In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act and 5 CFR 1320, this ICR is approved without the requested changes. The agency has improperly submitted the collection by not provid- ing adequate justification and explanation of the changes in the collection that reduce the burden by almost 2 million hours. In addition the agency has not adequately addressed the question concerning the use of information technology to reduce the burden of the collection. Nor has the agency consulted with the public as required by the PRA. Upon resubmission of the collection, the agency shall thoroughly discuss the changes requested that achieve the savings; include a clearer justification that ex- plains the apparent discrepancy that the applicants need training and planning, yet the information is easy to obtain as usual and customary business practice, and; provide all supporting instructions to the information collections.
Inventory as of this Action
Requested
Previously Approved
10/31/2000
10/31/2000
10/31/1997
234,935
0
234,935
2,148,799
0
2,148,799
0
0
0
The agency is required by statute to perform assessments and provide credit counseling and supervision to farm loan applicants and borrowers. This regulation provides the specifics of how this is accomplished.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.
Management Advice to Individual Borrowers and Applicants -- 7 CFR Part 1924-B