of new Program Participants as may be necessary to achieve an equitable geographic distribution of concerns and a distribution of concerns across all industry categories in proportions needed to increase significantly contract awards to small business concerns owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. When considering such increase the Administration shall give due consideration to those industrial categories where Federal purchases have been substantial but where the participation rate of such concerns has been limited. (12)(A) The Administration shall segment the Capital Ownership Development Program into two stages: a developmental stage; and a transitional stage. (B) The developmental stage of program participation shall be designed to assist the concern in its effort to overcome its economic disadvantage by providing such assistance as may be necessary and appropriate to access its markets and to strengthen its financial and managerial skills. (C) The transitional stage of program participation shall be designed to overcome, insofar as practicable, the remaining elements of economic disadvantage and to prepare such concern for graduation from the program. (13) A Program Participant, if otherwise eligible, shall be qualified to receive the following assistance during the stages of program participation specified in paragraph 12: (!14) (A) Contract support pursuant to section 637(a) of this title. (B) Financial assistance pursuant to subsection (a)(20) of this section. (C) A maximum of two exemptions from the requirements of section 35(a) (!2) of title 41, which exemptions shall apply only to contracts awarded pursuant to section 637(a) of this title and shall only be used to allow for contingent agreements by a small business concern to acquire the machinery, equipment, facilities, or labor needed to perform such contracts. No exemption shall be made pursuant to this subparagraph if the contract to which it pertains has an anticipated value in excess of $10,000,000. This subparagraph shall cease to be effective on October 1, 1992. (D) A maximum of five exemptions from the requirements of sections 3131 and 3133 of title 40, which exemptions shall apply only to contracts awarded pursuant to section 637(a) of this title, except that, such exemptions may be granted under this subparagraph only if - (i) the Administration finds that such concern is unable to obtain the requisite bond or bonds from a surety and that no surety is willing to issue a bond subject to the guarantee provision of title IV of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 (15 U.S.C. 692 et seq.); (ii) the Administration and the agency providing the contracting opportunity have provided for the protection of persons furnishing materials or labor to the Program Participant by arranging for the direct disbursement of funds due to such persons by the procuring agency or through any bank the deposits of which are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation; and (iii) the contract to which it pertains does not exceed $3,000,000 in amount. This subparagraph shall cease to be effective on October 1, 1994. (E) Financial assistance whereby the Administration may purchase in whole or in part, and on behalf of such concerns, skills training or upgrading for employees or potential employees of such concerns. Such assistance may be made without regard to section 647(a) of this title. Assistance may be made by direct payment to the training provider or by reimbursing the Program Participant or the Participant's employee, if such reimbursement is found to be reasonable and appropriate. For purposes of this subparagraph the term "training provider" shall mean an institution of higher education, a community or vocational college, or an institution eligible to provide skills training or upgrading under title I of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 [29 U.S.C. 2801 et seq.]. The Administration shall, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor, promulgate rules and regulations to implement this subparagraph that establish acceptable training and upgrading performance standards and provide for such monitoring or audit requirements as may be necessary to ensure the integrity of the training effort. No financial assistance shall be granted under the subparagraph unless the Administrator determines that - (i) such concern has documented that it has first explored the use of existing cost-free or cost-subsidized training programs offered by public and private sector agencies working with programs of employment and training and economic development; (ii) no more than five employees or potential employees of such concern are recipients of any benefits under this subparagraph at any one time; (iii) no more than $2,500 shall be made available for any one employee or potential employee; (iv) the length of training or upgrading financed by this subparagraph shall be no less than one month nor more than six months; (v) such concern has given adequate assurance it will employ the trainee or upgraded employee for at least six months after the training or upgrading financed by this subparagraph has been completed and each trainee or upgraded employee has provided a similar assurance to remain within the employ of such concern for such period; if such concern, trainee, or upgraded employee breaches this agreement, the Administration shall be entitled to and shall make diligent efforts to obtain from the violating party the repayment of all funds expended on behalf of the violating party, such repayment shall be made to the Administration together with such interest and costs of collection as may be reasonable; the violating party shall be barred from receiving any further assistance under this subparagraph; (vi) the training to be financed may take place either at such concern's facilities or at those of the training provider; and (vii) such concern will maintain such records as the Administration deems appropriate to ensure that the provisions of this paragraph and any other applicable law have not been violated. (F) The transfer of technology or surplus property owned by the United States to such a concern. Activities designed to effect such transfer shall be developed in cooperation with the heads of Federal agencies and shall include the transfer by grant, license, or sale of such technology or property to such a concern. Such property may be transferred to Program Participants on a priority basis. Technology or property transferred under this subparagraph shall be used by the concern during the normal conduct of its business operation and shall not be sold or transferred to any other party (other than the Government) during such concern's term of participation in the Program and for one year thereafter. (G) Training assistance whereby the Administration shall conduct training sessions to assist individuals and enterprises eligible to receive contracts under section 637(a) of this title in the development of business principles and strategies to enhance their ability to successfully compete for contracts in the marketplace. (H) Joint ventures, leader-follower arrangements, and teaming agreements between the Program Participant and other Program Participants and other business concerns with respect to contracting opportunities for the research, development, full- scale engineering or production of major systems. Such activities shall be undertaken on the basis of programs developed by the agency responsible for the procurement of the major system, with the assistance of the Administration. (I) Transitional management business planning training and technical assistance. (J) Program Participants in the developmental stage of Program participation shall be eligible for the assistance provided by subparagraphs (A), (B), (C), (D), (E), (F), and (G). (14) Program Participants in the transitional stage of Program participation shall be eligible for the assistance provided by subparagraphs (A), (B), (F), (G), (H), and (I) of paragraph (13). (15) Subject to the provisions of paragraph (10)(C), a small business concern may receive developmental assistance under the Program and contracts under section 637(a) of this title for a total period of not longer than nine years, measured from the date of its certification under the authority of such section, of which - (A) no more than four years may be spent in the developmental stage of Program Participation; and (B) no more than five years may be spent in the transitional stage of Program Participation. (16)(A) The Administrator shall develop and implement a process for the systematic collection of data on the operations of the Program established pursuant to paragraph (10). (B) Not later than April 30 of each year, the Administrator shall submit a report to the Congress on the Program that shall include the following: (i) The average personal net worth of individuals who own and control concerns that were initially certified for participation in the Program during the immediately preceding fiscal year. The Administrator shall also indicate the dollar distribution of net worths, at $50,000 increments, of all such individuals found to be socially and economically disadvantaged. For the first report required pursuant to this paragraph the Administrator shall also provide the data specified in the preceding sentence for all eligible individuals in the Program as of November 15, 1988. (ii) A description and estimate of the benefits and costs that have accrued to the economy and the Government in the immediately preceding fiscal year due to the operations of those business concerns that were performing contracts awarded pursuant to section 637(a) of this title. (iii) A compilation and evaluation of those business concerns that have exited the Program during the immediately preceding three fiscal years. Such compilation and evaluation shall detail the number of concerns actively engaged in business operations, those that have ceased or substantially curtailed such operations, including the reasons for such actions, and those concerns that have been acquired by other firms or organizations owned and controlled by other than socially and economically disadvantaged individuals. For those businesses that have continued operations after they exited from the Program, the Administrator shall also separately detail the benefits and costs that have accrued to the economy during the immediately preceding fiscal year due to the operations of such concerns. (iv) A listing of all participants in the Program during the preceding fiscal year identifying, by State and by Region, for each firm: the name of the concern, the race or ethnicity, and gender of the disadvantaged owners, the dollar value of all contracts received in the preceding year, the dollar amount of advance payments received by each concern pursuant to contracts awarded under section 637(a) of this title, and a description including (if appropriate) an estimate of the dollar value of all benefits received pursuant to paragraphs (13) and (14) and subsection (a)(20) of this section during such year. (v) The total dollar value of contracts and options awarded during the preceding fiscal year pursuant to section 637(a) of this title and such amount expressed as a percentage of total sales of (I) all firms participating in the Program during such year; and (II) of firms in each of the nine years of program participation. (vi) A description of such additional resources or program authorities as may be required to provide the types of services needed over the next two-year period to service the expected portfolio of firms certified pursuant to section 637(a) of this title. (vii) The total dollar value of contracts and options awarded pursuant to section 637(a) of this title, at such dollar increments as the Administrator deems appropriate, for each four digit standard industrial classification code under which such contracts and options were classified. (C) The first report required by subparagraph (B) shall pertain to fiscal year 1990. (k) Functions relating to loans and financial assistance for projects providing technical or management assistance to individuals or enterprises eligible for assistance as small business concerns located in urban or rural areas with high proportions of unemployed or low-income individuals, or owned by low-income individuals In carrying out its functions under subsections (i) and (j) of this section and section 637(a) of this title, the Administration is authorized - (1) to utilize, with their consent, the services and facilities of Federal agencies without reimbursement, and, with the consent of any State or political subdivision of a State, accept and utilize the services and facilities of such State or subdivision without reimbursement; (2) to accept, in the name of the Administration, and employ or dispose of in furtherance of the purposes of this chapter, any money or property, real, personal, or mixed, tangible, or intangible, received by gift, devise, bequest, or otherwise; (3) to accept voluntary and uncompensated services, notwithstanding the provisions of section 1342 of title 31; and (4) to employ experts and consultants or organizations thereof as authorized by section 3109 of title 5, except that no individual may be employed under the authority of this subsection for more than one hundred days in any fiscal year; to compensate individuals so employed at rates not in excess of the daily equivalent of the highest rate payable under section 5332 of title 5, including traveltime; and to allow them, while away from their homes or regular places of business, travel expenses (including per diem in lieu of subsistence) as authorized by section 5703 of title 5 for persons in the Government service employed intermittently, while so employed: Provided, however, That contracts for such employment may be renewed annually. (l) [RESERVED] (m) Microloan Program (1)(A) Purposes The purposes of the Microloan Program are - (i) to assist women, low-income, veteran (within the meaning of such term under section 632(q) of this title), and minority entrepreneurs and business owners and other such individuals possessing the capability to operate successful business concerns; (ii) to assist small business concerns in those areas suffering from a lack of credit due to economic downturns; (iii) to establish a microloan program to be administered by the Small Business Administration - (I) to make loans to eligible intermediaries to enable such intermediaries to provide small-scale loans, particularly loans in amounts averaging not more than $10,000, to startup, newly established, or growing small business concerns for working capital or the acquisition of materials, supplies, or equipment; (II) to make grants to eligible intermediaries that, together with non-Federal matching funds, will enable such intermediaries to provide intensive marketing, management, and technical assistance to microloan borrowers; (III) to make grants to eligible nonprofit entities that, together with non-Federal matching funds, will enable such entities to provide intensive marketing, management, and technical assistance to assist low-income entrepreneurs and other low-income individuals obtain private sector financing for their businesses, with or without loan guarantees; and (IV) to report to the Committees on Small Business of the Senate and the House of Representatives on the effectiveness of the microloan program and the advisability and feasibility of implementing such a program nationwide; and (iv) to establish a welfare-to-work microloan initiative, which shall be administered by the Administration, in order to test the feasibility of supplementing the technical assistance grants provided under clauses (ii) and (iii) of subparagraph (B) to individuals who are receiving assistance under the State program funded under part A of title IV of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 601 et seq.), or under any comparable State funded means tested program of assistance for low-income individuals, in order to adequately assist those individuals in - (I) establishing small businesses; and (II) eliminating their dependence on that assistance. (B) Establishment There is established a microloan program, under which the Administration may - (i) make direct loans to eligible intermediaries, as provided under paragraph (3), for the purpose of making short-term, fixed interest rate microloans to startup, newly established, and growing small business concerns under paragraph (6); (ii) in conjunction with such loans and subject to the requirements of paragraph (4), make grants to such intermediaries for the purpose of providing intensive marketing, management, and technical assistance to small business concerns that are borrowers under this subsection; and (iii) subject to the requirements of paragraph (5), make grants to nonprofit entities for the purpose of providing marketing, management, and technical assistance to low-income individuals seeking to start or enlarge their own businesses, if such assistance includes working with the grant recipient to secure loans in amounts not to exceed $35,000 from private sector lending institutions, with or without a loan guarantee from the nonprofit entity. (2) Eligibility for participation An intermediary shall be eligible to receive loans and grants under subparagraphs (B)(i) and (B)(ii) of paragraph (1) if it - (A) meets the definition in paragraph (10); (!2) and (B) has at least 1 year of experience making microloans to startup, newly established, or growing small business concerns and providing, as an integral part of its microloan program, intensive marketing, management, and technical assistance to its borrowers. (3) Loans to intermediaries (A) Intermediary applications (i) In general As part of its application for a loan, each intermediary shall submit a description to the Administration of - (I) the type of businesses to be assisted; (II) the size and range of loans to be made; (III) the geographic area to be served and its economic, poverty, and unemployment characteristics; (IV) the status of small business concerns in the area to be served and an analysis of their credit and technical assistance needs; (V) any marketing, management, and technical assistance to be provided in connection with a loan made under this subsection; (VI) the local economic credit markets, including the costs associated with obtaining credit locally; (VII) the qualifications of the applicant to carry out the purpose of this subsection; and (VIII) any plan to involve other technical assistance providers (such as counselors from the Service Corps of Retired Executives or small business development centers) or private sector lenders in assisting selected business concerns. (ii) Selection of intermediaries In selecting intermediaries to participate in the program established under this subsection, the Administration shall give priority to those applicants that provide loans in amounts averaging not more than $10,000. (B) Intermediary contribution As a condition of any loan made to an intermediary under subparagraph (B)(i) of paragraph (1), the Administration shall require the intermediary to contribute not less than 15 percent of the loan amount in cash from non-Federal sources. (C) Loan limits Notwithstanding subsection (a)(3) of this section, no loan shall be made under this subsection if the total amount outstanding and committed to one intermediary (excluding outstanding grants) from the business loan and investment fund established by this chapter would, as a result of such loan, exceed $750,000 in the first year of such intermediary's participation in the program, and $3,500,000 in the remaining years of the intermediary's participation in the program. (D)(i) In general The Administrator shall, by regulation, require each intermediary to establish a loan loss reserve fund, and to maintain such reserve fund until all obligations owed to the Administration under this subsection are repaid. (ii) Level of loan loss reserve fund (I) In general Subject to subclause (III), the Administrator shall require the loan loss reserve fund of an intermediary to be maintained at a level equal to 15 percent of the outstanding balance of the notes receivable owed to the intermediary. (II) Review of loan loss reserve After the initial 5 years of an intermediary's participation in the program authorized by this subsection, the Administrator shall, at the request of the intermediary, conduct a review of the annual loss rate of the intermediary. Any intermediary in operation under this subsection prior to October 1, 1994, that requests a reduction in its loan loss reserve shall be reviewed based on the most recent 5-year period preceding the request. (III) Reduction of loan loss reserve Subject to the requirements of clause IV,(!15) the Administrator may reduce the annual loan loss reserve requirement of an intermediary to reflect the actual average loan loss rate for the intermediary during the preceding 5- year period, except that in no case shall the loan loss reserve be reduced to less than 10 percent of the outstanding balance of the notes receivable owed to the intermediary. (IV) Requirements The Administrator may reduce the annual loan loss reserve requirement of an intermediary only if the intermediary demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Administrator that - (aa) the average annual loss rate for the intermediary during the preceding 5-year period is less than 15 percent; and (bb) that (!16) no other factors exist that may impair the ability of the intermediary to repay all obligations owed to the Administration under this subsection. (E) Unavailability of comparable credit An intermediary may make a loan under this subsection of more than $20,000 to a small business concern only if such small business concern demonstrates that it is unable to obtain credit elsewhere at comparable interest rates and that it has good prospects for success. In no case shall an intermediary make a loan under this subsection of more than $35,000, or have outstanding or committed to any 1 borrower more than $35,000. (F) Loan duration; interest rates (i) Loan duration Loans made by the Administration under this subsection shall be for a term of 10 years. (ii) Applicable interest rates Except as provided in clause (iii), loans made by the Administration under this subsection to an intermediary shall bear an interest rate equal to 1.25 percentage points below the rate determined by the Secretary of the Treasury for obligations of the United States with a period of maturity of 5 years, adjusted to the nearest one-eighth of 1 percent. (iii) Rates applicable to certain small loans Loans made by the Administration to an intermediary that makes loans to small business concerns and entrepreneurs averaging not more than $7,500, shall bear an interest rate that is 2 percentage points below the rate determined by the Secretary of the Treasury for obligations of the United States with a period of maturity of 5 years, adjusted to the nearest one-eighth of 1 percent. (iv) Rates applicable to multiple sites or offices The interest rate prescribed in clause (ii) or (iii) shall apply to each separate loan-making site or office of 1 intermediary only if such site or office meets the requirements of that clause. (v) Rate basis The applicable rate of interest under this paragraph shall - (I) be applied retroactively for the first year of an intermediary's participation in the program, based upon the actual lending practices of the intermediary as determined by the Administration prior to the end of such year; and (II) be based in the second and subsequent years of an intermediary's participation in the program, upon the actual lending practices of the intermediary during the term of the intermediary's participation in the program. (vii) (!17) Covered intermediaries The interest rates prescribed in this subparagraph shall apply to all loans made to intermediaries under this subsection on or after October 28, 1991. (G) Delayed payments The Administration shall not require repayment of interest or principal of a loan made to an intermediary under this subsection during the first year of the loan. (H) Fees; collateral Except as provided in subparagraphs (B) and (D), the Administration shall not charge any fees or require collateral other than an assignment of the notes receivable of the microloans with respect to any loan made to an intermediary under this subsection. (4) Marketing, management and technical assistance grants to intermediaries Grants made in accordance with subparagraph (B)(ii) of paragraph (1) shall be subject to the following requirements: (A) Grant amounts Except as otherwise provided in subparagraph (C) and subject to subparagraph (B), each intermediary that receives a loan under subparagraph (B)(i) of paragraph (1) shall be eligible to receive a grant to provide marketing, management, and technical assistance to small business concerns that are borrowers under this subsection. Except as provided in subparagraph (C), each intermediary meeting the requirements of subparagraph (B) may receive a grant of not more than 25 percent of the total outstanding balance of loans made to it under this subsection. (B) Contribution As a condition of any grant made under subparagraph (A), the Administration shall require the intermediary to contribute an amount equal to 25 percent of the amount of the grant, obtained solely from non-Federal sources. In addition to cash or other direct funding, the contribution may include indirect costs or in-kind contributions paid for under non-Federal programs. (C) Additional technical assistance grants for making certain loans (i) In general Each intermediary that has a portfolio of loans made under this subsection that averages not more than $10,000 during the period of the intermediary's participation in the program shall be eligible to receive a grant equal to 5 percent of the total outstanding balance of loans made to the intermediary under this subsection, in addition to grants made under subparagraph (A). (ii) Purposes A grant awarded under clause (i) may be used to provide marketing, management, and technical assistance to small business concerns that are borrowers under this subsection. (iii) Contribution exception The contribution requirements in subparagraph (B) do not apply to grants made under this subparagraph. (D) Eligibility for multiple sites or offices The eligibility for a grant described in subparagraph (A),(!6) or (C) shall be determined separately for each loan- making site or office of 1 intermediary. (E) Assistance to certain small business concerns (i) In general Each intermediary may expend an amount not to exceed 25 percent of the grant funds received under paragraph (1)(B)(ii) to provide information and technical assistance to small business concerns that are prospective borrowers under this subsection. (ii) Technical assistance An intermediary may expend not more than 25 percent of the funds received under paragraph (1)(B)(ii) to enter into third party contracts for the provision of technical assistance. (F) Supplemental grant (i) In general The Administration may accept any funds transferred to the Administration from other departments or agencies of the Federal Government to make grants in accordance with this subparagraph and section 202(b) of the Small Business Reauthorization Act of 1997 to participating intermediaries and technical assistance providers under paragraph (5), for use in accordance with clause (iii) to provide additional technical assistance and related services to recipients of assistance under a State program described in paragraph (1)(A)(iv) at the time they initially apply for assistance under this subparagraph. (ii) Eligible recipients; grant amounts In making grants under this subparagraph, the Administration may select, from among participating intermediaries and technical assistance providers described in clause (i), not more than 20 grantees in fiscal year 1998, not more than 25 grantees in fiscal year 1999, and not more than 30 grantees in fiscal year 2000, each of whom may receive a grant under this subparagraph in an amount not to exceed $200,000 per year. (iii) Use of grant amounts Grants under this subparagraph - (I) are in addition to other grants provided under this subsection and shall not require the contribution of matching amounts as a condition of eligibility; and (II) may be used by a grantee - (aa) to pay or reimburse a portion of child care and transportation costs of recipients of assistance described in clause (i), to the extent such costs are not otherwise paid by State block grants under the Child Care Development Block Grant Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 9858 et seq.) or under part A of title IV of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 601 et seq.); and (bb) for marketing, management, and technical assistance to recipients of assistance described in clause (i). (iv) Memorandum of Understanding Prior to accepting any transfer of funds under clause (i) from a department or agency of the Federal Government, the Administration shall enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with the department or agency, which shall - (I) specify the terms and conditions of the grants under this subparagraph; and (II) provide for appropriate monitoring of expenditures by each grantee under this subparagraph and each recipient of assistance described in clause (i) who receives assistance from a grantee under this subparagraph, in order to ensure compliance with this subparagraph by those grantees and recipients of assistance. (5) Private sector borrowing technical assistance grants Grants made in accordance with subparagraph (B)(iii) of paragraph (1) shall be subject to the following requirements: (A) Grant amounts Subject to the requirements of subparagraph (B), the Administration may make not more than 55 grants annually, each in amounts not to exceed $200,000 for the purposes specified in subparagraph (B)(iii) of paragraph (1). (B) Contribution As a condition of any grant made under subparagraph (A), the Administration shall require the grant recipient to contribute an amount equal to 20 percent of the amount of the grant, obtained solely from non-Federal sources. In addition to cash or other direct funding, the contribution may include indirect costs or in-kind contributions paid for under non-Federal programs. (6) Loans to small business concerns from eligible intermediaries (A) In general An eligible intermediary shall make short-term, fixed rate loans to startup, newly established, and growing small business concerns from the funds made available to it under subparagraph (B)(i) of paragraph (1) for working capital and the acquisition of materials, supplies, furniture, fixtures, and equipment. (B) Portfolio requirement To the extent practicable, each intermediary that operates a microloan program under this subsection shall maintain a microloan portfolio with an average loan size of not more than $15,000. (C) Interest limit Notwithstanding any provision of the laws of any State or the constitution of any State pertaining to the rate or amount of interest that may be charged, taken, received, or reserved on a loan, the maximum rate of interest to be charged on a microloan funded under this subsection shall not exceed the rate of interest applicable to a loan made to an intermediary by the Administration - (i) in the case of a loan of more than $7,500 made by the intermediary to a small business concern or entrepreneur by more than 7.75 percentage points; and (ii) in the case of a loan of not more than $7,500 made by the intermediary to a small business concern or entrepreneur by more than 8.5 percentage points. (D) Review restriction The Administration shall not review individual microloans made by intermediaries prior to approval. (E) Establishment of child care or transportation businesses In addition to other eligible small businesses concerns, borrowers under any program under this subsection may include individuals who will use the loan proceeds to establish for- profit or nonprofit child care establishments or businesses providing for-profit transportation services. (7) Program funding for microloans (A) Number of participants Under the program authorized by this subsection, the Administration may fund, on a competitive basis, not more than 300 intermediaries. (B) Allocation (i) Minimum allocation Subject to the availability of appropriations, of the total amount of new loan funds made available for award under this subsection in each fiscal year, the Administration shall make available for award in each State (including the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa) an amount equal to the sum of - (I) the lesser of - (aa) $800,000; or (bb) 1/55 of the total amount of new loan funds made available for award under this subsection for that fiscal year; and (II) any additional amount, as determined by the Administration. (ii) Redistribution If, at the beginning of the third quarter of a fiscal year, the Administration determines that any portion of the amount made available to carry out this subsection is unlikely to be made available under clause (i) during that fiscal year, the Administration may make that portion available for award in any one or more States (including the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa) without regard to clause (i). (8) Equitable distribution of intermediaries In approving microloan program applicants and providing funding to intermediaries under this subsection, the Administration shall select and provide funding to such intermediaries as will ensure appropriate availability of loans for small businesses in all industries located throughout each State, particularly those located in urban and in rural areas. (9) Grants for management, marketing, technical assistance, and related services (A) In general The Administration may procure technical assistance for intermediaries participating in the Microloan Program to ensure that such intermediaries have the knowledge, skills, and understanding of microlending practices necessary to operate successful microloan programs. (B) Assistance amount The Administration shall transfer 7 percent of its annual appropriation for loans and loan guarantees under this subsection to the Administration's Salaries and Expense Account for the specific purpose of providing 1 or more technical assistance grants to experienced microlending organizations and national and regional nonprofit organizations that have demonstrated experience in providing training support for microenterprise development and financing.(!18) to achieve the purpose set forth in subparagraph (A). (C) Welfare-to-work microloan initiative Of amounts made available to carry out the welfare-to-work microloan initiative under paragraph (1)(A)(iv) in any fiscal year, the Administration may use not more than 5 percent to provide technical assistance, either directly or through contractors, to welfare-to-work microloan initiative grantees, to ensure that, as grantees, they have the knowledge, skills, and understanding of microlending and welfare-to-work transition, and other related issues, to operate a successful welfare-to-work microloan initiative. (10) Report to Congress On November 1, 1995, the Administration shall submit to the Committees on Small Business of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report, including the Administration's evaluation of the effectiveness of the first 3 1/2 years of the microloan program and the following: (A) the numbers and locations of the intermediaries funded to conduct microloan programs; (B) the amounts of each loan and each grant to intermediaries; (C) a description of the matching contributions of each intermediary; (D) the numbers and amounts of microloans made by the intermediaries to small business concern borrowers; (E) the repayment history of each intermediary; (F) a description of the loan portfolio of each intermediary including the extent to which it provides microloans to small business concerns in rural areas; and (G) any recommendations for legislative changes that would improve program operations. (11) Definitions For purposes of this subsection - (A) the term "intermediary" means - (i) a private, nonprofit entity; (ii) a private, nonprofit community development corporation; (iii) a consortium of private, nonprofit organizations or nonprofit community development corporations; (iv) a quasi-governmental economic development entity (such as a planning and development district), other than a State, county, municipal government, or any agency thereof, if - (I) no application is received from an eligible nonprofit organization; or (II) the Administration determines that the needs of a region or geographic area are not adequately served by an existing, eligible nonprofit organization that has submitted an application; or (v) an agency of or nonprofit entity established by a Native American Tribal Government, that seeks to borrow or has borrowed funds from the Administration to make microloans to small business concerns under this subsection; (B) the term "microloan" means a short-term, fixed rate loan of not more than $35,000, made by an intermediary to a startup, newly established, or growing small business concern; (C) the term "rural area" means any political subdivision or unincorporated area - (i) in a nonmetropolitan county (as defined by the Secretary of Agriculture) or its equivalent thereof; or (ii) in a metropolitan county or its equivalent that has a resident population of less than 20,000 if the Small Business Administration has determined such political subdivision or area to be rural. (12) Deferred participation loan pilot In lieu of making direct loans to intermediaries as authorized in paragraph (1)(B), during fiscal years 1998 through 2000, the Administration may, on a pilot program basis, participate on a deferred basis of not less than 90 percent and not more than 100 percent on loans made to intermediaries by a for-profit or nonprofit entity or by alliances of such entities, subject to the following conditions: (A) Number of loans In carrying out this paragraph, the Administration shall not participate in providing financing on a deferred basis to more than 10 intermediaries in urban areas or more than 10 intermediaries in rural areas. (B) Term of loans The term of each loan shall be 10 years. During the first year of the loan, the intermediary shall not be required to repay any interest or principal. During the second through fifth years of the loan, the intermediary shall be required to pay interest only. During the sixth through tenth years of the loan, the intermediary shall be required to make interest payments and fully amortize the principal. (C) Interest rate The interest rate on each loan shall be the rate specified by paragraph (3)(F) for direct loans. (13) Evaluation of welfare-to-work microloan initiative On January 31, 1999, and annually thereafter, the Administration shall submit to the Committees on Small Business of the House of Representatives and the Senate a report on any monies distributed pursuant to paragraph (4)(F). (n) Repayment deferred for active duty reservists (1) Definitions In this subsection: (A) Eligible reservist The term "eligible reservist" means a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces ordered to active duty during a period of military conflict. (B) Essential employee The term "essential employee" means an individual who is employed by a small business concern and whose managerial or technical expertise is critical to the successful day-to-day operations of that small business concern. (C) Period of military conflict The term "period of military conflict" means - (i) a period of war declared by the Congress; (ii) a period of national emergency declared by the Congress or by the President; or (iii) a period of a contingency operation, as defined in section 101(a) of title 10. (D) Qualified borrower The term "qualified borrower" means - (i) an individual who is an eligible reservist and who received a direct loan under subsection (a) or (b) of this section before being ordered to active duty; or (ii) a small business concern that received a direct loan under subsection (a) or (b) of this section before an eligible reservist, who is an essential employee, was ordered to active duty. (2) Deferral of direct loans (A) In general The Administration shall, upon written request, defer repayment of principal and interest due on a direct loan made under subsection (a) or (b) of this section, if such loan was incurred by a qualified borrower. (B) Period of deferral The period of deferral for repayment under this paragraph shall begin on the date on which the eligible reservist is ordered to active duty and shall terminate on the date that is 180 days after the date such eligible reservist is discharged or released from active duty. (C) Interest rate reduction during deferral Notwithstanding any other provision of law, during the period of deferral described in subparagraph (B), the Administration may, in its discretion, reduce the interest rate on any loan qualifying for a deferral under this paragraph. (3) Deferral of loan guarantees and other financings The Administration shall - (A) encourage intermediaries participating in the program under subsection (m) of