(a) Program administration. The Deputy Administrator, Office of Community Development, shall be responsible for the overall development of policy and administration of the USDA EZ/EC grant program.

(b) Funding official. Unless otherwise provided, the state director is responsible for implementing the authorities in this subpart, consistent with the guidance issued by the Office of Community Development. Except for grant approval and environmental determination authorities, state directors may re-delegate their duties to qualified staff members.

(c) Environmental review determinations. The funding official is responsible for making environmental review determinations.

(d) Authority to issue regulations. The Under Secretary, Rural Development, may promulgate regulations under this part.