The Secretary is the head of the Department. The Secretary exercises oversight of all of the OST components, as well as each of the Operating Administrations, and overall planning, direction, and control of the Department's agenda.

(a) All powers and duties that are not delegated by the Secretary in this part, or otherwise vested in officials other than the Secretary, are reserved to the Secretary. Except as otherwise provided, the Secretary may exercise powers and duties delegated or assigned to officials other than the Secretary.

(b) The delegations of authority in subpart C (Office of the Inspector General) and subpart D (Operating Administrations) of this part do not extend to the following actions, authority for which is reserved to the Secretary or the Secretary's delegatee within the Office of the Secretary:

(1) General transportation matters.

(i) Transportation leadership authority pursuant to 49 U.S.C. 301 (Duties of the Secretary of Transportation: Leadership, consultation, and cooperation).

(ii) Functions relating to transportation activities, plans, and programs under 49 U.S.C. 304 (Joint activities with the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development).

(iii) Authority to develop, prepare, coordinate, transmit, and revise transportation investment standards and criteria under 49 U.S.C. 305 (Transportation investment standards and criteria).

(iv) Authority relating to standard time zones and advanced (daylight) time (15 U.S.C. 260 et seq.).

(2) Legislation, rulemakings, and reports. (i) Submission to the President, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, or Congress of proposals or recommendations for legislation, significant rulemakings and related documents as authorized by law, Executive Orders, proclamations or reorganization plans, or other Presidential action.

(ii) Submission to the President or Congress of any report or any proposed transportation policy or investment standards or criteria, except with the prior written approval of the Secretary.

(iii) Submission of the annual statement on systems of internal accounting and administrative control under the Federal Managers' Financial Integrity Act of 1982 (FMFIA) (31 U.S.C. 3512 note).

(3) Budget and finance. (i) Approval and submission to the Office of Management and Budget of original or amended budget estimates or requests for allocations of personnel ceiling (31 U.S.C. 1108).

(ii) Approval of requests for legislation which, if enacted, would authorize subsequent appropriations for the Department (31 U.S.C. 581b).

(iii) Transfer of the balance of an appropriation from one operating element to another within the Department (31 U.S.C. 581c).

(iv) Submission to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget of requests for the transfer of the balance or portions of an appropriation from one element to another within the Department (31 U.S.C. 665).

(4) Personnel. (i) Recommendations to the Office of Personnel Management regarding the allocation of a position to the Senior Executive Service (SES) or Senior Level (SL), or Scientific and Professional Positions (ST) (5 U.S.C. 5108).

(ii) Recommendations to the Office of Personnel Management of approval of the qualifications of any candidate for a position in the SES or SL.

(iii) Recommendations to the Office of Personnel Management of a Lump-Sum Incentive Award in Excess of $10,000 (5 U.S.C. 4502).

(iv) Approval of the following actions relating to Schedules A, B, C, or D (5 CFR part 213) and noncareer executive assignment positions or incumbents, except for actions under Schedules A and B limited to one year or less at grade GS-9 or lower, or an equivalent level:

(A) Establishment or abolition of positions;

(B) Hires;

(C) Promotions other than quality and periodic within-grade promotions;

(D) Transfer of personnel to Schedule A, B, C, or D positions or non-career executive assignment positions, either permanently or on detail; and

(E) Transfer of personnel from Schedule A, B, C, or D or non-career executive assignment positions to career Civil Service positions.

(v) Approval of employment of experts or consultants.

(vi) Authority to determine the maximum limit of age for appointment of air traffic controllers as provided by 5 U.S.C. 3307(b).

(vii) Authority to develop, coordinate, and issue wage schedules under the Federal Wage system.

(5) Security. (i) Authorizing the filling of a critical-sensitive position for a limited period by a person on whom a preappointment full field investigation has not been completed (Executive Order 10450) as amended and Executive Order 12968 as amended by Executive Order 13467.

(ii) Requesting Presidential approval of a claim of executive privilege with respect to information requested by a Congressional committee or Member of Congress.

(iii) Making determinations prescribed by Executive Order 12968 as amended by Executive Order 13467 and 32 CFR part 147 relating to the adjudication and final denial of access to classified information to industry personnel.

(iv) Making those determinations or delegations prescribed by Executive Order 13526 that are reserved to the head of the Department.

(6) Procurement. Exercising the extraordinary authority for defense contracts provided for in Pub. L. 85-804 [(50 U.S.C. 1431-1435)].

(7) Printing. Requesting approval of the Joint Committee on Printing for any procurement or other action requiring Committee approval.

(8) Interagency agreements. Executing any written interdepartmental or interagency agreement with the head of another executive department or agency.

(9) Withholding of funds. Withholding or suspension of Federal-Aid Highway funds on a state-wide basis and the waiver or compromise of such withholding or suspension, except for the administration of 23 U.S.C. 141, 158, 159, 161, and 163 which are specifically delegated in §§ 1.85 (FHWA) and 1.95 (NHTSA).

(10) National Highway Safety Advisory Committee. Directing the National Highway Safety Advisory Committee to meet (23 U.S.C. 404(c)).

(11) Maritime Subsidy Board. Reviewing decisions, reports, orders and other actions of the Maritime Subsidy Board.

(12) Cash purchases of passenger transportation. The authority under 41 CFR 301-51.100 to authorize and approve cash purchases for emergency passenger transportation services costing more than $100.

(13) Solicitation of gifts. The implied authority to solicit gifts associated with 49 U.S.C. 326(a).

(14) Foreign travel. Approving official travel outside of the United States.

(15) United States Merchant Marine Academy. Pursuant to 49 U.S.C. 51303, the authority to appoint each year without competition as cadets at the United States Merchant Marine Academy not more than 40 qualified individuals with qualities the Secretary considers to be of special value to the Academy.

(16) Challenges and competitions. Approving any challenge or competition administered by any office or Operating Administration of the Department.

(17) Committees. Approving the establishment, modification, extension, or termination of all advisory committees (including industry advisory committees) subject to the Federal Advisory Committee Act (Pub. L. 92-463; 5 U.S.C. App.), and the designation of Departmental representatives to those committees.

(18) Credit assistance approval. Granting final approval of applications for credit assistance under the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA), 23 U.S.C. 601-609.

Along with the Secretary, the Deputy Secretary exercises oversight of all of the OST components, as well as each of the Operating Administrations, and overall planning, direction, and control of the Department's agenda. The Deputy Secretary:

(a) May exercise the authority of the Secretary, except where specifically limited by law, order, regulation, or instructions of the Secretary;

(b) Serves as the Chief Operating Officer; and

(c) Serves as the Chief Acquisition Officer.

The Deputy Secretary may exercise the authority of the Secretary, except where specifically limited by law, order, regulations, or instructions of the Secretary. In addition, the Deputy Secretary is delegated authority to:

(a) Exercise executive control over Departmental Budgeting and Program Evaluation.

(b) Serve as Chairman of the Departmental Executive Resources Board and its Executive Committee.

(c) Serve as the Chair of the Department's Safety Council.

(d) Serve as the Chair of the Department's Credit Council.

(e) Approve the establishment, modification, extension, or termination of:

(1) Department-wide (intra-department) committees affecting more than one program.

(2) OST-sponsored interagency committees.

(f) Approve the designation of:

(1) Departmental representatives and the chairman for interagency committees sponsored by the Office of the Secretary.

(2) Departmental members for international committees.

(g) Serve as the representative of the Secretary on the board of directors of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation and carry out the functions vested in the Secretary as a member of the board by 49 U.S.C. 24302.

(h) Approve the initiation of regulatory action, as defined in Executive Order 12866, by Secretarial offices and Operating Administrations.

The Under Secretary provides leadership in the Department's development of policies and programs to protect and enhance the safety, adequacy, and efficiency of the transportation system and services. The Office of the Under Secretary serves as the focal point within the Federal Government for coordination of intermodal transportation policy, which brings together departmental intermodal perspectives, advocates intermodal interests, and provides secretarial leadership and visibility on issues that involve or affect more than one Operating Administration.

The Under Secretary is delegated the following authorities:

(a) Lead the development of transportation policy and serve as the principal adviser to the Secretary on all transportation policy matters.

(b) Establish policy and ensure uniform departmental implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, Pub. L. 91-190, as amended (42 U.S.C. 4321-4347) within the Department of Transportation.

(c) Oversee the implementation of 49 U.S.C. 303 (Policy on lands, wildlife and waterfowl refuges, and historic sites).

(d) Represent the Secretary of Transportation on various interagency boards, committees, and commissions to include the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation and the Trade Policy Review Group and the Trade Policy Staff Committee.

(e) Serve as the Department's designated principal conservation officer pursuant to section 656 of the Department of Energy Organization Act, Pub. L. 94-91 [42 U.S.C. 7266], and carry out the functions vested in the Secretary by section 656 of the Act, which pertains to planning and implementing energy conservation matters with the Department of Energy.

(f) Carry out the functions of the Secretary pertaining to aircraft with respect to Transportation Order T-1 (44 CFR chapter IV) under the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended, Pub. L. 81-774, 64 Stat. 798 [50 U.S.C. App. 2061 et seq.] and Executive Order 10480, as amended (see also Executive Order 10773 and 12919).

(g) Serve as Department of Transportation member of the Interagency Group on International Aviation, and pursuant to Executive Order 11382, as amended, serve as Chair of the Group.

(h) Serve as second alternate representing the Secretary of Transportation to the Trade Policy Committee as mandated by Reorganization Plan No. 3 of 1979 (5 U.S.C. App. at 1381), as amended, and Executive Order 12188, as amended.

(i) As supplemented by 14 CFR part 385, and except as provided in §§ 1.99(j) (RITA), and 1.27 (General Counsel) of this part, carry out the functions transferred to the Department from the Civil Aeronautics Board and other related functions and authority vested in the Secretary under the following:

(1) Sections 40103(a)(2) (relating to the consultation with the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board before prescribing regulations or procedures that will have a significant impact on accessibility of commercial airports for handicapped individuals), and (c) (relating to foreign aircrafts); 40105 (relating to international negotiations, agreements, and obligations); 40109(a), (c), (g), 46301(b) (smoke alarm penalty), (d), (f), (g) (relating to the authority to exempt certain air carriers) and (h); 40113(a) and (c); 40114(a) (relating to reports and records); 40115 (relating to the withholding of information from public disclosure) of Chapter 401 of 49 U.S.C.; and 40116 (relating to the Anti-Head Tax Act);

(2) The following chapters of title 49, U.S.C., except as related to departmental regulation of airline consumer protection and civil rights which is delegated to the General Counsel at § 1.27:

(i) Chapter 411 of title 49, U.S.C., relating to air carrier certification;

(ii) Chapter 413 of title 49, U.S.C., relating to foreign air transportation;

(iii) Chapter 415 of title 49, U.S.C., relating to pricing;

(iv) Chapter 417 of title 49, U.S.C., relating to the operations of air carriers, except sections 41721-41723;

(v) Chapter 419 of title 49, U.S.C. and 39 U.S.C. 5402, relating to the transportation of mail; and

(vi) Section 42303 of 49 U.S.C., relating to the management of the Web site regarding the use of insecticides in passenger aircraft.

(3) Section 42111 of title 49, U.S.C. with respect to mutual aid agreements as it relates to foreign air transportation;

(4) Chapters 461 and 463 of title 49, U.S.C., relating to aviation investigations, proceedings, and penalties under Part A of Subtitle VII of title 49, U.S.C. except for those sections delegated to the General Counsel under § 1.27, and to the Federal Aviation Administrator under § 1.83;

(5) Chapter 473 of title 49, U.S.C., relating to international airport facilities.

(6) Section 11 of the Clayton Act, Pub. L. 63-212 [15 U.S.C. 21], relating to air carriers and foreign air carriers.

(7) Section 3 of An Act to Encourage Travel in the United States, and for other purposes, Pub. L. 76-755, 54 Stat. 773 [16 U.S.C. 18b].

(8) Sections 108(a)(4), 621(b)(5), 704(a)(5), and 814(b)(5) of the Consumer Credit Protection Act, Pub. L. 90-321 [15 U.S.C. 1607(a)(4), 1681s(b)(5), 1691c(a)(5), and 1692l(b)(5)].

(j) Carry out the functions vested in the Secretary by 49 U.S.C. 44907(b)(1), (c), and (e) related to the security of foreign airports in coordination with the General Counsel, the Federal Aviation Administrator, and the Assistant Secretary for Administration.

(k) Carry out section 101(a)(2) of the Air Transportation Safety and System Stabilization Act, Pub. L. 107-42 [49 U.S.C. 40101 note], as delegated to the Secretary of Transportation by the President pursuant to the Presidential Memorandum dated September 25, 2001, 3 CFR, 2001 Comp., p. 911.

(l) Exercise the authority vested in the Secretary by section 11143 of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users, Pub. L. 109-59, 119 Stat. 1144 (SAFETEA-LU), to manage the day-to-day activities associated with implementation of section 11143 regarding private activity bonds and tax-exempt financing of highway projects and rail-truck facilities.

(m) In coordination with the General Counsel, carry out the duties of the Secretary under Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 to establish the values of time and statistical life in connection with assessing the costs and benefits of Departmental regulatory action.

(n) Carry out the functions vested in the Secretary by 49 U.S.C. 47129, relating to resolution of disputes over the reasonableness of fees imposed upon air carriers.

(o) Carry out the functions and exercise the authority vested in the Secretary by 23 U.S.C. 167(f) (National Freight Strategic Plan).

(a) The Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy is redelegated authority to:

(1)(i) Redelegate and authorize successive redelegation of authority granted in this paragraph (a) to officials within the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy, except as limited by law or specific administrative reservation.

(ii) Publish, in appendix A of this part, redelegations made under paragraph (a)(1)(i) of this section.

(2) Establish policy and maintain oversight of implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, Pub. L. 91-190, as amended (42 U.S.C. 4321-4347) within the Department of Transportation.

(3) Oversee the implementation of 49 U.S.C. 303 (Policy on lands, wildlife and waterfowl refuges, and historic sites).

(4) Represent the Secretary of Transportation on various interagency boards, committees, and commissions to include the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation and the Trade Policy Review Group and the Trade Policy Staff Committee.

(5) Serve as the Department's designated principal conservation officer pursuant to section 656 of the Department of Energy Organization Act, Pub. L. 94-91 [ 42 U.S.C. 7266], and carry out the functions vested in the Secretary by section 656 of the Act, which pertains to planning and implementing energy conservation matters with the Department of Energy.

(6) Carry out the functions of section 42303 of 49 U.S.C., relating to the management of the Web site regarding the use of insecticides in passenger aircraft.

(7) In coordination with the General Counsel, carry out the duties of the Secretary under Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 to establish the value of statistical life in connection with assessing the costs and benefits of Departmental regulatory action.

(8) Carry out the duties of the Secretary under Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 to establish the value of time in connection with assessing the costs and benefits of Departmental regulatory action.

(b) The Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs is redelegated authority to:

(1)(i) Redelegate and authorize successive redelegation of authority granted in this paragraph (b) to officials within the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs, except as limited by law or specific administrative reservation.

(ii) Publish, in appendix A of this part, redelegations made under paragraph (b)(1)(i) of this section.

(2) Carry out the functions of the Secretary pertaining to aircraft with respect to Transportation Order T-1 (44 CFR chapter IV) under the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended, Pub. L. 81-774, 64 Stat. 798 [50 U.S.C. App. 2061 et seq.] and Executive Order 10480, as amended (see also Executive Order 10773 and 12919).

(3) Serve as Department of Transportation member of the Interagency Group on International Aviation, and pursuant to Executive Order 11382, serve as Chair of the Group.

(4) Serve as second alternate representing the Secretary of Transportation to the Trade Policy Committee as mandated by Reorganization Plan No. 3 of 1979 (5 U.S.C. App. at 1381), as amended, and Executive Order 12188.

(5) Represent the Department of Transportation at the Trade Policy Committee Review Group and the Trade Policy Staff Committee, which were established at 15 CFR part 2002 as subordinate bodies of the Trade Policy Committee.

(6) As supplemented by 14 CFR part 385, and except as provided in §§ 1.99 (RITA), and 1.27 (General Counsel), carry out the functions transferred to the Department from the Civil Aeronautics Board and other related functions and authority vested in the Secretary under the following provisions of Title 49, U.S.C.:

(i) Sections 40103(a)(2) (relating to the consultation with the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board before prescribing regulations or procedures that will have a significant impact on accessibility of commercial airports for handicapped individuals), and (c) (relating to foreign aircrafts); 40105 (relating to international negotiations, agreements, and obligations); 40109(a), (c), (g), 46301(b) (smoke alarm penalty), (d), (f), (g) (relating to the authority to exempt certain air carriers) and (h); 40113(a) and (c); 40114(a) (relating to reports and records); 40115 (relating to the withholding of information from public disclosure; and 40116 (relating to the Anti-Head Tax Act);

(ii) The following chapters of title 49, U.S.C., except as related to departmental regulation of airline consumer protection and civil rights which is delegated to the General Counsel at § 1.27:

(A) Chapter 411, relating to air carrier certification;

(B) Chapter 413, relating to foreign air transportation;

(C) Chapter 415, relating to pricing;

(D) Chapter 417, relating to the operations of air carriers, except section 41721-41723;

(E) Chapter 419, and 39 U.S.C. 5402, relating to the transportation of mail;

(iii) Section 42111 of title 49, U.S.C. with respect to mutual aid agreements as it relates to foreign air transportation;

(iv) Chapters 461 and 463 of title 49, U.S.C., relating to aviation investigations, proceedings, and penalties under Part A of 49 U.S.C. Subtitle VII except for those sections delegated to the General Counsel under § 1.27, and to the Federal Aviation Administrator under § 1.83;

(v) Chapter 473 of title 49, U.S.C., relating to international airport facilities.

(vi) Section 11 of the Clayton Act, Pub. L. 63-212 [15 U.S.C. 21], relating to air carriers and foreign air carriers.

(vii) Section 3 of An Act to Encourage Travel in the United States, and for other purposes, Pub. L. 76-755, 54 Stat. 773 [16 U.S.C. 18b].

(viii) Sections 108(a)(4), 621(b)(5), 704(a)(5), and 814(b)(5) of the Consumer Credit Protection Act, Pub. L. 90-321 [15 U.S.C. 1607(a)(4), 1681s(b)(5), 1691c(a)(5), and 1692l(b)(5)].

(7) Carry out the functions vested in the Secretary by 49 U.S.C. 44907(b)(1), (c), and (e) related to the security of foreign airports in coordination with the General Counsel, the Federal Aviation Administrator, and the Assistant Secretary for Administration.

(8) Carry out section 101(a)(2) of the Air Transportation Safety and System Stabilization Act, Pub. L. 107-42 [49 U.S.C. 40101 note], as delegated to the Secretary of Transportation by the President pursuant to the Presidential Memorandum dated September 25, 2001, 3 CFR, 2001 Comp., p. 911.

(9) Carry out the functions vested in the Secretary by 49 U.S.C. 47129, relating to resolution of disputes over the reasonableness of fees imposed upon air carriers.

The General Counsel is the chief legal officer of the Department, legal advisor to the Secretary, and final authority within the Department on questions of law. The Office of the General Counsel provides legal advice to the Secretary and secretarial offices, and supervision, coordination, and review of the legal work of the Chief Counsel Offices in the Department. The General Counsel participates with each Operating Administrator in the performance reviews of Chief Counsel. The General Counsel is responsible for retention of outside counsel, and for the approval of the hiring and promotion of departmental attorneys (other than in the Federal Aviation Administration). The General Counsel is also responsible for departmental regulation under statutes including the Air Carrier Access Act, statutes prohibiting unfair and deceptive practices in air transportation, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program, and the Uniform Time Act. The General Counsel coordinates all international legal matters, and departmental participation in proceedings before other federal and state agencies. The General Counsel provides oversight of departmental litigation, regulation, legislation, Freedom of Information Act compliance, and administrative enforcement.

The General Counsel is delegated authority to:

(a) Conduct all rulemaking proceedings under the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program, and the Uniform Time Act, as amended (15 U.S.C. 260 et seq.).

(b) Determine the practicability of applying the standard time of any standard time zone to the movements of any common carrier engaged in interstate or foreign commerce and issue operating exceptions in any case in which the General Counsel determines that it is impractical to apply the standard time (49 CFR 71.1).

(c) Issue regulations making editorial changes or corrections to the regulations of the Office of the Secretary.

(d) Grant permission, under specific circumstances, to deviate from a policy or procedure prescribed by the regulations of the Office of the Secretary (49 CFR part 9) with respect to the testimony of OST employees as witnesses in legal proceedings, the serving of legal process and pleadings in legal proceedings involving the Secretary or his Office, and the production of records of that Office pursuant to subpoena.

(e) Respond to petitions for rulemaking or petitions for exemptions in accordance with 49 CFR 5.3, and notify petitioners of decisions in accordance with 49 CFR 5.3(d)(5).

(f) Provide counsel to employees on questions of conflict of interest covered by departmental regulations on employee responsibility and conduct.

(g) Coordinate the issuance of proposed Executive Orders and proclamations for transmittal to the Office of Management and Budget for action by the White House.

(h) Except with respect to proceedings relating to safety fitness of an applicant (49 U.S.C. 307), decide on requests to intervene or appear before courts (with the consent of the Department of Justice) or agencies to present the views of the Department, subject to the concurrence of the Secretary.

(i) Exercise the authority delegated to the Department by the Assistant Attorney General, Land and Natural Resources Division, in his order of October 2, 1970, to approve the sufficiency of the title to land being acquired by purchase or condemnation by the United States for the use of the Department. (See also Appendix 1 relating to delegations to Operating Administration Chief Counsel).

(j) Exercise the Secretary's authority under 28 U.S.C. 2672 and 28 CFR part 14, related to the administrative disposition of federal tort claims, for claims involving the Office of the Secretary.

(k) Compromise, suspend collection action on, or terminate claims of the United States that are referred to, or arise out of the activities of the Office of the Secretary of Transportation.

(l) Conduct coordination with foreign governments under section 118 of the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (30 U.S.C. 1428).

(m) Exercise review authority under 49 U.S.C. 41307 (related actions about foreign air transportation) delegated to the Secretary by the President in Executive Order 12597.

(n) Assist and protect consumers in their dealings with the air transportation industry and conduct all departmental regulation of airline consumer protection and civil rights pursuant to chapters 401 (General Provisions), 411 (Air Carrier Certificates), 413 (Foreign Air Transportation), 417 (Operations of Carriers), and 423 (Passenger Air Service Improvements) of title 49 U.S.C.

(o) Carry out the functions vested in the Secretary by 49 U.S.C. 40119(b) (Security and research and development activities), as implemented by 49 CFR part 15 (Protection of Sensitive Security Information), in consultation and coordination with the Office of Intelligence, Security and Emergency Response.

(p) Appear on behalf of the Department on the record in hearing cases, and initiate and carry out enforcement actions on behalf of the Department, under the authority transferred to the Department from the Civil Aeronautics Board as described in §§ 1.25 and 1.25a (delegations to and redelegations by the Under Secretary), and 1.99 (RITA). This includes the authority to compromise penalties under 49 U.S.C. 46301 (civil penalties); to issue appropriate orders, including cease and desist orders, under 49 U.S.C. 46101 (complaints and investigations); and to require the production of information, under 49 U.S.C. 41708, enter carrier property and inspect records, under 49 U.S.C. 41709, and inquire into the management of the business of a carrier under 49 U.S.C. 41711 (Air carrier management inquiry and cooperation with other authorities), as appropriate to the enforcement responsibilities. In the event that such an enforcement matter comes before the Secretary of Transportation for adjudication, the Deputy General Counsel shall advise the Secretary.

(q) Initiate and carry out enforcement actions relating to:

(1) Foreign airport security on behalf of the Department under 49 U.S.C. 44907; and

(2) The Consumer Credit Protection Act under section 4(a)(5) of the Civil Aeronautics Board Sunset Act of 1984 (Pub. L. 98-443) [15 U.S.C. 1607(a)(4), 1681s(b)(5), 1691c(a)(5) and 1692l(b)(5)].

(r) Administer 5 U.S.C. 552 (FOIA) and 49 CFR part 7 (Public Availability of Information) in connection with the records of the Office of the Secretary and issue procedures to ensure uniform departmental implementation of statutes and regulations regarding public access to records.

(s) Prepare reports by carriers on incidents involving animals during air transport pursuant to 49 U.S.C. 41721.

(t) Exercise authority vested in the Secretary by the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act of 1990 (Pub. L. 101-410, 104 Stat. 890), as amended by the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104-134, 110 Stat. 1321), to promulgate rules that adjust civil penalties with respect to aviation enforcement.

(u) In coordination with the Under Secretary, to carry out the duties of the Secretary under Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 to establish the value of statistical life in connection with assessing the costs and benefits of Departmental regulatory action.

(v) Approve the initiation of regulatory action, as defined in Executive Order 12866, by Secretarial offices and Operating Administrations in the event that the Deputy Secretary is absent or otherwise unavailable to exercise such authority (see § 1.23(h)).

(w) Approve requests to reclassify rulemakings as non-significant under DOT procedures.

The career Deputy General Counsel is delegated authority to:

(a) Serve as the Department's Designated Agency Ethics Official in accordance with 5 CFR 2638.202;

(b) Serve as the Department's Dispute Resolution Specialist pursuant to section 3(b) of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104-320, 5 U.S.C. App.; and

(c) Serve as the Department's Chief FOIA Officer under 5 U.S.C. 552(j).

The Assistant General Counsel for General Law is delegated authority to serve as the Department's Alternate Agency Ethics Official in accordance with 5 CFR 2638.202.

(a) In performing their functions, the Assistant Secretaries are responsible for continuing liaison and coordination among themselves and with the Operating Administrations to:

(1) Avoid unnecessary duplication of effort by or in conflict with the performance of similar activities by the Operating Administrations and the other Assistant Secretaries pursuant to their Secretarial delegations of authority or other legal authorities; and

(2) Assure that the views of the Operating Administrations are considered in developing departmental policies, plans, and proposals. The Assistant Secretaries are also available to assist, as appropriate, the Operating Administrations in implementing departmental policy and programs. As primary staff advisors to the Secretary, the Assistant Secretaries are concerned with transportation matters of the broadest scope, including modal, intermodal, and other matters of Secretarial interest.

(b) There are exceptions to the normal staff role described in paragraph (a) of this section. In selected instances, the Secretary has specifically delegated to Assistant Secretaries authority which they may exercise on the Secretary's behalf.

The Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy provides policy advice to the Secretary, the Deputy Secretary, and the Under Secretary. The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy is responsible for: Public policy development, coordination, and evaluation for all aspects of transportation, except in the areas of aviation and international affairs, with the goal of making the Nation's transportation resources function as an integrated national system; evaluation of private transportation sector operating and economic issues; evaluation of public transportation sector operating and economic issues; regulatory and legislative initiatives and review; energy, environmental, disability, and safety policy and program development and review; and transportation infrastructure assessment and review. For delegations to the Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy, see § 1.25a(a).

The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs is responsible for policy development, coordination, and evaluation of issues involving aviation, as well as international issues involving all areas of transportation; private sector evaluation; international transportation and transport-related trade policy and issues; regulatory and legislative initiatives and review of maritime/shipbuilding policies and programs; transport-related trade promotion; coordination of land transport relations with Canada and Mexico; economic regulation of the airline industry while placing maximum reliance on market forces and on actual and potential competition; the essential air service program and other rural air service programs; and, in coordination with the FAA, promotion of the aerospace industry. For delegations to the Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs, see § 1.25a(b).

(a) The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is the principal budget and financial advisor to the Secretary and serves as Assistant Secretary for Budget and Programs. The CFO and Assistant Secretary for Budget and Programs provides oversight and policy guidance for all budget, financial management, program performance, and internal control activities of the Department and its Operating Administrations.

(b) The CFO and Assistant Secretary for Budget and Programs concurs in the appointment and promotion of Chief Financial Officers, Budget Officers, and Directors of Finance of the Department and its Operating Administrations, and participates with each Administrator in the performance reviews of Chief Financial Officers, Budget Officers, and Directors of Finance in each of the Operating Administrations.

(c) The CFO and Assistant Secretary for Budget and Programs, in consultation with the Chief Information Officer, may designate any information technology system as a financial management system under the CFO's policy and oversight area of responsibility.

(d) The CFO and Assistant Secretary for Budget and Programs serves as the Vice Chair of the Department's Credit Council. The Office of the Assistant Secretary supports the Department's Credit Council by analyzing applications for the Department's various credit programs. The CFO also oversees the TIFIA program and the TIFIA Joint Program Office on behalf of the Secretary, including the evaluation of individual projects, and provides overall policy direction and program decisions for the TIFIA program.

(e) The CFO and Assistant Secretary for Budget and Programs is responsible for preparation, review, and presentation of Department budget estimates; liaison with the Office of Management and Budget and Congressional Budget and Appropriations Committees; preparation of the Department's annual financial statements; departmental financial plans, apportionments, reapportionments, reprogrammings, and allotments; program and systems evaluation and analysis; program evaluation criteria; program resource plans; analysis and review of legislative proposals and one-time reports and studies required by Congress; and budget and financial management relating to the Office of the Secretary.

The Chief Financial Officer and Assistant Secretary for Budget and Programs is delegated authority to:

(a) Serve as the Department's Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 901 (Establishment of Agency Chief Financial Officers).

(b) Exercise day-to-day operating management responsibility over the Office of Budget and Program Performance, the Office of the OST Chief Financial Officer, the Office of Financial Management, and the Office of Credit Oversight and Risk Management.

(c) Direct and manage the Departmental planning, evaluation, budget, financial management, and internal control activities.

(d) Exercise oversight and provide exclusive policy guidance to the Enterprise Services Center (ESC) regarding all financial management activities conducted by ESC and financial systems operated by ESC. This authority includes concurrence with any organizational changes within the Federal Aviation Administration that may affect financial management operations of the ESC.

(e) Request apportionment or reapportionment of funds by the Office of Management and Budget, provided that no request for apportionment or reapportionment which anticipates the need for a supplemental appropriation shall be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget without appropriate certification by the Secretary.

(f) Issue allotments or allocations of funds to components of the Department.

(g) Authorize and approve official travel and transportation for staff members of the Immediate Office of the Secretary including authority to sign and approve related travel orders and travel vouchers, but not including requests for overseas travel.

(h) Issue monetary authorizations for use of reception and representation funds.

(i) Except as otherwise delegated, establish or operate or both, any special funds that are required by statute or administrative determination.

(j) Exercise the Secretary's authority under 31 U.S.C. 3711 to collect, compromise, suspend collection action on, or terminate claims of the United States which are referred to, or arise out of the activities of, the Office of the Secretary (excluding claims pertaining to the Working Capital Fund), subject to the limits on that authority imposed by 31 U.S.C. 3711 and the Federal Claims Collection Standards, 31 CFR chapter IX.

(k) Exercise the Secretary's authority under the Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery Act of 2010 (Pub. L. 111-204) (33 U.S.C. 3301 note).

(l) Exercise the Secretary's authority under the Improper Payments Information Act of 2002 (Pub. L. 107-300) (31 U.S.C. 3321 note).

(m) Exercise the Secretary's authority under the Recovery Auditing Act (Section 831, Defense Authorization Act for FY 2002 (Pub. L. 107-107)).

(n) Exercise the Secretary's authority under the Federal Financial Management Improvement Act of 1996 (31 U.S.C. 3512 note).

(o) Exercise the Secretary's authority under Federal Managers' Financial Integrity Act of 1982 (FMFIA) (31 U.S.C. 3512 note).

(p) Exercise the Secretary's authority under the Accounting and Auditing Act of 1950 (31 U.S.C. 3512), as amended by FMFIA.

(q) Exercise the Secretary's authority under the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) (Pub. L. 103-623).

(r) Exercise the Secretary's authority under the Accountability of Tax Dollars Act of 2002, 31 U.S.C. 3515.

(s) Exercise the Secretary's authority under the Government Management Reform Act of 1994 (GMRA) (Pub. L. 103-356).

(t) Exercise the Secretary's authority under 5 U.S.C. 5584 and the OMB memorandum, “Determination with Respect to Transfer of Functions Pursuant to Public Law 104-316” (December 17, 1996) to waive claims of the United States arising out of an erroneous payment to an employee of pay or allowances, or travel, transportation, or relocation expenses and allowances, and deny requests for waiver of such claims.

(u) Serve as the Department's Performance Improvement Officer under 31 U.S.C. 1124.

The Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs serves as the Department's primary point of contact for Congressional offices, as well as State and locally elected officials; works with other departmental offices to ensure that Congressional mandates are fully implemented by the Department; and works with the White House, other Federal agencies, and Congress to fulfill the Department's legislative priorities. The Assistant Secretary coordinates congressional and intergovernmental activities with governmental affairs offices in the Operating Administrations and is the final authority on governmental affairs issues within the Department. The Assistant Secretary participates with each Administrator in the hiring decisions (other than in the Federal Aviation Administration) and performance reviews of all of the Operating Administrations' Directors of Governmental Affairs. The Assistant Secretary supervises the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Tribal Government Affairs who plans and coordinates the Department's policies and programs with respect to Indian tribes and tribal organizations.

The Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs is delegated authority to:

(a) Establish procedures for responding to Congressional correspondence; and

(b) Supervise the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Tribal Government Affairs.

The Assistant Secretary for Administration is the principal advisor to the Secretary and Deputy Secretary on Department-wide administrative matters and is the final authority on these matters within the Department. The Assistant Secretary for Administration serves as the Designated Agency Safety and Health Official. The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration's responsibilities include: Strategic management of human capital; monitoring the progress of departmental offices related to sustainability goals; controls and standards to ensure that procurement and financial assistance programs are in accord with good business practice; follow-up and resolution of Government Accountability Office and Inspector General audit reviews; information resource management; property management information; facilities; and security. The Assistant Secretary for Administration is responsible for recommending performance objectives for the Operating Administrations' Directors of Human Resources. The Assistant Secretary for Administration participates with each Administrator in the hiring decisions (other than in the Federal Aviation Administration) and performance reviews of all of the Operating Administrations' Associate Administrators for Administration.

The Assistant Secretary for Administration is delegated authority for the following:

(a) Acquisition. (1) Exercise procurement authority with respect to requirements of the Office of the Secretary or an Operating Administration, if requested under an agreement with that Operating Administration.

(2) Make the required determinations with respect to mistakes in bids relative to sales of personal property conducted by the Office of the Secretary without power of redelegation.

(3) Except as delegated to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrator by § 1.95, carry out the functions vested in the Secretary by section 3 of Executive Order 11912 (“Delegation of Authorities Relating to Energy Policy and Conservation”), as amended.

(4) Carry out the functions delegated to the Secretary from time to time by the Administrator of General Services to lease real property for Department use.

(5) Carry out the duties and responsibilities of agency head for departmental procurement within the meaning of the Federal Acquisition Regulation. This authority as agency head for departmental procurement excludes duties, responsibilities, and powers expressly reserved for the Secretary of Transportation.

(6) Serve as Deputy Chief Acquisition Officer.

(7) Provide departmental guidance on grants, cooperative agreements, and other financial assistance transactions, but not including loans, loan guarantees, interest subsidies, or insurance.

(8) Issue departmental procurement regulations, subject to coordination with the General Counsel and interested Operating Administrations. In commenting upon proposed provisions for the procurement regulations, the Operating Administrations will indicate the nature and purpose of any additional implementing or supplementing policy guidance which they propose to issue at the Operating Administration level.

(b) Personnel. (1) Conduct a personnel management program for the Office of the Secretary of Transportation, with authority to take, direct others to take, recommend or approve any personnel action with respect to such authority.

(2) Serve as Vice Chair of the Departmental Executive Resources Board.

(3) Exercise emergency authority to hire without the prior approval of the Deputy Secretary normally required by departmental procedures implementing general employment limitations when in the judgment of the Assistant Secretary immediate action is necessary to effect the hire and avoid the loss of a well-qualified job applicant, and for similar reasons.

(4) Review proposals of the Office of the Secretary for each new appointment or transfer to verify the essentiality of the position.

(5) Approve employment of experts and consultants in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 3109.

(6) Provide policy and overall direction in the execution of the DOT Labor-Management Relations Program.

(7) Develop and operate the Federal Employee Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Program in accordance with Executive Order 12564 and The Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991, Public Law 102-143, Title V.

(8) Serve as the Chief Human Capital Officer:

(i) Oversee, direct, and execute all authorities included in the Chief Human Capital Officers Act of 2002 (5 U.S.C. 1401 et seq.); and

(ii) Advise the Secretary on the Department's human capital needs and obligations, and implement all related rules and regulations of the President and the Office of Personnel Management, and all laws governing human resource management.

(9) Serve as the Telework Managing Officer under 5 U.S.C. 6505.

(c) Sustainability. (1) Responsible for ensuring that the Department meets its sustainability goals pursuant to the Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) of 2007 (Pub. L. 110-140); the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (Pub. L. 109-58); and Executive Order 13693 (“Planning for Federal Sustainability in the Next Decade”).

(2) Serve as the Chief Sustainability Officer under Executive Order 13693.

(d) Finance. (1) Settle and pay claims by employees of the Office of the Secretary for personal property losses as provided by 31 U.S.C. 3721.

(2) Oversee the Working Capital Fund for the Office of the Secretary, established by 49 U.S.C. 327.

(3) Exercise the Secretary's authority under 31 U.S.C. 3711 to collect, compromise, suspend collection action on, or terminate claims of the United States which are referred to, or arise out of the activities of the Working Capital Fund, subject to the limits on that authority imposed by 31 U.S.C. 3711 and the Federal Claims Collection Standards, 31 CFR chapter IX.

(e) Security. (1) Serves as the agency representative appointed by the Secretary of Transportation to participate on the Interagency Security Committee in accordance with Executive Order 12977, to establish policies for the security in and protection of Federal facilities.

(2) Represents the department on the White House Communications Agency Principal Communications Working Group and the Department of State Overseas Security Policy Board.

(3) Conducts an internal security management program for the Department of Transportation with authority to take, direct others to take, recommend, or approve security actions with respect to such authorities related to personnel security, physical security, technical security, and classified and sensitive information management.

(4) Issues identification media as directed by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12, “Policy for Common Identification Standard for Federal Employees and Contractors” and other identification media (including credentials, passports and visas) by direction of the Secretary.

(5) Manages the Department's classified information program as directed by Executive Order 13526 (“Classified National Security Information”).

(6) Takes certain classified actions on behalf of the Department in connection with technical counter-surveillance programs as required by Executive Order 13526 (“Classified National Security Information”).

(7) In conjunction with the Office of Security, Intelligence and Emergency Response, and the Office of the General Counsel, carries out the functions vested in the Secretary by 49 U.S.C. 40119(b), as implemented by 49 CFR part 15, related to the protection of information designated as Sensitive Security Information.

(8) Ensure Department-wide compliance with Executive Orders 12968 as amended, 13467, 13488, 13526, 13556, and related regulations and issuances.

(f) Printing. Request approval of the Joint Committee on Printing, Congress of the United States, for any procurement or other action requiring Committee approval.

(g) Hearings. Provide logistical and administrative support to the Department's Office of Hearings.

(h) Federal real property management. Carry out the functions assigned to the Secretary with respect to Executive Order 13327, as amended.

(i) The Uniform Act. Carry out the functions vested in the Secretary to implement the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Act of 1970 (Uniform Act), 42 U.S.C. Chapter 61, with respect to programs administered by the Office of the Secretary. The Assistant Secretary may prescribe additional Uniform Act guidance that is appropriate to those particular programs, provided that such additional guidance must be consistent with the Uniform Act and 49 CFR part 24. The lead agency for Uniform Act matters is the Federal Highway Administration (see § 1.85 and 49 CFR part 24).

(j) Designated Agency Safety and Health Official. Serve as the Designated Agency Safety and Health Official under 29 CFR 1960.6(a) to represent the interest of, and support, the Department's occupational safety and health program.

(k) Senior Real Property Officer. Serve as the Senior Real Property Officer for the Department pursuant to Executive Order 13327 (“Federal Real Property Asset Management”) (as amended), and chair the Departmental Real Property Planning Council.

(l) Transportation fringe benefits. (1) Oversee the Department's transportation fringe benefit program under 5 U.S.C. 7905 and 26 U.S.C. 132(f).

(2) Consult with and provide guidance to other Federal agencies on transportation fringe benefit programs under 5 U.S.C. 7905 and 26 U.S.C. 132(f).

(3) Establish and maintain uniform Federal Government standards for developing and supporting Federal agencies' transportation fringe benefit programs under 5 U.S.C. 7905 and 26 U.S.C. 132(f).

(a) The Director, Office of the Senior Procurement Executive is redelegated the authority to:

(1) Carry out the duties and responsibilities of agency head for departmental procurement within the meaning of the Federal Acquisition Regulation except for those duties expressly reserved for the Secretary of Transportation.

(2) Carry out the functions of the Chief Acquisition Officer (CAO) except for those functions specifically reserved for the Deputy Secretary. In carrying out these functions and in support of requirements under Services Acquisition Reform Act (SARA), enacted as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for 2004—Public Law 108-136, the Senior Procurement Executive (SPE) is expected to interact directly, and without intervening authority, with the CAO on issues related to strategic acquisition policy, implementation, and management. The nature and frequency of interactions with the CAO will be determined mutually between the SPE and the CAO.

(3) Procure and authorize payment for property and services for the Office of the Secretary, with power to re-delegate and authorize successive re-delegations.

(b) The Director of Human Resources Management is redelegated the authority to:

(1) Develop departmental human capital policies and objectives, and monitor and oversee the implementation of those policies.

(2) Establish departmental human capital performance objectives and metrics.

(3) Conduct a personnel management program for the Office of the Secretary with authority to take, direct others to take, recommend or approve any personnel action with respect to such authority.

(4) Concur in the appointment and promotion of all Human Resources (HR) Directors in each Operating Administration and participate in the performance reviews of HR Directors.

(5) Provide policy and overall direction in the execution of the DOT Labor-Management Relations Program.

(6) Develop and operate the Federal Employee Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Program in accordance with Executive Order 12564 and The Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991, Public Law 102-143, Title V.

(7) Develop, coordinate, and issue wage schedules for Department employees under the Federal Wage System.

(c) The Director of Financial Management within the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration is redelegated the authority to:

(1) Settle and pay claims by Working Capital Fund employees for personal property losses as provided by 31 U.S.C. 3721 if the amount of the payment does not exceed $500.

(d) The Director, Transit Benefit Program is redelegated the authority to:

(1) Oversee the Department's transportation fringe benefit program under 5 U.S.C. 7905 and 26 U.S.C. 132(f).

(2) Consult with and provide guidance to other Federal agencies on transportation fringe benefit programs under 5 U.S.C. 7905 and 26 U.S.C. 132(f).

(3) Establish and maintain uniform Federal Government standards for developing and supporting Federal agencies' transportation fringe benefit programs under 5 U.S.C. 7905 and 26 U.S.C. 132(f).

The Executive Secretariat provides organized staff services to the Secretary and Deputy Secretary to assist them in carrying out their management functions and their responsibilities for formulating, coordinating and communicating major policy decisions. The Office controls and coordinates internal and external material directed to the Secretary and Deputy Secretary and ensures that their decisions and instructions are implemented.

The Departmental Office of Civil Rights serves as the Department's Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Officer and Title VI Coordinator. The Director also serves as principal advisor to the Secretary and the Deputy Secretary on the civil rights and nondiscrimination statutes, regulations, and Executive Orders applicable to the Department, including titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, as amended, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Equal Pay Act of 1963, the ADA Amendments Act of 2008, and the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008. The Departmental Office of Civil Rights provides guidance to the Operating Administrations and Secretarial officers on these matters. The Office periodically reviews and evaluates the civil rights programs of the Operating Administrations to ensure that recipients of financial assistance meet applicable Federal civil rights requirements.

The Director of the Departmental Office of Civil Rights is delegated authority to conduct all stages of the formal employment discrimination complaints process (including acceptance/dismissal, investigation, and final adjudication); to provide guidance to the Operating Administrations and Secretarial officers concerning the implementation and enforcement of all civil rights laws, regulations and Executive Orders for which the Department is responsible; to otherwise perform activities to ensure compliance with external civil rights programs; and to review and evaluate the Operating Administrations' enforcement of these authorities. These authorities include:

(a) Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. 2000d et seq. and 2000e et seq.

(b) Sections 501 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. 791 and 794-794a.

(c) Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, 29 U.S.C. 621 et seq.

(d) Age Discrimination Act of 1975, 42 U.S.C. 6101 et seq.

(e) Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 42 U.S.C. 12101-121213.

(f) ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (Pub. L. 110-325) [42 U.S.C. 12101 Note].

(g) Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008, 42 U.S.C. 2000ff et seq.

(h) Equal Pay Act of 1963, 29 U.S.C. 206(d).

(i) Alcohol, Drug Abuse, and Mental Health Administration Reorganization Act (Pub. L. 102-321)

(j) Chapter XIV of subtitle B, of title 29 of the CFR (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Regulations).

(k) Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 (Pub. L. 90-284) [42 U.S.C. 3601 et seq.].

(l) 40 U.S.C. 476 (prohibition on sex discrimination).

(m) Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, 20 U.S.C. 1681.

(n) In coordination with the Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy, Executive Order 12898 (“Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations”) (See also Executive Order 12948).

(o) 49 U.S.C. 306 (prohibition on discrimination in programs receiving financial assistance), 5310 (transportation for elderly persons and persons with disabilities), 5332 (nondiscrimination in mass transportation), 41705 (discrimination by air carriers against handicapped persons), 47113 (minority and disadvantaged business participation), and 47123 (nondiscrimination in airport improvement programs).

(p) 23 U.S.C. 324 and 402(b)(1)(D) (nondiscrimination in highway programs).

(q) The Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991, Public Law 102-240, 105 Stat. 1919, section 1003.

The Director of the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization ensures that the Department's small and disadvantaged business policies and programs are developed in a fair, efficient, and effective manner. The Office is responsible for the Department's implementation and execution of the functions and duties under the Small Business Act, and providing opportunities, technical assistance, and financial services to the small and disadvantaged business community.

The Director of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization is delegated authority to:

(a) Exercise departmental responsibility for the implementation and execution of functions and duties under sections 2[8] and 2[15] of the Small Business Act (Pub. L. 85-836) [15 U.S.C. 637 and 644].

(b) Carry out the functions vested in the Secretary by 49 U.S.C. 332 (Minority Resource Center).

The Director of the Office of Intelligence, Security and Emergency Response is responsible for the development, coordination, and execution of plans and procedures for the Department to balance transportation security requirements with the safety, mobility and economic needs of the Nation through effective intelligence, security, preparedness and emergency response programs. The Director is the Department's principal Emergency Coordinator for the implementation of these programs.

The Director of Intelligence, Security, and Emergency Response is delegated authority to:

(a) Carry out the functions related to emergency preparedness and response vested in the Secretary by the following authorities: 49 U.S.C. 101 and 301; Executive Order 12148, as amended (“Federal Emergency Management”); Executive Order 12656 (“Assignment of Emergency Preparedness Responsibilities”) (as amended; see Executive Order 13286); Executive Order 12742 (“National Security Industrial Responsiveness”); Executive Order 13434 (“National Security Professional Development”); Reorganization Plan No. 3 of 1978 (5 U.S.C. app at 235 (2012); and such other statutes, executive orders, and other directives as may pertain to emergency preparedness and response.

(b) Serve as the Department's Continuity Coordinator in accordance with National Security Presidential Directive 51/Homeland Security Presidential Directive 20, National Continuity Policy, and Federal Continuity Directives (FCD) 1 Federal Executive Branch National Continuity Program and Requirements and FCD 2 Federal Executive Branch Mission Essential Function and Primary Mission Essential Function Identification and Submission Process. Provide leadership for departmental programs pertaining to intelligence related to the transportation sector, transportation security policy, and civil transportation emergency preparedness and response activities.

(c) Lead departmental collaboration efforts with the Department of Homeland Security and other Departments and Agencies related to transportation security and transportation infrastructure protection as required by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 7, Critical Infrastructure Identification, Prioritization, and Protection.

(d) Together with the Assistant Secretary for Administration, carry out oversight and management of the duties pertaining to national security professional development assigned to the Secretary under Executive Order 13434 (“National Security Professional Development”).

(e) Together with the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs, coordinate the Department's responsibilities under National Security Presidential Directive 44, Management of Interagency Efforts Concerning Reconstruction and Stabilization, and Presidential Decision Directive 56, Managing Complex Contingency Operations, pertaining to interagency reconstruction and stabilization assistance.

(f) Lead departmental efforts pertaining to transportation-related international civil emergency preparedness activities, including coordinating DOT representation on North Atlantic Treaty Organization committees, as directed under Executive Order 12656 (as amended; see Executive Order 13286).

(g) Carry out the functions vested in the Secretary by 49 U.S.C. 40119(b), as implemented by 49 CFR part 15, in consultation and coordination with the General Counsel.

(h) Oversee the Department's protective service program.

(i) Serve as the Secretary's representative to the Transportation Security Oversight Board, in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 115, when so designated.

(j) Lead Departmental participation in internal and interagency planning efforts related to preparedness in accordance with Presidential Policy Directive 8, National Preparedness, in coordination with the Under Secretary.

(k) Serve as the Secretary's senior advisor on matters pertaining to public health, biological, and medical matters.

(l) Develop departmental plans to support the Department of Defense Civil Reserve Air Fleet (CRAF) program and allocate civil air carrier aircraft to CRAF based on Department of Defense requirements.

(m) Oversee operation of the Department's Crisis Management Center.

(n) Lead departmental efforts for all interaction with the Program Manager, Information Sharing Environment to include appointing the Associate Director for Intelligence as the DOT Information Sharing Program Manager to coordinate day-to-day Information Sharing Environment matters.

(o) Carry out departmental responsibilities under Executive Order 13587 (“Structural Reforms to Improve the Security of Classified Networks and the Responsible Sharing and Safeguarding of Classified Information”) including overseeing classified information sharing and safeguarding efforts for DOT. Oversee the day-to-day activities for monitoring the Top Secret and Secret classified network used by DOT and function as the Senior Official principally responsible for establishing and implementing the DOT Insider Threat Program.

(p) Serve as the department's program manager responsible for oversight of all intelligence programs, to include the DOT Counterintelligence effort as it pertains to the DOT classified networks, and coordinate intelligence matters throughout the department. Nothing in this provision is intended to prohibit or limit a component's ability to conduct intelligence activities authorized by law.

(q) Carry out the functions under the Defense Production Act of 1950, Public Law 81-774, 64 Stat. 798, as amended (50 U.S.C. app. 2061 et seq.), that were vested in the Secretary by Executive Order 13603 (“National Defense Resources Preparedness”).

The Director of Public Affairs is the principal advisor to the Secretary and Secretarial Officers on public affairs issues and the final authority on public affairs issues within the Department. The Office of Public Affairs prepares news releases and supporting media materials, and maintains a new media presence. The Office also provides information to the Secretary on opinions and reactions of the public and news media on programs and transportation issues. The Office of Public Affairs is responsible for the supervision, coordination, and review of the activities of the public affairs offices within the Operating Administrations. The Director of Public Affairs participates with each Administrator in the hiring decisions (other than in the Federal Aviation Administration) and performance reviews of all of the Operating Administrations' Directors of Public Affairs.

The Assistant to the Secretary and Director of Public Affairs is delegated authority to:

(a) Monitor the overall public information program and review and approve departmental informational materials having policy-making ramifications before they are printed and disseminated.

(b) Carry out the functions to promote carpooling and vanpooling transferred to the Department of Transportation by section 310 of the Department of Energy Organization Act of 1977 (Pub. L. 95-91) [42 U.S.C. 7159].

The Chief Information Officer (CIO) is the principal information technology (IT), cyber security, privacy, and records management advisor to the Secretary, and is the final authority on these matters within the Department. The Office of the CIO supports the Organizational Excellence Strategic Goal by providing leadership on all matters associated with the Department's IT portfolio. The CIO participates with each Administrator in the hiring decisions and performance reviews of the Operating Administrations' CIOs.

The Chief Information Officer is delegated authority to:

(a) Carry out all functions and responsibilities assigned to the Secretary with respect to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3506);

(b) Carry out all functions and responsibilities assigned to the Secretary with respect to the Clinger-Cohen Act of 1996 (40 U.S.C. 11312 to 11314, and 11317);

(c) Carry out all functions and responsibilities assigned to the Secretary with respect to the E-Government Act of 2002, Public Law 107-347;

(d) Carry out all functions and responsibilities necessary to ensure compliance with the Federal Information Security Management Act of 2002 (44 U.S.C. 3534 and 3544);

(e) Serve as the Chief Privacy Officer, 42 U.S.C. 2000ee-2, and administer the Privacy Act of 1974, 5 U.S.C. 552a, and 49 CFR part 10 (Maintenance of and Access to Records Pertaining to Individuals) in connection with the records of the Office of the Secretary;

(f) Carry out all functions and responsibilities necessary to issue notices of Department of Transportation systems of records as required by the Privacy Act;

(g) Carry out all functions and responsibilities assigned to the Secretary with respect to the Federal Records Act (44 U.S.C. 3101-3102) and necessary to ensure compliance with the regulations of the National Archives and Records Administration (36 CFR parts 1220 through 1299; 44 U.S.C. Chapters 21, 29, 31, and 33), in coordination with the General Counsel; and

(h) Serve as the Senior Agency Official for Geospatial Information under Office of Management and Budget Memorandum M-06-07, “Designation of a Senior Agency Official for Geospatial Information” (March 3, 2006).

The Office of Drug & Alcohol Policy & Compliance advises the Secretary on national and international drug testing and control issues and is the principal advisor to the Secretary on rules related to the drug and alcohol testing of safety-sensitive transportation employees in aviation, trucking, railroads, mass transit, pipelines, and other transportation industries. The Office, in coordination with the Office of the General Counsel, publishes and provides interpretations of rules related to 49 CFR part 40 on the conduct of drug and alcohol tests, including how to conduct tests, and which procedures to use when testing. The Office coordinates with Federal Agencies and assists foreign governments in developing drug and alcohol testing programs and implementing the President's National Drug Control Strategy.

(a) Acting in his or her own name and title, the Under Secretary, the General Counsel, and each Assistant Secretary, within his or her sphere of responsibility, is authorized to identify and define the requirements for, and to recommend to the Secretary, new or revised departmental policies, plans, and proposals. Each of these officers is authorized to issue departmental standards, criteria, systems and procedures that are consistent with applicable laws, Executive Orders, Government-wide regulations and policies established by the Secretary, and to inspect, review, and evaluate departmental program performance and effectiveness and advise the Secretary regarding the adequacy thereof.

(b) Except for nondelegable statutory duties including those that transfer as a result of succession to act as Secretary of Transportation, each Deputy Assistant Secretary and Deputy General Counsel is authorized to act for and perform the duties of his or her principal in the absence or disability of the principal and as otherwise directed by the principal.

(c) The Deputy Secretary, the Under Secretary, the General Counsel, and the Assistant Secretaries for Administration, Budget and Programs, and Governmental Affairs are delegated authority to:

(1) Redelegate and authorize successive redelegations of authority granted by the Secretary within their respective organizations, except as limited by law or specific administrative reservation, including authority to publish those redelegations in appendix A of this part.

(2) Authorize and approve official travel (except foreign travel) and transportation for themselves, their subordinates, and others performing services for, or in cooperation with, the Office of the Secretary.

(3) Establish ad hoc committees for specific tasks within their assigned staff area.

(4) Establish, modify, extend, or terminate standing committees within their specific areas of responsibility when directed or authorized to do so by the Secretary.

(5) Designate members of interagency committees when such committees are specifically concerned with responsibilities of direct interest to their office.

(6) Exercise the following authorities with respect to positions in the Senior Executive Service and Senior Level within their respective areas of responsibility:

(i) Determine how executive level positions will be filled; i.e., by reassignment, promotion, or appointment.

(ii) Establish selection criteria to be used in identifying eligible candidates.

(iii) Confer with the Administrators on selection criteria and candidates for an executive level position that is a counterpart of an activity or position in the Office of the Secretary.

(iv) Recommend final selection for executive level positions, subject to review by the Executive Committee of the Departmental Executive Resources Board and approval by the Secretary and the Office of Personnel Management.

(7) Enter into inter- and intra-departmental reimbursable agreements other than with the head of another department or agency (31 U.S.C. 686). This authority may be redelegated only to office directors or other comparable levels and to contracting officers.

(8) Administer and perform the functions described in their respective functional statements.

(9) Exercise the authority of the Secretary to make certifications, findings and determinations under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (Pub. L. 96-354) with regard to any rulemaking document for which issuance authority is delegated by other sections in this part. This authority may be redelegated to those officials to whom document issuance authority has been redelegated.

(10) Exercise the authority of the Secretary to resolve informal allegations of discrimination arising in or relating to their respective organizations through Equal Employment Opportunity counseling or the Alternative Dispute Resolution process and to develop and implement affirmative action and diversity plans within their respective organizations.

(11) Exercise the authority vested in the Secretary by 49 U.S.C. 326(a) and 31 U.S.C. 1353 to accept, subject to the concurrence of the Designated Agency Ethics Official, the following: Gifts of property (other than real property) not exceeding $1,000 in value, gifts of services (in carrying out aviation duties and powers) not exceeding $1,000 in value, and reimbursement of travel expenses from non-federal sources not exceeding $3,000 in value. Acceptance of gifts or travel reimbursement that exceed these limits in value or are otherwise significant may only take place with the additional concurrence of the General Counsel. This delegation extends only to the acceptance of gifts or travel expenses and does not authorize the solicitation of gifts, which is reserved to the Secretary at § 1.21.

This subpart sets forth the OST's key responsibilities, its basic organizational structure, and the line of Secretarial succession in time of need. It also describes the key responsibilities of OST officials, and sets forth delegations and reservations of authority to those officials.

(a) The OST is responsible for:

(1) Providing leadership in formulating and executing well-balanced national and international transportation objectives, policies, and programs to ensure the Nation has safe, economically competitive transportation systems that support U.S. interests, that are maintained in a state of good repair, that foster environmental sustainability, and that support livable communities;

(2) Chairing the Department's Safety Council;

(3) Stimulating and promoting research and development in all modes and types of transportation, with special emphasis on transportation safety;

(4) Coordinating the various transportation programs of the Federal Government;

(5) Encouraging maximum private development of transportation services;

(6) Providing responsive, timely, and effective liaison with Congress and public and private organizations on transportation matters;

(7) Providing innovative approaches to urban transportation and environmental enhancement programs;

(8) Overseeing the Department's multimodal freight policy;

(9) Providing effective management of the Department as a whole to ensure it achieves organizational excellence;

(10) Leading Department-wide efforts for greater transparency and accountability;

(11) Administering the Department's Livable Communities initiative to increase access to convenient and affordable transportation choices and improve transportation networks that accommodate pedestrians and bicycles;

(12) Coordinating the Department's credit and financial assistance programs by leading the Credit Council to ensure responsible financing for the Nation's transportation projects;

(13) Formulating and executing policies to ensure effective operation of the Department's aviation economic program including functions related to consumer protection and civil rights, domestic airline licensing matters, competition oversight, airline data collection, and review of international route negotiations and route awards to carriers; and

(14) Leading and coordinating Federal Government transportation fringe benefit programs.

(b) [Reserved]

(a) Secretary and Deputy Secretary. The Secretary and Deputy Secretary are assisted by the following, all of which report directly to the Secretary:

(1) The Chief of Staff;

(2) The Executive Secretariat;

(3) The Departmental Office of Civil Rights;

(4) The Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization;

(5) The Office of Intelligence, Security and Emergency Response;

(6) The Office of Public Affairs;

(7) The Office of the Chief Information Officer; and

(8) The Office of Drug & Alcohol Policy & Compliance.

(b) The Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy, the General Counsel, and the Assistant Secretaries for Administration, Budget and Programs, and Governmental Affairs also report directly to the Secretary.

(c) Office of the Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy. This Office is composed of:

(1) The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy, which includes:

(i) The Office of Policy Development, Strategic Planning and Performance;

(ii) The Office of Infrastructure Finance and Innovation; and

(iii) The Office of the Chief Economist.

(2) The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs, which includes:

(i) The Office of International Transportation and Trade;

(ii) The Office of International Aviation; and

(iii) The Office of Aviation Analysis.

(d) Office of the General Counsel. This Office is composed of:

(1) The Office of General Law;

(2) The Office of International Law;

(3) The Office of Litigation;

(4) The Office of Legislation;

(5) The Office of Regulation and Enforcement;

(6) The Office of Operations, which includes the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Office;

(7) The Office of Aviation Enforcement and Proceedings, which includes the Aviation Consumer Protection Division; and

(8) The Center for Alternative Dispute Resolution.

(e) Office of the Chief Financial Officer and Assistant Secretary for Budget and Programs. This Office is composed of:

(1) The Office of Budget and Program Performance;

(2) The Office of Financial Management;

(3) The Office of the Chief Financial Officer for the Office of the Secretary; and

(4) The Office of Credit Oversight and Risk Management.

(f) Office of the Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs. This Office contains the following functional areas: Congressional Affairs and Intergovernmental Affairs; and includes a Deputy Assistant Secretary for Tribal Government Affairs.

(g) Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration. This Office is composed of:

(1) The Office of Audit Relations;

(2) The Office of Human Resource Management;

(3) The Office of Hearings;

(4) The Office of Security;

(5) The Office of the Senior Procurement Executive;

(6) The Office of Financial Management and Transit Benefit Programs; and

(7) The Office of Facilities, Information and Asset Management.

(a) The following officials, in the order indicated, shall act as Secretary of Transportation, in case of the absence or disability of the Secretary, until the absence or disability ceases, or in the case of a vacancy, until a successor is appointed. Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, the President retains discretion, to the extent permitted by the law, to depart from this order in designating an acting Secretary of Transportation.

(1) Deputy Secretary.

(2) Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy.

(3) General Counsel.

(4) Chief Financial Officer and Assistant Secretary for Budget and Programs.

(5) Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy.

(6) Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs.

(7) Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs.

(8) Assistant Secretary for Administration.

(9) Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration.

(10) Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.

(11) Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

(12) Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration.

(13) Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration.

(14) Administrator of the Maritime Administration.

(15) Administrator of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.

(16) Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

(17) Administrator of the Research and Innovative Technology Administration.

(18) Administrator of the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation.

(19) Regional Administrator, Southern Region, Federal Aviation Administration.

(20) Director, Resource Center, Lakewood, Colorado, Federal Highway Administration.

(21) Regional Administrator, Northwest Mountain Region, Federal Aviation Administration.

(b) Without regard to the foregoing, a person directed to perform the duties of the Secretary pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 3347 (the Vacancies Act) shall act as Secretary of Transportation.