OF AGRICULTURE Rural Utilities Service 7 CFR

The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) is proposing to amend its regulation concerning the Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant Program. This proposed rule will promulgate regulations for a new loan program that will provide both loans and grants for distance learning and telemedicine projects benefiting rural areas. The regulation is necessary to implement a new loan program mandated by the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996. The regulation will establish, among other things, RUS’ policy, the method of selecting projects to receive loans and grants and allocating the available funds, and the requirements for submitting an application for financial assistance. DATES: Written comments must be received by RUS or carry a postmark or equivalent not later than May 16, 1997. ADDRESSES: Submit written comments to Robert Peters, Assistant Administrator, Telecommunications Program, Rural Utilities Service, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, STOP 1590, Room 4056, South Building, Washington, DC 20250–1590. RUS requests a signed original and three copies of all comments (7 CFR part 1700). All comments received will be made available for public inspection at Room 4034, South Building, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (7 CFR part 1.27(b)). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Barbara L. Eddy, Deputy Assistant Administrator, Telecommunications Program, Rural Utilities Service, STOP 1590, Room 4056, South Building, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250–1590. Telephone number (202) 720–9554.