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The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) is proposing to streamline its procedures for Electric Program borrowers, including its loan application requirements, approval of work plans and load forecasts, use of approved contracts and system design procedures.  Additionally it will delete unnecessary CFR sections. Changes and deletions would be made to 7 CFR 1710, 1714, 1724, 1726, and 1728.

The intent of RUS is to streamline and make more efficient the requirements for applying for Electric Program loans and to streamline its pre- and post-loan procedures. The goal is to (1) reduce the regulatory burden on Electric Program borrowers, (2) ensure that loan funds will be repaid in the time agreed upon, and (3) that the RUS loans remain adequately secured during such time. The proposed actions will also reduce the burden on RUS Electric Program staff by reducing the time and resources required to review routine or unnecessary documents. RUS expects that these actions will enhance RUS and customer efficiency, thereby increasing customer satisfaction and service.

These changes will positively affect the RUS Electric borrower experience and enhance RUS customer service. It will remove unnecessary and burdensome requirements imposed on the electric borrowers and applicants. It should minimize the burden of applying for loans made or guaranteed by RUS. The change should facilitate the lending for construction of rural electric infrastructure