Pursuant to § 2.23, and subject to policy guidance and direction by the Assistant Secretary, the following delegation of authority is made by the Assistant Secretary for Congressional Relations to the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Congressional Relations, to be exercised only during the absence or unavailability of the Assistant Secretary: Perform all duties and exercise all powers which are now or which may hereafter be delegated to the Assistant Secretary for Congressional Relations.

(a) Delegations. Pursuant to § 2.23, the following delegations of authority are made by the Assistant Secretary for Congressional Relations to the Director, Office of Intergovernmental Affairs:

(1) Coordinate all programs involving intergovernmental affairs including State and local government relations and liaison with:

(i) National Association of State Departments of Agriculture;

(ii) Office of Intergovernmental Relations (Office of Vice President);

(iii) Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations;

(iv) Council of State Governments;

(v) National Governors Conference;

(vi) National Association of Counties;

(vii) National League of Cities;

(viii) International City Managers Association;

(ix) U.S. Conference of Mayors; and

(x) Such other State and Federal agencies, departments, and organizations as are necessary in carrying out the responsibilities of this office.

(2) Maintain oversight of the activities of USDA representatives to the 10 Federal Regional councils.

(3) Serve as the USDA contact with the Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations for implementation of OMB Circular A-85 to provide advance notification to State and local governments of proposed changes in Department programs that affect such governments.

(4) Act as the Department representative for Federal executive board matters.

(b) [Reserved]