The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) outlines the Standard Title VI/Non-Discrimination Assurances that recipients must comply with to receive federal financial assistance, particularly through the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). These assurances ensure that no individual is discriminated against based on race, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability in any program or activity receiving federal support. The document references key statutes and regulations, such as Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Recipients must adopt specific administrative measures to guarantee adherence to these non-discrimination requirements, including including pertinent clauses in contracts and procurement, ensuring equitable opportunities for disadvantaged businesses, and complying with reporting and compliance reviews. The assurances bind recipients and their contractors throughout the duration of the federally assisted program, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all associated programs and activities. Any breaches may lead to sanctions, which can include withholding payments or contract termination. This document serves as a foundational guide for ensuring equitable treatment and compliance with federal non-discrimination laws in federally funded programs.
The U.S. Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has announced the Pipeline Safety One-Call Grants for Fiscal Year 2024, with applications due by April 10, 2024. The purpose is to enhance public safety by reducing damages to underground pipelines caused by excavation. Eligible applicants include state agencies tasked with pipeline safety inspections. A total of $1,058,000 is available for grants, limited to a maximum of $60,000 per recipient. Applicants must register with grants.gov and have an active Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM). Evaluation criteria will focus on the project's relevance to safety, costs, and project scope, and the application process requires specific documentation, including federal assistance and budget forms. Grants cannot cover expenses related to lobbying, litigation, or regular operational costs. Successful applicants will be notified by September 30, 2024, with performance reports due 90 days after the grant period ends, ensuring compliance with federal civil rights obligations and evaluation for program effectiveness.