The document outlines certifications required by the Federal Railroad Administration for entities applying for grants or cooperative agreements. These certifications ensure compliance with federal laws and regulations related to debarment, maintaining a drug-free workplace, and lobbying activities.
The debarment certification confirms that the applicant and its principals are not currently debarred, suspended, or declared ineligible by any federal agency. It also ensures they have not been convicted or held liable for fraud, antitrust violations, or other offenses in the past three years. If any part of this certification cannot be met, the applicant must provide an explanation.
The drug-free workplace certification requires the applicant to implement measures to prevent drug abuse, including publishing a policy, creating awareness programs, distributing this policy to employees, and enforcing compliance. Employers must take specific actions, such as notifying federal agencies if an employee involved in the grant is convicted of a drug-related offense and taking remedial steps within 30 days.
The lobbying certification applies to grants over $100,000 or loans exceeding $150,000. It requires applicants to confirm that no federal funds have been used to influence government officials in securing the award. If non-federal funds have been used for lobbying, this must be disclosed through a specific form. The certification language must also be included in all subawards and contracts under the grant or agreement.
Submission of these certifications is mandatory and serves as a declaration of compliance. Misrepresentation or failure to meet the requirements may result in civil penalties ranging from $10,000 to $100,000. The document must be signed and dated by an authorized official to validate these certifications.
