# Compliance Assistance Resources and Points of Contact Available to Small Businesses > Briefs, arguments, decisions, and more. URL: https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/fr%3A04-14659 ## Record - **Collection:** Federal Register - **Document type:** Notice - **Published:** June 28, 2004 - **Citation:** 69 FR 36107 ## Text OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET Compliance Assistance Resources and Points of Contact Available to Small Businesses AGENCY: Office of Management and Budget, Executive Office of the President. ACTION: Notice. Authority: The Small Business Paperwork Relief Act (44 U.S.C. 3520). SUMMARY: In accordance with the Small Business Paperwork Relief Act of 2002, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is publishing a “list of the compliance assistance resources available to small businesses” and a list of the points of contacts in agencies “to act as a liaison between the agency and small business concerns” with respect to the collection of information and the control of paperwork. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Keith B. Belton, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget, E-mail: kbelton@omb.eop.gov, Telephone: (202) 395-4815. Inquiries may be submitted by facsimile to (202) 395-7285. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: A. Background The Small Business Paperwork Relief Act of 2002 (Pub. L. 107-198) requires OMB to “publish in the Federal Register and make available on the Internet (in consultation with the Small Business Administration) “a list of the compliance assistance resources available to small businesses” (44 U.S.C. 3504(c)(6)). In addition, under another provision of this Act, “each agency shall, with respect to the collection of information and the control of paperwork, establish 1 point of contact in the agency to act as a liaison between the agency and small business concerns” (44 U.S.C. 3506(I)(1)). Working in cooperation with the Small Business and Agriculture Enforcement Ombudsman (SBA Ombudsman) in the Small Business Administration, OMB has, with the active assistance and support of the SBA Ombudsman, assembled a list of the compliance assistance resources available to small businesses. Because it may be helpful to the public to have the list of agency contacts together with the list of compliance assistance resources, OMB is publishing these lists together. These lists are also available today on OMB's Web site at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/inforeg/infocoll.html. The SBA Ombudsman has created a link to this information on the SBA Ombudsman's Web site at http://www.sba.gov/ombudsman. B. Legislative Initiatives The publication of these lists is part of a more comprehensive effort to assist small businesses. The context for this initiative began several years ago with enactment of the “Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996” (Pub. L. 104-121, Title II) (SBREFA). Among other provisions, SBREFA calls on agencies to “publish one or more guides to assist small entities in complying” with certain regulations (Section 212), and “to answer inquiries by small entities concerning information on, and advice about, compliance” with regulatory statutes (Section 213). In other words, Federal regulatory agencies are to develop small entity compliance guides and to answer inquiries, and provide advice, about regulatory compliance issues. In addition, SBREFA created within the Small Business Administration the office of the “Small Business and Agriculture Enforcement Ombudsman” (Section 222). The SBA Ombudsman's responsibilities involve working “with each agency with regulatory authority over small businesses to ensure that small business concerns [involving the agency's implementation and enforcement of those regulatory authorities] are provided with a means to comment on the enforcement activity” conducted by each agency. In other words, the SBA Ombudsman is to monitor, and report annually to Congress, on the enforcement practices of Federal regulatory agencies. SBREFA was followed by the Small Business Paperwork Relief Act of 2002 (Pub. L. 107-198) (SBPRA). As described above, this law requires OMB to publish “a list of the compliance assistance resources available to small business.” OMB is also publishing the points of contacts in agencies who are “to act as a liaison between the agency and small business concerns” with respect to the collection of information and the control of paperwork. In addition, this statute directed the Director of OMB to convene and have a representative chair a Task Force “to study the feasibility of streamlining requirements with respect to small business concerns regarding collection of information and strengthening dissemination of information” (44 U.S.C. 3520). The Small Business Paperwork Relief Task Force has been developing recommendations to improve and more closely link the existing assistance resources through the use of information technology. More specifically, the Small Business Paperwork Relief Task Force is charged with examining five ways to reduce the information collection burden placed by government on small business concerns. They are: 1. Examine the feasibility and desirability of requiring the consolidation of information collection requirements within and across Federal agencies and programs, and identify ways of doing so. 2. Examine the feasibility and benefits to small businesses of having OMB publish a list of data collections organized in a manner by which they can more easily identify requirements with which they are expected to comply. 3. Examine the savings and develop recommendations for implementing electronic submissions of information to the Federal government with immediate feedback to the submitter. 4. Make recommendations to improve the electronic dissemination of information collected under Federal requirements. 5. Recommend a plan to develop an interactive Government-wide Internet program to identify applicable collections and facilitate compliance. SBPRA requires OMB to publish a report on the first three topics by June 28, 2003. This report can be found on the OMB Web site at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/inforeg/infocoll.html. On May 5, 2004, OMB published in the Federal Register its Draft Report of the Small Business Paperwork Relief Task Force. As required, this draft report discussed the final two topics listed above. The final Report of the Small Business Paperwork Relief Task Force is available on OMB's Web site at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/inforeg/infocoll.html. SBREFA and SBPRA are closely related. SBREFA focuses on helping small businesses understand how to comply with Federal regulations. SBPRA focuses on helping small businesses understand how to comply with Federal collections of information—that is, filling out forms, reporting information, and keeping certain records. These two types of requirements are related because, as the Task Force report noted, agencies generally collect information, or require those regulated to keep records, as part of regulatory provisions. The information-related provisions are designed to help the agency ensure compliance with the rule. The close functional linkage between compliance with Federal regulations and with Federal reporting and recordkeeping requirements suggests it is important to coordinate these legislative initiatives designed to assist small businesses. It is also the reason that the development, in particular, of the list of compliance assistance resources available to small businesses should be viewed in the context of the recommendations being developed by the Small Business Paperwork Relief Task Force. The list of compliance assistance resources describes what is now available at the Federal agencies. The Task Force has developed recommendations to improve and more closely link the existing assistance resources through the use of information technology. Donald R. Arbuckle, Deputy Administrator, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs. Compliance Assistance Summaries and Points of Contact Agriculture Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) FSIS offers compliance assistance to small meat, poultry, and egg product plants. The FSIS publishes supporting documentation and guidance materials for federally inspected establishments to use in designing and implementing sanitation standard operating procedures and hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP) food safety systems. FSIS provides technical guidance on many subjects of regulation, including requirements for plant sanitation, the use of food ingredients and food irradiation sources, and the control of pathogens. Also, to help meet the challenges our Nation has faced since September 11, 2001, FSIS has published security guidelines for food producing establishments. Many FSIS publications are available in languages besides English. Web addresses for these publications are: • Sanitation Compliance Guide: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OPPDE/rdad/FRPubs/SanitationCover.htm . • Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) Systems and Pathogen Reduction: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Science/Hazard_Analysis_&_Pathogen_Reduction/ index.asp . • Draft of FSIS Microbiological Hazard Identification Guide for Meat And Poultry Components of Products Produced by Very Small Plants: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OA/haccp/ hidguide.htm . • Advice on Controlling Listeria Monocytogenes in Small and Very Small Meat and Poultry Plants: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OPPDE/Nis/Outreach/Listeria.htm . • Federal Register Publications and Supporting Documents: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OPPDE/rdad/publications.htm . • FSIS Security Guidelines for Food Processors and Distributors: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Food_Security_&_Emergency_Preparedness/ Security_Guidelines/index.asp . Besides its publications, FSIS offers a telephone service, FSIS HACCP Hotline (1-800-233-3935), to help establishments solve problems arising from HACCP plan development and implementation. Assistance on general matters involving meat, poultry, and egg products is available from the FSIS Technical Service Center (402-221-7400; Fax: 402-221-7438; e-mail Tech.Center@fsis.usda.gov . FSIS also operates an extensive small establishment outreach program, featuring FSIS-sponsored workshops and programs, educational material development and distribution, HACCP and food-safety training and training sessions for FSIS consumer safety officers ( http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Science/small_very_small_plant_outreach/index.asp ). FSIS consumer safety officers are a highly qualified corps of individuals with the special mission of helping small establishments resolve problems arising in their implementation of HACCP systems. FSIS operates a special food safety outreach program for Native American communities; it includes training for operators of small meat plants. Through the FSIS network of State cooperators, seminars and training classes on HACCP and food safety are held around the country for operators of food producing establishments. The Outreach Program also distributes multi-media training materials in CD-ROM and video as well as printed formats. Another useful information source on regulatory compliance is an e-mail service by the FSIS Washington office and directly accessible on the FSIS Web site. This service, FSIS Regulations ( Regulations@fsis.usda.gov ) gives information on laws, regulations, and policies governing FSIS inspection programs and affecting establishments regulated by FSIS. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) APHIS has made compliance assistance resources available to small business entities in several formats. All work extremely well in that APHIS has not received complaints or negative comments regarding insufficient information or difficulty gaining access. The listing of resources we submitted included four Web addresses: • www.aphis.usda.gov/lpa/pubs —At this site, small entities will find publications and other materials to help explain APHIS programs such as press releases, frequently asked question, publications, industry alerts, technical reports and stakeholder announcements. • www.aphis.usda.gov/lpa/video —This Web page provides access to videos about several APHIS programs. With proper equipment, the videos can be viewed from a computer. There is also contact information to obtain copies. • On-Site Evaluations/Assistance —For on-site assistance, the telephone number for each Regional Office is listed to request inspections, assistance, etc. • www.aphis.usda.gov/ies —This is the Web site of the SBREFA Contact. It contains program information and contact information. Comments, complaints, and/or suggestions can be sent by on line mail service to IES@aphis.usda.gov . • Toll Free Telephone —Comments, complaints, and/or suggestions can be made without charge by calling 1-866-5Call IES. Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) Publications—Regulation, Rules, Technical and Administrative, Directives, Annual Reports: The Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration posts current FGIS directives on the GIPSA Web site at: http://www.usda.gov/gipsa/pubs/pubs.htm or http://www.usda.gov/gipsa/reference-library/directives.htm . The publications are in PDF format, so they may be printed directly from the Web. Seminars, classes—Technical Training ( e.g. , Grain Inspection): GIPSA's Technical Services Division (TSD) provides extensive training throughout the official inspection system to ensure uniform, accurate results are provided at all locations. TSD also offers customized industry education services to facilitate the commercial marketing of grain. Topics include the visual grading of any grain, rice, bean, pea, or lentil and objective, non-visual quality tests such as protein, oil, and mycotoxins. Contact Larry McDonald for more information at: larry.h.mcdonald@usda.gov . Telephone service—information about GIPSA: Responding to customers' needs is GIPSA's main priority. GIPSA designed its programs to concentrate on customers' needs. If customers have comments on GIPSA Customer Service Standards or want information on any GIPSA programs, contact: USDA, GIPSA, STOP 3601, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-3601 or telephone: (202) 720-0219. CD ROM's/Videos/E-Learning Courses—Technical Information ( e.g. , Procedures for Inspection Grain): GIPSA offers various educational materials created for the U.S. grain industry. They include multimedia CD's and several brochures/handouts. Single copies of CDs are available free by mail and the brochures/handouts are available in PDF format for online viewing and/or download. All materials are public domain and may be freely duplicated and distributed in their original form. Contact Roger Friedrich for more information at: Roger.L.Friedrich@usda.gov or send a request to: request.gipsa@usda.gov . Online/e-mail service—Wide range of information about GIPSA and its programs: Information regarding GIPSA's programs and services can be found in the GIPSA Strategic Plan and on the Agency's Web site at: http://www.usda.gov/gipsa . Onsite Evaluations/Assistance—Process Verification Program for Grain Handlers: GIPSA is considering proposing a new process verification program to meet the market's rapidly evolving needs. In this program, GIPSA would apply internationally recognized quality management standards to verify the quality process used rather than testing actual grain itself. The process verification designation verifies the process, not the final product. The process verification program would give industry participants independent verification of their quality processes and standards, and a way to capture values not easily identified by traditional inspection and testing. For more information, contact John Sharpe at: John.R.Sharpe@usda.gov or telephone: (202) 720-0228. Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) The Food and Nutrition Service administers family feeding programs such as the School Lunch and Breakfast Programs, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), the Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) and the Food Stamp Program (FSP). The Agency administers most of these programs through State agencies and, therefore, has very little direct interaction with small businesses. However, a few of our programs (or parts of them) do relate to small business in some way. This summary pertains only to those parts of FNS. Small Business Compliance Assistance for Retailers in the Food Stamp Program. FNS is continuing to carry out its compliance assistance efforts to retailers in the Food Stamp Program. Staff have attended conferences, presented workshops and held face-to-face meetings with retailers to provide technical assistance and listen to their concerns. With regards to new initiatives, FNS has created a bi-annual publication (mailer) that is sent to all retailers that participate in the Program. The mailer provides updates on current policy and any changes to Program rules and offers tips for retailers on best practices. Secondly, FNS will begin using a simplified application for new retailers in Fall 2004. The simplified application is an improvement over the current application because we have eliminated unnecessary and duplicative questions, the questions are easier to understand and it takes less time for a storeowner to complete the form. You can find more information about our work with retailers and publications we offer on the FNS Web site at www.fns.usda.gov/fsp/retailers/. The Food Stamp regulations that relate to retailers can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations at 7 CFR parts 278 and 279 (a link to an electronic version is also available on the general FSP Web site referenced above). Small Business Compliance Assistance for Farmers' Markets/Retailers in the WIC/FNMP Programs. Under the Child Nutrition Act provisions for the WIC and FMNP Programs, State agencies are responsible for the authorization, training, monitoring, and corrective action of small businesses such as retailers, farmers, and farmers' markets. FNS has issued regulations establishing guidelines and parameters for State agency administration of these activities. Although some uniformity is imposed by these regulations, there are also considerable areas of State discretion, so that many of the rules will not be the same from one State to the next. For example, State agencies must accept applications from retailers for WIC authorization at least once every three years, but may do so much more frequently, and each State has its own application form. For another example, States are required to allow only certain types and amounts of food to be transacted for WIC food instruments, but the precise brand, package size, and maximum allowed price will vary from State to State. The FNS Web site ( http://fns.usda.gov/wic ) includes the WIC/FMNP regulations (7 CFR Parts 246 and 248) and also a list of the WIC and FMNP State agency addresses, telephone numbers, and Web sites. Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has a number of compliance assistance programs to help small entities to comply with program regulations. They range from publications to seminars to e-mail assistance to CD-ROMs and videos. The issues they discuss include information on the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act, marketing orders, the National Organic Program, grading programs, and science & technology programs, among others. All this assistance and contact information can be accessed by clicking the appropriate program's link on the AMS Web site http://www.ams.usda.gov. Rural Utilities Service (RUS) The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) is a financing agency, not a regulating authority. RUS does not have enforcement policies. Its policy on minimum compliance requirements as a condition for financing is to work with the individual applicant/borrower to ensure compliance. RUS does not impose penalties or engage in enforcement activities. Assistance with its programs can be obtained at our Web site at http://www.usda.gov/rus/. This site contains information on all of our programs and complete contact information by subject matter and geographic location. If needed, a RUS field representative can come to your location to provide assistance. Department of Agriculture Single Point of Contact: Jacquelyn Chandler, Office of Budget and Program Analysis, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Rm. 147-E, Washington, DC 20250, Telephone: 202-720-1516, E-mail: jyc@obpa.usda.gov. Commerce The Department of Commerce understands a vibrant small business sector is critical to creating new jobs in a dynamic and growing economy, so it is mindful of its responsibilities under the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act (SBREFA). The Commerce Department provides substantial regulatory enforcement compliance assistance through a variety of media. Within the Commerce Department, two agencies regulate the activities of small businesses. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) regulate small businesses under several natural resource protection statutes that NOAA enforces, including the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), formerly the Bureau of Export Administration (BXA), regulates small businesses under the Export Administration Regulations, which set the criteria for authorizing exports of dual-use items—commercial items with potential military or weapons proliferation applications. NOAA has a comprehensive program providing regulatory compliance guidance and assistance to small entities, which comprise much of NOAA's regulated community. It has long been NOAA's practice to answer inquiries by small entities, when appropriate, in the interest of administering statutes and regulations. NOAA answers tens of thousands of inquiries from small entities annually. Inquiries are received via telephone, mail and electronic mail; during public hearings, town hall meetings and workshops held by NOAA throughout the year; and in day-to-day interactions small entities have with NOAA. NOAA distributes compliance guides to all those to whom a rule will apply and to others who have expressed interest. It makes them available at sites where affected parties are likely to see them. The guides may take different forms to best serve the needs of the parties affected by a particular rule. • NOAA Toll-Free Enforcement Hotline: 1-800-853-1964. • NOAA Office for Law Enforcement: http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/ole/index.html. • NOAA Law Enforcement Contacts: http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/ole/contacts.html. NOAA program offices often prepare “plain English” summaries of new regulations and distribute them by fax to the regulated communities and the press. For complex regulations, question/answer sheets of the most frequently asked questions are often published in the fishery trade journals that are most often read by the affected fishermen. Information about NOAA's regulations and compliance guidance is often posted on NOAA Web pages and on electronic bulletin boards. Additionally, small entities may contact specific program offices responsible for the regulations at issue. Program offices hold informational workshops to explain new regulations and answer questions from the industry concerning compliance. Fishermen, who make up much of the regulated community, often speak with NOAA's individual fishery plan coordinators for guidance in response to specific factual situations described by the fishermen. In permitted fisheries, letters explaining regulatory changes, and providing the name of a person to contact for additional information and guidance, may be sent to each permit holder. NMFS also has public affairs positions in its regional offices that specialize in community outreach. BIS similarly provides exporters a wide range of compliance assistance. These include compliance guides in the forms of instructional brochures, fact sheets and guidance posted on the BIS Web site. BIS also educates small businesses through seminars, meetings, workshops and, when requested, one-on-one counseling. • BIS Web site: http://www.bxa.doc.gov/index.htm. • BIS Export Enforcement Hotline: 1-800-424-2980. • Office of Export Enforcement Intelligence: (202) 482-1208. • Exporter Counseling Division: (202) 482-4811. The Office of Antiboycott Compliance (OAC) within BIS advises small businesses on compliance with the antiboycott regulations through its telephone advice line. Callers can seek compliance advice before engaging in transactions. The OAC also offers counseling to small businesses to assist them in solving their boycott problems legally. Antiboycott Advice Line: (202) 482-2381. Patent & Trademark Office U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Office of Procurement awards and administers a wide variety of contracts and simplified purchases for the acquisition of goods and services required throughout the agency. Our site includes helpful links such as current USPTO contracts, upcoming opportunities, office staff listing, helpful information for small businesses, information on our new Performance Based Organization (PBO) procedures and other related topics. The USPTO Office of Procurement continually strives to remain on the leading edge of procurement reform and current technology. It is our goal to identify and utilize new innovative techniques to develop a partnership with industry. A major goal at the United States Patent & Trademark Office, Office of Procurement is to promote and give consideration to small business concerns. Requirements over the micro purchase amount of $2,500 are identified early in the acquisition process to allow for consideration for small, small disadvantaged, woman-owned and minority-owned businesses. http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/ac/comp/proc/ipa/ipamain.htm. The Office of Procurement continues to promote Electronic Commerce (EC) and utilize innovative technologies to streamline procurement processes. Our EC effort, known as the Internet-Based Purchasing Application (IPA), has been in use for over a year now. The IPA continues to grow and is a successful tool in conducting simplified acquisitions over the Internet. For more information please contact: Susan K. Brown, Records Officer (PRA Clearance Desk), U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Office of the Chief Information Officer, Suite 310, 2231 Crystal Drive, Washington, DC 20231, Telephone: (703) 308-7400, E-Mail: susan.brown@uspto.gov. Muriel A. Brown, Small Business Liaison, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Office of Procurement, Box 6, Washington, DC 20231, Telephone: (703) 305-8370, E-mail: Muriel.brown@uspto.gov. Department of Commerce Single Point of Contact: Tom Pyke, Office of the Chief Information Officer, U.S. Department of Commerce, 14th St. & Constitution Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20230. Telephone (202) 482-4797. Defense It is the Department of Defense (DOD) policy that a fair proportion of DOD total purchases, contracts, subcontracts, and other agreements for property and services be placed with small business concerns, service-disabled veteran-owned small business concerns, qualified historically underutilized business zone (HUBZone) small business concerns, small disadvantaged business concerns, women-owned small business concerns, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities and minority institutions. The Director of the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (SADBU) is the principal proponent within the Office of the Secretary of Defense for executing national and DOD policy as mandated by the Congress and the President. The Director acts as ombudsman and coordinator with the functional activity concerned in responding to complaints and resolving problems encountered by small business firms performing under DOD contracts. The Washington Headquarters Services, Directorate for Information Operations and Reports (WHS/DIOR), serves as the central repository for statistical information for the Department of Defense. General procurement data, including subcontract information, is located on the WHS/DIOR Web site at http://www.dior.whs.mil/peidhome/peidhome.htm. Specifically, SADBU utilizes the standard tabulation (ST) 28 report, titled “Contract Awards by FSC and Purchasing Office,” as a key document to assist small business concerns in identifying contracting activities with contracting potential. The ST 28 matches the dollar obligations and contract actions under each specific Federal Supply Class or Service Codes and details the contracting activities that made awards by name, city, and State. The ST 28 can be found at http://www.dior.whs.mil/peidhome/procstat/procstat.htm. The Defense Logistics Agency, on behalf of the Secretary of Defense, administers the DOD Procurement Technical Assistance Program (PTAP). PTAP Centers are a local resource that can provide assistance to business firms in marketing products and services to the Federal, State and local governments. A list of PTAP Centers can be found at http://www.dla.mil/db/procurem.htm. The DOD Regional Councils for Small Business Education and Advocacy are a nationwide network of small business specialists organized to promote the National Small Business Programs of the United States. Council objectives include promoting the exchange of ideas and experiences, and general information among small business specialists and the contracting community; developing closer relationships and better communication among Government entities and the small business community; and staying abreast of statutes, policies, regulations, directives, trends, and technology affecting the Small Business Program. There are eight Regional Councils sponsored by the DOD Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (SADBU) governed by individual by-laws. Further information can be found at http://www.acq.osd.mil/sadbu/programs/regional/index.htm. Information on DOD's initiatives and programs is available on SADBU's Web site http://www.acq.osd.mil/sadbu/index.htm. Contact information and links to DOD Component SADBU Offices can be found at http://www.acq.osd.mil/sadbu/links/sadbu.htm. Department of Defense Single Point of Contact: Robert L. Cushing, Jr., Department of Defense, Washington Headquarters Services, Executive Services and Communications Directorate, 1225 South Clark Street, Suite 504, Arlington, VA 22202-4326. Telephone: (703) 604-6269. E-mail: robert.cushing@whs.mil. Education • Online information centers on grants and contracts, financial aid, education research and statistics, education policy (including legislation, regulations and guidance), and education programs: www.ed.gov. • Online subscriptions to Department of Education newsletters: www.ed.gov. • Department of Education programs and initiatives: 1-800-USA-LEARN (1-800-872-5327). • Student aid: 1-800-4FED-AID (1-800-433-3243). • Matters affecting small businesses: U.S. Department of Education, Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, 400 Maryland Ave., SW., Washington, DC 20202; Telephone: (202) 708-9820. • Student loan issues: www.ombudsman.ed.gov, U.S. Department of Education, FSA Ombudsman, 830 First St., NE, 4th Floor, Washington, DC 20202-5144; Telephone: 1-877-557-2575; Fax: (202) 275-0549. Education Department Single Point of Contact: John Tressler, U.S. Department of Education, Office of the Chief Information Officer, 400 Maryland Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20202. Telephone: (202) 245-6589. E-mail: John.Tressler@ed.gov. Energy The Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) and the Office of the Ombudsman handle small business compliance at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). And, each site facility and DOE contractor has a small business manager dedicated to small business compliance. ( http://smallbusiness.doe.gov ). The OSDBU oversees small business programs department-wide, setting policies and procedures to ensure small business compliance in DOE contract awards. The OSDBU also maintains a Web site with a clearinghouse of small business information, as well as small business policies and regulations and information on resources available to small businesses both at DOE and at other agencies/departments. The OSDBU has an extensive outreach/marketing program, including advertising in various publications and participation in various small business conferences. DOE maintains a number of partnerships with many Federal agencies such as the Small Business Administration and the Office of Federal Contract Compliance to promote small business compliance. The OSDBU has a “Small Business Council” composed of representatives of major trade associations, small and minority business chambers, women and veteran groups to ensure information/feedback to/from the small business community relative to small business compliance. The Office of the Ombudsman provides small business access to an impartial review of their issues in dealing with the DOE and its contractors. The Office gives small business guidance and referral services to the correct entity within DOE and serves as a voice for the small business within DOE. Department of Energy Single Point of Contact: Theresa Speake, Director, Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization, U.S. Department of Energy, 1000 Independence Ave., SW., Washington, DC 20585. Telephone: (202) 586-8383. E-mail: Theresa.Speake@hq.doe.gov. Health and Human Services Located in HHS's Office of the Secretary, the Department's Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) fosters the use of small and disadvantaged businesses as Federal contractors. To accomplish this task, the OSDBU develops and implements outreach programs aimed at heightening the awareness of small business community to the contracting opportunities available across the Department. Outreach efforts include activities such as sponsoring small business fairs and procurement conferences as well as participating in trade group seminars, conventions, and other forums, which promote the utilization of small and disadvantaged businesses as contractors. The OSDBU Web page, www.HHS.gov/osdbu, presents important resources to aid contractors in doing business with the Department. OSBDU's Director is Ms. Debbie Ridgeley. Ms. Ridgeley may be contacted by telephone at (202) 690-7300, or by E-mail at: Debbie.ridgely@hhs.gov. Food and Drug Association (FDA) FDA provides a wealth of written and electronic information to assist small business compliance with FDA regulatory requirements. FDA has published hundreds of guidelines to assist regulated industry, including small business, in complying with the laws and regulations that FDA administers. These guidelines cover virtually all areas that FDA regulates, from new drug and medical device premarket review, to product import and export issues, to issues that relate to the manufacture of foods, drugs, devices, and biological products. FDA has also published and made widely available guidelines that the agency has developed for its own enforcement and compliance staff. These guidelines describe the general standards for compliance action and set forth the procedures to be followed in conducting investigational and enforcement activities. Essentially all of these written materials are available through FDA's many Web sites. FDA has also prepared “plain language” versions of some of the more technical documents to assist small businesses and others in understanding FDA's expectations. FDA has created a number of small business and industry assistance “homepages” on its Web sites that bring together an array of useful regulatory and compliance information. For example, the Center for Devices and Radiological Health has created a “Device Advice” Web page, a self-service interactive site for obtaining information about medical devices. The human pharmaceutical program has created a comparable Web page, “A Small Business Assistance”. FDA's Small Business Representatives (SBR's) are a significant resource for the small business community. Each of FDA's five regional offices is assigned an SBR to provide small business educational outreach and training. FDA regional offices represent another significant informational resource for the small business community. The regional offices answer thousands of questions, conduct scores of training programs, and organize many “grassroots” meeting to educate the regulated industry, especially small businesses, about emerging regulatory topics of interest. In addition, FDA's public affairs specialists (PAS's), who are assigned to many of the agency's field offices, are able to respond to questions about FDA's programs, policies, and procedures. Finally, FDA has appointed ombudsmen in the Office of the Commissioner, the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, the Center for Veterinary Medicine, and the Center for Devices and Radiological Health. These officials not only provide compliance assistance, but also help regulated companies explore available options in resolving disputes with the agency. Technical guides. FDA has issued hundreds of guides to assist manufacturers in meeting premarket approval and other regulatory requirements. Among these guidelines a number of guidelines expressly directed to the concerns and needs of small businesses. Inspectional guides. FDA has made publicly available the agency's manuals and written procedures governing the conduct of inspectional and investigational activities Policy guides. FDA has issued many guidelines to help regulated industry understand the laws, policies, and regulations that FDA administers. Many of these documents are issued in “plain language” versions to assist small businesses and others in understanding FDA's expectations. All of the above-cited guidance materials may be accessed through the following Web sites: • Center for Drug Evaluation and Research Guidance Documents: http://www.fda.gov/cder/guidance/index.htm. • Center for Devices and Radiological Health Guidance Documents for Industry: http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/guidance.html. • Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition Food and Cosmetic Guidance Documents: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/guidance.html. • Office of Regulatory Affairs Inspection References: http://www.fda.gov/ora/inspect_ref/default.htm. Web Assistance. The following small business and industry-assistance homepages also bring together an array of useful regulatory and compliance information: • Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER) Small Business Assistance: http://www.fda.gov/cder/about/smallbiz/default.htm —This site provides a listing of various programs, laws, regulations, and organizations that pertain to the drug development and approval process. This site is specifically geared to small businesses; however, general information relating to both small and large businesses is also available here ( i.e. , guidance documents, CDER calendar, etc. * * *) • Information on Devices: http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/devadvice/ —This is an interactive, self-service site. It contains information on “How to Market Your Device” as well as an overview of the regulations, guidance documents, consumer information, and more. • Veterinary Products: http://www.fda.gov/cvm/faqs/faqs.html —This site answers “Frequently Asked Questions” about veterinary products. It includes links to sites that provide information and requirements for topics such as “New Animal Drug Approval” and “Marketing a Pet Food Product,” as well as others. • Center for Biologic Evaluation and Research (CBER): http://www.fda.gov/CBER/manufacturer.htm —This Web site from the Center for Biologic Evaluation and Research explains the manufacturer's assistance program, which provides assistance and training to companies, both large and small, regarding CBER policies and procedures. This site also contains links to other sites that may be of values to the small business owner. • Office of Regulatory Affairs Information on Small Business: http://www.fda.gov/ora/fed_state/small_business/default.htm. • Office of Regulatory Affairs Small Business Guide to FDA: http://www.fda.gov/ora/fed_state/ Small_Business/sb_guide/default.htm. This site is from the FDA's Office of Regulatory Affairs. It offers links to a number of useful sites such as “What to do when marketing a new product,” “recalling a product,” “undergoing an FDA inspection,” etc. * * * It also provides an introduction to the Federal Register , information on obtaining FDA documents, frequently call numbers, and much more information. • Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition Guide to Starting a Food Business: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~comm/foodbiz.html —Advice on “Starting a Food Business” which may be of interest for the (potential) small business owner. This site provides links to Federal and State regulatory agencies, import & export information, as well as several other helpful sites. Small Business and Industry Assistance Offices. Each major FDA component has its own industry assistance office. Staff in these offices provide program-specific information and compliance assistance, through the contact points indicated below: CDER Small Business Assistance Drug Information Branch. Telephone (301) 827-4573, ordib@cder.fda.gov. CBER Division of Manufacturers Assistance and Training. Telephone (301) 827-2000, or matt@cber.fda.gov. CDRH Division of Small Manufacturers, International and Consumer Assistance. Telephone: 1-800-638-2041, or dsma@cdrh.fda.gov. CVM communications staff. Telephone: (301) 827-3806, or jkla@cvm.fda.gov. CFSAN industry activities staff. Telephone: (301) 436-1730, or giguina@cfsan.fda.gov. The Small Business Representatives identified below in each of FDA's five regional offices provide small businesses with personalized educational outreach and compliance assistance: Northeast Region (CT, MA, ME, NH, NY, RI, VT): Marilyn Corretto, 158-15 Liberty Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11433-1034. Telephone: (718) 662-5618. Fax: (718) 662-5434. E-mail: oranersbr@ora.fda.gov. Central Region (DC, DE, IL, IN, KY, MD, MI, MN, ND, NJ, OH, PA, SD, VA, WI, WV): Marie T. Falcone, U.S. Customhouse, 2nd and Chestnut Sts., Room 900, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Telephone: (215) 597-2120 ext. 4003. Fax: (215) 597-5798. E-mail: mfalcone@ora.fda.gov. Southeast Region (AL, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, PR, SC, TN, VI): Food and Drug Administration, 60 Eighth St., NE., Atlanta, GA 30309. Telephone: (404) 253-1217. Fax: (404) 253-1207. E-mail: orasesbr@ora.fda.gov. Southwest Region (AR, CO, IA, KS, MO, NE, NM, OK, TX, UT, WY): David Arvelo, 40 N. Central Expy., Suite 900, Dallas, TX 75204. Telephone: (214) 253-4952. Assistant: Sue Thomason, telephone: (214) 253-4951. Fax: (214) 253-4970. E-mail: oraswrsbr@ora.fda.gov. Pacific Region (AK, AZ, CA, HI, ID, MT, NV, OR, WA): Marcia Madrigal, Oakland Federal Building, 1301 Clay Street, Suite 1180-N, Oakland, CA 94612-5217. Telephone: (510) 637-3980. Fax: (510) 637-3977. E-mail: mmadriga@ora.fda.gov. Ombudsman. FDA's Ombudsman Offices provide compliance assistance and assistance in informal dispute resolution. There are also ombudsmen offices in most of the program offices. Contacts are as follows: Office of the Commissioner: Laurie Lenkel, Office of the Ombudsman, Food and Drug Administration, 5600 Fishers Lane, Room 4B-44, HF-7, Rockville, MD 2085. Telephone: (301) 827-3390. Fax: (301) 480-8039. E-mail: ombuds@oc.fda.gov. Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research: Sherry Lard Whiteford, CBER Ombudsman (HFM-4), Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, 1401 Rockville Pike, Suite 200N, Rockville, MD 20852-1448. Telephone: (301) 827-0379. E-mail: lard@cber.fda.gov. Center for Drug Evaluation and Research: CDER Ombudsman (HFD-1) 5600 Fishers Lane, Room 9-74, Rockvillle, MD 20857. Telephone: (301) 594-5443 or (301) 827-4312. E-mail: ombudsman@cder.fda.gov. Center for Devices and Radiological Health: Les Weinstein, CDRH Ombudsman, Office of the Center Director, Center for Devices and Radiological Health, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 9200 Corporate Blvd. (HFZ-5), Rockville, MD 20850. Telephone: (301) 827-7991. Fax: (301) 827-2565. E-mail: ombudsman@cdrh.fda.gov. Center for Veterinary Medicine: Marcia K. Larkins, D.V.M, FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, Ombudsman, 7519 Standish Place HFV-7, Rockville, MD 20855. Telephone: (301) 827-4535. Fax: (301) 827-3957. E-Mail: mlarkins@cvm.fda.gov. Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Small Business Office. CMS has a full time Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization Specialist (SDBUS) located in its Acquisition and Grants Group. The SDBUS is the Agency's focal point for ensuring that all reasonable action is taken to increase awards to small, small disadvantaged, HUBZones, and women-owned businesses. This Office maintains company profiles and capability statements for all types of services. Inquiries should be directed to Sharon McKinney, on (410) 786-5162, or e-mail may be sent to: smckinney@cms.hhs.gov. Grant Opportunities. While CMS's Program Offices are concerned with the scientific, technical and programmatic topics, the Acquisition and Grants Group/Research Contracts and Grants Division is primarily charged with the business management and policy aspects of CMS's discretionary grant and cooperative agreement activities. Currently, CMS conducts a myriad of R&D programs including (but not limited to) the following: Real Choice Systems Change Grants, Medicaid Infrastructure Grants, State Health Insurance Assistance Program, Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and Hispanic Health Initiatives. For additional information, please contact Judy Norris on (410) 786-5130 or e-mail to: jnorris1@cms.hhs.gov. Regulatory Burden. The CMS liaison with the Small Business Administration's Office of the National Ombudsman is the Office of Strategic Operations and Regulatory Affairs (OSORA). OSORA is the Agency's focal point for assessing and reducing the burden of Federal paperwork on small businesses in accordance with the Small Business Paperwork Relief Act of 2002 (SBPRA). OSORA is responsible for responding to small entity concerns on regulatory burden, coordinating the development of department-wide non-retaliation policy with the Department of Health and Human Services, and participating in Regulatory Enforcement Fairness hearings and meetings when issues relate to the CMS mission. OSORA has established the following resources as contacts for small businesses experiencing problems pertaining to the regulatory burden aspect of doing business: Phone: (410) 786-1002. E-mail: sbaombudsman@cms.hhs.gov. Web site. In addition, CMS provides on its all-purpose Web site www.cms.hhs.gov extensive amounts of information about the agency's programs, organized in terms of the kind of health-service provider affected, e.g. , hospitals, nursing homes home health agencies, or durable medical equipment suppliers. This information is not currently differentiated in terms of the size of these providers' business entities, but CMS is planning to take steps in the near future to earmark the information in terms of its applicability to small businesses. National Institutes of Health (NIH) The NIH Small Business Office (SBO) serves as an advocate for small business through various program activities and outreach efforts. These efforts are intended to maximize prime and subcontract acquisition opportunities at the NIH for small businesses owned by the disadvantaged, women, veterans, service-disabled veterans, and Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) concerns. Inquires should be sent to Diana Mukitarian, Chief, (301) 496-9639, sbmail@od.nih.gov. The Small Business Program is located in the NIH's Office of Acquisition Management and Policy, whose URL is: http://oa.od.nih.gov/oamp/index.html. Among other things, the Small Business Program at the NIH is responsible for: • Developing and maintaining acquisition review procedures and guidelines for requests for contracts, subcontracting plans and operations as contract activities. Such reviews result in recommendations to contracting officers regarding the method of acquisition to be pursued and the acceptability of proposed subcontracting plans and prime contractors' small business programs; • Conducting surveillance of contract, simplified acquisition and satellite small business program activity, and conducting studies of specific problem areas to ensure effective small business program performance and compliance with applicable laws and regulations; • Ensuring the development and presentation of management data to provide continuing visibility of program activity and to evaluate program accomplishments against agency socio-economic goals; • Representing the NIH at Federal, State, local government and congressional small business conferences and fairs. Serving as a guest and expert speaker at various Federal, State, local government and Congressional small business conferences and fairs; • Serving as a liaison between the NIH program and contract staff and the contractor community; • Delivering industry assistance by maintaining a program designed to locate capable small, disadvantaged, woman, veteran, service-disabled and HUBZone-owned small business concerns for current and future acquisitions; • Representing the NIH to industry by interfacing with CEOs and other principals of private companies, to include small and large firms, as well as nonprofits and universities; • Responding to inquiries and requests for advice from small, disadvantaged, woman, veteran, service-disabled and HUBZone-owned businesses; and assisting small business in their marketing and business development efforts and activities. Health Resources and Services Administration The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) exists primarily to expand access to health care for medically underserved individuals and families across the nation through community-based networks of primary and preventive health care services. HRSA has become known as “The ‘Access’ Agency” for its services to Americans who lack health insurance; 62 million Americans in rural communities; 78 million racial and ethnic minorities; over 800,000 Americans with HIV/AIDS; and about 80,000 U.S. residents awaiting organ transplants. HRSA Contracting Office and Small Business Representative. The HRSA contracting office, the Contracts Operations Branch, is currently part of the Division of Grants and Procurement Management. The current Small Business Representative, Ms. Debora Pitts, is available to assist small businesses in navigating the field of HRSA acquisitions. Ms. Pitts may be contacted at (301) 443-3789. Key Contact Persons in HRSA Contracts. HRSA “HCA” (Head of Contracting Activities) is Dr. Albert F. Marra, who may be reached at (301) 443-1433. The HRSA Chief of the Contracts Operations Branch is Mr. Steve Zangwill, who may be contacted at (301) 443-5097. Mr. Zangwill is assisted by Mr. Frank Murphy, who leads the negotiated contract team, at (301) 443-5165, and Ms. Bonnie Garcia, who heads the simplified acquisitions team at (301) 443-5116. The main office number is (301) 443-1433. All contracting opportunities at HRSA are announced publicly via the World Wide Web using the government's new FedBizOpps program at the following Web site: www.fedbizopps.gov. Contractors and vendors are urged to visit that site, as well as the larger HRSA Web site at www.hrsa.gov to keep abreast of contracting needs as well as programmatic changes and developments. Another vehicle open to interested potential contractors is to study the grants funding opportunities available to various agencies and organizations. These grants opportunities, which are also announced via the Web, the Federal Register , FedBizOpps, and through “The HRSA Preview,” give further indications of potential acquisitions needs. The HRSA Preview may be obtained through the HRSA web site or by calling 1-877-HRSA-123. Contractors may also find fertile opportunities for sub-contracting with HRSA grantees. Department of Health and Human Services Single Point of Contact: Debbie Ridgely, Director, Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, Room 360-G Humphrey Building, Washington, DC 20201. Telephone: (202) 260-0040. E-mail: SB.PRA@HHS.gov . Homeland Security Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU). The Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Office of Small Business and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) assists, counsels, and advises small businesses of all types (small businesses, small disadvantaged business, women-owned small businesses, veteran owned small businesses, service disabled veteran owned small businesses, and small businesses located in historically underutilized business zones) on procedures for contracting with DHS. The point of contact for this small business program is Kevin Boshears; he may be reached at (202) 772-9792 and kevin.boshears@dhs.gov. Office of the Private Sector. The Office of the Private Sector has an e-mail address where small business inquiries could be made, namely private.sector@dhs.gov. The Office will, pursuant to the Homeland Security Act, have the capability to advise the Secretary regarding the impact on the private sector, including small business, of proposed regulations concerning homeland security. For now, an individual and phone number that can be used as an entry point to the Office would be Ms. Elizabeth Callaway at (202) 282-8484 and elizabeth.callaway@dhs.gov. Department of Homeland Security Single Point of Contact: Ms. Elizabeth Callaway, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Attn: Private Sector Office, Washington, DC 20528. Telephone: (202) 282-8484. E-mail: Elizabeth.callaway@dhs.gov . Bureau of Citizenship & Immigration Services (INS) The paperwork requirement imposed by the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services is the Form I-9. Completion of this one-page form by employers helps to insure a legal workforce within the United States and does not present a significant burden for businesses. The Bureau has instituted electronic filing of some applications and provides application status on line. These improvements have been a boost to many businesses, providing a speedy mechanism for filling critical positions with foreign experts or semi-skilled workers with temporary and permanent foreign workers. Many employers make use of the Bureau's petitions and applications for approval to hire alien temporary workers. Live voice assistance, Employer Hotline (800) 357-2099 is available for employers and Live voice assistance for general questions (800) 357-5283. Information for e-filing can be found at www.bcis.gov. Employer Assistance Resources can be found at www.bcis.gov under the title “Information for Employers”, Office of Business Liaison. Requests for speakers and questions can be faxed to (202) 305-2523. DHS Point of Contact for Small Business Compliance Assistance: Felicia A. Colvin, Supervisory Information Specialist, Office of Business Liaison, Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services. Telephone: (202) 305-2461. Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) The newly formed Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has been working under the trade concept of “informed compliance” since the passage of the Customs Modernization Act (1993). This law mandated CBP to develop a proactive strategy to advise importers of their responsibilities under the law. To fulfill this mandate, CBP has implemented several measures for providing guidance on laws governing international trade for all importers and exporters, including small businesses. Small businesses can avail themselves of this information using the following means: CBP Web Site (downloadable); local and national trade meetings/seminars; weekly publications of the Customs Bulletin; binding rulings program; other informed compliance brochures and pamphlets; and direct contact with CBP personnel. There are over 300 ports of entry where we enforce numerous laws for CBP and other government agencies while serving as America's frontline for border security. As the agency's primary responsibility, CBP has twin goals of improving security and facilitating legitimate trade and travel, which are not mutually exclusive. In its role to facilitate trade, CBP has always provided compliance assistance to the trade community about the laws and regulations that apply to importing and exporting. Customs officers at the ports of entry, the Strategic Trade Centers, field operations offices and at Headquarters daily receive and respond to requests for information from the public. • CBP Web site: http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/toolbox/ports/. The CBP Web site lists all ports of entry with their addresses and telephone numbers. CBP has incorporated a Customer Service Center that responds to inquiries via a toll free number (1-877-Customs). The Office of Trade Relations (OTR) is designated as the point of contact within CBP for small businesses and may be reached at (202) 927-1440 or via e-mail at traderelations@dhs.gov. This office was revamped in 2002 to ensure effective, extensive communication between CBP and all facets of the trade community. Any small entity seeking general information about importing procedures or wanting to comment on their interaction with CBP may contact OTR for assistance. Contact Information. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Trade Relations, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Room 4.2A, Washington, DC 20229. Telephone: (202) 927-1440. Fax: (202) 927-1696. E-mail: traderelations@dhs.gov. Coast Guard The Coast Guard encourages small entities to participate in the development of Coast Guard regulations. Our Web site offers help in understanding and complying with those regulations. Use the following links to access help in these areas: • Small Entity Regulatory Assistance: http://www.uscg.mil/hq/g-m/regs/sbrefa.html. • Marine Safety, Security and Environmental Protection regulations: http://www.uscg.mil/hq/g-m/regs/reghome.html. • Boating Safety regulations: http://www.uscgboating.org/. The Coast Guard proudly maintains the following policy: If you question or lodge a complaint regarding a Coast Guard policy or action, to us or to anyone else, or if you seek outside help in dealing with a Coast Guard policy or action, the Coast Guard will not retaliate against you in any fashion. The Coast Guard wants you to be able to comment, question, or lodge a complaint about our policies or actions without fear that we will retaliate or try to discourage future questions or complaints. If you think the Coast Guard has broken this promise, we will investigate, take appropriate action, and make sure that mistakes are not repeated. You may comment, ask questions, or file a complaint about Coast Guard policies or actions by contacting your local Coast Guard office, or you can also contact the Small Business Administration Office of the National Ombudsman at 888-REG-FAIR (734-3247), fax: (202) 481-5719, e-mail: ombudsman@sba.gov. Small businesses generally are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their field. If you need help determining whether or not your business qualifies as a “small business”, contact the SBA's Office of the National Ombudsman using the information given in the preceding paragraph. Coast Guard single point of contact: Steve Venckus, Chief, Office of Regulations and Administrative Law (G-LRA), 2100 2d Street, SW., (Room 1417), Washington, DC 20593-0001. Phone: (202) 267-1534. Fax: (202) 267-6234. E-mail: svenckus@comdt.uscg.mil. Housing and Urban Development The Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization OSDBU has many tools available for small businesses. Through the establishment of the Information Technology (IT) training HUD has provided a learning tool for small businesses to understand all aspects of HUD's IT opportunities. Introducing this training program has enabled HUD to form partnerships with small businesses and identify qualified companies to seek IT opportunities within the agency. HUD sponsors Marketing and Outreach business fairs and focuses both on direct HUD contracting opportunities and contracting opportunities created by HUD assisted projects including Community Development Block Grant recipients and Public Housing authorities. HUD outreach sessions include HUD program offices and prime contractors who offer sub-contracting opportunities to small, small disadvantaged and women-owned businesses. HUD has attended approximately 50 outreach conferences including procurement fairs, trade shows, marketplace presentations throughout the country with a strong emphasis on the utilization of small businesses. HUD's contracting home page is linked to the OSDBU home page in HUD's Web site. The contracting home page contains notices of HUD procurement opportunities and allows interested parties to download a file containing solicitations. A special OSDBU page contains Small Business tips, the Forecast of Contracting Opportunities, a Small Business Resource Guide and notification of outreach activities. HUD also has the HUD Procurement System (HPS), an integrated commercial and customized software program that automates procurement operations department-wide. This system includes a rapid query of contracting information that enables all companies to submit bids or proposals for upcoming contracting opportunities and the identification of HUBZones for participation in contracting and sub-contracting opportunities. Additionally, it provides HUD with a system to monitor and evaluate its actual achievements in regard to participation of small businesses in HUD activities. HUD sponsors Marketing and Outreach business fairs and focuses both on direct HUD contracting opportunities and indirect contracting opportunities created by HUD assisted projects including, Community Development Block Grant recipients and public housing authorities. During these events, program offices and prime contractors who offer sub-contracting opportunities to small, small disadvantaged and women owned businesses are urged to attend. Last year, HUD attended approximately 50 outreach conferences including procurement fairs, trade shows and marketplace presentations throughout the country. The OSDBU Business Utilization Development Specials (BUDS), have regular one-on-one meetings with small businesses. The Director holds “Thursday Open House” sessions for all small, small disadvantaged and Women Owned Small Businesses (WOSBs). These meetings give small businesses the opportunity to meet personally with the Director and the specialized BUDS advocate within the OSDBU. The aforementioned efforts are in addition to the daily counseling and one-on-one meetings held with these businesses at the HUD headquarters and field offices. The OSDBU has increased its staff to include a Contract Specialist, an Information Technology Specialist, a Small Business Policy Specialist and a Research Analyst. HUD has implemented innovative projects and tools utilizing the latest technologies that have and will continue to have a positive effect on the participation of WOSBs in departmental contracting activities. There are IT outreach sessions held regularly with IT small businesses to inform them of new procurement opportunities at HUD. New Methodologies that challenge conventional procedures include the establishment of subcontracting policies that have resulted in an increase in contract dollars to small businesses. The HUD Procurement System (HPS) effectively tracks all contracting and subcontracting dollars awarded to small businesses. HUD has established a subcontracting goal of up to 40% of the total value of each contract and subsequent extensions, modifications and options. Contractors that are unable to meet the established goal must provide the rational for the proposed level of subcontracting. In accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) at Part 19.702 and HUD's own Federal acquisition regulation (HUDAR) at 2452.219-70, solicitations exceeding $500,000 that include HUDAR provision 2452.219-70, shall provide the maximum practicable subcontracting opportunities to small, small disadvantaged and women-owned businesses. Prior to award, each contract shall be evaluated on specific subcontracting goals and commitments to small businesses. These pioneering subcontracting policies also include subcontracting plans for General Services Administration schedule buys. There is a concentrated effort to conduct outreach with small businesses across the nation. HUD OSDBU continuously performs at a level of professional excellence to serve our customers. HUD consistently formulates and implements written policies supporting small businesses and includes references to small businesses in standard operating procedures. HUD has designated a senior executive as the Director of the OSBDU who is responsible for implementing small business policy initiatives. Furthermore, HUD maintains an effective system to provide acknowledgement of procurement personnel that utilize 8(a) small businesses. HUD places a high priority on direct communications and outreach efforts; we utilize newsletters, facilitate trade show and marketplace presentations and conduct business assistance and training seminars. HUD is one of the most innovative governmental agencies and is constantly retrofitting its employment with the latest technologies to enhance service to small businesses. HUD constantly employs proactive strategies to increase opportunities for these businesses to serve as prime contractors and subcontractors. HUD has achieved phenomenal success in requiring prime contractors to establish measurable programs to increase subcontracting opportunities. Publications: • Small Business Resource Guide: www.hud.gov:80/offices/osdbu/resource/guide.cfm. • Small Business Tips: www.hud.gov:80/offices/osdbu/tips.cfm. • Forecast of Contracting Opportunities: www.hud.gov/offices/cpo/4cast.cfm. Seminars and Classes: • Outreach Calendar/Small Business Training: www.hud.gov/groups/smallbusiness.cfm. Web based compliance: • Brent Pick is HUD's Webmaster and updates all contract compliance issues on the Web. (303) 672-5281 ext. 1821 Brent_Pick@hud.gov. Telephone Service: • (202) 708-1428, Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization HUD Headquarters, Room 3130. Future Activities: • CD-Roms/Video. • Online/E-mail Service. On-Site Evaluation/Assistance: • Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, A. Jo Baylor, Director: HUD—Headquarters 451 7th Street, SW., Room 3130, Washington, DC 20410; E-mail: a.jo_baylor@hud.gov. Housing and Urban Development Single Point of Contact: A. Jo Baylor, Director, Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, HUD Headquarters 451 7th Street, SW., Room 3130, Washington, DC 20410. Telephone: (202) 708-1428. E-mail: a.jo_baylor@hud.gov. Interior Bureau of Land Management Submit Permits and Reports Electronically: https://www.wispermits.org/. How to File a Mining Claim: http://www.blm.gov/nhp/pubs/brochures/minerals/index.htm#Q3. Minerals Management Service. • “Dear Payor” Letters, Notices to Lessees, Small Refiner Program: http://www.mrm.mms.gov/RIKweb/SmallRefiners.htm. Electronic Payment Information: http://www.mrm.mms.gov/ReportingServices/PDFDocs/fedwire.pdf. Regulations governing collecting, accounting for and distributing revenues associated with mineral production from leased Federal and Indian lands: http://www.mrm.mms.gov/Laws_R_D/FRNotices/FRHome.htm. Regulations governing leasing and operations on the Federal offshore: http://www.mms.gov/offshore/Regulations.htm. Workshops to explain more complex regulations: Available at various locations around the country. Training on how to report royalty revenue and related information: Available at various locations around the country. Bureau of Reclamation Statute, regulations, Reclamation Reform Act (RRA) Fact Sheets, RRA forms & instructions, and Status of Irrigation Districts List: http://www.usbr.gov/rra/. Explanations of the most common Reclamation Reform Act questions and issues in plain English: www.usbr.gov/rra and at the Reclamation District offices in all irrigation districts. Fish and Wildlife Service General Compliance Guidance: http://pdm.fws.gov/sba/sbindex.html. Compliance Guidance for Wildlife Import and Export License Holders: http://www.le.fws.gov/PublicBulletin.htm. Non-Retaliation Policy: http://policy.fws.gov/do142.html. Outreach Presentations for the Import/Export Community: http://www.le.fws.gov/inspectors.htm. Courses on Conservation, Grantwriting, Conservation Partnerships, Developing and Working with Friends Groups, and Other Topics: http://training.fws.gov/. Assistance for Importers and Exporters, Taxidermists, Guides and Outfitters: http://www.le.fws.gov/inspectors.htm. FWS Publications Online: http://library.fws.gov/pubs3.html. Office of Surface Mining Applicant Violator System: http://www.avs.osmre.gov/. Small Operator Assistance Program: http://www.osm.gov/soap.htm. Copies of OSM Forms: http://www.osm.gov/forms.htm. Policies and Guidance: http://www.osm.gov/policy.htm. Department of the Interior Single Point of Contact: John Strylowski, U.S. Department of the Interior, MS 7229 MIB, Washington, DC 20240. Telephone: (202) 208-3071. Fax: (202) 219-2100. E-Mail: john_strylowski@ios.doi.gov. Justice Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU). The Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) strives to improve and increase the Department's performance in utilizing small, small disadvantage, small woman-owned and veteran-owned businesses as contractors and subcontractors. Our various bureaus spend approximately two billion dollars a year in the private sector. Currently, more than 42 percent of those dollars go to small businesses, with 10 to 15 percent going to minority-owned firms and 3 to 5 percent going to woman-owned companies. The OSDBU Director and the Deputy Attorney General are committed to encouraging and assisting well-qualified and skillful small, minority, and woman-owned businesses seeking contracts with the Department of Justice. The acquisition function in the Justice Department has been assigned to each of our bureaus' contracting staffs, most of which are located in the metropolitan Washington, DC area. We have prepared several avenues to assist small and disadvantaged businesses in getting better acquainted with the requirements and procurement practices of the bureaus. Information on DOJ's initiatives and activities is available on the DOJ Small Business Web site: http://www.usdoj.gov/jmd/osdbu. This site links to the Small Business home page, which provides extensive small business assistance information including registration for the monthly vendors outreach sessions which provides the opportunity for one-on-one meetings with small business specialist and contracting officers. Seminars/Conferences/Outreach Sessions: http://www.usdoj.gov/jmd/osdbu/index.html. OSDBU Contact: Ramona Johnson-Glover, Acting Director, OSDBU, 1331 Penn Ave. NW., National Place Bld., Suite 1010, Washington, DC 20530. Telephone: (202) 616-0521 or 1-800-345-3712. Fax: (202) 616-1717. E-Mail: Ramona.M.JohnsonGlover@USDOJ.gov. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Publications of benefit or interest to ATF industry members and the general public ( i.e. , firearms and explosives regulations, newsletters, rulings, press releases, statistics and State & local training courses, Federal law and regulations, State laws and published ordinances, and Federal Register notices.) • Theft/losses of explosives materials: 1-888-ATF-2662. • Toll free for reports of gun related crimes and after hours theft/losses: 1-800-ATF-GUNS. • Toll free for theft/losses of firearms: 1-800-800-3855. • ATF Firearms and Explosives Compliance Web Site: www.atf.gov. The ATF provides various publications to our industry members as well as the general public. Some of the publications available either on ATF Web site or in hard copy, include manuals which provide ATF's regulatory requirements in a plain language format; informational brochures to help raise awareness of possible criminal activity ( i.e. , Reporting theft of Explosives and Firearms, Arson incidents); and industry newsletters for all businesses regulated by ATF. Publications, brochures and forms are produced in quantities of 115,000 each for firearms and 12,000 for explosives, for distribution to the licensees, permittees, and to trade and research organizations and the press. ATF hosts/participates in national, international, as well as regional/local conferences and meetings. In addition, ATF personnel are often invited by associations to attend their national conferences to give presentations on topics of interest to association members, and/or set up an exhibit booth. The ATF exhibit booth provides yet another venue through which industry members that attend these meetings, may ask questions or concerns regarding ATF policy or regulations. ATF personnel have also been asked by industry associations as well as regulatory associations/agencies to participate on various panels. Recent topics on which the ATF has provided our expertise include but are not limited to, Safe Explosives Act, Shot Show University, Annual Importers Conference. There are a number of application forms and reports required by ATF, some of which are now available on ATF's Web site www.atf.gov. ATF Contact: Mary Jo Hughes, Chief, FEA Services Division, Office of Firearms, Explosives and Arson, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, 650 Massachusetts Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20226. Telephone: (202) 927-8045. Fax: (202) 927-7488. Civil Rights Division (CRT) CRT—Disability Rights Section (DRS). Information: • Home Page: www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/adahom1.htm. • Business Page: http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/business.htm. The home page provides information about the toll-free ADA Information Line, the Department's ADA enforcement activities, the ADA technical assistance program, certification of State and local building codes, proposed changes in ADA regulations and requirements, and the ADA mediation program. The home page also provides direct access to ADA regulations and technical assistance materials, Freedom of Information Act materials, links to the Department's press releases, and links to the other Federal agencies' Internet home pages that contain ADA information. ADA. The Web site received over one million visitors during FY 2003. ADA Guide for Small Business: http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/smbusgd.pdf. ADA Information Line. DRS operates a toll-free ADA Information Line to provide information to the public about the requirements of the ADA and to distribute technical assistance publications to the public. Automated service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. During business hours, members of the public can consult with Department staff for assistance in applying ADA requirements to their own specific situation. The ADA Information Line numbers are (800) 514-0301 (voice); (800) 514-0383 (TTY). During FY 2003, the Information Line received 120,000 calls. ADA Fax on Demand. The ADA Information Line Fax Delivery Service allows the public to obtain free ADA information by fax 24 hours a day, seven days a week. By calling the ADA Information Line, callers can select from among 32 different ADA technical assistance publications and receive the information, usually within minutes, directly on their fax machines or computer fax/modems. ADA Information Line: 800-514-0301 (voice); 800-514-0383 (TTY). ADA publications. DRS produces a range of technical assistance documents, including an ADA Guide for Small Businesses that has been published jointly with the Small Business Administration. ADA. During FY 2003, the Department developed 41 new technical assistance materials, including five publications on specific topics of interest to businesses that can be printed and distributed directly from the Web addressing the issues of service animals, restriping parking lots, refueling assistance at gas pumps, communicating with people who are deaf or hard of hearing in hospital settings, and communicating with people who are deaf or hard of hearing in hotels, motels, and other places of transient lodging. ADA training. DRS provides ADA training at meetings nationwide; and conducts outreach to broad and targeted audiences that have included mayors, local Chambers of Commerce, and millions of businesses. Requests for speakers and training should be placed through the ADA Information Line: 800-514-0301 (voice); 800-514-0383 (TTY). During 2003, the Department fulfilled 60 training, speaking, and exhibit engagements. ADA Mediation Program. The Department's ADA Mediation Program facilitates compliance by entities, including small businesses, using a voluntary alternative dispute resolution approach. Carried out through a partnership between the Federal government and the private sector, more than 450 professional mediators are available nationwide to mediate ADA cases. In FY 2003, 188 complaints with businesses were resolved successfully through the ADA Mediation Program. To date in FY 2004, the Department has referred an additional 144 cases to the mediation program. CRT—Office of Special Counsel for Unfair Immigration Related Employment Practices (OSC). OSC's Internet site has helpful information specifically designed for businesses as well as workers. The site describes the legal obligations of employers to comply with the anti-discrimination provision of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and provides other information to assist compliance (such as brochures, booklets, frequently asked questions, and legal references). In FY 2003, the OSC Web site had more than 386,000 new and recurring page visitors. The site is at http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/osc. In April, OSC published a newsletter, “OSC Update,” which provides an update of OSC's outreach and enforcement activities, and highlights OSC's informal resolution program. OSC Employer Hotline. OSC has a national toll-free telephone line solely for the use of employers who wish to consult with OSC staff members about their compliance concerns. The telephone line is staffed by OSC attorneys and Equal Opportunity Specialists who promptly address employers' questions, providing immediate guidance. OSC staff often advise employers on how to avoid discrimination in the workplace, minimizing any future liability. Voice: 1-800-255-8155; TDD: 1-800-362-2735. OSC Job Applicant or Employee Hotline. Based on information received from individuals calling this line, and OSC's prompt investigation of these cases, OSC often is able to bring early, efficient, cost-effective resolutions to employment disputes that might otherwise result in the filing of charges, the accumulation of potential back pay awards, or litigation expenses. These early interventions minimize the impact of statutory enforcement on small businesses. Voice: 1-800-255-7688 or (202) 616-5525; TDD: 1-800-237-2515. The OSC processed over 18,580 calls to its employer and employee hotlines in FY 2003. OSC Training Materials. OSC also provides employers, where necessary, with training materials for their staff, including booklets, posters and educational videotapes, on how to ensure that they do not engage in discriminatory behavior. The employer hotline number is distributed with all of OSC's outreach materials for employers. Voice: 1-800-255-8155; TDD: 1-800-362-2735; E-mail Address: osccrt@usdoj.gov Download Brochures and Booklets: http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/osc/htm/outreach.htm Based on FY 2003 levels, the OSC expects to disseminate over 100,000 copies of its brochures and booklets free of charge during FY 2004. Compliance Assistance Education. OSC takes part in numerous employer training sessions throughout the country, providing employers guidance on how they can comply with the antidiscrimination provisions of the immigration laws. OSC attorneys also conduct outreach seminars across the country that are organized by OSC grantees and specifically designed to address issues of concern to employers. OSC routinely provides compliance assistance training and other guidance to employers that OSC determined committed unlawful discrimination to ensure that such violations do not recur. Voice: 1-800-255-8155; TDD: 1-800-362-2735; E-mail Address: osccrt@usdoj.gov. In FY 2003, OSC officials conducted 83 such presentations. OSC Grants. In addition to the direct outreach activities of its own staff, OSC provides grants to employer associations (such as chambers of commerce) and other entities to allow those organizations to conduct further compliance assistance among their members and constituents. In FY 2003, OSC's grantees presented information about INA compliance at hundreds of events that were attended by thousands of employers and workers and distributed thousands of copies of OSC's brochures and booklets. There are 11 OSC grantees operating across the country in FY 2004. Grants totaled almost $675,000. Press Statement: http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/osc/press/30814grantees.pdf. OSC Assistance to SBA's Small Business Development Centers. To improve its outreach and service to the small business community, OSC contacted the SBA's Office of Small Business Development Centers (OSBDC) and the Association of Small Business Development Centers (ASBDC) and offered to provide training and information materials, assistance with training events, and technical guidance to the SBDC networks across the county. There are more than 1,000 SBDC centers and subcenters that provide low-cost counseling and training to small businesses. The SBDCs are generally receptive to providing INA compliance information to their small business clients, and OSC expects to cultivate this partnership in 2004 and future years. OSC will soon roll out a small business resource page on its Web site. OSC address and phone numbers: Office of Special Counsel for Immigration Related Unfair Employment Practices, Civil Rights Division Department of Justice, Post Office Box 27728, Washington, DC 20038-7728. Telephone: 202-616-5594. OSC Employer Hotline: Voice: 1-800-255-8155. TDD: 1-800-362-2735. Civil Rights Division, General Point of Contact: David K. Flynn, Chief, Appellate Section, P.O. Box 66078, Washington, DC 20035-6078. Telephone: 202-514-2195. Fax: 202-524-8490. Please note that Mr. Flynn is not assigned either to the Disability Rights Section (DRS) or to the Office of Special Counsel (OSC). General small business inquiries for information or for assistance concerning compliance with matters within the areas of responsibility of DRS or OSC should be directed to the addresses and phone numbers in the respective sections. Drug Enforcement Administration DEA's Office of Diversion Control (OD) is the internal office that has oversight over and works with small businesses. As such, OD and Diversion field personnel continuously review ways in which the DEA can ensure small businesses have access to SBREFA material as well as improve upon current outreach initiatives. OD Web Site. The Office of Diversion Control's Web site ( http://www.DEAdiversion.usdoj.gov ) contains information specifically relating to DEA's Diversion Program. Between January 1 and October 31, 2003, DEA's entire Diversion Control Program Web site was visited 1,047,968 (an average of 4,463 visits per day). Below are some of the Web pages that were visited and the number of times they were viewed Publications. DEA provides various publications to its registrant population as well as the general public. Some of the publications available either on Diversion's Web site or in a hard copy, include registrant manuals which provide DEA's regulatory requirements in a plain language format; the SBREFA Advisory Notice; informational brochures to help raise awareness of possible criminal activity ( i.e., a Pharmacist's Guide to Prescription Fraud, Recognizing the Drug Abuser, Drug Addiction in Healthcare Professionals, and Stimulant Abuse by School Age Children); industry newsletters; press releases; and program reports. www.DEAdiversion.usdoj.gov/pubs/index.html. For those small businesses that do not have access to the Internet, the DEA provides contact telephone numbers for Diversion Headquarters and field personnel as well as the SBA Ombudsman in the back of hard bound copies of the registrant manuals. Requests for information or reports should be mailed to: Drug Enforcement Administration, Office of Diversion Control, Washington, DC 20537 Small Business Regulatory Fairness Advisory: www.DEAdiversion.usdoj.gov/pubs/fair_adviz.htm. This notice advises DEA registrants to contact DEA Field Offices if they have any questions regarding DEA's regulations and policies. If they are a small business, they may contact the SBA's Office of the Ombudsman to comment on DEA's enforcement actions. This Advisory is also included in all revised and new manuals. Seminars/Classes: • Chemical training for importers/exporters: www.DEAdiversion.usdoj.gov/mtgs/dea_mtgs.html. • Pharmaceutical Training Seminars for importers/exporters and manufacturers: www.DEAdiversion.usdoj.gov/mtgs/dea_mtgs.html, www.DEAdiversion.usdoj.gov/quotas/index.html. Web-Based Compliance: • A wide variety of online forms: http://www.DEAdiversion.usdoj.gov/online_forms.htm. Onsite Evaluation/ Assistance: • List of local field offices: www.DEAdiversion.usdoj.gov/offices_n_dirs/index.html. Meetings/Conferences. DEA hosts national as well as regional/local conferences and meetings. In addition, Diversion personnel are often invited by associations to attend their national conferences to give presentations on topics of interest to association members, and/or set up an exhibit booth. www.DEAdiversion.usdoj.gov/mtgs/dea_mtgs.html. Toll Free Telephone Numbers. Contact information for Diversion Control Program personnel located at DEA Headquarters and local field offices may be viewed at the following Web address: http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/offices_n_dirs/index.html. Summary of DOJ Contact Information DRS address and phone number: Disability Rights Section, Civil Rights Division, and P.O. Box 66738, Washington, DC 20035-6738. Telephone: (202) 307-0663. Fax: (202) 307-1198. ADA Information Line. 800-514-0301 (voice). 800-514-0383 (TTY) Drug Enforcement Administration Contact (for regulatory and enforcement matters: Patricia Good, Chief, Liaison and Policy Section, Office of Diversion Control, Drug Enforcement Administration, Washington, DC 20537. Telephone: (202) 307-7297. Fax: (202) 307-8570. Justice Department contacts for Department-wide matters (such as the Ombudsman's Reports to Congress) and other issues of general agency concern: Kevin R. Jones, Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legal Policy, Department of Justice, Main Building, Room 7238, 950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20530. Telephone: (202) 514-4604. Fax: (202) 514-9112. E-mail: Kevin.r.jones@usdoj.gov. Robert Hinchman, Senior Counsel, Office of Legal Policy, Department of Justice, Main Building, Room 7236, 950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20530. Telephone: (202) 514-8059. Fax: (202) 514-9112. E-mail: robert.hinchman@usdoj.gov. Justice Department contact for general public affairs inquiries: Mark Corallo, Director, Office of Public Affairs, Main Building, Room 1248, 950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20530. Telephone: (202) 514-2007. Fax: (202) 513-5331. E-mail: Mark.Corallo@usdoj.gov. Justice Department contact for small and disadvantaged business utilization: Ramona Johnson-Glover, Acting Director, OSDBU, 1331 Penn Ave. NW., National Place Bld., Suite 1010, Washington, DC 20530. Telephone: (202) 616-0521. Fax: (202) 616-1717. E-mail: Ramona.M.JohnsonGlover@USDOJ.gov. Justice Department single point of contact. Brenda Dyer, Policy and Planning Staff, Justice Management Division, Patrick Henry Building, Room 1600, Washington, DC 20530. Telephone (202) 616-1167. Fax: (202) 514-1590. E-mail: brenda.e.dyer@usdoj.gov. Labor The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) recognizes its obligation to respond to the ever-increasing complexities of employment laws and the difficulties businesses face in understanding them. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao launched the Compliance Assistance Initiative to help America's employers and employees better understand how to comply with the federal employment laws and regulations it administers. DOL believes compliance assistance is the most effective way to protect the wages, health benefits, retirement security, safety, and health of America's workforce by preventing employment law violations. DOL has developed the following tools and resources to ensure that employers and workers have access to clear and accurate information and assistance—when and where they need it, and in the format that suits them best. Department of Labor Web Site. The most widely used compliance assistance tool is the DOL Web site, which features centralized compliance assistance information at www.dol.gov/compliance. The public can use this site to access a wide range of information and resources about DOL's rules and regulations any time, day or night. These Web pages are gateways to DOL agencies' compliance assistance information. elaws Advisors. The elaws Advisors (Employment Laws Assistance for Workers and Small Businesses) are interactive e-tools that provide information on DOL's Federal employment laws. Available at www.dol.gov/elaws, each elaws Advisor mimics the interaction an individual would have with a DOL employment law expert by generating answers based on the user's responses to a set of questions. The FirstStep Employment Law Advisor—one of the newest elaws Advisors—helps employers simply and quickly determine which of DOL's major employment laws apply to their business or organization and provides easy-to-access information about how to comply with each law's requirements. Toll-Free Help Line. The DOL toll-free help line is 1-866-4-USA-DOL (1-866-487-2365); (TTY: 1-877-889-5627). DOL's Toll-Free Help Line provides timely and accurate responses to customer inquiries, and fulfills print and publication requests. The Help Line offers live operator assistance in English and Spanish, with additional service in more than 140 languages. Employment Law Guide. The Employment Law Guide, which describes DOL's major statutes and regulations in plain language, targets employers needing introductory information to develop wage, benefit, safety and health, and nondiscrimination policies for their businesses. It is available for free in print and online, in both English and Spanish. A complimentary copy can be obtained by calling 1-866-4-USA-DOL or by visiting www.dol.gov/asp/programs/guide.htm. E-Mail Response Service. DOL's coordinated e-mail response service allows employers and employees to ask questions about employment and regulatory issues electronically. By choosing from a list of topics or internal DOL agencies under the “Contact Us” section of the DOL Web site ( www.dol.gov ), users are ensured that their question will go to the appropriate office and that they will receive an answer in a timely manner. Compliance Assistance Information Inventory. More than 300 publications are included in this comprehensive list of DOL compliance assistance resources. This database of publications can be accessed from www.dol.gov/compliance. (To be available in May, 2004.) SBREFA Toll-Free Help Line. Under the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996, small businesses may contact DOL's Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) directly with their inquiries or complaints about regulatory fairness by calling 1-888-9-SBREFA (1-888-972-7332). Wage and Hour Issues. The Employment Standards Administration, Wage & Hour Division (WHD) enforces the minimum wage, overtime, and child labor provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act (MSPA), employment standards and worker protections provided in several non-immigrant worker programs of the Immigration and Nationality Act, and the prevailing wage requirements of the Davis-Bacon Act (DBA), the Service Contract Act (SCA) and related statutes. WHD delivers compliance assistance through its Web site, interactive elaws Advisors (FLSA, FMLA), toll-free phone service, e-mail, printed materials, workshops and presentations. • WHD on the Web: www.wagehour.dol.gov. • WHD Contact Information: www.dol.gov/esa/contacts/whd/america2.htm. • Telephone Number: 1-866-4USWAGE (1-866-487-9243). Federal Contract Compliance. The Employment Standards Administration, Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) administers three equal employment opportunity programs that apply to Federal contractors and subcontractors: Executive Order 11246, as amended; Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, as amended, 38 U.S.C. 4212. These laws prohibit Federal contractors and subcontractors from discriminating in employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. These laws also require Federal contractors and subcontractors to take affirmative action to ensure equal employment opportunity. OFCCP also shares responsibility with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in enforcing Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act. OFCCP delivers compliance assistance through its Web site, interactive elaws Advisors, e-mail, toll-free telephone service, workshops and seminars. • OFCCP on the Web: www.dol.gov/esa/ofccp. • OFCCP Contact Information: http://www.dol.gov/esa/contacts/ofccp/ofcpkeyp.htm. • Telephone Number: 1-202-693-0101. Retirement and Health Benefits. The Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) assists employers and employee benefit plan practitioners in understanding and complying with the requirements of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) as it applies to administering retirement and health benefit plans. EBSA promotes voluntary compliance through its Voluntary Fiduciary Correction Program and Delinquent Filer Voluntary Compliance Program and through strategic alliances with professional organizations and federal, state and local governments. EBSA provides compliance assistance through its Web site, publications, interactive elaws Advisors, toll-free telephone service as well as responding to electronic inquiries, sponsoring seminars, and actively conducting outreach nationwide. • EBSA on the Web: http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/. • EBSA Contact Information for Electronic Inquiries: www.askebsa.dol.gov. • Telephone Number: 1-866-444-3272. Occupational Safety and Health The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) works to save lives, prevent injuries and protect the health and safety of America's workers. Nearly every worker in the U.S. comes under OSHA's jurisdiction as defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (exceptions include miners, transportation workers, many public employees, and the self-employed). OSHA delivers compliance assistance through its Web site, printed compliance guides, toll-free telephone service, e-mail, and online electronic assistance tools such as eTools and Safety and Health Topics pages. Free workplace consultations are available in every state to small businesses that need assistance in establishing safety and health programs and identifying and correcting workplace hazards. A network of OSHA Compliance Assistance Specialists in local offices provides tailored information and training to employers and employees. OSHA has a number of cooperative programs that help recognize and build on successful practices in occupational safety and health, including the Alliance Program, Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP), Strategic Partnership Program, and Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP). • OSHA on the Web: www.osha.gov. • Telephone: 1-800-321-OSHA (1-800-321-6742). • OSHA Contact Information: www.osha.gov/html/oshdir.html. Mine Safety and Health The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) works to protect the health and safety of workers in America's mines by working cooperatively with industry, labor, and other federal and state agencies. MSHA's responsibilities are outlined in the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977, commonly called the Mine Act, which applies to all mining and mineral processing operations in the U.S. regardless of size, number of employees or method of extraction. MSHA delivers compliance assistance to mine operators and workers through its Web site and by direct contact of agency enforcement, technical support, and education and training field personnel. MSHA established its Small Mine Office to address the safety and health needs of small mines specifically and to enable small mines to comply with safety and health laws as readily as medium-or large-sized mines. The Small Mine Office focuses exclusively on compliance assistance and conducts no enforcement activities. • MSHA on the Web: www.msha.gov. • MSHA Contact Information: www.msha.gov/contactmsha/contactmsha.htm. • Telephone Number: 1-202-693-9400. Veterans' Employment and Training The Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) helps veterans, Reservists and National Guard members effectively prepare for and secure employment, and protects their employment rights. VETS provides employment services and training assistance to eligible veterans, including homeless veterans, through grants to States, local governments and non-profit organizations. VETS also administers the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) and provides information about veterans' rights under the Veterans Employment Opportunities Act (VEOA) and the Federal Contractor Program, which requires Federal contractors and subcontractors to take affirmative action to hire and promote qualified veterans including special disabled veterans. VETS delivers compliance assistance through its Web site, printed materials, e-mail, and interactive online elaws Advisors. • VETS on the Web: www.dol.gov/vets. • VETS Contact Information: www.dol.gov/vets/aboutvets/contacts/main.htm. • Telephone Number: 1-202-693-4700. Labor-Management Standards The Employment Standards Administration, Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS) administers and enforces most of the Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA) of 1959. OLMS also administers provisions of the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978 and the Foreign Service Act of 1980 relating to standards of conduct for Federal employee unions. OLMS also administers employee protection provisions in the Federal mass transit law. OLMS now administers Executive Order 13201 in conjunction with the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs. EO 13201 requires Federal contractors to post notices informing their employees of certain rights related to union membership and payment of union dues or fees. OLMS delivers compliance assistance through its Web site, publications, e-mail, workshops and other group presentations. An OLMS Web site— www.union-reports.dol.gov —lets users view and print union annual financial reports. It features a powerful data search system that can produce lists tailored to users' needs. OLMS recently expanded the site to let users view and print reports by employers and labor relations consultants. • OLMS on the Web: www.olms.dol.gov. • OLMS Contact Information: www.dol.gov/esa/contacts/olms/lmskeyp.htm. • Telephone: 1-202-693-0123 (union member rights); 1-202-693-0126 (transit employee protections). Department of Labor Single Point of Contact: Under the Small Business Paperwork Relief Act of 2002, the Department of Labor has established a single point of contact in the agency to act as a liaison between the agency and small business concerns: Barbara Bingham, Director, Office of Compliance Assistance Policy, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Policy, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW., Rm. S2312, Washington, DC 20210. Telephone: (202) 693-5080. State • Compliance Assistance Resources: www.state.gov/m/a/sdbu. • Compliance assistance: http://www.state.gov/m/a/sdbu/c9124.htm. The Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) Web page links to a number of Federal agencies: www.osdbu.gov. • Publications: A Guide to Doing Business with State Department. Forecast of Contract Opportunities and others are available electronically on the Web page. • Workshops: State/OSDBU presents a number of workshops throughout the year as part of its outreach efforts. These workshops include “in reach” to our State Department customers and cover topics related to the Small Business Program. State/OSDBU staff members are often invited to participate on workshops or panels hosted by small business trade associations, Chambers of Commerce or other groups representing the interests of small business. • Training Sessions: We sponsor training sessions for State Department employees. Examples: Small Business Program training module at Foreign Service Institute's GSO Course. Participation in regional GSO Conferences hosted by State's Office of Logistics Management. ( e.g. , New Delhi, India and Gaborone, Botswana in 2002). Also participate in State Department events designed for private industry such as Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operation's Industry Day. State hosts an annual Prime Contractor training session. The morning is a refresher for large primes on regulations and reporting requirements governing subcontracting. The afternoon session is for networking between large primes and “hot prospect” small businesses. • Small Business Fairs: State/OSDBU hosts an annual Small Business Fair, which features “common usage” items typically purchased using the government credit card or GSA schedule. In November 2002, we hosted a Veteran-owned Small Business Conference. We are also co-hosts of quarterly Information Technology Expositions, for which the Bureau of Information Resource Management takes the lead. We co-sponsor with other Federal OSDBUs an annual conference each April, at Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. This year's event, held on April 23rd, attracted over 1500 participants from all over the country. State/OSDBU also supports Small Business Fairs hosted by other Federal agencies, by small business trade associations, or by members of Congress. During FY 2002 to date, we have participated in over 30 such events. State Department Single Point of Contact: Gregory K.O. Davis, Telephone: (202) 312-9607. Regulatory Coordinator Fax: (202) 312-9603. A/RPS/DIR, 1800 G Street, NW., Suite 2400, SA-22, Washington, DC 20522-2201. Internet: http://www.state.gov/m/a/dir/ and http://foia.state.gov/famdir/fam/fam.asp. Transportation Web-based Compliance: Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization, http://osdbuweb.dot.gov. Drug and Alcohol Policy and Compliance: www.dot.gov/ost/dapc. Telephone: Small Business Customer Service Center, 1-800-532-1169. Office of Drug Enforcement and Program Compliance (DEPC): 1-800-225-3784 (fax on demand service). Seminars/Classes: Transportation Marketplace Conferences, http://osdbuweb.dot.gov. Breath Alcohol Technician Training and Screening, Test Technician Training Manuals: Transportation Safety Institute, Telephone (405) 949-0036, x323. Marti Bludworth, DTI-100, 4400 Will Rogers Parkway, Suite 205, Oklahoma City, OK 73108. Online/e-mail Service News by E-mail: http://osdbuweb.dot.gov. Central Docket Management System: http://dms.dot.gov. Office of Aviation Analysis: http://ostpxweb.dot.gov/aviation/index.html. Drug and Alcohol Policy and Compliance Program Guidance Material: www.dot.gov/ost/dapc/prog_guidance.html. Online purchases and payments: www.Diy.dot.gov. Publications: The Transportation Link Newsletter; Marketing Information Package, Fax on Demand Catalog. Telephone 1-800-532-1169. http://osdbuweb.dot.gov. Federal Highway Administration Web-based Compliance: www.fhwa.dot.gov. Publications: Citizens Guide to Transportation Decisionmaking; National Dialogue on Operations; An Overview of Transportation and Environmental Justice; Transportation Conformity, A Basic Guide for State and Local Officials, Revised 2000; A Guide to Metropolitan Planning Under ISTEA, How the Pieces Fit Together; Federal Size Regulations for Commercial Motor Vehicles; and Bridge Formula Weights (all the above are available at the Web site). Federal Aviation Administration Web-based Compliance: www.faa.gov/avr/arm/sbrefa.htm. E-mail Service: 9-AWA-SBREFA@faa.gov. Telephone Service: 1-888-551-1594 or 1-800-255-1111 (Safety Hotline). On-site Assistance: Charlene Brown, 800 Independence Ave., SW., Room 808, Washington, DC 20591. Bureau of Transportation Statistics Web-based Compliance: www.bts.gov/mcs/desc.html; http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/factsfigs/dashome.htm ( See Table of Contents Financial and Operating Statistics); and http://www.bts.gov/oai/sources (Office of Airline Information). E-mail Service: answers@bts.gov. Telephone Service: 1-800-853-1351 (General Information), and 1-202-366-4888 (public data from air carrier reports). Publications: Worksheet for Calculating Carrier Classification (Motor Carriers of Passengers); Worksheet for Calculating Carrier Classification (Motor Carriers of Property); Information Sheet for Form QFR and many others available through the Web site. On-site Assistance: Bureau of Transportation Statistics, 400 7th Street, SW., Room 3103, Washington, DC, L'Enfant Plaza Metrorail Station (7th and D Street exit). Reports Reference Facility (public data from air carrier reports): 400 7th Street, SW., Room 4201, Washington, DC. Federal Railroad Administration Web-based Compliance: www.fra.dot.gov. Telephone Service: (202) 493-6395 (Office of Policy & Program Development). Federal Transit Administration Web-based Compliance: www.fta.dot.gov. Telephone Service: 1-800-527-8279 (National Transit Resource Center). Publications: www.fta.dot.gov/library. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Web-based Compliance: www.fmcsa.dot.gov and www.1-888-dot-saft.com. Telephone Service: 1-800-832-5660 (Information Line), 1-800-368-7328 (Consumer complaint hotline), (202) 366-9805 (Licensing Information), (202) 385-2423 (Insurance Information). National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Web-based compliance: www.nhtsa.dot.gov. Telephone Service: 1-800-DASH-2-DOT (1-800-327-4236). Publications: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/outreach/media/catalog/Index.cfm (Online publications library). Maritime Administration Web-based Compliance: www.marad.dot.gov. Telephone Service: (202) 366-4610 (Cargo Preference Program), (202) 366-8888 (Intermodal Development), (202) 366-8887 (Environmental Activities), (202) 366-1931 (Maritech Program), (202) 366-5744 (Maritime Loan Guarantee), (202) 366-1931 (National Maritime Resource and Education Center), (202) 366-4610 (Ocean Freight Differential), (202) 366-2324 (Operating Differential Subsidy), (202) 366-2625 (Ship Operation Cooperative Program), (202) 366-2400 (War Risk Insurance Program), and (202) 366-5821 (Vessel Transfer Program). Publications: www.marad.dot.gov/publications (online library). Research and Special Programs Administration Web-based Compliance: www.rspa.dot.gov; http://hazmat.dot.gov; and http://ops.dot.gov. Telephone Service: (202) 366-4595 (Office of Pipeline Safety), 1-800-HMR-4922 or (202) 366-4488 (Hazardous Materials Information Center), (202) 366-4900 (Office of Hazardous Materials Initiatives and Training), (202) 366-4484 (Hazardous Materials Incident Reports). Fax Service: 1-800-467-4922 (Hazardous Materials fax on demand) and 202-366-4566 (Office of Pipeline Safety fax). E-mail Service: Grants@rspa.dot.gov, Infocntr@rspa.dot.gov, Register@rspa.dot.gov, Training@rspa.dot.gov, Welisten@rspa.dot.gov. Seminars/Classes: Transportation Safety Institute (Compliance Inspection Comprehensive Operator Qualification, OPS); Risk Management Conference/Public Meeting Proceedings (Hazmat and OPS) www.tsi.dot.gov. Publications: Pipeline Risk Management Newsletter, Oil Pollution Act Newsletter, and Hazmat Safety Alerts. Department of Transportation Single Point of Contact: Steven B. Lott, Manager, Strategic Integration, IT Program Management, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC 20590. Telephone: (202) 366-1314. Fax: (202) 366-7373. http://cio.ost.dot.gov/contact/index.html. Treasury Office of Small Business Development. Our Office of Small Business Development ( http://www.treas.gov/sba ) has a robust small business program to ensure both small business prime and subcontracting opportunities. The following examples, initiatives, and partnerships demonstrate Treasury's commitment: Outreach Efforts: • Maintain a vigorous small business procurement Web site ( http://www.treas.gov/sba ). • Treasury's annual forecast of contract opportunities and small business subcontracting opportunities directory are posted on the small business Web site, and we make hard copies available upon request and at all of the small business outreach events we attend. • Our highly successful Treasury Monthly Vendor Outreach Session program allows small businesses to meet with Treasury bureau small business specialists. We also include special guests representing other Federal agencies or prime contractors to discuss procurement opportunities on a pre-arranged 15-minute basis in one central location. Our schedule is published a year in advance to allow small business to plan their marketing efforts. • Treasury's outreach efforts also include two Treasury IT Program Manager Vendor Outreach Session events each year (this event is modeled after our Monthly Vendor Outreach Session). • In Treasury's capacity as Chair of the OSDBU Directors Interagency Council outreach committee, we have taken the lead on the government-wide Annual OSDBU Directors Procurement Conference held in April of each year. This event is also posted on our Web site. • We have also focused our efforts in targeted outreach on a nationwide basis, such as trade fair participation, seminar presentations, panel program discussions on specific topics, and one-on-one counseling. • The OSBD has built a solid relationship with a variety of small business trade associations. On April 12, 2000, Treasury entered into an historic Memorandum of Understanding with 17 small, minority, and women-owned small business trade associations to increase the ability of small minority and women-owned small businesses to compete for Treasury procurements in industries reflecting under-representation while maintaining participation in industries with successful utilization. • A list of the Top 25 Treasury purchases is published, listed by industry classification over a five year period to provide an opportunity for “targeted outreach”. • Treasury implemented a mentor-protégé pilot program. We are the only agency in which protégés may be small businesses of all types—SB, SDB, WOSB, HUBZSB, SDVOSB, and VOSB. Internal Revenue Service I. Compliance Assistance Resources (Paperwork Relief Act Report). The IRS Compliance Assistance Resources are those that help taxpayers comply with the Federal tax law. We are making every effort to inform, assist and educate taxpayers. II. Points of Contact for IRS. Single point of contact for Compliance Assistance Resources IRS Web site: http://www.irs.gov/businesses/index.html. Single point of contact for Paperwork Relief Act of 2002. Michael Chesman Director Office of Taxpayer Burden Reduction. Phone: (202) 283-7673. E-mail: Michael.R.Chesman@irs.gov. Compliance Assistance Program Description a. The Small Business/Self-Employed (SB/SE) operating division is structured to best serve taxpayers whose needs are more complex than wage and investment taxpayers. This division serves about 40 million small businesses, including 33 million self-employed and 7 million corporations and partnerships with assets of $10 million or less. While many face the same tax issues as large corporations, they often do not have tax professionals on staff. Tax compliance issues often stem from a lack of understanding of tax law requirements, inadequate accounting practices and resources and cash flow problems. The approximately 33 million self-employed and supplemental income earners are similar to wage and investment taxpayers, but their tax issues are often more complex. They have substantially higher incomes and file twice the number of forms and schedules, requiring more time to prepare taxes, a greater reliance on paid tax preparers and more IRS expertise. i. Headquarters Taxpayer Education and Communication's (TEC) mission is to support and accomplish the goals of the Strategic Plan. We increase filing, reporting, and paying compliance by providing small business and self-employed individuals with top quality pre-filing services. TEC's activities align with compliance goals and approaches set by other parts of the organization. The field and headquarters staffs support compliance-focused pre-filing activities through direct dealings with small businesses and self-employed individuals and through third party relationships with key internal and external stakeholders. TEC works to develop and maintain partnerships with key stakeholders. The relationships are leveraged to assist in the delivery of targeted messages to specific audiences on specific compliance issues resulting in communications that reach a much larger taxpayer population. TEC focuses on burden reduction initiatives and promotes electronic filing and payment options to SB/SE taxpayers. The services TEC provides assist in promoting compliance among small businesses and self-employed taxpayers through non-enforcement methods and help taxpayers understand their tax obligations in a manner that leads to voluntary compliance. ○ Partnership Outreach designs, develops and delivers educational products and services focused on customer needs, and leverage partnerships with major stakeholders through negotiated agreements to assist in the delivery of these products and services. The primary focus is on proactively identifying emerging trends, common errors, and common areas of non-compliance, and developing products, services and programs to address these issues and encourage compliance. ○ Business Marketing Services plans and execute the promotion and distribution of all traditional SB/SE products and services to TEC employees, key stakeholders, and targeted taxpayer audiences in order to satisfy external customer needs and internal organizational objectives. Business Marketing Services is also focused on developing strategies for increasing usage of electronic products and implementing them effectively for not only the small business community but also the more uniquely emerging self-employed taxpayer segment. ○ The Office of Taxpayer Burden Reduction provides direction and leadership for burden reduction efforts by focusing on six major areas: ■ Informing and educating customers about their tax responsibilities. ■ Simplifying forms, publications and communications. ■ Streamlining internal policies, processes and procedures (including audit plans). ■ Promoting less burdensome rulings, regulations and law. ■ Assisting in the development of a burden reduction measurement methodology. ■ Partnering with internal and external stakeholders to more effectively and efficiently identify and address burden reduction initiatives. ○ Field Organization A geographically dispersed field staff provides top quality compliance focused pre-filing service to small business and self-employed individuals directly and through third party relationships with key internal and external stakeholders. These services assist small business and self-employed taxpayers by helping them to understand their tax obligations in a manner which leads to filing, payment, and reporting compliance. IRS Area Distribution Centers (ADCs) serve as distribution points for tax products. Tax products can be ordered free of charge from the ADCs at 1-800-829-2437. b. IRS provides live telephone assistance through Customer Account Service. ■ Tax Assistance—1-800-829-1040. ■ Forms, Form Instructions and Publications—1-800-829-3676. ■ Small Business and Specialty Taxes—1-800-829-4933. ■ Compliance Assistance Products—1-800-829-2765. ■ Tax Refund Hotline—1-800-829-1954. ■ Recorded Tax Information (Tele-Tax) 24 hour service—1-800-829-4477. ■ Assistance for the Hearing Impaired—1-800-829-4059. ■ To suggest improvements to IRS Procedures—1-888-912-1227. ■ Taxpayer Advocate Service Hotline—1-877-777-4778. c. Taxpayers who need more information than is provided by Customer Account Service may go to the Help Web site at http://www.irs.gov/help/index.html. d. Finding addresses to file Internal Revenue Service tax forms has just become easier for taxpayers and tax practitioners. On August 22, 2003, the IRS launched a “Where to File” Web site on the Internet. With only a few keystrokes, taxpayers and practitioners now have access to the proper mailing address to ensure that business returns are received and processed in a timely manner. See the Where to File—Business Forms and Filing Addresses at http://www.irs.gov/file/article/0,,id=111453,00.html. e. Web sites/Internet ■ http://www.irs.gov —IRS Web site. ■ http://www.irs.gov/smallbiz —IRS Small Business Web site. ■ http://www.irs.gov/smallbiz —The SB/SE Internet site has had 12,200,283 visits from January 2002 to February 2004. ■ http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/index.html —News. ■ http://www.irs.gov/taxpros/content/0,,id=103728,00.html —Plain Language Regulations. ■ Tax Centers on Partners' Web site—IRS has developed a number of partnerships by establishing a Tax Center Web site on the partner's sites. Tax Centers have a comprehensive set of links customized to the partners needs and organized by topic to various parts of irs.gov. For example see: Tax Center Web site— http://www.sba.gov/bi/irstaxcenter.doc. f. Training/Workshops/Seminars ■ Practitioner Institutes. Practitioner Institutes serve as part of an overall practitioner education curriculum, which includes Tax Talk Today, the Nationwide Tax Forum, local liaison meetings, etc. They provide a much-needed venue for delivering the IRS message to approximately 25,000 direct participants, which prepare countless tax returns for the public each year. The Tax Practitioner Institutes have been ongoing for as many as 60 years in some parts of the country. Over the years the institutes have evolved into forums that deal with a large variety of income tax issues of interest to the entire tax practitioner community. ■ Small Business Tax Workshop Student/Instructor Materials IRS has adopted three models for small business tax workshops our partners can offer as a client service to help the smallest and newest businesses: ◦ Partner organizations organize, market and staff live workshops using IRS materials or their own. IRS just released Spanish language versions of the Student Workbook and the Instructor Guide. ◦ Partners [Text truncated at 120,000 characters. The full text is on the page linked above.] --- Source: Frix Law Library, https://www.frixlaw.com/law-library/documents/fr%3A04-14659. Public record. Not legal advice.