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| Q. |
I would like to present testimony as a Regulatory Fairness Hearing, but am
unable to travel to the event. Can I present without testimony to have read
into the record?
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| A. |
Yes. If circumstances prevent you from personally attending a Regulatory Fairness
Hearing, you may submit written testimony to be read into the record.
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| Q. |
I have made testimony at a Regulatory Fairness Hearing. Will my testimony be
made public?
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| A. |
Yes. Transcripts of all Regulatory Fairness Hearings will be placed on the
Internet at the website of the National Ombudsman
www.sba.gov/ombudsman.
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| Q. |
I do not want my identity made known to the federal agency about which I wish to
comment. Is this possible?
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| A. |
Yes. However, you must be sure to clearly indicate on the comment form the level of
confidentiality you desire.
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| Q. |
In appropriate cases can my comment or complaint be forwarded to the Inspector
General of a federal agency by the Office of the National Ombudsman?
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| A. |
Yes. In appropriate cases comments or complaints may be forwarded to the Inspector
General of a federal agency and your identity can be kept confidential.
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| Q. |
How does the Office of the National Ombudsman define small government entity?
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| A. |
A small government entity is generally defined as those with fewer than fifty
(50,000) population.
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| Q. |
Where can I get a copy of the official form to file a comment with the Office
of the National Ombudsman?
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| A. |
There are several ways to obtain an official comment form. You may request it
from the regional Regulatory Fairness Board Member in your area, the local SBA
District Office, or by calling the SBA Answer Desk at 1 (800) U-ASK-SBA. The
form is also available on-line by clicking on the white scroll button on this site.
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| Q. |
Is there a charge for using the services of the Office of the National Ombudsman?
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| A. |
No. The Office of the National Ombudsman was established by Congress and its
services are provided at no fee to the public.
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