Block Grant Programs

This final rule amends the regulations of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) governing the administration of block grant programs. It updates the current regulations to reflect current statutory citations for the block grants. It establishes a requirement for grantees to submit obligation and expenditure reports for all of the block grants. Additionally, this rule establishes submission dates and completion dates for applications for funding from States and territories for Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Social Services Block Grant Program (SSBG). It also establishes a completion date for applications for direct funding from Indian tribes and tribal organizations for LIHEAP and clarifies procedures related to the withholding of funds for these programs. In addition, it modifies the requirements for reallotment of funds under LIHEAP. This regulation also includes an amendment to Sec. 96.82, regarding the required submission of reports on households applying for and receiving LIHEAP assistance that is being issued as an interim final rule with opportunity for comment.