7 USC 2009aa-6 – Development planning process
(a) State development plan
In accordance with policies established by the Authority, each State member shall submit a development plan for the area of the region represented by the State member.
(b) Content of plan
Terms Used In 7 USC 2009aa-6
- State: shall include each of the several States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands of the United States, Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and, to the extent the Secretary determines it to be feasible and appropriate, the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. See 7 USC 1991
A State development plan submitted under subsection (a) shall reflect the goals, objectives, and priorities identified in the regional development plan developed under section 2009aa-1(d)(2) of this title.
(c) Consultation with interested local parties
In carrying out the development planning process (including the selection of programs and projects for assistance), a State may—
(1) consult with—
(A) local development districts; and
(B) local units of government; and
(2) take into consideration the goals, objectives, priorities, and recommendations of the entities described in paragraph (1).
(d) Public participation
(1) In general
The Authority and applicable State and local development districts shall encourage and assist, to the maximum extent practicable, public participation in the development, revision, and implementation of all plans and programs under this subchapter.
(2) Regulations
The Authority shall develop guidelines for providing public participation described in paragraph (1), including public hearings.