FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION 550 Seventeenth Street NW., Washington, DC 20429 Phone, 202-393-8400 Board of Directors: ........ Chairman ........Andrew C. Hove, Jr., Acting Vice Chairman ........(vacancy) Directors ........(vacancy) (Comptroller of the Currency) ........Eugene A. Ludwig (Director, Office of Thrift Supervision) ........Jonathan L. Fiechter, Acting Officials: ........ Deputy to the Chairman ........Roger Hood Deputy to the Director (Comptroller of the Currency) ........Thomas E. Zemke Deputy to the Director ........(vacancy) Executive Secretary ........(vacancy) General Counsel ........(vacancy) Executive Director, Division of Resolutions and Supervision ........John W. Stone Director, Division of Resolutions ........Harrison Young Director, Division of Supervision ........Stanley J. Poling Director, Division of Depositor and Asset Services ........John F. Bovenzi Director, Division of Finance ........Steven A. Seelig Director, Division of Information Resources Management ........Carmen Sullivan Director, Corporate Communications ........Alan J. Whitney Director, Legislative Affairs ........Alice C. Goodman Director, Research and Statistics ........William Roger Watson Inspector General ........James Renick Director, Consumer Affairs ........Janice M. Smith Director, Personnel Management ........Alfred P. Squerrini Director, Equal Employment Opportunity ........(vacancy) Director, Training and Educational Services ........Jane Sartori Director, Corporate Services ........James Watkins @U1 [Insert Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation chart]@U0 The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation promotes and preserves public confidence in banks and protects the money supply by providing insurance coverage for bank deposits and periodic examinations of insured State-chartered banks that are not members of the Federal Reserve System. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) was established in 1933 as a mixed-ownership Government corporation by the Federal Reserve Act, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1811 et seq.). Management is vested in a Board of Directors consisting of five members -- one of whom is the Comptroller of the Currency; one of whom is the Director of the Office of Thrift Supervision; and three of whom are appointed by the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate, with one designated as Chairman. The headquarters office is located in Washington, DC. The regional field offices include the Division of Liquidation, the Division of Resolutions, and the Division of Supervision, each of which are headed by Directors. Most FDIC field employees are bank exami ners or liquidators. The Corporation does not operate on funds appropriated by Congress. Its income is derived from assessments on deposits held by insured banks and from interest on the required investment of its surplus funds in Government securities. It also has authority to borrow from the Treasury up to $30 billion for insurance purposes. The Corporation was organized under authority of section 12B of the Federal Reserve Act (12 U.S.C. 264), approved June 16, 1933. On September 21, 1950, section 12B of the Federal Reserve Act, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1811-1831), was withdrawn as pa rt of the Federal Reserve Act and made a separate law known as the Federal Deposit Insurance Act. The act also made numerous amendments to the former deposit insurance statutes. The Corporation also administers the Savings Association Insurance Fund (SAIF), which was established on August 9, 1989, under the authority of the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act of 1989. The SAIF replaces the Feder al Savings and Loan Insurance Corporation (FSLIC) as the insurer of deposits in savings and loan associations. Activities The Corporation insures, up to the statutory limitation, the deposits in national banks, in State banks that are members of the Federal Reserve System, State banks that apply for Federal deposit insurance and meet certain prescribed qualificatio ns, and savings and loans which are members of the SAIF. In the event of a bank failure, the claim of each depositor (up to $100,000) is promptly paid upon assignment to the Corporation of the depositor's rights to recoveries to the extent of his or her i nsured deposits. The Corporation may make loans to or purchase assets from insured depository institutions in order to facilitate mergers or consolidations, when such action for the protection of depositors will reduce risks or avert threatened loss to the agenc y. It may reopen a closed insured depository institution or prevent the closing of an insured depository institution when it considers the continued operation of such institution essential to providing adequate banking services in the community. The Federal Deposit Insurance Act authorizes the Corporation to terminate the insured status of a depository institution that continues, after notice and hearing, to engage in unsafe and unsound banking practices or in violation of law or regula tions; publish notice of such termination; and regulate the manner in which the depository institution shall give the required notice of such termination to depositors (whose deposits in the bank at the time of termination continue to be insured for 2 yea rs). The Corporation acts as receiver for all national banks placed in receivership and for State banks placed in receivership when it is appointed by State authorities. To inform the public that the deposits of certain depository institutions are insured, the Corporation prescribes rules and regulations relating to the use of its name and symbol in advertising. Other functions and activities performed in relation to insured State banks that are not members of the Federal Reserve System, except banks in the District of Columbia, are to: -- examine such banks periodically to determine their condition for insurance purposes; -- approve or disapprove mergers, consolidations, acquisitions, and assumption transactions between insured banks where the resulting banks are to be insured nonmember State banks; -- approve or disapprove a proposal by a bank to establish and operate a new branch or move its main office or any branch from one location to another; -- issue cease-and-desist orders to a bank or to a banker with respect to specific violations or practices or, in situations involving personal dishonesty, suspend or remove bank personnel responsible for such actions, when corrective action is not obtainable by the State supervisory authority; -- require reports of changes in the ownership of outstanding voting stock of a bank that will result in a change in control of the bank, and reports of any loan secured by 25 percent or more of the stock; -- require reports of condition, income, and other data of banks; -- require banks to install, maintain, and operate a level of security designed to discourage robbery, burglary, and larceny and to assist in the identification and apprehension of persons who commit such acts; and -- require compliance of banks with the Federal Reserve regulations pertaining to truth in lending, cost disclosure on consumer credit, and related areas. ---------------------------(TABLE START)--------------------------- Regional Offices -- Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation head level 1 :Region/Address head level 1 :Director head level 1 :Telephone ----------------------------------------------------------------- Supervision Atlanta, GA (Suite 1200, 245 Peachtree Ctr. Ave. NE., 30303) ....... Lyle A. Helgerson ....... 404-525-0308 Boston, MA (160 Gould St., Needham, MA 02194) ....... Paul H. Wiechman ....... 617-449-9080 Chicago, IL (Suite 3100, 30 S. Wacker Dr., 60606) ....... Simona L. Frank ....... 312-207-0210 Dallas, TX (Suite 1900, 1910 Pacific Ave., 75201) ....... Kenneth L. Walker ....... 214-220-3342 Kansas City, MO (Suite 1500, 2345 Grand Ave., 64108) ....... James O. Leese ....... 816-234-8000 Memphis, TN (Suite 1900, 5100 Poplar Ave., 38137) ....... (Vacancy) ....... 901-685-1603 New York, NY (21st Fl., 452 5th Ave., 10018) ....... Nicholas J. Ketcha, Jr. ....... 212-704-1200 San Francisco, CA (Suite 2300, 25 Ecker St., 94105) ....... George J. Masa ....... 415-546-0160 Depositor/Asset Services Chicago, IL (32d Fl., 30 S. Wacker Dr., 60606) ....... Bart L. Federici ....... 312-207-0200 Dallas, TX (Suite 1600, 1910 Pacific Ave., 75201) ....... Arthur Lorentzen ....... 214-754-0098 New York, NY (21st Fl., 452 5th Ave., 10018) ....... Thomas A. Beshara ....... 212-704-1200 San Francisco, CA (Suite 1900, 25 Ecker St., 94105) ....... Sandra Waldrop ....... 415-546-1810 ----------------------------(TABLE END)-------------------------- Sources of Information Inquiries for information on the following subjects may be directed to the specified office, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, 550 Seventeenth Street NW., Washington, DC 20429. Bank Depositors and Customers It is easiest for bank depositors and customers to obtain information about deposit insurance at any insured bank, where explanatory material is available. This is also true with respect to certain aspects of the truth-in-len ding legislation that the Corporation administers in part. Each bank regulatory agency has established a division of consumer affairs to deal with questions of interest to bank depositors and customers. In this connection, inquiries may be directed to the Director, Office of Consumer Affairs, or the agency's toll-free consumer hotline, 1-800-424-5488. Contracts and Procurement Individuals seeking to do business with the Corporation may obtain detailed information from the Support Services Section. Phone, 202-898-3661. Employment The Corporation has a continuing college recruitment program. Information about this program, employment inquiries and applications, and related requests should be directed to the Director, Office of Personnel Management. Phone, 202-898-8890. General Inquiries Inquiries regarding types of records available to the public (including records available under the Freedom of Information Act) should be directed to the Office of the Executive Secretary (phone, 202-898-3811), or any regional office. For further information, contact the Corporate Communications Office, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, 550 Seventeenth Street NW., Washington, DC 20429. Phone, 202-898-6996. FEDERAL ELECTION COMMISSION 999 E Street NW., Washington, DC 20463 Phones: 202-219-3420; 800-424-9530 (toll-free) Chairman ........Trevor Potter Vice Chairman ........Danny L. McDonald Commissioners ........Lee Ann Elliott, John Warren McGarry, Danny L. McDonald, Joan D. Aikens Statutory Officers: ........ Staff Director ........John C. Surina General Counsel ........Lawrence M. Noble The Federal Election Commission exercises exclusive jurisdiction in the administration and civil enforcement of laws regulating the acquisition and expenditure of campaign funds to ensure compliance by participants in the Federal election campaign process . Its chief mission is to provide public disclosure of campaign finance activities and effect voluntary compliance by providing the public with information on the laws and regulations concerning campaign finance. The Federal Election Commission is an independent agency established by section 309 of the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971, as amended (2 U.S.C. 437c). It is composed of six Commissioners appointed by the President with the advice and cons ent of the Senate and two ex officio, nonvoting members -- the Secretary of the Senate and the Clerk of the House of Representatives. The act also provides for two statutory officers -- the Staff Director and the General Counsel -- who are appointed by th e Commission. Activities The Commission administers and enforces the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971, as amended (2 U.S.C. 431 et seq.), and the Revenue Act, as amended (26 U.S.C. 1 et seq.). These laws provide for the public funding of Presidential elections, pub lic disclosure of the financial activities of political committees involved in Federal elections, and limitations and prohibitions on contributions and expenditures made to influence Federal elections (Presidency, Senate, and House). Public Funding of Presidential Elections The Commission oversees the public financing of Presidential elections by certifying Federal payments to primary candidates, general election nominees, and national nominating conventions. It also audits recipients of Federal funds and may require repayments to the U.S. Treasury if a committee makes nonqualified campaign expenditures. Disclosure The Commission ensures the public disclosure of the campaign finance activities reported by political committees supporting Federal candidates. Committee reports, filed regularly, disclose where campaign money comes from and how it is spent. Th e Commission places reports on the public record within 48 hours after they are received and computerizes the data contained in the reports. Contribution Limits and Prohibitions The Commission administers and enforces the law with respect to limits and prohibitions on contributions and expenditures made to influence Federal elections. Voluntary Compliance The Commission seeks voluntary compliance with the above provisions of the law by providing information through a toll-free telephone line, publications, seminars, regulations (which clarify the law), and advisory opinions (which inte rpret the law in specific, factual situations). Enforcement The Commission has exclusive jurisdiction with respect to the civil enforcement of the campaign finance laws. Possible violations of the law are brought to the Commission's attention, either internally (through report review procedures and aud its) or externally (through complaints filed by the public or referrals from other government agencies). The Commission seeks to resolve compliance matters through conciliation and may bring suit when conciliation fails. It also defends the law in court. Sources of Information Clearinghouse on Election Administration The Clearinghouse compiles and disseminates election administration information related to Federal elections. It also conducts independent contract studies on the administration of elections. For further informatio n, call 202-219-3670, or 800-424-9530 (toll-free). Congressional Affairs Office This Office serves as primary liaison with Congress and executive branch agencies. The Office is responsible for keeping Members of Congress informed about Commission decisions and, in turn, for informing the Commission on leg islative developments. For further information, call 202-219-4136, or 800-424-9530 (toll-free). Employment Inquiries regarding employment opportunities should be directed to the Director, Personnel and Labor Management Relations. Phone, 202-219-4290, or 800-424-9530 (toll-free). General Inquiries The Information Services Division provides information and assistance to Federal candidates, political committees, and the general public. This division answers questions on campaign finance laws, conducts workshops and seminars on the l aw, and provides publications and forms. Those seeking information or materials should call 202-219-3420, or 800-424-9530 (toll-free). Media Inquiries The Press Office answers inquiries from print and broadcast media sources around the country, issues press releases on Commission actions and statistical data, responds to informational requests, and distributes other materials. All person s representing media should direct inquiries to the Press Office. For further information, call 202-219-4155, or 800-424-9530 (toll-free). Public Records The Office of Public Records, located at 999 E Street NW., Washington, DC, provides space for public inspection of all reports and statements relating to campaign finance since 1972. It is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and has extende d hours during peak election periods. The public is invited to visit the Office or obtain information by calling 202-219-4140, or 800-424-9530 (toll-free). Reading Room The library contains a collection of basic legal research resources, with emphasis on political campaign financing, corporate and labor political activity, and campaign finance reform. It is open to the public on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. For further information, call 202-219-3312, or 800-424-9530 (toll-free). For further information, contact Information Services, Federal Election Commission, 999 E Street NW., Washington, DC 20463. Phone, 202-219-3420 or, toll-free, 800-424-9530. FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY 500 C Street SW., Washington, DC 20472 Phone, 202-646-4600 Director ........James Lee Witt General Counsel ........John Carey Chief Financial Officer ........Gary Johnson, Acting Inspector General ........Russell F. Miller Director, Office of Emergency Information and Public Affairs ........Maurice F. Goodman Director, Office of Congressional and Governmental Affairs ........Martha S. Braddock Associate Director, Response and Recovery Directorate ........Richard W. Krimm Associate Director, Operations Support Directorate ........John D. Hwang Associate Director, Mitigation Directorate ........Richard Thomas Moore Deputy Associate Director, Preparedness, Training and Exercises Directorate ........Dennis Kwiatowski Administrator, Federal Insurance Administration ........Elaine A. McReynolds Chief, Printing and Publications Division ........Weymouth Tini Deputy Administrator, United States Fire Administration ........Frank H. Thomas [For the Federal Emergency Management Agency statement of organization, see the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 44, Part 2] @U1 [Insert Federal Emergency Management Agency chart]@U0 The Federal Emergency Management Agency is the central agency within the Federal Government for emergency planning, preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery. Working closely with State and local governments, FEMA funds emergency programs, offers t echnical guidance and training, and deploys Federal resources in times of catastrophic disaster. These coordinated activities ensure a broad-based program to protect life and property and provide recovery assistance after a disaster. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) was established by Executive Order 12127 of March 31, 1979, consolidating the Nation's emergency-related programs. FEMA reports directly to the White House and manages the President's Disaster Relief Fund, the source of most Federal funding assistance after major disasters. FEMA's programs include response to and recovery from major natural disasters and hum an-caused emergencies, emergency management planning, flood-plain management, hazardous materials planning, dam safety, and multihazard response planning. Other activities include off-site planning for emergencies at commercial nuclear power plants and th e Army's chemical stockpile sites, emergency food and shelter funding for the homeless, plans to ensure the continuity of the Federal Government during national security emergencies, and Federal response to the consequences of major terrorist incidents. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) and its National Fire Academy (NFA) are a part of FEMA, providing national leadership in fire safety and prevention. The Federal Insurance Administration (FIA) is also a part of FEMA and manages the National F lood Insurance Program and crime insurance programs. The Emergency Management Institute (EMI) at Emmitsburg, Maryland, offers centralized professional courses for the Nation's emergency managers. FEMA is responsible for coordinating Federal efforts to reduce the loss of life and property through a comprehensive risk-based, all-hazards emergency management program of mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. The agency also works to assure the effectiveness and the availability of all-hazard systems and resources in coping with manmade and natural disasters; consolidates the programs aimed at preventing and mitigating the effects of potential disasters with the programs designed t o deal with the disasters once they occur; coordinates and plans for the emergency deployment of resources that are used on a routine basis by Federal agencies; and helps to coordinate preparedness programs with State and local governments, private indust ry, and voluntary organizations. In addition, FEMA provides a Federal focus on fire prevention and public fire safety education. Activities The principal activities of FEMA include: Response and Recovery This activity provides for the development and maintenance of an integrated operational capability to respond to and recover from the consequences of a disaster, regardless of its cause, in partnership with other Federal agencies, St ate and local governments, volunteer organizations, and the private sector. Preparedness, Training, and Exercises This activity provides policy guidance , financial and technical assistance, training, and exercise support required to establish or enhance all-hazard, risk-based emergency management capabilities of Federal, State, and local governments. Fire Prevention and Training This activity prepares Federal, State, and local officials, their staffs, emergency first responders, volunteer groups, and the public to meet the responsibilities of domestic emergencies through planning, mitigation, prepared ness, response, and recovery. The United States Fire Administration has responsibility for all fire and emergency medical service programs and training activities. Educational programs are provided through the National Fire Academy at the National Emergen cy Training Center and through the field fire training delivery systems. Operations Support This activity provides direct support and services which address the common needs of all agency programs, such as administration, acquisition, logistics, information systems, security, and specialized capabilities and integration of the FEMA-wide networks. Mitigation Programs This activity provides for the development, coordination, and implementation of policies, plans, and programs to eliminate or reduce the long-term risk to life and property from natural hazards such as floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, and dam failures. A goal of this activity is to encourage and foster mitigation strategies at the State and local levels. Executive Direction This activity maintains a family protection program, utilizing private sector and volunteer organizations to encourage and assist families and neighborhoods to take actions to increase their emergency preparedness capabilities; develop s strategies to address public information issues; and provides staff and supporting resources for the general management and administration of the agency in legal affairs, congressional and public affairs, personnel, and financial management. Regional Offices Ten regional offices primarily carry out FEMA's programs at the regional, State, and local levels. The regional offices are responsible for accomplishing the national program goals and objectives of the Agency and in supporting development of na tional policy. ---------------------------(TABLE START)--------------------------- Regional Offices -- Federal Emergency Management Agency head level 1 : head level 1 :Region/Address head level 1 :Telephone ----------------------------------------------------------------- I. Boston, MA (Rm. 442, J.W. McCormack Post Office and Courthouse Bldg., 02109-4595) ....... 617-223-9540 II. New York, NY (Rm. 1337, 26 Federal Plz., 10278-0002) ....... 212-225-7209 III. Philadelphia, PA (2d Fl., Liberty Sq. Bldg., 105 S. 7th St., 19106-3316) ....... 215-931-5608 IV. Atlanta, GA (Suite 700, 2d Fl., Liberty Sq. Bldg., 1371 Peachtree St., 30309-3108) ....... 404-853-4224 V. Chicago, IL (4th Fl., 175 W. Jackson Blvd., 60604-2698) ....... 312-408-5504 VI. Denton, TX (Federal Regional Ctr., 800 N. Loop 288, 76201-3698) ....... 817-898-5104 VII. Kansas, MO (Rm. 200, 911 Walnut St., 64106-2085) ....... 816-283-7061 VIII. Denver, CO (Bldg. 710, Denver Federal Ctr., Box 25267, 80225-0267) ....... 303-235-4812 IX. San Francisco, CA (Bldg. 105, Presidio of San Francisco, 94129-1250) ....... 415-923-7105 X. Bothell, WA (Federal Regional Ctr., 130 228th St. SW., 98021-9796) ....... 206-487-4765 ----------------------------(TABLE END)-------------------------- Sources of Information Inquiries on the following subjects should be directed to the appropriate office of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, 500 C Street SW., Washington, DC 20472. Acquisition Services Office of Acquisition Management. Phone, 202-646-3744. Employment Office of Human Resources Management. Phone, 202-646-3964. Freedom of Information Act Requests Office of General Counsel. Phone, 202-646-3840. For further information, contact the Office of Emergency Information and Public Affairs, Federal Emergency Management Agency, 500 C Street SW., Washington, DC 20472. Phone, 202-646-4600. FEDERAL HOUSING FINANCE BOARD 1777 F Street NW., Washington, DC 20006 Phone, 202-408-2500 Board of Directors: ........ Chairman ........(vacancy) Members: ........ (Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, ex officio) ........Henry G. Cisneros ........Lawrence U. Costiglio ........(2 vacancies) Housing and Urban Development Designee to the Board ........Nicolas P. Retsinas Special Assistant to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development ........Rita I. Fair Assistant to the Board Director ........Melissa L. Allen Officials: ........ Managing Director ........Rita I. Fair, Acting Inspector General ........George Woloshyn Director, District Banks Directorate ........(vacancy) General Counsel and Director, Office of Legal and External Affairs ........Beth L. Climo Director, Housing Finance Directorate ........Sylvia C. Martinez Director, Office of Administration ........Patrick Pizzella Director, Office of Policy and Research ........(vacancy) Director, Office of Special Projects ........Thomas D. Sheehan, Acting Executive Secretary ........Elaine L. Baker [For the Federal Housing Finance Board statement of organization, see the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 12, Part 900] @U1 [Insert Federal Housing Finance Board chart]@U0 The Federal Housing Finance Board is responsible for the administration and enforcement of the Federal Home Loan Bank Act, as amended. The Federal Housing Finance Board (Finance Board) was established on August 9, 1989, by the Federal Home Loan Bank Act, as amended by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act of 1989 (FIRREA) (12 U.S.C. 1421 et seq.), as an independent regulatory agency in the executive branch. The Finance Board succeeded the Federal Home Loan Bank Board for those functions transferred to it by FIRREA. The Finance Board is governed by a five-member Board of Directors. Four members are appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate for 7-year terms; one of whom is designated as Chairman. The Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development is the fifth member and serves in an ex officio capacity. The Finance Board supervises the Federal Home Loan Banks created by the Federal Home Loan Bank Act and issues regulations and orders for carrying out the purposes of the provisions of that act. Savings associations and other institutions specifi ed in section 4 of the act that make long-term home-mortgage loans are eligible to become members of a Federal Home Loan Bank. The Finance Board supervises the Federal Home Loan Banks and ensures that they carry out their housing finance mission, remain a dequately capitalized and able to raise funds in the capital markets, and operate in a safe and sound manner. The functions of the Finance Board with respect to the Banks and their members include: implementing community-oriented mortgage lending and affo rdable housing advance programs; prescribing rules and conditions upon which a Bank shall be authorized to borrow; issuing consolidated Federal Home Loan Bank bonds, notes, or debentures which are the joint and several obligations of all Federal Home Loan Banks; requiring an annual financial audit of each Bank; appointing six directors to the board of directors of each Bank and conducting the election of the remaining directors by the members; approving dividends paid to each Bank; and acting on applicati ons for Bank membership. The Finance Board is not subject to the appropriation process. Its funds are neither appropriated nor derived from Government funds, and are not subject to apportionment. The expenses of the Finance Board are paid by assessment against the regio nal Federal Home Loan Banks, which are deposited in a special account in the Treasury. Financing Corporation The Financing Corporation (FICO) was created by the Federal Home Loan Bank Act as amended by the Competitive Equality Banking Act of 1987 (12 U.S.C. 1441), as a mixed-ownership Government corporation. FICO has a three-member directorate, consist ing of the director of the Office of Finance and two Federal Home Loan Bank presidents. FICO operates under the authority of the Federal Housing Finance Board. It issues debt securities in the capital markets and purchases capital certificates of the Federal Savings and Loan Corporation Resolution Fund. Federal Home Loan Bank System In 1932, the Federal Home Loan Bank Act created and authorized the Federal Home Loan Bank System to provide a flexible credit reserve for member savings institutions engaged in home mortgage lending. Regional Banks The System includes 12 regional Federal Home Loan Banks that are mixed-ownership Government corporations. A board of directors, six of whom are appointed by the Finance Board, manages the Banks. The Finance Board conducts the election of th e remaining directors. Capital and Funds Member institutions, each of which is required to purchase stock, own the capital stock of the Federal Home Loan Banks. The Banks obtain other lendable funds through the issuance of consolidated obligations in the money and capital marke ts, through time and demand deposits accepted from member institutions, and from other Federal Home Loan Banks. Operations The Federal Home Loan Banks fulfill the responsibility of Congress and the Finance Board by providing appropriate loans, referred to as advances, to their members as a supplement to savings flows in meeting recurring variations in the supply of , and demand for, residential mortgage credit. Such loans, within the context of national housing goals, aid in stabilizing those sectors of the housing and mortgage markets served by the savings industry. The Banks also provide various services to member institutions pursuant to the statutory authority contained in the Federal Home Loan Bank Act. The Office of Finance, located in Reston, Virginia, authorizes the Banks to perform their debt marketing operations, liquidity portfolio management, and financial forecasting. The Office also coordinates financial planning for the Bank System. Eligible Institutions The types of institutions eligible to become members of the Federal Home Loan Banks are savings, building and loan, and homestead associations; savings and cooperative banks; insurance companies; and other insured depository institut ions that satisfy the statutory requirements. Power to Borrow Consolidated Federal Home Loan Bank obligations, which are the joint and several liabilities of all the Banks, are issued by the Finance Board in the form of notes or bonds. Although the Banks are instrumentalities of the United States, su ch securities are not obligations of, and are not guaranteed by, the United States. Sources of Information Requests for information relating to human resources and procurement should be sent to the Office of Administration, Federal Housing Finance Board, 1777 F Street NW., Washington, DC 20006. Freedom of Information Act and any other information req uests should be directed to the Executive Secretary at the same address. For further information, contact the Executive Secretariat, Federal Housing Finance Board, 1777 F Street NW., Washington, DC 20006. Phone, 202-408-2837; or fax, 202-408-2895. FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY 607 Fourteenth Street NW., Washington, DC 20424-0001 Phone, 202-482-6550 Chairman ........Jean McKee Chief Counsel ........Susan D. McCluskey Public Affairs Specialist ........Francisco Martinez-Alvarez Director, Labor-Management Cooperation ........Christina S. Merchant Director of Case Control ........Alicia N. Columna Member ........Tony Armendariz Chief Counsel ........Steven H. Svartz Executive Assistant ........Christopher J. Yost Member ........Pamela Talkin Chief Counsel ........Barbara B. Franklin Chief Administrative Law Judge ........John H. Fenton Solicitor ........David M. Smith Executive Director ........Solly J. Thomas, Jr. Director of Information Resources and Research Services ........Harold D. Kessler Director of Administration ........Clyde B. Blandford, Jr. Inspector General ........Joseph Suszko, Acting Office of the General Counsel ........ General Counsel ........Joseph Swerdzewski Executive Assistant ........Carol W. Pope Director of Operations and Resources Management ........(vacancy) Assistant General Counsel, Legal Policy and Advice ........David L. Feder Deputy Director of Operations, Field Management ........Nancy A. Speight Assistant General Counsel, Appeals ........Michael D. Nossaman Federal Service Impasses Panel ........ Chairman ........Edwin D. Brubeck Members ........N. Victor Goodman, Charles A. Kothe, Daniel H. Kruger, (3 vacancies) Executive Director ........Linda A. Lafferty Foreign Service Labor Relations Board ........ Chairman ........Jean McKee Members ........Tia Schneider Denenberg ........Ira F. Jaffe General Counsel ........Joseph Swerdzewski Foreign Service Impasse Disputes Panel ........ Chairman ........Margery R. Gootnick Members ........Edwin D. Brubeck, Robert S. Deutsch, William G. Robinson, Ralph H. Ruedy @U1 [Insert Federal Labor Relations Authority chart]@U0 The Federal Labor Relations Authority oversees the Federal service labor-management relations program. It administers the law that protects the right of employees of the Federal Government to organize, bargain collectively, and participate through labor o rganizations of their own choosing in decisions affecting them. The Authority also ensures compliance with the statutory rights and obligations of Federal employees and the labor organizations that represent them in their dealings with Federal agencies. The Federal Labor Relations Authority was created as an independent establishment by Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1978 (5 U.S.C. app.), effective January 1, 1979, pursuant to Executive Order 12107 of December 28, 1978, to consolidate the central policymaking functions in Federal labor-management relations. Its duties and authority are specified in title VII (Federal Service Labor-Management Relations) of the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. 7101-7135). Activities The Authority provides leadership in establishing policies and guidance relating to the Federal service labor-management relations program. In addition, it determines the appropriateness of bargaining units, supervises or conducts representation elections, and prescribes criteria and resolves issues relating to the granting of consultation rights to labor organizations with respect to internal agency policies and Governmentwide rules and regulations. It also resolves negotiability disputes, unfa ir labor practice complaints, and exceptions to arbitration awards. The Chairman of the Authority serves as the chief executive and administrative officer. The General Counsel of the Authority investigates alleged unfair labor practices, files and prosecutes unfair labor practice complaints before the Authority, and exercises such other powers as the Authority may prescribe. The Federal Service Impasses Panel, an entity within the Authority, is assigned the function of providing assistance in resolving negotiation impasses between agencies and unions. After investigating an impasse, the Panel can either recommend pr ocedures to the parties for the resolution of the impasse or assist the parties in resolving the impasse through whatever methods and procedures, including factfinding and recommendations, it considers appropriate. If the parties do not arrive at a settle ment after assistance by the Panel, the Panel may hold hearings and take whatever action is necessary to resolve the impasse. The Foreign Service Labor Relations Board and the Foreign Service Impasse Disputes Panel administer provisions of chapter 2 of the Foreign Service Act of 1980 (22 U.S.C. 3921), concerning labor-management relations. This chapter establishes a st atutory labor-management relations program for Foreign Service employees of the United States Government. Administrative and staff support is provided by the Federal Labor Relations Authority and the Federal Service Impasses Panel. ---------------------------(TABLE START)--------------------------- Regional Offices -- Federal Labor Relations Authority head level 1 :City/Address head level 1 :Director head level 1 :Telephone ----------------------------------------------------------------- Atlanta, GA (Suite 122, 1371 Peachtree St. NE., 30309-3102) ....... Brenda M. Robinson ....... 404-347-2324 Boston, MA (Suite 1500, 99 Summer St., 02110) ....... Edward S. Davidson ....... 617-424-5730 Chicago, IL (Suite 1150, Xerox Ctr., 55 W. Monroe, 60603) ....... William E. Washington ....... 312-353-6306 Dallas, TX (Suite 926, 525 Griffin St., 75202) ....... James Petrucci ....... 214-767-4996 Denver, CO (Suite 100, 1244 Speer Blvd., 80204) ....... Marjorie K. Thompson ....... 303-844-5224 San Francisco, CA (Suite 220, 901 Market St., 94103) ....... Ronald T. Smith ....... 415-744-4000 Washington, DC (Suite 400, 1255 22d St. NW., 20037) ....... Michael W. Doheny ....... 202-653-8500 ----------------------------(TABLE END)-------------------------- Sources of Information Employment Employment inquiries and applications may be sent to the Director of Personnel. Phone, 202-482-6660. Publications The Authority will assist in arranging reproduction of documents and ordering transcripts of hearings. Requests for publications should be submitted to the Director, Information Resources and Research Services. Phone, 202-482-6550. Reading Room Anyone desiring to inspect formal case documents or read agency publications may use facilities of the Authority's offices. Speakers To give agencies, labor organizations, and other interested persons a better understanding of the Federal service labor-management relations program and the Authority's role and duties, its personnel participate as speakers or panel members befor e various groups. Requests for speakers or panelists should be submitted to the Office of the Chairman (phone, 202-482-6500); or to the Deputy General Counsel (phone, 202-482-6680). For further information, contact the Director of Information Resources and Research Services, Federal Labor Relations Authority, 607 Fourteenth Street NW., Washington, DC 20424-0001. Phone, 202-482-6550. FEDERAL MARITIME COMMISSION 800 North Capitol Street NW., Washington, DC 20573-0001 Phone, 202-523-5707 Chairman ........William D. Hathaway Commissioners ........Ming C. Hsu, Francis J. Ivancie, (2 vacancies) General Counsel ........Robert D. Bourgoin Secretary ........Joseph C. Polking Director, Office of Informal Inquiries, Complaints, and Informal Dockets ........Joseph T. Farrell Chief Administrative Law Judge ........Norman D. Kline Director, Office of Equal Employment Opportunity ........Mary A. Jackson Inspector General ........Tony P. Kominoth Managing Director ........Edward Patrick Walsh Deputy Managing Director ........Bruce A. Dombrowski Director, Bureau of Trade Monitoring and Analysis ........Austin Schmitt Director, Bureau of Tariffs, Certification and Licensing ........Bryant L. VanBrakle Director, Bureau of Investigations ........Norman W. Littlejohn Director, Bureau of Hearing Counsel ........William Jarrel Smith, Jr. Director, Bureau of Administration ........Sandra L. Kusumoto @U1 [Insert Federal Maritime Commission chart]@U0 The Federal Maritime Commission regulates the waterborne foreign and domestic offshore commerce of the United States, assures that United States international trade is open to all nations on fair and equitable terms, and protects against unauthorized, con certed activity in the waterborne commerce of the United States. This is accomplished through maintaining surveillance over steamship conferences and common carriers by water; assuring that only the rates on file with the Commission are charged; reviewing agreements between persons subject to the Shipping Act of 1984 and the Shipping Act, 1916; guaranteeing equal treatment to shippers, carriers, and other persons subject to the shipping statutes; and ensuring that adequate levels of financial responsibili ty are maintained for indemnification of passengers. The Federal Maritime Commission was established by Reorganization Plan No. 7 of 1961 (5 U.S.C. app.), effective August 12, 1961. It is an independent agency that regulates shipping under the following statutes: the Shipping Act of 1984 (46 U.S.C . app. 1701-1720); the Shipping Act, 1916 (46 U.S.C. app. 801 et seq.); the Merchant Marine Act, 1920 (46 U.S.C. app. 861 et seq.); the Foreign Shipping Practices Act of 1988 (46 U.S.C. app. 1710a); the Intercoastal Shipping Act, 1933 (46 U.S.C. app. 843 et seq.); the Merchant Marine Act, 1936 (46 U.S.C. app. 1101 et seq.); and certain provisions of the act of November 6, 1966 (46 U.S.C. app. 817(d) and 817(e)). Activities Agreements The Commission reviews for legal sufficiency agreements filed under section 15 of the Shipping Act, 1916 (46 U.S.C. app. 814), and section 5 of the Shipping Act of 1984 (46 U.S.C. app. 1704), including conference, interconference, and cooperati ve working agreements among common carriers, terminal operators, and other persons subject to the shipping statutes. The Commission also monitors activities under all effective (1984 act) or approved (1916 act) agreements for compliance with the provision s of law and its rules, orders, and regulations. Tariffs The Commission accepts or rejects tariff filings, including filings dealing with service contracts, of common carriers engaged in the foreign and domestic offshore commerce of the United States, or conferences of such carriers. The Commission regu lates the rate of return of carriers in the domestic offshore trades. Special permission applications may be submitted for relief from statutory and/or Commission tariff requirements. The Commission monitors the activities of controlled carriers under sec tion 9 of the Shipping Act of 1984 (46 U.S.C. app. 1708, 1709, 1714). Licenses The Commission issues licenses to persons, partnerships, corporations, or associations desiring to engage in ocean freight forwarding activities. Passenger Indemnity The Commission administers the passenger indemnity provisions of the act of November 6, 1966, which require shipowners and operators to obtain certificates of financial responsibility to pay judgments for personal injury or death or to refund fares in the event of nonperformance of voyages. Informal Complaints The Commission reviews alleged or suspected violations of the shipping statutes and rules and regulations of the Commission and may take administrative action to institute formal proceedings, to refer matters to other governmental agen cies, or to bring about voluntary agreement between the parties. Formal Adjudicatory Procedure The Commission conducts formal investigations and hearings on its own motion and adjudicates formal complaints in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. note prec. 551). Rulemaking The Commission promulgates rules and regulations to interpret, enforce, and ensure compliance with shipping and related statutes by common carriers and other persons subject to the statutes. Investigation, Audit, and Financial and Economic Analyses The Commission prescribes and administers programs to ensure compliance with the provisions of the shipping statutes. These programs include the submission of information; field investigations and audits of activities and practices of common carriers, conferences, terminal operators, freight forwarders, and other persons subject to the shipping statutes; and rate analyses, studies, and economic reviews of current and prospective trade conditions, i ncluding the extent and nature of competition in various trade areas. International Affairs The Commission conducts investigations of foreign governmental and foreign carrier practices that adversely affect the U.S. shipping trade and, in conjunction with the Department of State, conducts activities to effect the eliminatio n of discriminatory practices on the part of foreign governments against United States-flag shipping and to achieve comity between the United States and its trading partners. ---------------------------(TABLE START)--------------------------- District Offices -- Federal Maritime Commission head level 1 :District head level 1 :Address head level 1 :Officer in Charge ----------------------------------------------------------------- Houston ....... Suite 110, Box 14, 14960 Heathrow Forest Pky., Houston, TX 77032-3842 ....... Donald H. Butler Los Angeles ....... Suite 270, 11 Golden Shore, Long Beach, CA 90802 ....... Michael A. Murphy Miami ....... Rm. 115, 1001 North America Way, Miami, FL 33132 ....... Richard L. Larson New Orleans ....... Suite 2260, 365 Canal St., New Orleans, LA 70130 ....... (Vacancy) New York ....... Suite 614, 6 World Trade Ctr., New York, NY 10048-0949 ....... Martin J. Keenaghan Puerto Rico ....... Rm. 762, U.S. District Courthouse, 150 Carlos Chardon Ave., Hato Rey, PR 00918-2254 ....... Lorraine Jime˙AE1nez San Francisco ....... Suite 3510, 525 Market St., San Francisco, CA 94105 ....... Carlos D. Niemeyer ----------------------------(TABLE END)-------------------------- Sources of Information Employment Employment inquiries may be directed to the Office of Personnel, Federal Maritime Commission, 800 North Capitol Street NW., Washington, DC 20573-0001. Phone, 202-523-5773. Informal Complaints Phone, 202-523-5807. Publications The Thirty-second Annual Report (1993) is a recent publication of the Federal Maritime Commission. For further information, contact the Office of the Secretary, Federal Maritime Commission, 800 North Capitol Street NW., Washington, DC 20573-0001. Phone, 202-523-5725. FEDERAL MEDIATION AND CONCILIATION SERVICE 2100 K Street NW., Washington, DC 20427 Phone, 202-653-5290 Director ........Joan Calhoun Weils Deputy Director ........Floyd Wood The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service represents the public interest by promoting the development of sound and stable labor-management relationships; preventing or minimizing work stoppages by assisting labor and management to settle their disput es through mediation; advocating collective bargaining, mediation, and voluntary arbitration as the preferred processes for settling issues between employers and representatives of employees; developing the art, science, and practice of dispute resolution ; and fostering constructive joint relationships of labor and management leaders to increase their mutual understanding and solution of common problems. The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service was created by the Labor Management Relations Act, 1947 (29 U.S.C. 172). The Director is appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Activities The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service helps prevent disruptions in the flow of interstate commerce caused by labor-management disputes by providing mediators to assist disputing parties in the resolution of their differences. Mediators have no law enforcement authority and rely wholly on persuasive techniques. The Service offers its facilities in labor-management disputes in any industry affecting interstate commerce, either upon its own motion or at the request of one or more of the parties to the dispute, whenever in its judgment such dispute threat ens to cause a substantial interruption of commerce. The Labor Management Relations Act requires that parties to a labor contract must file a dispute notice if agreement is not reached 30 days in advance of a contract termination or reopening date. The no tice must be filed with the Service and the appropriate State or local mediation agency. The Service is required to avoid the mediation of disputes that would have only a minor effect on interstate commerce if State or other conciliation services are avai lable to the parties. For further information, contact one of the district offices listed below. Mediation The mediator's efforts are directed toward the establishment of sound and stable labor-management relations on a continuing basis. In this work the mediator has a more basic function: encouraging and promoting better day-to-day relations between labor and management, thereby helping to reduce the incidence of work stoppages. Issues arising in negotiations may then be faced as problems to be settled through mutual effort rather than issues in dispute. For further information, contact the Office of Public Affairs. Phone, 202-653-5290. Arbitration The Service, on the joint request of employers and unions, will also assist in the selection of arbitrators from a roster of private citizens who are qualified as neutrals to adjudicate matters in dispute. For further information, contact the Office of Arbitration Services. Phone, 202-653-5280. ---------------------------(TABLE START)--------------------------- District Offices -- Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service head level 1 : head level 1 :District/Address head level 1 :Director head level 1 :Telephone ----------------------------------------------------------------- 1. New York, NY (2d Fl., 1633 Broadway, 10019) ....... Kenneth C. Kowalski ....... 212-399-5038 2. Philadelphia, PA (Rm. 3456, 600 Arch St., 19106) ....... John F. McDermott ....... 215-597-7690 3. Atlanta, GA (Suite 318, 1720 Peachtree St. NW., 30309) ....... (Vacancy) ....... 404-347-2473 4. Independence, OH (Suite 100, 6161 Oak Tree Blvd., 44131) ....... W. Kenneth Evans ....... 216-522-4800 5. Seattle, WA (Rm. 310, 2001 6th Ave., 98121) ....... Norman A. Lee ....... 206-553-5800 6. Minneapolis, MN (Suite 3950, 1300 Godward St., 55413) ....... Maureen Labenski ....... 612-370-3300 7. Hinsdale, IL (Suite 203, 908 N. Elm St., 60521) ....... Daniel O'Leary ....... 708-887-4750 8. St. Louis (Creve Coeur), MO (Suite 325, 12140 Woodcrest Executive Dr., 63141) ....... James G. Kelly ....... 314-576-6253 9. Glendale, CA (Suite 610, Glendale Financial Sq., 225 W. Broadway, 91204) ....... (Vacancy) ....... 213-965-3814 ----------------------------(TABLE END)-------------------------- For further information, contact the Office of Public Affairs, Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, 2100 K Street NW., Washington, DC 20427. Phone, 202-653-5290. FEDERAL MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH REVIEW COMMISSION 1730 K Street NW., Washington, DC 20006 Phone, 202-653-5625 Chairman ........Arlene Holen Commissioners ........Richard V. Backley, Joyce A. Doyle, (2 vacancies) Chief Administrative Law Judge ........Paul Merlin General Counsel ........L. Joseph Ferrara Executive Director ........Richard L. Baker Administrative Officer ........Regina M. Clarke @U1 [Insert Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission chart]@U0 The Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission is an independent, quasi-judicial agency established by the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 (30 U.S.C. 801 et seq.). That act, enforced by the Secretary of Labor through the Mine Sa fety and Health Administration, governs compliance with occupational safety and health standards in the Nation's surface and underground coal, metal, and nonmetal mines. The Commission consists of five members who are appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate and who serve staggered, 6-year terms. The Chairman, who is selected from among the Commissioners, serves at the pleasure of the President. The Commission and its Office of Administrative Law Judges are charged with deciding cases brought pursuant to the act by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, mine operators, and miners or their representatives. These cases generally invol ve review of the Administration's enforcement actions including citations, mine closure orders, and proposals for civil penalties issued for violations of the act or the mandatory safety and health standards promulgated by the Secretary. The Commission al so has jurisdiction over discrimination complaints filed by miners or their representatives in connection with their safety and health rights under the act, and over complaints for compensation filed on behalf of miners idled as a result of mine closure o rders issued by the Administration. Activities Cases brought before the Commission are assigned to the Office of Administrative Law Judges, and hearings are conducted pursuant to the requirements of the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 554, 556) and the Commission's procedural rules (2 9 CFR Part 2700). A judge's decision becomes a final but nonprecedential order of the Commission 40 days after issuance unless the Commission has directed the case for review in response to a petition or on its own motion. If a review is conducted, a decision of the Commission becomes final 30 days after issuance unless a party adversely affected seeks review in the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia or the Circuit within which the mine subject to the litigation is located. As far as practicable, hearings are held at locations convenient to the affected mines. The Office of Administrative Law Judges has two offices: the Falls Church Office, 2 Skyline, 5203 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041; and the Denver Offic e, Colonnade Center, Room 280, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Denver, CO 80204. For further information, contact the Executive Director, Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission, Sixth Floor, 1730 K Street NW., Washington DC 20006. Phone, 202-653-5625. FEDERAL RESERVE SYSTEM Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System Twentieth Street and Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20551 Phone, 202-452-3000 Board of Governors ........ Chairman ........Alan Greenspan Vice Chairman ........(vacancy) Members ........Edward W. Kelley, Jr., John P. LaWare, Lawrence B. Lindsey, Susan M. Phillips, (vacancy) Official Staff: ........ Assistants to the Board ........Joseph R. Coyne, Donald J. Winn, Theodore E. Allison General Counsel ........J. Virgil Mattingly, Jr. Secretary ........William W. Wiles Associate Secretaries ........Jennifer J. Johnson ........Barbara R. Lowrey Director, Division of Consumer and Community Affairs ........Griffith L. Garwood Director, Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation ........Richard Spillenkothen Associate Director (Bank Holding Companies) ........Don E. Kline Associate Director (Regulation) ........Frederick M. Struble Director, Division of Monetary Affairs ........Donald L. Kohn Deputy Director ........David E. Lindsey Director, Division of Research and Statistics ........Michael J. Prell Deputy Director ........Edward C. Ettin Staff Director, Division of International Finance ........Edwin M. Truman Senior Associate Director ........Larry J. Promisel Senior Associate Director ........Charles J. Siegman Staff Director, Office of Staff Director for Management ........S. David Frost Director, Division of Information Resources Management ........Stephen R. Malphrus Director, Division of Human Resources Management ........David L. Shannon Associate Director ........John R. Weis Controller ........George E. Livingston Inspector General, Office of the Inspector General ........Brent L. Bowen Director, Division of Support Services ........Robert E. Frazier Director, Division of Federal Reserve Bank Operations and Payment Systems ........Clyde H. Farnsworth, Jr. Deputy Director, Finance and Control ........David L. Robinson Officers of the Federal Reserve Banks ........ Chairmen and Federal Reserve Agents: ........ Atlanta ........Leo Benatar Boston ........Jerome H. Grossman Chicago ........Richard G. Cline Cleveland ........A. William Reynolds Dallas ........Cece Smith Kansas City ........Burton A. Dole, Jr. Minneapolis ........Gerald A. Rauenhorst New York ........Maurice R. Greenberg Philadelphia ........James M. Mead Richmond ........Henry J. Faison St. Louis ........Robert H. Quenon San Francisco ........James A. Vohs Presidents: ........ Atlanta ........Robert P. Forrestal Boston ........(vacancy) Chicago ........Silas Keehn Cleveland ........Jerry L. Jordan Dallas ........Robert D. McTeer, Jr. Kansas City ........Thomas M. Hoenig Minneapolis ........Gary H. Stern New York ........William J. McDonough Philadelphia ........Edward G. Boehne Richmond ........J. Alfred Broaddus, Jr. St. Louis ........Thomas C. Melzer San Francisco ........Robert T. Parry Federal Open Market Committee ........ Chairman ........Alan Greenspan Vice Chairman ........William J. McDonough Members ........Edward G. Boehne, Silas Keehn, Edward W. Kelley, Jr., John P. LaWare, Lawrence B. Lindsey, Robert D. McTeer, Jr., Susan M. Phillips, Gary H. Stern, (2 vacancies) Official Staff: ........ Secretary and Economist ........Donald L. Kohn Deputy Secretary ........Normand R.V. Bernard Assistant Secretaries ........Joseph R. Coyne ........Gary P. Gillum General Counsel ........J. Virgil Mattingly, Jr. Deputy General Counsel ........Ernest T. Patrikis Economists ........Michael J. Prell ........Edwin M. Truman Manager for Foreign Operations ........Peter R. Fisher Manager for Domestic Operations ........Joan E. Lovett President, Federal Advisory Council ........Richard M. Rosenberg Chairman, Consumer Advisory Council ........Jean Pogge President, Thrift Institutions Advisory Council ........Beatrice D'Agostino The Federal Reserve System, the central bank of the United States, is charged with administering and making policy for the Nation's credit and monetary affairs. Through its supervisory and regulatory banking functions, the Federal Reserve helps to maintai n the banking industry in sound condition, capable of responding to the Nation's domestic and international financial needs and objectives. The Federal Reserve System was established by the Federal Reserve Act (12 U.S.C. 221), approved December 23, 1913. The System serves as the Nation's central bank. The powers of central banks vary widely, but their major responsibility is in the execution of monetary policy. Central banks typically perform a number of other functions, such as the transfer of funds, handling Government deposits and debt issues, supervising and regulating banks, and acting as lender of last resort. It is the responsibility of the Federal Reserve System to contribute to the strength and vitality of the U.S. economy. By influencing the lending and investing activities of depository institutions and the cost and availability of money and cred it, the Federal Reserve System can help promote the full use of human and capital resources, the growth of productivity, relatively stable prices, and equilibrium in the Nation's international balance of payments. Through its supervisory and regulatory ba nking functions, the Federal Reserve System helps maintain a commercial banking system that is responsive to the Nation's financial needs and objectives. The System consists of seven parts: the Board of Governors in Washington, DC; the 12 Federal Reserve Banks and their 25 branches and other facilities situated throughout the country; the Federal Open Market Committee; the Federal Advisory Counci l; the Consumer Advisory Council; the Thrift Institutions Advisory Council; and the Nation's financial institutions, including commercial banks, savings and loan associations, mutual savings banks, and credit unions. Board of Governors Broad supervisory powers are vested in the Board of Governors, which has its offices in Washington, DC. The Board is composed of seven members appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. The Chairman of the Board of Gov ernors is, by Executive Order 11269 of February 14, 1966, a member of the National Advisory Council on International Monetary and Financial Policies. The Board determines general monetary, credit, and operating policies for the System as a whole and formulates the rules and regulations necessary to carry out the purposes of the Federal Reserve Act. The Board's principal duties consist of moni toring credit conditions; supervising the Federal Reserve Banks, member banks, and bank holding companies; and regulating the implementation of certain consumer credit protection laws. Power To Influence Credit Conditions Pursuant to the Depository Institutions Deregulation and Monetary Control Act of 1980, referred to as the Monetary Control Act of 1980 (12 U.S.C. 226 note), the Board is given the power, within statutory limitations, t o fix the requirements concerning reserves to be maintained by depository institutions on transaction accounts or nonpersonal time deposits. Another important instrument of credit control is found in open market operations. The members of the Board of Gov ernors also are members of the Federal Open Market Committee, whose work and organization are described below. The Board of Governors reviews and determines the discount rate charged by the Federal Reserve Banks. For the purpose of preventing excessive us e of credit for the purchase or carrying of securities, the Board is authorized to regulate the amount of credit that may be initially extended and subsequently maintained on any security (with certain exceptions). Supervision of Federal Reserve Banks The Board is authorized to make examinations of the Federal Reserve Banks, to require statements and reports from such Banks, to supervise the issue and retirement of Federal Reserve notes, to require the establishment or discontinuance of branches of Reserve Banks, and to exercise supervision over all relationships and transactions of those Banks with foreign branches. The Board of Governors reviews and follows the examination and supervisory activities of the Federal Reserve Banks aimed at further coordination of policies and practices. Supervision of Bank Holding Companies The Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 gave the Federal Reserve primary responsibility for supervising and regulating the activities of bank holding companies. This act was designed to achieve two basic objectives: to c ontrol the expansion of bank holding companies by avoiding the creation of monopoly or restraining trade in banking; and to limit the expansion of bank holding companies to those nonbanking activities that are closely related to banking, thus maintaining a separation between banking and commerce. A company that seeks to become a bank holding company must obtain the prior approval of the Federal Reserve. Any company that qualifies as a bank holding company must register with the Federal Reserve System and file reports with the System. To preserve the traditional separation of banking and commerce, the Congress amended the Bank Holding Act in December 1970. Primarily as a result of this new legislation, the number of bank holding companies increased. The nu mber has continued to increase steadily and totaled 6,474 at the end of 1988, when 91 percent of all deposits of domestic banking organizations were held by bank subsidiaries of holding companies. The number of applications received in 1988 totaled 1,337. Supervision of Member Banks The Board has jurisdiction over the admission of State banks and trust companies to membership in the Federal Reserve System, the termination of membership of such banks, the establishment of branches by such banks, and the app roval of bank mergers and consolidations where the resulting institution will be a State member bank. It receives copies of condition reports submitted by them to the Federal Reserve Banks. It has power to examine all member banks and the affiliates of me mber banks and to require condition reports from them. It has authority to require periodic and other public disclosure of information with respect to an equity security of a State member bank that is held by 500 or more persons. It establishes minimum st andards with respect to installation, maintenance, and operation of security devices and procedures by State member banks. Also, it has authority to issue cease-and-desist orders in connection with violations of law or unsafe or unsound banking practices by State member banks and to remove directors or officers of such banks in certain circumstances, and it may, in its discretion, suspend member banks from the use of the credit facilities of the Federal Reserve System for making undue use of bank credit f or speculative purposes or for any other purpose inconsistent with the maintenance of sound credit conditions. The Board may grant authority to member banks to establish branches in foreign countries or dependencies or insular possessions of the United States, to invest in the stocks of banks or corporations engaged in international or foreign banking, o r to invest in foreign banks. It also charters, regulates, and supervises certain corporations that engage in foreign or international banking and financial activities. The Board is authorized to issue general regulations permitting interlocking relationships in certain circumstances between member banks and organizations dealing in securities or between member banks and other banks. Other Activities Under the Change in Bank Control Act of 1978 (12 U.S.C. 1817(j)), the Board is required to review other bank stock acquisitions. Under the Truth in Lending Act (15 U.S.C. 1601), the Board is required to prescribe regulations to ensure a meaningful disclosure by lenders of credit terms so that consumers will be able to compare more readily the various credit terms availabl e and will be informed about rules governing credit cards, including their potential liability for unauthorized use. Under the International Banking Act of 1978 (12 U.S.C. 3101), the Board has authority to impose reserve requirements and interest rate ceilings on branches and agencies of foreign banks in the United States, to grant loans to them, to provide th em access to Federal Reserve services, and to limit their interstate banking activities. The Board also is the rulemaking authority for the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, the Fair Credit Billing Act, the Expedited Funds Availability Act, and certain provisions of the Federal Trade Commission Act as t hey apply to banks. Expenses To meet its expenses and pay the salaries of its members and its employees, the Board makes semiannual assessments upon the Reserve Banks in proportion to their capital stock and surplus. Federal Open Market Committee The Federal Open Market Committee is comprised of the Board of Governors and five of the presidents of the Reserve Banks. The Chairman of the Board of Governors is traditionally the Chairman of the Committee. The president of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York serves as a permanent member of the Committee. Four of the twelve Reserve Bank presidents rotate annually as members of the Committee. Open market operations of the Reserve Banks are conducted under regulations adopted by the Committee and pursuant to specific policy directives issued by the Committee, which meets in Washington at frequent intervals. Purchases and sales of secu rities in the open market are undertaken to supply bank reserves to support the credit and money needed for long-term economic growth, to offset cyclical economic swings, and to accommodate seasonal demands of businesses and consumers for money and credit . These operations are carried out principally in U.S. Government obligations, but they also include purchases and sales of Federal agency obligations and bankers' acceptances. All operations are conducted in New York, where the primary markets for these securities are located; the Federal Reserve Bank of New York executes transactions for the Federal Reserve System Open Market Account in carrying out these operations. Under the Committee's direction, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York also undertakes transactions in foreign currencies for the Federal Reserve System Open Market Account. The purposes of these operations include helping to safeguard the value of the dollar in international exchange markets and facilitating growth in international liquidity in accordance with the needs of an expanding world economy. The Federal Reserve has, in particular, entered into a network of mutual currency arrangements w ith other central banks providing for the right to draw foreign exchange within specified limits and for specified periods. Federal Reserve Banks The 12 Federal Reserve Banks are located in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Kansas City, Minneapolis, New York, Philadelphia, Richmond, San Francisco, and St. Louis. Branch banks are located in Baltimore, Birmingham, Buffalo, Charlo tte, Cincinnati, Denver, Detroit, El Paso, Helena, Houston, Jacksonville, Little Rock, Los Angeles, Louisville, Memphis, Miami, Nashville, New Orleans, Oklahoma City, Omaha, Pittsburgh, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Antonio, and Seattle. Directors and Officers of Reserve Banks The Board of Directors of each Reserve Bank is composed of nine members, equally divided into three designated classes: class A, class B, and class C. Directors of class A are representative of the stockholding memb er banks. Directors of class B must be actively engaged in their districts in commerce, agriculture, or some other industrial pursuit, and may not be officers, directors, or employees of any bank. Class C directors may not be officers, directors, employee s, or stockholders of any bank. The six class A and class B directors are elected by the stockholding member banks, while the three class C directors are appointed by the Board of Governors. The terms of office of the directors are so arranged that the te rm of one director of each class expires each year. One of the class C directors appointed by the Board of Governors is designated as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Reserve Bank and as Federal Reserve agent, and in the latter capacity he is required to maintain a local office of the Bo ard of Governors on the premises of the Reserve Bank. Another class C director is appointed by the Board of Governors as deputy chairman. Each Reserve Bank has as its chief executive officer a president appointed for a term of 5 years by its Board of Directors with the approval of the Board of Governors. There are also first vice presidents for each bank, appointed in the same man ner, and other officers appointed by the Board of Directors. Reserves on Deposit In accordance with provisions of the Monetary Control Act of 1980 (12 U.S.C. 226 note), the Reserve Banks receive and hold on deposit the reserve or clearing account deposits of depository institutions. These banks are permitted to cou nt their vault cash as part of their required reserve. Extensions of Credit The Monetary Control Act of 1980 (12 U.S.C. 226 note) directs the Federal Reserve to open its discount window to any depository institution that is subject to Federal Reserve reserve requirements on transaction accounts or nonpersonal time deposits. Discount window credit provides for Federal Reserve lending to eligible depository institutions under two basic programs. One is the adjustment credit program; the other supplies more extended credit for certain limited purposes. Short-term adjustment credit is the primary type of Federal Reserve credit. It is available to help borrowers meet temporary requirements for funds. Borrowers are not permitted to use adjustment credit to take advantage of any spread between the discount rate and market rates. Extended credit is provided through three programs designed to assist depository institutions in meeting longer term needs for funds. One provides seasonal credit -- for periods running up to 9 months -- to smaller depository institutions that l ack access to market funds. A second program assists institutions that experience special difficulties arising from exceptional circumstances or practices involving only that institution. Finally, in cases where more general liquidity strains are affectin g a broad range of depository institutions -- such as those whose portfolios consist primarily of longer term assets -- credit may be provided to address the problems of particular institutions being affected by the general situation. Currency Issue The Reserve Banks issue Federal Reserve notes, which constitute the bulk of money in circulation. These notes are obligations of the United States and are a prior lien upon the assets of the issuing Federal Reserve Bank. They are issued aga inst a pledge by the Reserve Bank with the Federal Reserve agent of collateral security including gold certificates, paper discounted or purchased by the Bank, and direct obligations of the United States. Other Powers The Reserve Banks are empowered to act as clearinghouses and as collecting agents for depository institutions in the collection of checks and other instruments. They are also authorized to act as depositories and fiscal agents of the United S tates and to exercise other banking functions specified in the Federal Reserve Act. They perform a number of important functions in connection with the issue and redemption of United States Government securities. Federal Advisory Council The Federal Advisory Council acts in an advisory capacity, conferring with the Board of Governors on general business conditions. The Council is composed of 12 members, one from each Federal Reserve district, being selected annually by the Board of Directors of the Reserve Bank of the district. The Council is required to meet in Washington, DC, at least four times each yea r, and more often if called by the Board of Governors. Consumer Advisory Council The Consumer Advisory Council confers with the Board of Governors several times each year on the Board's responsibilities in the field of consumer credit protection. The Council was established by Congress in 1976 at the suggestion of the Board and replaced the Advisory Committee on Truth in Lending that was established by the 1968 Truth in Lending Act. The Council is composed of 30 members from all parts of the country. Its membership includes a broad representation of consumer and creditor interests. It advises the Board on its responsibilities under such laws as Truth in Lending, Equal Credi t Opportunity, and Home Mortgage Disclosure. Thrift Institutions Advisory Council The Thrift Institutions Advisory Council is an advisory group established by the Board in 1980 made up of representatives from nonbank depository thrift institutions, which includes savings and loans, mutual savings bankers, and credit unions. T he Council meets at least four times each year with the Board of Governors to discuss developments relating to thrift institutions, the housing industry and mortgage finance, and certain regulatory issues. Sources of Information Employment Written inquiries regarding employment should be addressed to the Director, Division of Personnel, Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Washington, DC 20551. Procurement Firms seeking business with the Board should address their inquiries to the Director, Division of Support Services, Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Washington, DC 20551. Publications Among the publications issued by the Board are The Federal Reserve System -- Purposes and Functions, and a series of pamphlets including Guide to Business Credit and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act; Consumer Handbook; Making Deposits: When W ill Your Money Be Available; and When Your Home Is On the Line: What You Should Know About Home Equity Lines of Credit. Copies of these pamphlets are available free of charge. Information regarding publications may be obtained in Room MP-510 (Martin Build ing) of the Board's headquarters. Phone, 202-452-3244. Reading Room A reading room where persons may inspect records that are available to the public is located in Room B-1122 at the Board's headquarters, Twentieth Street and Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC. Information regarding the availability of r ecords may be obtained by calling 202-452-3684. For further information, contact the Office of Public Affairs, Board of Governors, Federal Reserve System, Washington, DC 20551. Phone, 202-452-3204 or 202-452-3215. FEDERAL RETIREMENT THRIFT INVESTMENT BOARD 1250 H Street NW., Washington, DC 20005 Phone, 202-942-1600 Chairman ........James H. Atkins, Acting Members ........Shirley Chilton-Odell, J. David Davenport, Stephen L. Norris, (vacancy) Officials: ........ Executive Director ........Roger W. Mehle General Counsel ........Robert Bloom Assistant General Counsel (Administration) ........John J. O'Meara Assistant General Counsel (Programs) ........James B. Petrick Director of Accounting ........David L. Black Director of Administration ........Strat D. Valakis Director of Automated Systems ........John W. Witters Director of Benefits and Program Analysis ........Alisone M. Clarke Director of Communications ........Veda R. Charrow Director of External Affairs ........Thomas J. Trabucco Director of Investments ........Peter B. Mackey The Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board administers the Thrift Savings Plan, which provides Federal employees the opportunity to save for additional retirement security. The Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board was established as an independent agency by the Federal Employees' Retirement System Act of 1986 (5 U.S.C. 8472). The act vests responsibility for the agency in six named fiduciaries: the five Board members and the Executive Director. The five members of the Board, one of whom is designated as Chairman, are appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate and serve on the Board on a part-time basis. The members appoint the Execut ive Director, who is responsible for the management of the agency and the Plan. Activities The Thrift Savings Plan is a tax-deferred, defined contribution plan that was established as one of the three parts of the Federal Employees' Retirement System. For employees covered under the System, savings accumulated through the Plan make an important addition to the retirement benefits provided by Social Security and the System's Basic Annuity. Civil Service Retirement System employees may also take advantage of the Plan to supplement their annuities. The Board operates the Thrift Savings Plan and manages the investments of the Thrift Savings Fund solely for the benefit of participants and their beneficiaries. As part of these responsibilities, the Board maintains an account for each Plan par ticipant, makes loans, purchases annuity contracts, and provides for the payment of benefits. For further information, contact the Director of External Affairs, Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board, 1250 H Street NW., Washington, DC 20005. Phone, 202-942-1640. FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION Pennsylvania Avenue at Sixth Street NW., Washington, DC 20580 Phone, 202-326-2222 (Public Reference Branch) Chairman ........Janet D. Steiger Executive Assistant ........James C. Hamill Commissioners ........Mary L. Azcuenaga, Deborah K. Owen, Roscoe B. Starek III, Dennis A. Yao Executive Director ........Robert S. Walton III Deputy Executive Director for Management ........Rosemarie Straight Deputy Executive Director for Planning and Information ........Alan Proctor Director, Bureau of Competition ........Mary Lou Steptoe, Acting Deputy Director ........Mark D. Whitener, Acting Director, Bureau of Consumer Protection ........Christian S. White, Acting Deputy Director ........Lydia B. Parnes Director, Bureau of Economics ........Ronald S. Bond, Acting Deputy Director ........(vacancy) General Counsel ........Jay C. Shaffer, Acting Deputy General Counsel ........(vacancy) Director, Office of Congressional Relations ........Dorian Hall, Acting Director, Office of Public Affairs ........Bonnie Jansen Secretary of the Commission ........Donald S. Clark Chief Administrative Law Judge ........Lewis F. Parker Inspector General ........Frederick J. Zirkel [For the Federal Trade Commission statement of organization, see the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 16, Part 0] @U1 [Insert Federal Trade Commission chart]@U0 The objective of the Federal Trade Commission is to maintain competitive enterprise as the keystone of the American economic system. Although the duties of the Commission are varied, the foundation of public policy underlying all these duties is essential ly the same: to prevent the free enterprise system from being fettered by monopoly or restraints on trade or corrupted by unfair or deceptive trade practices. The Commission is charged with keeping competition both free and fair. The purpose of the Federal Trade Commission is expressed in the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 41-58) and the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. 12), both passed in 1914 and both successively amended in the years that have followed. The Federal Tra de Commission Act prohibits the use in or affecting commerce of ``unfair methods of competition'' and ``unfair or deceptive acts or practices.'' The Clayton Act outlaws specific practices recognized as instruments of monopoly. As an administrative agency, acting quasi-judicially and quasi-legislatively, the Commission was established to deal with trade practices on a continuing and corrective basis. It has no authority to punish; its function is to prevent, through cease-and-desist orders and other means, those practices condemned by the law of Federal trade regulation. However, court-ordered civil penalties up to $10,000 may be obtained for each violation of a Commission order or trade regulation rule. The Federal Trade Commission was organized as an independent administrative agency in 1914 pursuant to the Federal Trade Commission Act. Related duties subsequently were delegated to the Commission by the Wheeler-Lea Act, the Trans-Alaska Pipeli ne Authorization Act, the Clayton Act, the Export Trade Act, the Wool Products Labeling Act, the Fur Products Labeling Act, the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act, the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act, the Lanham Trade-Mark Act of 1946, the Consumer Credit Protection Act, the Robinson-Patman Act, the Hobby Protection Act, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty-Federal Trade Commission Improvement Act, the Federal Trade Commission Improvements Act of 1980, the Smokeless Tobacco Health Education Act of 1986, and the Telephone Disclosure and Dispute Resolution Act. The Commission is composed of five members. Each member is appointed by the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate, for a term of 7 years. Not more than three of the Commissioners may be members of the same political party. One Com missioner is designated by the President as Chairman of the Commission and is responsible for its administrative management. Activities The Commission's principal functions are to: -- promote competition in or affecting commerce through the prevention of general trade restraints such as price-fixing agreements, boycotts, illegal combinations of competitors, and other unfair methods of competition; -- safeguard the public by preventing the dissemination of false or deceptive advertisements of consumer products generally, and food, drug, cosmetics, and therapeutic devices, particularly, as well as other unfair or deceptive practices; -- prevent pricing discrimination; exclusive-dealing and tying arrangements; corporate mergers, acquisitions, or joint ventures, when such practices or arrangements may substantially lessen competition or tend to create a monopoly; interlocking directorates or officers' positions that may restrain competition; the payment or receipt of illegal brokerage; and discrimination among competing customers in the furnishing of or the payment for services or facilities used to promote the resale of a pr oduct; -- enjoin various fraudulent telemarketing schemes; -- bring about truthful labeling of textile, wool, and fur products; -- regulate packaging and labeling of certain consumer commodities within the purview of the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act so as to prevent consumer deception and to facilitate value comparisons; -- supervise the registration and operation of associations of American exporters engaged in export trade; -- achieve accurate credit cost disclosure by consumer creditors (retailers, finance companies, non-Federal credit unions, and other creditors not specifically regulated by another Government agency) as called for in the Truth in Lending Act to ensure a meaningful basis for informed credit decisions, and to regulate the issuance of and liability for the use of credit cards so as to prohibit their fraudulent use in or affecting commerce; -- protect consumers against circulation of inaccurate or obsolete credit reports and ensure that consumer reporting agencies exercise their responsibilities in a manner that is fair and equitable and in conformity with the Fair Credit Reportin g Act, the Fair Credit Billing Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, and the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act; and -- gather and make available to the Congress, the President, and the public, factual data concerning economic and business conditions. Enforcement The Commission's law enforcement work falls into two general categories: actions to foster voluntary compliance with the law, and formal administrative litigation leading to mandatory orders against offenders. For the most part, compliance with the law is obtained through voluntary and cooperative action by way of staff level advice, which is not binding on the Commission; advisory opinions by the Commission; and through issuance of guides and policy statements delineating legal requirements as to particular business practices. The formal litigation is similar to that in Federal courts. Cases are instituted either by issuance of an administrative complaint or by filing a Federal district court complaint charging the person, partnership, or corporation with violating on e or more of the statutes administered by the Commission. Cases may be settled by consent orders. If the charges in an administrative matter are not contested, or if the charges are found to be true after an administrative hearing in a contested case, a c ease-and-desist order may be issued requiring discontinuance of the unlawful practices. Federal district court charges are resolved through either settlements or court-ordered injunctive or other equitable relief. Legal Case Work Cases before the Commission may originate through complaint by a consumer or a competitor; the Congress; or from Federal, State, or municipal agencies. Also, the Commission itself may initiate an investigation into possible violation of th e laws it administers. No formality is required in submitting a complaint. A letter giving the facts in detail, accompanied by all supporting evidence in possession of the complaining party, is sufficient. It is the general policy of the Commission not to disclose the identity of any complainant, except as permitted by law or Commission rules. Upon receipt of a complaint, various criteria are applied in determining whether the particular matter should be investigated. Within the limits of available resources, investigations are initiated that are considered to best support the Commiss ion's goals of maintaining competition and protecting consumers. On completion of an investigation, staff will recommend final Commission action. The staff may recommend that the matter be closed. If that recommendation is approved, a closing letter is sent to the individual or company that was the subject of the investigation. The staff may instead recommend that the Commission approve the informal settlement of a case, usually by acceptance of an agreement containing a consent order to cease and desist. If such a consent order is worked out, it customarily provides that the respondent does not admit any violation of the law, but agrees to be bound by an order requiring the discontinuance of the challenged practices. If the Commission determines that some action other than closing the investigation is appropriate, but no consent agreement can be negotiated, the Commission may issue a formal complaint alleging that the respondent has violated one or more of t he laws administered by the Commission. The respondent is then served with a copy of the complaint, often accompanied by a proposed cease-and-desist order to be used if the allegations of law violations are proved. The Commission's counsel supporting the complaint and respondents may negotiate a consent agreement after the issuance of the formal complaint. Otherwise, the case is heard by an administrative law judge, who conducts a trial that is open to the public, and issues an initial decision. The initial decision becomes the decision of the Commission at the end of 30 days unless the respondent or the counsel supporting the complaint appeals the decision to the Commission, or the Commission by order stays the effective date or places the case on its own docket for review. In the Commission's decision on such an appeal or review, the initial decision may be sustained, modified, or reversed. If the complaint is sustained or modified, a cease-and-desist order is issued. If an initial de cision dismissing a complaint is sustained, no cease-and-desist order is issued. Under the Federal Trade Commission Act, an order to cease and desist or to take other corrective action -- such as affirmative disclosure, divestiture, or restitution -- becomes final 60 days after date of service upon the respondent, unless wit hin that period the respondent petitions an appropriate United States court of appeals to review the order. The court has power to affirm, modify, or set the order aside. Either party, on writ of certiorari, may apply to the Supreme Court for review of th e action of the court of appeals. In case of review, the order of the Commission becomes final after affirmation by the court of appeals or by the Supreme Court of the United States, if taken to that court on certiorari. Violations of a cease-and-desist o rder, after it becomes final, subject the offender to suit by the Government in a United States district court for the recovery of a civil penalty of not more than $10,000 for each violation and, where the violation continues, each day of its continuance is a separate violation. In addition to the administrative proceeding initiated by a formal complaint, the Commission may, in some cases, request that a United States district court issue a preliminary or permanent injunction to halt the use of allegedly unfair or decep tive practices, to prevent an anticompetitive merger from taking place, or to prevent violations of any other statutory obligations enforced by the Commission. The Commission may also bring suit in a United States district court to enforce a subpoena or c ivil investigative demand issued by the Commission. The Commission also has specific authority to ask the United States district court to enjoin the dissemination of advertisements of food, drugs, cosmetics, and devices intended for use in the diagnosis, prevention, or treatment of disease, whene ver it has reason to believe that such a proceeding would be in the public interest. Preliminary injunctions remain in effect until a cease-and-desist order is issued and becomes final, or until the complaint is dismissed by the Commission or the order is set aside by the court on review. Further, the dissemination of a false advertisement of a food, drug, device, or cosmetic, where the use of the commodity advertised may be injurious to health or where there is intent to defraud or mislead, constitutes a misdemeanor. Conviction subjects the offender to a fine of not more than $5,000, or imprisonment of not more than 6 months, or both. Succeeding convictions may result in a fine of not more than $10,000, or imprisonment for not more than 1 year, or both. The statute provides that the Commission shall certify this type of case to the Attorney General for institution of appropriate court proceedings. Compliance Activities Through systematic and continuous review, the Commission obtains and maintains compliance with its cease-and-desist orders. All respondents against whom such orders have been issued are required to file reports with the Commission to substantiate their compliance. In the event compliance is not obtained, or if the order is subsequently violated, civil penalty proceedings may be instituted. Violation of a court decree obtained by the Commission makes the respondent further subject to contempt proceedings. Trade Regulation Rules The Commission is authorized to issue trade regulation rules specifically defining acts or practices that are unfair or deceptive. A rule may also specify steps to prevent such practices from occurring. Such rules may be limited to certain industries or be applicable to all businesses within the Commission's jurisdiction. Rules are promulgated under specific procedures providing for participation of interested parties, including oral hearings and comments. The Commission's decision to issue a rule may be appealed to a United States court of appeals. Once a rule has become final, the Commission can seek the institution of a civil proceeding in a United States district court for knowing violations of the rule and seek civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation and consumer redress. Cooperative Procedures In carrying out the statutory directive to ``prevent'' the use in or affecting commerce of unfair practices, the Commission makes extensive use of voluntary and cooperative procedures. Through these procedures business and industry may obtain authoritative guidance and a substantial measure of certainty as to what they may do under the laws administered by the Commission. Whenever it is practicable, the Commission will furnish a formal advisory opinion as to whether a proposed course of conduct, if pursued, would be likely to result in further action by the Commission. An advisory opinion is binding upon the Comm ission with respect to the person or group to whom the opinion is issued with regard to the acts, practices, or conduct described in the request, where all relevant facts were completely and accurately presented to the Commission, until the advice has bee n rescinded or revoked and notice has been given to the requester. No enforcement action will be initiated by the Commission concerning any conduct undertaken by the requester in good faith reliance upon the advice of the Commission where such conduct is discontinued promptly upon notification of rescission or revocation of the Commission's approval. Industry guides are administrative interpretations in laymen's language of laws administered by the Commission for the guidance of the public in conducting its affairs in conformity with legal requirements. They provide the basis for voluntary a nd simultaneous abandonment of unlawful practices by members of a particular industry or industry in general. Failure to comply with the guides may result in corrective action by the Commission under applicable statutory provisions. Consumer Protection Consumer protection is one of the two main missions of the Commission. The Commission works to increase the usefulness of advertising by ensuring it is truthful and not misleading; reduce instances of fraudulent or deceptive marketing practices; and prevent creditors from using unlawful practices when granting credit, maintaining credit information, collecting debts, and operating credit systems. Consumer Protection initiates investigations in many areas of concern to consumers, includ ing health claims in food advertising; environmental advertising and labeling; general advertising issues; health care fraud; telemarketing, business opportunity, and franchise and investment fraud; mortgage lending and discrimination; enforcement of Comm ission orders; and enforcement of credit statutes and trade rules. The Commission is also committed to educating consumers and businesses about their rights and responsibilities under FTC regulations. The Commission has issued and enforces many trade rules important to consumers. The Used Car Rule requires that dealers display a buyers guide containing warranty information on the window of each vehicle offered for sale to consumers. The Mail Order Rule requires companies to ship merchandise that consumers order by mail or telephone within a certain time, and sets out requirements for notifying consumers about delays and offering them the option of agreeing to the delays or cancelling their or ders. The Funeral Rule requires that price and other specific information regarding funeral arrangements be made available to consumers to help them make informed choices and pay only for services they select. The Franchise Rule requires the seller to pro vide each prospective franchisee with a basic disclosure document containing detailed information about the nature of its business and terms of the proposed franchise relationship. The R-Value Rule requires manufacturers to disclose the R-value (a measure of resistance to heat flow) of their home-insulation products. Under the Cooling-Off Rule, consumers can cancel purchases of $25 or more made door-to-door, or at places other than the seller's usual place of business, within 3 business days of purchase. Under the Consumer Protection mission, the Commission also enforces a number of specific laws that help consumers. One such law is the Consumer Credit Protection Act, which establishes, among other things, rules for the use of credit cards, the disclosure of the terms on which open- and closed-end credit is granted, and the disclosure of the reasons a business uses in determining not to grant credit. The Truth in Lending Act is one part of the Consumer Credit Protection Act. Its purpose is to ensure that every customer who has need for consumer credit is given meaningful information with respect to the cost of that credit. In most cases the credit cost must be expressed in the dollar amount of finance charges, and as an annual percentage rate computed on the unpaid balance of the amount financed. The Truth in Lending Act was amended in October 1970 to regulate the issuance, holder's liabilit y, and the fraudulent use of credit cards. The Fair Credit Reporting Act, another part of the Consumer Credit Protection Act, represents the first Federal regulation of the vast consumer reporting industry, covering all credit bureaus, investigative reporting companies, detective and col lection agencies, lenders' exchanges, and computerized information reporting companies. The purpose of this act is to ensure that consumer reporting activities are conducted in a manner that is fair and equitable, upholding the consumer's right to privacy as against the informational demands of others. Under the Wool Products Labeling Act, the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act, and the Fur Products Labeling Act, the Commission engages in compliance investigations, inspections, and industry counseling; issues registered identification n umbers; and records continuing guaranties. Maintaining Competition (Antitrust) The second major mission of the Commission is to encourage competitive forces in the American economy. Under the Federal Trade Commission Act, the Commission seeks to prevent unfair practices that may keep one company f rom competing with others. Under the Federal Trade Commission Act and the Clayton Act, the Commission attempts to prevent mergers of companies if the result may be to lessen competition. Under some circumstances, companies planning to merge must first giv e notice to the Commission and the Department of Justice's Antitrust Division and provide certain information concerning the operations of the companies involved. The Commission also enforces the provisions of the Robinson-Patman Act, a part of the Clayton Act prohibiting companies from discriminating among other companies that are its customers in terms of price or other services provided. Economic Factfinding The Commission makes economic and statistical studies of conditions and problems affecting competition in the economy. Reports of this nature may be in support of legislative proposals, in response to requests of the Congress and stat utory directions, or for the information and guidance of the Commission and the executive branch of the Government as well as the public. The reports have provided the basis for significant legislation and, by spotlighting poor economic or otherwise objec tionable trade practices, they have also led to voluntary changes in the conduct of business, with resulting benefits to the public. Advocacy Activities (Intervention) To promote competition, consumer protection, and the efficient allocation of resources, the Commission has an active program designed to advocate the consumer interest in a competitive marketplace by encouraging courts, legislatures, and government administrative bodies to consider efficiency and consumer welfare as important elements in their deliberations. This is accomplished by appearances before legislative, judicial, or regulatory bodies at the local, State, or Fed eral level of government when the decisions of these bodies may have implications affecting competition, efficiency, and consumer welfare. The Commission uses these opportunities to support procompetitive means of regulating the Nation's economy, including the elimination of anticompetitive regulations that reduce the welfare of consumers and the implementation of regulatory progra ms that protect the public and preserve as much as possible the discipline of competitive markets. The competition and consumer advocacy program relies on persuasion rather than coercion. It is intended to help legislators and government officials better understand the consumer welfare implications of proposed actions in the belief that this understanding will result in policy decisions that benefit consumers and the economy. ---------------------------(TABLE START)--------------------------- Regional Offices -- Federal Trade Commission head level 1 :Region head level 1 :Address head level 1 :Director ----------------------------------------------------------------- ATLANTA -- Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia ....... Rm. 1000, 1718 Peachtree St. NW., Atlanta, GA 30367 ....... Lemuel W. Dowdy, Acting BOSTON -- Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont ....... Suite 810, 101 Merrimac St., Boston, MA 02114-4719 ....... Phoebe D. Morse CHICAGO -- Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Wisconsin ....... Suite 1437, 55 E. Monroe St., Chicago, IL 60603 ....... C. Steven Baker CLEVELAND -- Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia ....... Suite 520-A, 668 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44114 ....... Phillip L. Broyles DALLAS -- Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas ....... Suite 500, 100 N. Central Expressway, Dallas, TX 75201 ....... Thomas B. Carter DENVER -- Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Wyoming ....... Suite 2900, 1405 Curtis St., Denver, CO 80202-2393 ....... Claude C. Wild III LOS ANGELES -- Arizona, southern California ....... Suite 13209, 11000 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90024 ....... Sue L. Frauens, Acting NEW YORK -- New Jersey, New York ....... Suite 1300, 150 William St., New York, NY 10038 ....... Michael J. Bloom SAN FRANCISCO -- Northern California, Hawaii, Nevada ....... Suite 570, 901 Market St., San Francisco, CA 94103 ....... Jeffrey A. Klurfeld SEATTLE -- Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Washington ....... 2806 Federal Bldg., 915 2d Ave., Seattle, WA 98174 ....... Charles A. Harwood ----------------------------(TABLE END)-------------------------- Sources of Information Contracts and Procurement Persons seeking to do business with the Federal Trade Commission should contact the Division of Procurement and General Services, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580. Phone, 202-326-2275. Employment Civil service registers are used in filling positions for economists, accountants, consumer protection specialists, and other professional, administrative, and clerical personnel. The Federal Trade Commission employs a sizable number of attorne ys under the excepted appointment procedure. All employment inquiries should be directed to the Director of Personnel, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580. Phone, 202-326-2022. General Inquiries Persons desiring information on consumer protection, restraint of trade questions, or to register a complaint, should contact the Federal Trade Commission or the nearest regional office. Publications A copy of the Federal Trade Commission -- ``Best Sellers,'' which lists publications of interest to the general public, is available free upon request from the Public Reference Section, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580. Phone, 2 02-326-2222. For further information, contact the Director, Office of Public Affairs, Federal Trade Commission, Pennsylvania Avenue at Sixth Street NW., Washington, DC 20580. Phone, 202-326-2180. GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION General Services Building, Eighteenth and F Streets NW., Washington, DC 20405 Phone, 202-708-5082 Administrator of General Services ........Roger W. Johnson Deputy Administrator ........Julia M. Stasch Chief of Staff ........Barbara O. Silby Special Counsel for Ethics and Civil Rights ........Allie B. Latimer Director of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization ........Joan Parrott-Fonseca Deputy Director ........Mirinda Jackson Associate Administrator for Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs ........William R. Ratchford Associate Administrator for Public Affairs ........(vacancy) Associate Administrator for Business, Industry, and Governmental Affairs ........Donald C.J. Gray Deputy Associate Administrator ........Ron Dovel GSA Ombudsman Staff ........Norma Carey Associate Administrator for Administration ........Marlene M. Johnson Deputy Associate Administrator ........John J. Landers Director of Workplace Initiatives ........Faith Wohl Director of Personnel ........Donald P. Heffernan Director of Management Controls and Evaluation ........John H. Davenjay Director of Administrative Programs and Support ........Jon R. Halsall Director of Quality Management and Training ........Gregory L. Knott Controller ........Jon A. Jordan Director of the Executive Secretariat ........Eric Dodds Associate Administrator for FTS2000 ........Robert J. Woods Deputy Associate Administrator for FTS2000 ........William P. Cunnane Inspector General ........William R. Barton Deputy Inspector General ........Joel S. Gallay Assistant Inspector General for Auditing ........William E. Whyte, Jr. Assistant Inspector General for Investigations ........James E. Henderson Assistant Inspector General for Quality Management ........Lawrence J. Dempsey Assistant Inspector General for Administration ........James E. Le Gette Counsel to the Inspector General ........Kathleen S. Tighe, Acting Director, Internal Evaluation Program ........Andrew A. Russoniello Chairman, GSA Board of Contract Appeals ........Stephen M. Daniels Vice Chairman ........Robert W. Parker Board Counsel ........Wilbur T. Miller Clerk of the Board ........Beatrice Jones Director, Information Security Oversight Office ........Steven Garfinkel Chief Financial Officer ........Dennis J. Fischer Director of Budget ........William B. Early, Jr. Director of Finance ........Larry J. Bedker, Acting Director of Financial Management ........Carole A. Hutchinson, Acting Director of Financial Systems Oversight ........William J. Topolewski Associate Administrator for Acquisition Policy ........Arthur E. Ronkovich, Acting Policy Advisor ........Carolyn Harris Executive Officer ........A. Toni Hazlewood Director of GSA Acquisition Policy ........Ida Ustad Director of Federal Acquisition Policy ........Albert Vicchiolla Director, Federal Acquisition Institute ........Jack Livingston, Acting General Counsel ........Emily Clark Hewitt Deputy General Counsel ........Frederick P. Hink Special Counsel to the General Counsel ........Micki Chen Associate General Counsel for General Law ........Laurence Harrington Associate General Counsel for Personal Property ........Vincent Crivella Associate General Counsel for Real Property ........Sharon A. Roach INFORMATION RESOURCES MANAGEMENT SERVICE General Services Building, Eighteenth and F Streets NW., Washington, DC 20405 Phone, 202-501-1000 Commissioner, Information Resources Management Service ........Joe M. Thompson Senior Advisor ........Ronald W. Piasecki Deputy Commissioner ........G. Martin Wagner Controller ........Linda F. Vandenberg Assistant Commissioner for Federal Information Resources Management ........Francis A. McDonough Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Information Resources Management Policy ........Fred L. Sims Assistant Commissioner for Telecommunications Services ........Michael L. Corrigan Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Regional Telecommunications Services ........Don Hardesty Deputy Chief Information Officer ........Donald L. Venneberg, Acting Assistant Commissioner for Technical Assistance ........Lawrence S. Cohan Assistant Commissioner for Information Resources Procurement ........C. Allen Olson Director of Administration and Planning ........Peg Neustadt Director of Regional Liaison and IRM Management ........Patricia S. Petroff FEDERAL SUPPLY SERVICE 1941 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, VA; Mailing address: Washington, DC 20406 Phone, 703-305-6667 Commissioner, Federal Supply Service ........Frank P. Pugliese, Jr., Acting Deputy Commissioner ........Donna D. Bennett, Acting Chief of Staff ........Patricia Mead, Acting Controller ........Leonard Yonkler Director of Transportation Audits ........Joseph J. Cosimano Assistant Commissioner for Distribution Management ........Brian Freeman Assistant Commissioner for Transportation and Property Management ........Allan W. Beres Assistant Commissioner for Strategic Planning and Marketing ........Vincent D. Burns Assistant Commissioner for Quality and Contract Administration ........(vacancy) Assistant Commissioner for Commodity Management ........William N. Gormley, Acting Assistant Commissioner for FSS Information Systems ........Raymond J. Hanlein PUBLIC BUILDINGS SERVICE General Services Building, Eighteenth and F Streets NW., Washington, DC 20405 Phone, 202-501-1100 Commissioner, Public Buildings Service ........Kenneth R. Kimbrough Chief of Staff ........Ann W. Everett Deputy Commissioner ........David L. Bibb Controller ........Steven R. Mead Assistant Commissioner for Real Property Development ........Robert J. DiLuchio Assistant Commissioner for Real Property Management and Safety ........James F. Steele Assistant Commissioner for Planning ........Rob Graf, Acting Assistant Commissioner for Procurement ........Brian K. Polly Assistant Commissioner for Governmentwide Real Property Relations ........Yvonne Jones, Acting Assistant Commissioner for Physical Security and Law Enforcement ........Gary J. Day Assistant Commissioner for PBS Information Systems ........James A. Williams FEDERAL PROPERTY RESOURCES SERVICE General Services Building, Eighteenth and F Streets NW., Washington, DC 20405 Phone, 202-501-0210 Commissioner, Federal Property Resources Service ........(vacancy) Deputy Commissioner ........Gordon S. Creed Special Assistant to the Commissioner ........Marvin E. Saunders Controller ........Marvin L. Steffen Assistant Commissioner for Real Estate Policy and Sales ........Norman C. Miller, Acting Director of Systems and Information Management ........James M. Kearns, Jr. [For the General Services Administration statement of organization, see the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 41, Part 105-53] @U1 [Insert General Services Administration chart]@U0 The General Services Administration establishes policy for and provides economical and efficient management of Government property and records, including construction and operation of buildings, procurement and distribution of supplies, utilization and di sposal of property; transportation, traffic, and communications management; and management of the Governmentwide automatic data processing resources program. The General Services Administration is organized much like a large corporation doing business in a number of different fields and might well be termed a conglomerate. It consists of operating services and support staff offices, with functions carried out at three levels of organization: the central office, regional offices, and field activities. The General Services Administration (GSA) was established by section 101 of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (40 U.S.C. 751). Business, Industry, and Governmental Affairs The Office of Business, Industry, and Governmental Affairs implements initiatives promoting GSA as a full-service, customer-oriented agency. The Office manages the GSA Ombudsman Program, facilitating communicat ions and resolving problems between GSA and customer agencies and private industry. It coordinates the Customer Outreach Program and manages advisory groups such as the Client Advisory Board, to enhance customer satisfaction and the Business Advisory Boar d, to ensure that GSA is aware of the latest business trends in management and technology. The Office also coordinates common-interest activities with State, local, and foreign governments. For further information, call 202-501-0100. Acquisition Policy The Office of Acquisition Policy plans, directs, and coordinates a comprehensive, agencywide acquisition policy program, including the establishment of major agency acquisition goals and objectives. The Office of Acquisition Policy has a major role in developing, maintaining, issuing, and administering guiding principles via the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), which is applicable to all Federal agencies. It chairs the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and provides administrative support through the FAR Secretariat. The Office develops GSA implementing and supplementing principles required by FAR, which is published as the General Services Administration Acquisition Regulation. The Office manages the agency's internal system for the suspension and debarment of nonresponsive contractors and a Governmentwide system for exchanging information on debarred, suspended, and ineligible parties; and manages GSA's Multiple Award s Schedule Program. The Office also is responsible for overseeing the agency's acquisition information system and serves as agency coordinator for the Federal Procurement Data System. The Office's Federal Acquisition Institute fosters and promotes Governmentwide career management and training programs to develop a professional workforce and coordinates Governmentwide studies to improve the procurement process. In addition, the Office of Acquisition Policy establishes standards and requirements for the development of programs to enhance the recruitment, training, certification, and career development of employees engaged in the acquisition process. For further information, call 202-501-1043. Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization The Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization plans, implements, and evaluates comprehensive agencywide procurement preference programs. Included among these are: the Small Business Program; the Wo men in Business Program; the Minority Business Enterprise Program; the Subcontracting Program; the Labor Surplus Area Program; the Javits/Wagner-O'Day Program; the Federal Prison Industry Program; and the Rural Area Development Program. The Office coordinates and develops policies that regulate the operation and the implementation of the Small Business Programs under sections 8 and 15 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637, 644). The Office provides assistance, information, and counseling to small business persons interested in pursuing Federal Government contracts and conducts outreach, liaison, source listing, and seminars for small and disadvantaged businesses. This i s accomplished through the Business Service Center Program. Business Service Centers are located in major metropolitan areas. Service center counselors travel within their regions lecturing on the Federal procurement process. They also provide information on the new item introduction program and buying p rograms of other agencies. The Centers are also responsible for receiving and safeguarding bids (maintaining the integrity of the bid process). Business Service Centers assist agency procurement officers by identifying potential suppliers. In doing this, they rely not only on ``walk-in'' contacts at reception areas but actively seek out business concerns which may be able to supply the Government's needs. They also operate bid rooms where vendors' offers are publicly opened and posted. Special emphasis is placed on outreach programs that counsel small, small disadvantaged, minority, and women business owners. For further information, call 202-501-1021. ---------------------------(TABLE START)--------------------------- Business Service Center Directory (Areas included within each region are indicated on the map in Appendix A.) head level 1 : head level 1 :Region/Address head level 1 :Telephone ----------------------------------------------------------------- National Capital Region, Washington, DC (7th and D Sts. SW., 20407) ....... 202-708-5804 1. Boston, MA (10 Causeway St., 02222) ....... 617-565-8100 2. New York, NY (26 Federal Plz., 10278) ....... 212-264-1234 3. Philadelphia, PA (Rm. 808, 100 Penn Sq. E., 19107) ....... 215-656-5523 4. Atlanta, GA (Rm. 2900, 401 W. Peachtree St., 30303) ....... 404-331-5103 5. Chicago, IL (230 S. Dearborn St., 60604) ....... 312-353-5383 6. Kansas City, MO (1500 E. Bannister Rd., 64131) ....... 816-926-7203 7. Fort Worth, TX (819 Taylor St., 76102) ....... 817-334-3284 8. Denver, CO (Denver Federal Ctr., 80225) ....... 303-236-7408 9. San Francisco, CA (525 Market St., 94105) ....... 415-744-5050 Los Angeles, CA (300 N. Los Angeles St., 90012) ....... 213-894-3210 10. Auburn, WA (GSA Ctr., 98001) ....... 206-931-7957 ----------------------------(TABLE END)-------------------------- Contract Appeals The General Services Administration Board of Contract Appeals is responsible for resolving disputes arising out of contracts with the General Services Administration, the Department of the Treasury, the Department of Education, the Depart ment of Commerce, and other independent Government agencies. The Board is also empowered to hear and decide protests arising out of automatic data processing procurements Governmentwide. Although the Board is located within the agency, it functions as an independent tribunal. For further information, contact the Board of Contract Appeals (G), General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20405. Phone, 202-501-0720. Information Security Oversight The Information Security Oversight Office is responsible for overseeing executive branch agencies' actions to implement Executive Order 12356 of April 2, 1982, which prescribes a uniform system for classifying, declassifying , and safeguarding national security information. The Office's annual reports to the President on the status of this program are available upon request. For further information, contact the Information Security Oversight Office (Z), General Services Administration, Suite 530, 750 Seventeenth Street NW., Washington, DC 20006. Phone, 202-634-6150. Inspector General The Office of the Inspector General is responsible for conducting and supervising audits and investigations relating to the programs and operations of the agency. The Office recommends policies and corrective actions concerning activitie s designed to promote economy and efficiency, and prevent and detect fraud, waste, and mismanagement in agency programs and operations. The Office provides a means for keeping the Administrator and Congress fully informed about problems and deficiencies i n the administration of such programs and operations and the necessity for corrective action. This includes such activities as receiving and investigating employee complaints and reviewing proposed legislation and regulations. The Office maintains a toll- free telephone number for complaints concerning fraud, waste, and mismanagement in agency programs. The number is 800-424-5210; or in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area, call 202-501-1780. For further information, call 202-501-0466. Administration The Office of Administration participates in the executive leadership of the agency, providing advice on major policies and procedures, particularly those of a critical or controversial nature, to the Administrator and the Deputy Administra tor. The Office plans and administers programs in organization, personnel services, audit and inspection reports, management controls, and agencywide administrative services that includes providing and outfitting State and district offices for Members of the Senate and House of Representatives. The Office is responsible as the agency's point of contact for matters involving the Office of Special Counsel and the Merit Systems Protection Board. It provides positive leadership for the agency's commitment to excellence in management practices and techniques in interactions with the Congress, other Federal agencies, and the private sector. The Office is also responsible for providing support to the Cooperative Administrative Support Program, and coordinating a nd administering the President's Quality and Productivity Improvement Program and the personnel, document, industrial, and physical security programs. Within the Office of Administration is the Committee Management Secretariat, which is responsible for administration of the Federal Advisory Committee Program and prepares the annual report of the President to the Congress on the status of these committees, including recommendations on improving their operations. Also within the Office of Administration is the Office of Workplace Initiatives, which provides advice and assistance on various programs designed to furnish a family-friendly workplace for GSA and other Federal employees. Among these programs a re alternative workplace arrangements, including: telecommuting, work-at-home, child care, and dependent care. For further information, call 202-501-0945. Chief Financial Officer The Office of the Chief Financial Officer is responsible for overall financial management within the General Services Administration. This involves developing and maintaining integrated agency accounting, financial management, and budgeting systems; developing financial management policies and procedures; central administration of budget formulation and execution; preparing financial reports and statements; and cyclical reviewing of fees, royalties, rents, and other charges imposed by the agency for the goods and services that it provides. The Office also develops and manages GSA's commercial activities program, manages its executive information system, and coordinates its strategic planning process. The Office of Finance provides accounting expertise and reports on Indian Tribal Claims pending before the U.S. Court of Claims as assigned by the Department of Justice, and provides cross-servicing to over 50 commissions and small agencies. For further information, call 202-501-1721. Ethics and Civil Rights The Office of Ethics and Civil Rights is responsible for developing and directing the agency's programs governing employee standards of ethical conduct and equal employment opportunity. For further information, call 202-501-0765. FTS2000 The Office of Federal Telecommunications System 2000 (FTS2000) provides common-user, long-distance telecommunications services. The FTS2000 program offers the Federal Government low-cost, state-of-the-art, integrated voice, data, and video telecom munications. Program services are provided through two multi-billion dollar, 10-year contracts that were awarded to the American Telephone & Telegraph Company (AT&T) and Sprint in December 1988. This Office provides leadership, policy, program direction, and program oversight for ensuring a timely, high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective Governmentwide program for intercity telecommunications services. For further information, call 202-208-7493. Information Resources Management Service The Information Resources Management Service is responsible for the coordination and direction of a comprehensive, Governmentwide program for the management, procurement, and utilization of automated data processing and local telecommunications equipment and services; planning and directing programs for improving Federal records and information management practices; and providing information to the public through the Federal Information Center. Governmentwide Information Resources Management Assistance The General Services Administration provides Governmentwide programs to assist Federal agencies in managing their information resources. The Office of Technical Assistance (OTA) provides technical and contracting assistance through three complementary programs: the Federal Systems Integration and Management System (FEDSIM); the Federal Computer Acquisition Center (FEDCAC); and the Federal Information System Support Program (FISSP). This assistance is provided on a reimbursable, nonmandatory basis to agencies utilizing the system. FEDSIM provides technical and contractual services to Federal agencies in acquisition, integration, management, and the use of information systems and information technology. FEDCAC competitively conducts large dollar value information processing resources acquisitions for Federal agencies. These acquisitions include systems hardware; systems software; and associated services such as maintenance, training, and system s analysis support. FISSP allows OTA to consolidate relatively small, quick-reaction, technical services project requirements for other agencies in order to reduce costs. For further information, contact the Office of Technical Assistance, Suite 400, 5203 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041. Phone, 703-756-4100. Agency Management Assistance The Service conducts several management assistance programs that assist agencies in improving their information-related functions and activities. Among these are a Trail Boss Program that helps Federal agencies prepare for maj or acquisitions, a review program that evaluates agency information resource procurement and management activities, and an agency-directed program of information resources management review. The Service prepares and generates recommendations to agencies o n information resource management, which may result in varied procurement authority for information technology, and publishes handbooks related to information management practices and systems. For further information, contact the Office of Information Resources Management Policy. Phone, 202-501-0202. Information Resources Management Policy The Service is responsible for coordinating policymaking activities related to information functions and authorities; developing, coordinating, and issuing Governmentwide automatic data processing and telecommunicat ions acquisition management and use regulations; evaluating policy, regulatory, and legislative proposals from sources outside of the Service; developing guidance documents relating to records management and technology acquisition; issuing delegations of procurement authority to agencies; and reviewing agency information resource activities. For further information, contact the Office of Information Resources Management Policy. Phone, 202-501-0202. Information Resources Procurement The Service plays a major role in the Governmentwide procurement of automatic data processing and telecommunications hardware, software, and services. In providing its acquisition services, the agency seeks out and obtain s the best buys; obtains the best leasing and/or purchase price arrangements; when possible, utilizes excess equipment to fill procurement requests; negotiates long-term procurement actions to achieve cost reductions; and continually strives to improve Fe deral procurement practices. For further information, contact the Office of Information Resources Procurement. Phone, 202-501-1072. Telecommunications Services The Service develops policies and procedures and defines standards for GSA's Local Service Program. Under this program, the agency provides telecommunications services and products to Federal agencies at locations where it is e conomically beneficial. The Service also plays a major role in Governmentwide activities to improve the interagency Information Resources Management (IRM) infrastructure through the Interagency IRM Infrastructure Task Group. The Service is presently moving forward with an Aggregated Systems Procurement Program that replaces local telecommunications systems and upgrades service at selected locations nationwide. It has implemented the replacement of the large tariffed system in the Nation's Capital with the Washington Interagency Telecommunications System and has placed purchase-of-telecommunications-services contracts nationwide except for the New England area and Alaska to satisfy the Government's requirements for c ustomer-provided telecommunications equipment and services. These requirements can be satisfied in New England using the Aggregated Systems Procurement Program contract and in Alaska using other telecommunications contracts. The Service also administers a nationwide telecommunications support services contract. The Service implements and manages the Federal Secure Telephone Service, providing worldwide secure voice, data, and communications security services transmissions for the Federal Government. It manages and administers the National Security Emer gency Preparedness Telecommunications Program activities. It ensures that the agency supports Governmentwide national security and domestic emergency plans, including those promulgated by the National Communications System. For further information, contact the Office of Telecommunications Services. Phone, 202-501-0308. Internal Information Systems Management In addition to its Governmentwide responsibilities, the Information Resources Management Service designs, implements, and executes GSA's information technology program, overseeing the development and effectiveness o f the agency's internal policy governing the acquisition and use of automated information systems equipment and facilities. The Service prepares GSA's 5-year Information Resources Management Plan for Automated Information and monitors performance of the plan. It formulates and oversees policy, direction, and implementation of an information framework supporting the a gency's internal and external business functions and strategic plans. It is responsible for overall GSA computer performance management and capacity planning, and for the development, design, and implementation of data communications systems required to l ink GSA's computers. The Service provides agencywide automated information assistance to end-users, including those requiring special accommodations. For further information, contact the Office of GSA Information Systems. Phone, 202-501-1800. Federal Information Center Program The Federal Information Center Program, a clearinghouse for information about the Federal Government, can eliminate the maze of referrals that people have experienced in contacting the Federal Government. Persons with qu estions about a Government program or agency, and who are unsure of which office can help, may call the Center. A specialist will either answer the question or locate an expert who can. Residents of more than 70 key cities have direct access to the Center via toll-free (800) telephone service, and callers in four States -- Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska -- have statewide toll-free service. Users of telecommunications devi ces for the deaf (TDD/TTY) may call a nationwide toll-free number: 800-326-2996. For further information, call the Federal Information Center in your area. ---------------------------(TABLE START)--------------------------- Federal Information Center -- General Services Administration (If your metropolitan area or State is not listed, please call 301-722-9000. TDD/TTY users, please call 800-326-2996.) head level 1 :State/City head level 1 :Telephone ----------------------------------------------------------------- ALABAMA: Birmingham ....... 800-366-2998 Mobile ....... 800-366-2998 ALASKA: Anchorage ....... 800-729-8003 ARIZONA: Phoenix ....... 800-359-3997 ARKANSAS: Little Rock ....... 800-366-2998 CALIFORNIA: Los Angeles ....... 800-726-4995 Sacramento ....... 800-726-4995 San Diego ....... 800-726-4995 San Francisco ....... 800-726-4995 Santa Ana ....... 800-726-4995 COLORADO: Colorado Springs ....... 800-359-3997 Denver ....... 800-359-3997 Pueblo ....... 800-359-3997 CONNECTICUT: Hartford ....... 800-347-1997 New Haven ....... 800-347-1997 FLORIDA: Ft. Lauderdale ....... 800-347-1997 Jacksonville ....... 800-347-1997 Miami ....... 800-347-1997 Orlando ....... 800-347-1997 St. Petersburg ....... 800-347-1997 Tampa ....... 800-347-1997 West Palm Beach ....... 800-347-1997 GEORGIA: Atlanta ....... 800-347-1997 HAWAII: Honolulu ....... 800-733-5996 ILLINOIS: Chicago ....... 800-366-2998 INDIANA: Gary ....... 800-366-2998 Indianapolis ....... 800-347-1997 IOWA: From all points ....... 800-735-8004 KANSAS: From all points ....... 800-735-8004 KENTUCKY: Louisville ....... 800-347-1997 LOUISIANA: New Orleans ....... 800-366-2998 MARYLAND: Baltimore ....... 800-347-1997 MASSACHUSETTS: Boston ....... 800-347-1997 MICHIGAN: Detroit ....... 800-347-1997 Grand Rapids ....... 800-347-1997 MINNESOTA: Minneapolis ....... 800-366-2998 MISSOURI: St. Louis ....... 800-366-2998 From elsewhere in Missouri ....... 800-735-8004 NEBRASKA: Omaha ....... 800-366-2998 From elsewhere in Nebraska ....... 800-735-8004 NEW JERSEY: Newark ....... 800-347-1997 Trenton ....... 800-347-1997 NEW MEXICO: Albuquerque ....... 800-359-3997 NEW YORK: Albany ....... 800-347-1997 Buffalo ....... 800-347-1997 New York ....... 800-347-1997 Rochester ....... 800-347-1997 Syracuse ....... 800-347-1997 NORTH CAROLINA: Charlotte ....... 800-347-1997 OHIO: Akron ....... 800-347-1997 Cincinnati ....... 800-347-1997 Cleveland ....... 800-347-1997 Columbus ....... 800-347-1997 Dayton ....... 800-347-1997 Toledo ....... 800-347-1997 OKLAHOMA: Oklahoma City ....... 800-366-2998 Tulsa ....... 800-366-2998 OREGON: Portland ....... 800-726-4995 PENNSYLVANIA: Philadelphia ....... 800-347-1997 Pittsburgh ....... 800-347-1997 RHODE ISLAND: Providence ....... 800-347-1997 TENNESSEE: Chattanooga ....... 800-347-1997 Memphis ....... 800-366-2998 Nashville ....... 800-366-2998 TEXAS: Austin ....... 800-366-2998 Dallas ....... 800-366-2998 Ft. Worth ....... 800-366-2998 Houston ....... 800-366-2998 San Antonio ....... 800-366-2998 UTAH: Salt Lake City ....... 800-359-3997 VIRGINIA: Norfolk ....... 800-347-1997 Richmond ....... 800-347-1997 Roanoke ....... 800-347-1997 WASHINGTON: Seattle ....... 800-726-4995 Tacoma ....... 800-726-4995 WISCONSIN: Milwaukee ....... 800-366-2998 ----------------------------(TABLE END)-------------------------- Federal Information Relay Service (FIRS) The Federal Information Relay Service serves as an intermediary between hearing and hearing-impaired and speech-impaired individuals for nationwide communications with and within the Federal Government. The Service enables Federal employees to conduct official duties and allows the general public to conduct business with the Federal Government and its agencies. FIRS also encourages direct communications between individuals using telecommunications devices for the d eaf (TDD's) by maintaining an on-line bulletin board and by publishing an annual directory of Federal TDD telephone numbers. To utilize the Federal Information Relay Service, call 800-877-8339 (toll-free). To obtain a FIRS brochure call 800-877-0996 (toll-free). These numbers serve both voice and TDD calls. To access the Federal Information Relay Service bulletin board of TDD numbers, call 800-877-8845 (toll-free). For a free copy of the directory, write to: U.S. Government TDD Directory, Customer Information Center, Pueblo, CO 81009. For further information, contact the Office of Regional Liaison and IRM Management. Phone, 202-501-1937 (voice) or 202-501-2860 (TDD). Specialized Data Centers The Service operates several programs that collect and maintain information on equipment of interest to the public and the private sector. The Federal Procurement Data Center provides information regarding goods and services bought by the Federal Government. The Center is a unique source of consolidated information about Federal purchases, and the data is readily available through reports prepared by the Center. The Federal Equipment Data Center operates the Automatic Data Processing Equipment Data System Program, which collects and maintains information regarding general-purpose processing equipment being used by the Federal Government. Information is collected and disseminated on federally operated domestic assistance programs, such as grants, and is available in an annual catalog and through a nationally accessible computer system. For further information, contact the Automated External Information Division. Phone, 703-235-2870. Domestic Assistance Catalog The Federal Domestic Assistance Catalog Program collects and disseminates information on all federally operated domestic assistance programs such as grants, loans, and insurance. This information is published annually in the Ca talog of Federal Domestic Assistance, and is available through the Federal Assistance Programs Retrieval System, a nationally accessible computer system. For further information, contact the Federal Domestic Assistance Catalog staff. Phone, 202-708-5126. Federal Supply Service The Federal Supply Service (FSS) provides quality goods and services required by Federal departments and agencies to assure that their needs are efficiently and effectively met, at the least possible cost to the taxpayer. Towards this goal, FSS operates a worldwide supply system to contract for and distribute personal property and services to Federal agencies. FSS provides Governmentwide programs for transportation, mail and travel management, transportation audits, Federal fleet management, and management of aircraft owned or operated by civilian agencies in support of their missions; and administers a Governmentwide property management program for the utilization of excess personal property and the donation and/or sale of surplus property. The Service provides over $8 billion annually in common-use goods and services. Over 3,000 environmentally oriented products are provided by FSS to the Federal Government. In compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and Executive orders, FS S helps the Government conserve energy, recycle used materials, and purchase products that are environmentally sound. These efforts enable Federal agencies to meet their requirements as established by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, and to fol low the guidelines established by the Environmental Protection Agency, for recycled items. As a provider of supplies, FSS determines the method of supply that is most economical and effective from among its Stock, Special Order, and Federal Supply Schedule Programs. Through the FSS Stock Program, Federal workers are able to perform th eir functions by using over 20,000 commercial items which are received, stored, and issued through its wholesale distribution system. Under the Special Order Program supplies or services, for which demand is limited or related to special needs, are purcha sed by FSS for direct shipment from the vendor to the user. The Federal Supply Schedule Program is utilized when Federal requirements are widely diversified and/or there is a rapidly evolving state of technology present with the product lines or services. Each year FSS establishes numerous multimillion-dollar contracts in the Stock and Schedules Programs for environmentally oriented products -- ranging from recycled items such as retread tires, office supplies, and insulation and shipping boxes with recyc led content to energy and water saving devices and chemically reformulated industrial products. To eliminate unnecessary expenditures and maximize the utilization of federally owned personal property, FSS directs and coordinates, on a worldwide basis, a Government property management program. Under this program, excess personal property va lued at approximately $11.8 billion annually is available for transfer to other agencies and, when no longer needed by the Federal Government, is allocated to the States for donation to eligible recipients or disposed of through competitive public sales. The Federal Supply Service administers Governmentwide programs for transportation and travel management, transportation audits, and fleet management to meet the requirements of Federal agencies. Through its travel management programs, FSS provid es commercial travel agents to assist in arranging itineraries and securing tickets for Federal travelers; ensures economical transportation from commercial carriers (airlines and AMTRAK) for Government employees on official travel; negotiates for discoun t hotel accommodations; and provides for the issuance of official travel charge cards. To provide agencies with economical fleet management services, FSS operates an Interagency Fleet Management System comprised of 140,000 vehicles. In conjunction with the Department of Energy, FSS is introducing alternative fuel vehicles into the Federal fleet. These vehicles are being acquired under the auspices of the Alternative Motor Fuels Act of 1988, the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, the Energy Policy Act of 1992, Executive Order 12759 of April 17, 1991, and Executive Order 12844 of Apr il 21, 1993. Currently, GSA has 6,319 alternative-fueled vehicles for the Interagency Fleet Management System in operation, making it the largest Federal fleet user of alternative-fueled vehicles. These vehicles, provided by original equipment manufacture rs, include 5,415 flexible-fueled methanol sedans (operating on methanol, unleaded gasoline, or both), 20 flexible-fueled methanol vans, 75 flexible-fueled ethanol sedans (operating on ethanol, unleaded gasoline, or both), 600 dedicated compressed natural gas pickup trucks, and 209 dedicated compressed natural gas vans. In fiscal year 1994, GSA acquired over 4,000 alternative-fueled vehicles, and plans to expand its fleet in the future. As the Government's civilian freight manager, FSS provides rating and routing services to customer agencies at 20-50 percent off commercial rates, as well as small package overnight delivery service at a savings of 70 percent below commercial ra tes. FSS manages the centralized post-payment audit of freight and passenger transportation bills to ensure that the lowest applicable rates are paid. This includes identifying and collecting overcharges due from carriers, and settling claims on beha lf of the Government. FSS delegates prepayment audit authority to agencies to audit transportation bills prior to payment if determined to be cost-effective or otherwise beneficial to the public. In addition, FSS coordinates Governmentwide policy development for the management of Government aircraft through the Interagency Committee for Aviation Policy. Through its Federal Aviation Management Information System, FSS stores aircraft and f acility inventory, cost and utilization data, and contract, rental, and charter data pertinent to all civilian agency aircraft. FSS also establishes Governmentwide policy and training to ensure that Federal agencies efficiently manage their incoming, internal, and outbound mail consistent with agency mission requirements. For further information, contact the Federal Supply Service, Washington, DC 20406. Phone, 703-305-6646. Public Buildings Service The Public Buildings Service (PBS) is responsible for the design, building or leasing, appraisal, repair, operation, protection, and maintenance of many federally controlled buildings in the Nation. It has responsibility for 260 million square f eet of space, excluding outside parking areas, in about 7,200 federally owned and leased buildings, in addition to approximately $6.4 billion in construction projects currently underway. The President issued Executive Order 12512 of April 29, 1985, which gave PBS the responsibility to provide leadership in the development and maintenance of needed property management information systems for the Government. The Public Buildings Act of 1959 (40 U.S.C. 601-615) gave PBS authority over the construction of most Federal public buildings nationwide. This act was expanded by the Public Buildings Amendments of 1972. It established a new method of funding P BS operations through a special fund financed from user charges paid by agencies using agency-controlled space. The Public Buildings Cooperative Use Act of 1976 (90 Stat. 2505) was signed into law on October 18, 1976. This legislation changed the way PBS manages Federal buildings by allowing occupancy of space by commercial tenants. The law also encourage d renovation and conversion to Federal use of older buildings of historic or cultural value. For further information, call 202-501-1100. Design and Construction As a Federal construction agency, PBS plans and executes a major design and construction program to expand and modernize its nationwide inventory of buildings for housing Federal agencies. New construction projects are undertaken f or long-term housing needs -- either to meet new space requests or to replace leaseholds with more economically owned space. Repair and alteration projects are performed as necessary to keep the buildings safe, efficient, and serviceable. Architectural an d engineering studies and other consultation services are performed to support other functional areas within PBS. Such services, as well as construction management services, are provided to other agencies. The program is executed by 10 regional offices, p redominately through contracting with private sector design and construction professionals. The Public Buildings Service conducts applied research to develop and maintain facility standards and criteria based on state-of-the-art technology for application in its design and construction program. Emphasis in other areas such as energy co nservation, handicapped accessibility, historic preservation, and art-in-architecture are actively pursued. For further information, contact the Office of Real Property Development. Phone, 202-501-1025. Real Estate The Public Buildings Service is responsible for managing the acquisition, assignment, and utilization of general-purpose, Government-owned and -leased space for Federal agencies. A nationwide organization of real estate professionals executes this task through 10 regional offices as well as a number of facility support centers. Professional standards, practices, and techniques, including professional space planning and programming and computer-aided design, are used to assist client agencies i n determining requirements and developing technical specifications for leasing, construction, or alteration of space. A key goal is to deliver the optimum amount of quality workspace to support agency activities cost effectively to the Government. The rea l estate organization oversees execution of a $2.1 billion leasing budget as well as a building purchase program that buys commercial office buildings to meet Federal space needs. For further information, contact the Office of Real Property Development. Phone, 202-501-1025. Real Property Management and Safety The objective of PBS is to provide an attractive, well-maintained, and safe setting in which Federal employees will feel stimulated and proud to work. The management of federally owned and leased buildings encompasses such activities as the operation, maintenance, repair, and alteration of the structures, as well as safety, energy conservation, and concessions programs. The comprehensive fire, occupational safety, health, and environmental programs further enhance the work environment for employees in GSA-controlled facilities. PBS' environmental responsibilities are particularly focused on recycling and energy conservation programs. In addition, PBS oversees the operations and management of GSA-controlled facilities which have been delegated to other agencies. For further information, contact the Office of Real Property Management and Safety. Phone, 202-501-0971. Physical Security and Law Enforcement The Public Buildings Service is responsible for law enforcement and security services that are provided to occupants and visitors on property under the agency's charge and control. These services encompass preventive patrolling and timely responses to criminal occurrences, incidents, and life-threatening events; investigation of crimes and violations of Federal statutes; implementation of crime prevention activities, including tenant awareness programs; coordination o f a comprehensive occupant emergency program; installation and maintenance of security devices and systems; performance of physical security surveys and vulnerability assessments; and a wide range of physical security advisory and consulting services. For further information, contact the Office of Physical Security and Law Enforcement. Phone, 202-501-0887. Planning The Office of Planning provides a program for PBS which is coordinated among the national, community, and building project levels to provide the best framework for project development. This planning process ensures that the long-range housing req uirements of the Federal workforce are satisfied in the most economic and effective manner by analyzing and comparing the costs and impacts of various housing alternatives including construction, direct acquisition, facility alteration, and lease options. At the national level, the Office prepares a strategic plan for PBS as a national organization. This strategic plan, prepared with the input and cooperation of all the other offices of PBS, provides guidance and direction for all policy and prog ram development. At both the national and community levels, the Office analyzes housing alternatives to determine the most efficient and cost-effective ways to provide space. The plans are developed in conjunction with tenant agencies to ensure that they are housed in locations and facilities that maximize their operational efficiency. In working at the community level, the Office of Planning is concerned with the social, economic, and cultural well-being of the Nation's communities and makes every effort to ensure that PBS activities will have a positive impact upon these communities. PBS promotes and encourages intergovernmental cooperation and coordination with State and local governments in their urban planning, land use, zoning, historic preservation , and environmental programs. At the project level, PBS prepares its projects in keeping with its national and community level planning. In addition, PBS conducts environmental impact analyses, which are coupled with economic and technical project analyse s, to ensure that environmental considerations are included in the project development effort. For further information, contact the Office of Planning. Phone, 202-501-0638. Procurement Primary procurement functions are conducted in regional contracts divisions which are responsible for awarding and administering contracts for new construction, repair and alteration, architect-engineer and other professional services, facilit ies operations, and public utility services. The overall procurement program is managed in the Office of Procurement in Washington, DC. That Office develops and issues procurement policies and regulations, evaluates regional workload and resource requirem ents, monitors contracting performance functions, and awards and administers contracts for PBS' central office services. For further information, contact the Office of Procurement. Phone, 202-501-0907. Public Utilities Management In managing the public utilities program, PBS reviews public utility rate schedules to determine the adequacy of the rates in respect to the Government as a consumer; negotiates utility rates and contracts for general Governmen t use and for numerous special situations; and on behalf of Federal agencies, provides advice and expert testimony in proceedings before regulatory bodies when the Government's interest as a consumer needs to be protected. In addition, Governmentwide stan dards concerning the procurement, use, and conservation of utilities are issued to regulate and furnish management guidance in this area. For further information, contact the Office of Procurement. Phone, 202-501-0907. Governmentwide Real Property Relations The Public Building Service (PBS) develops, directs, and administers comprehensive programs in the areas of client and supplier liaison, art, and historic preservation. In serving as real property manager for other F ederal agencies, PBS explores ways of improving communications and fostering better working relationships with its clients, as well as becoming recognized as a leader in asset management. PBS conducts market research and analysis, promotes its programs an d accomplishments at industry trade shows and conferences, and develops informational materials to better educate clients on programs and initiatives. PBS sets standards and develops guidelines for preserving its historic properties and archeological site s consistent with the provisions of the Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended. In addition, the Service sets standards and is responsible for commissioning artworks for Federal buildings and for the management oversight, conservation, and curating of agency-owned works of art. For further information, contact the Office of Governmentwide Real Property Relations. Phone, 202-501-0856. PBS Information Systems PBS is responsibe for planning, developing, and administering a comprehensive, servicewide information management program. In addition, PBS is responsible for both implementing a generic, Governmentwide real property management sys tem, as required by Executive Order 12512 of April 29, 1985, and for assisting other Federal agencies in utilizing the system. For further information, call 202-501-9100. Federal Property Resources Service The Federal Property Resources Service maintains an extensive program to provide for the proper utilization and disposal of Government real property. The goal of this program is to provide for the efficient and economical utilization of Federal real property and the disposal of any real property surplus to Federal requirements. In furtherance of this goal, the Service directs a continuing survey of Federal real properties to determine if they are not utilized, underutilized, or being put to their optimum use. Property worth millions of dollars has been reported excess to the agency for further Federal utilization or disposal as a direct result of the survey program. Property no longer needed by a Federal agency is reported as excess to the Service for disposal. Excess property may be transferred to another Federal agency for its use in lieu of acquiring additional facilities. Property that is not needed by any Federal agency is determined surplus and may be made available for local public purposes specified by law. Such properties are also made available to homeless providers for homeless assistance purposes when det ermined suitable by the Department of Housing and Urban Development under the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act. Properties not needed for Federal purposes and not transferred to a local public body for authorized public uses are generally disposed of through negotiated or public competitive sale. The Service also conducts sales, on a reimbursable basis, for other agencies having their own disposal authority. For further information, contact the Office of Real Estate Policy and Sales. Phone, 202-501-0084. Regional Offices Regional offices are located in 11 U.S. cities. Within its area of jurisdiction, each regional office is responsible for executing assigned programs. ---------------------------(TABLE START)--------------------------- Regional Offices -- General Services Administration (Areas included within each region are indicated on the map in Appendix A.) head level 1 : head level 1 :Headquarters/Address head level 1 :Administrator ----------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Boston, MA (10 Causeway St., 02222) ....... (Vacancy) 2. New York, NY (26 Federal Plz., 10278) ....... Robert W. Martin, Acting 3. Philadelphia, PA (100 Penn Sq. E., 19107-3396) ....... Thurman M. Davis, Acting 4. Atlanta, GA (Suite 2800, 401 W. Peachtree St. NW., 30365) ....... Larry Allison, Acting 5. Chicago, IL (230 S. Dearborn St., 60604) ....... James G. Whitlock, Acting 6. Kansas City, MO (1500 E. Bannister Rd., 64131) ....... Bond R. Faulwell, Acting 7. Ft. Worth, TX (819 Taylor St., 76102) ....... Arlene Schley, Acting 8. Denver, CO (Denver Federal Ctr., 80225-0006) ....... George B. Moore, Acting 9. San Francisco, CA (525 Market St., 94105) ....... Wolfgang J. Zoellner, Acting 10. Auburn, WA (GSA Ctr., 98002) ....... John T. Myers, Acting National Capital Region, Washington, DC (7th and D Sts. SW., 20407) ....... June V. Huber, Acting ----------------------------(TABLE END)-------------------------- For further information, contact the Office of Regional Operations. Phone, 202-501-0397. Sources of Information Consumer Information Center Organized under the Office of Public Affairs is the Consumer Information Center, a program that assists Federal agencies in the release of relevant and useful consumer information and generates increased public awareness of thi s information. The Center publishes quarterly the Consumer Information Catalog, which is free to the public and lists more than 200 free or low-cost Federal consumer interest publications. Topics include health, food, nutrition, money management, employme nt, Federal benefits, the environment, and education. The Catalog is widely distributed through congressional offices, Federal facilities, educators, State and local governmental consumer offices, and private nonprofit organizations. For a free copy of th e Catalog, write to Consumer Information Catalog, Pueblo, CO 81009. Phone, 719-943-4000. Bulk copies are free to nonprofit organizations. Contracts Individuals seeking to do business with the General Services Administration may obtain detailed information from the Business Service Centers listed on page 616. Inquiries concerning programs to assist small business should be directed to one of the Business Service Centers. Employment Inquiries and applications should be directed to the Personnel Operations Division (CPS), Office of Personnel, General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20405. Schools interested in the recruitment program should contact the Personnel Ope rations Division (CPS), Office of Personnel, Washington, DC 20405 (phone, 202-501-0370), and/or the appropriate regional office listed on page 626. Freedom of Information and Privacy Act Requests Inquiries concerning policies pertaining to Freedom of Information Act and Privacy Act matters should be addressed to the General Services Administration (CAIR), Attn: GSA FOIA or Privacy Act Officer, Room 7 102, Washington, DC 20405. Phone, 202-501-2691. TDD callers may use the Federal Information Relay Service (phone, 202-708-9300; fax, 202-501-2727). FOIA or Privacy Act requests concerning GSA regions should be directed to the FOIA or Privacy Act officers for the particular region. See the listing on page 626. Public and News Media Inquiries The Office of Public Affairs is responsible for the coordination of responses to inquiries from both the general public and news media, as well as for maintaining an information network with agency employees with regard to items of interest to the Federal worker. The Office, through its Office of Media Relations, issues news releases. Its Office of Communications is responsible for printing the GSA Update, a weekly bulletin of noteworthy items designed to keep agency employ ees apprised of pertinent issues, and GSA Today, a bimonthly employee newspaper. Publications Many publications are available at moderate prices through the bookstores of the Government Printing Office or from customer supply centers. Others may be obtained free or at production cost from a Business Service Center or a Federal Informa tion Center. (See pages 616 and 620, respectively.) The telephone numbers and addresses of the Federal Information Centers and of the Government Printing Office bookstores are listed in local telephone directories. If a publication is not distributed by a ny of the centers or stores, inquiries should be directed to the originating agency's service or office. The addresses for inquiries are: Public Buildings Service (P), General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20405 Federal Supply Service (F), General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20406 Office of Finance (BC), General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20405 Information Resources Management Service (K), General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20405 Federal Property Resources Service (D), General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20405 Those who would like a brief index of publications or who are not certain of the service or office of origin should write to the Director of Publications, Office of Communications (XS), General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20405. Phon e, 202-501-1235. Small Business Activities Inquiries concerning programs to assist small businesses should be directed to one of the Business Service Centers listed on page 616. Speakers Inquiries and requests for speakers should be directed to the Office of Public Affairs (X), General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20405 (phone, 202-501-0705); or contact the nearest regional office. For further information concerning the General Services Administration, contact the Office of Public Affairs (X), General Services Administration, Washington, DC 20405. Phone, 202-501-0705.