81 FR 95412 - Rules of Practice and Procedure
FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 249 (December 28, 2016)
Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 249 (December 28, 2016)
| Page Range | 95412-95419 | |
| FR Document | 2016-31240 |
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 249 (Wednesday, December 28, 2016)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 95412-95419] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2016-31240] ======================================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION 12 CFR Part 308 RIN 3064-AE52 Rules of Practice and Procedure AGENCY: Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is adjusting the maximum amount of each civil money penalty (CMP) within its jurisdiction to account for inflation. This action is required by the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015 (2015 Adjustment Act). The FDIC is also amending its rules of practice and procedure to correct a technical error from the previous inflation-adjustment rulemaking. DATES: This rule is effective on January 15, 2017. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Seth P. Rosebrock, Supervisory Counsel, Legal Division (202) 898-6609, or Graham N. Rehrig, Senior Attorney, Legal Division (202) 898-3829. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Policy Objectives The Final Rule changes the maximum limit for CMPs according to inflation as mandated by Congress in the 2015 Adjustment Act.\1\ The intended effect of annually adjusting maximum civil money penalties in accordance with changes in the Consumer Price Index is [[Page 95413]] to minimize any distortion in the real value of those maximums due to inflation, thereby promoting a more consistent deterrent effect in the structure of CMPs. The Final Rule also amends the FDIC's rules of practice and procedure under 12 CFR part 308 to remove a technical error found at 12 CFR 308.132(c). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \1\ Public Law 114-74, sec. 701, 129 Stat. 584. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- II. Background The FDIC assesses CMPs under section 8(i) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (FDIA), 12 U.S.C. 1818, and a variety of other statutes.\2\ Congress established maximum penalties that could be assessed under these statutes. In many cases, these statutes contain multiple penalty tiers, permitting the assessment of penalties at various levels depending upon the severity of the misconduct at issue.\3\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \2\ See, e.g., 12 U.S.C. 1972(2)(F) (authorizing the FDIC to impose CMPs for violations of the Bank Holding Company Act of 1970 related to prohibited tying arrangements); 15 U.S.C. 78u-2 (authorizing the FDIC to impose CMPs for violations of certain provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); 42 U.S.C. 4012a(f) (authorizing the FDIC to impose CMPs for pattern or practice violations of the Flood Disaster Protection Act). \3\ For example, Section 8(i)(2) of the FDIA, 12 U.S.C. 1818(i)(2), provides for three tiers of CMPs, with the size of such CMPs increasing with the gravity of the misconduct. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- In 1990, Congress determined that the assessment of CMPs plays ``an important role in deterring violations and furthering the policy goals embodied in such laws and regulations'' and concluded that ``the impact of many civil monetary penalties has been and is diminished due to the effect of inflation.'' \4\ Consequently, Congress required federal agencies with authority to impose CMPs to periodically adjust by rulemaking the maximum CMPs which these agencies were authorized to impose in order to ``maintain the deterrent effect of civil monetary penalties and promote compliance with the law.'' \5\ Under the 1990 Adjustment Act, the FDIC adjusted its CMP amounts every four years.\6\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \4\ Section 2 of the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act of 1990 (1990 Adjustment Act). Public Law 101-410, 104 Stat. 890 (amended 2015) (codified as amended at 28 U.S.C. 2461 note). \5\ Id. \6\ See, e.g., 77 FR 74573 (Dec. 17, 2012). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- In 2015, Congress revised the process by which federal agencies adjust applicable CMPs for inflation.\7\ Under the 2015 Adjustment Act, the FDIC is required to (1) adjust the CMP levels with an initial catch-up adjustment through an interim final rulemaking and (2) make subsequent annual adjustments for inflation.\8\ The initial and subsequent adjustments apply to all CMPs covered by the 2015 Adjustment Act.\9\ The FDIC published its interim final rulemaking--containing the initial catch-up adjustments--on June 29, 2016.\10\ The 2015 Adjustment Act requires subsequent annual adjustments to be made by January 15 of each year.\11\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \7\ See Public Law 114-74, sec. 701, 129 Stat. 584. \8\ See id. at sec. 701(b). \9\ See Public Law 101-410, sec. 3(2), 104 Stat. 890 (amended 2015) (codified as amended at 28 U.S.C. 2461 note). \10\ 81 FR 42235. Although the FDIC was not obligated to solicit comments for the interim final rule, the FDIC asked for comments from the public and received one comment. See https://www.fdic.gov/regulations/laws/federal/2016/2016_rules_of_practice_and_procedure_3064%E2%80%93AE43.html. The comment noted that the FDIC interim final rule was issued according to a statutory mandate, but expressed disappointment that the FDIC ``did not promulgate [its] interim final CMP rules pursuant to the normal administrative process, whereby interested stakeholders among the public have an opportunity to comment on a `Proposed Rule' before it is finalized.'' Id. The commenter made no specific request that the final rule be amended or changed, however, but requested that the FDIC exercise its ``discretion to impose CMP amounts below the maximum level in accordance with the severity of the misconduct at issue.'' Id. As noted above, the FDIC followed an explicit statutory mandate in creating the interim final rule. Moreover, the FDIC intends to continue to exercise its discretion--in accordance with statutory requirements--in imposing appropriate CMP amounts. See 12 U.S.C. 1818(i)(2)(G). \11\ Public Law 114-74, sec. 701(b), 129 Stat. 584. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Although the 2015 Adjustment Act increases the maximum penalty that may be assessed under each applicable statute, the FDIC possesses discretion to impose CMP amounts below the maximum level in accordance with the severity of the misconduct at issue. When making a determination as to the appropriate level of any given penalty, the FDIC is guided by statutory factors set forth in section 8(i)(2)(G) of the FDIA, 12 U.S.C. 1818(i)(2)(G), and those factors identified in the Interagency Policy Statement Regarding the Assessment of CMPs by the Federal Financial Institutions Regulatory Agencies.\12\ Such factors include, but are not limited to, the gravity and duration of the misconduct, and the intent related to the misconduct. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \12\ 63 FR 30227 (June 3, 1998). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- While the 2015 Adjustment Act required the FDIC to initially adjust its maximum CMP amounts through an interim final rulemaking, for subsequent adjustments, the FDIC ``shall adjust [CMPs] and shall make the adjustment notwithstanding section 553 of title 5, United States Code'' (the Administrative Procedure Act).\13\ The FDIC, therefore, is not obligated to publish the subsequent adjustments through notice-and- comment rulemaking, and the FDIC is publishing the adjustments through a final rule. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \13\ Public Law 114-74, sec. 701(b), 129 Stat. 584 (emphasis added). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Moreover, the FDIC is correcting a technical error found at 12 CFR 308.132(c). During the last CMP-adjustment process, the FDIC sought to revise 12 CFR 308.132(c) to articulate the FDIC Board's authority to assess CMPs. The FDIC also intended to transfer the substance of current 12 CFR 308.132(c)(2) through 12 CFR 308.132(c)(3)(xvii) to current 12 CFR 308.132(d), and to remove the now-duplicative language of 12 CFR 308.132(c)(2) through 12 CFR 308.132(c)(3)(xvii). The Final Rule amends 12 CFR 308.132(c) accordingly by removing 12 CFR 308.132(c)(2) through 12 CFR 308.132(c)(3)(xvii) and retitling current 12 CFR 308.132(c)(1). The FDIC believes that all of these changes are technical and ministerial in character, and therefore, the FDIC is not soliciting public comment on the changes. III. Description and Expected Effects of the Final Rule The Final Rule modifies the maximum limit for CMPs according to inflation as mandated by Congress in the 2015 Adjustment Act. The 2015 Adjustment Act directs federal agencies to follow guidance issued by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on December 16, 2016 (OMB Guidance), when calculating new maximum penalty levels.\14\ The adjustments are to be based on the percent change between the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers (CPI-U) \15\ for October 2015 and the October 2016 CPI-U. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \14\ See OMB, Implementation of the 2017 Annual Adjustment Pursuant to the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015, M-17-11 (Dec. 16, 2016), available at https://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/memoranda/2017/m-17-11_0.pdf (noting that the applicable 2017 CMP-adjustment multiplier is 1.01636). \15\ The CPI-U is compiled by the Bureau of Statistics of the Department of Labor. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Summary of the FDIC's Calculations In keeping with the OMB Guidance, the FDIC multiplied each of its CMP amounts by the relevant inflation factor.\16\ After applying the multiplier, the FDIC rounded each penalty level to the nearest dollar. In making these calculations, the FDIC consulted with staff from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the Board of Governors for the Federal Reserve System, the National Credit Union Administration, [[Page 95414]] and the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection to ensure that the FDIC's calculations and adjustments are consistent with those being proposed by other federal financial regulators for the same statutes. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \16\ Under the 1990 Adjustment Act, adjustments have been made only to CMPs that are for specific dollar amounts or maximums. CMPs that are assessed based upon a fixed percentage of an institution's total assets are not subject to adjustment. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Adjusted CMP Amounts The following chart displays the adjusted CMP amounts for each CMP identified in 12 CFR part 308.\17\ The following chart reflects the maximum CMP amounts that may be assessed after January 15, 2017--the effective date of the 2017 annual adjustment--including assessments whose associated violations occurred on or after November 2, 2015.\18\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \17\ As noted previously, the FDIC retains discretion to impose CMPs in amounts below the referenced maximums. \18\ See OMB Guidance at 4. Maximum Civil Money Penalty Amounts ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Current maximum Adjusted maximum U.S. Code citation CMP (through CMP (beginning January 14, 2017) January 15, 2017) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 12 U.S.C. 1464(v) Tier One CMP................ $3,787 $3,849 Tier Two CMP................ 37,872 38,492 Tier Three CMP.............. 1,893,610 1,924,589 12 U.S.C. 1467(d)............... 9,468 9,623 12 U.S.C. 1817(a) Tier One CMP................ 3,787 3,849 Tier Two CMP................ 37,872 38,492 Tier Three CMP.............. 1,893,610 1,924,589 12 U.S.C. 1817(c) Tier One CMP................ 3,462 3,519 Tier Two CMP................ 34,620 35,186 Tier Three CMP.............. 1,730,990 1,759,309 12 U.S.C. 1818(i)(2) Tier One CMP................ 9,468 9,623 Tier Two CMP................ 47,340 48,114 Tier Three CMP.............. 1,893,610 1,924,589 12 U.S.C. 1820(e)(4)............ 8,655 8,797 12 U.S.C. 1820(k)(6)............ 311,470 316,566 12 U.S.C. 1828(a)(3)............ 118 120 12 U.S.C. 1828(h) For assessments < 10,000.... 118 120 12 U.S.C. 1829b(j).............. 19,787 20,111 12 U.S.C. 1832(c)............... 2,750 2,795 12 U.S.C. 1884.................. 275 279 12 U.S.C. 1972(2)(F) Tier One CMP................ 9,468 9,623 Tier Two CMP................ 47,340 48,114 Tier Three CMP.............. 1,893,610 1,924,589 12 U.S.C. 3909(d)............... 2,355 2,394 15 U.S.C. 78u-2 Tier One CMP (individuals).. 8,908 9,054 Tier One CMP (others)....... 89,078 90,535 Tier Two CMP (individuals).. 89,078 90,535 Tier Two CMP (others)....... 445,390 452,677 Tier Three CMP (individuals) 178,156 181,071 Tier Three penalty (others). 890,780 905,353 15 U.S.C. 1639e(k) First violation............. 10,875 11,053 Subsequent violations....... 21,749 22,105 31 U.S.C. 3802.................. 10,781 10,957 42 U.S.C. 4012a(f).............. 2,056 2,090 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Current maximum New maximum amount CFR citation amount (through (beginning January January 14, 2017) 15, 2017) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 12 CFR 308.132(c)--Late or Misleading Reports of Condition and Income (Call Reports) First Offense 25 million or more assets 1 to 15 days late....... $519 $527 16 or more days late.... 1,039 1,056 Less than 25 million assets 1 to 15 days late....... 173 176 16 or more days late.... 346 352 [[Page 95415]] Subsequent Offenses 25 million or more assets 1 to 15 days late....... 865 879 16 or more days late.... 1,731 1,759 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Expected Effects of the CMP Adjustments The CMP Adjustments are expected to more precisely adjust CMP maximums relative to inflation. These adjustments are expected to minimize any year-to-year distortions in the real value of the CMP maximums. These adjustments will promote a more consistent deterrent effect in the structure of CMPs. As previously noted, the FDIC retains discretion to impose CMP amounts below the maximum level. The actual number and size of CMPs assessed in the future will depend on the propensity and severity of the violations committed by banks and institution-affiliated parties, as well as the particular statute that is at issue. Such future violations cannot be reliably forecast. It is expected that the FDIC will continue to exercise its discretion to impose CMPs that are appropriate to their severity. The 2015 Adjustment Act will likely result in a minimal increase in administrative costs for the FDIC in order to establish new inflation- adjusted maximum CMPs each year. Because these calculations are relatively simple, the number of labor hours necessary to perform this task is likely to be insignificant relative to total enforcement labor hours for the Corporation. IV. Alternatives Considered The 2015 Adjustment Act mandates the frequency of the inflation adjustment and the measure of inflation to be used in making these adjustments. This statute also provides that the FDIC is not required to proceed through notice-and-comment rulemaking under the Administrative Procedure Act in making annual CMP adjustments. Therefore, the FDIC has not considered alternatives to the CMP Adjustments. V. Request for Comment The 2015 Adjustment Act requires the FDIC to adjust its maximum CMP amounts ``notwithstanding section 553 of title 5, United States Code,'' \19\ and provides the specific adjustments to be made. Moreover, the CMP Adjustments and the revisions to the CFR are ministerial and technical; therefore, the FDIC is not required to complete a notice- and-comment rulemaking process prior to making the adjustments. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \19\ Public Law 114-74, sec. 701(b), 129 Stat. 584. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- VI. Regulatory Analysis Riegle Community Development and Regulatory Improvement Act Section 302 of the Riegle Community Development and Regulatory Improvement Act \20\ generally requires that regulations prescribed by federal banking agencies which impose additional reporting, disclosures, or other new requirements on insured depository institutions take effect on the first day of a calendar quarter unless the regulation is required to take effect on another date pursuant to another act of Congress or the agency determines for good cause that the regulation should become effective on an earlier date. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \20\ 12 U.S.C. 4802. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- This Final Rule does not impose any new or additional reporting, disclosures, or other requirements on insured depository institutions. Therefore, the Final Rule is not subject to the requirements of this statute. Regulatory Flexibility Act An initial regulatory flexibility analysis under the Regulatory Flexibility Act \21\ (RFA) is required only when an agency must publish a general notice of proposed rulemaking. As noted above, the FDIC determined that publication of a notice of proposed rulemaking is not necessary for the Final Rule. Accordingly, the RFA does not require an initial regulatory flexibility analysis. Nevertheless, the FDIC considered the likely impact of Final Rule on small entities. From 2011 through 2015, on average, only 1.6 percent of FDIC-supervised institutions were ordered to pay a CMP each year. Accordingly, the FDIC believes that the Final Rule will not have a significant impact on a substantial number of small entities. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \21\ 5 U.S.C. 603. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act The OMB has determined that the Final Rule is not a ``major rule'' within the meaning of the relevant sections of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Act of 1996 (SBREFA).\22\ As required by SBREFA, the FDIC will submit the Final Rule and other appropriate reports to Congress and the Government Accountability Office for review. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \22\ 5 U.S.C. 801 et seq. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Omnibus Consolidated and Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act, 1999: Assessment of Federal Regulations and Policies on Families The FDIC determined that the Final Rule will not affect family wellbeing within the meaning of section 654 of the Omnibus Consolidated and Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act, 1999.\23\ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \23\ Public Law 105-277, 112 Stat. 2681 (1998). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Paperwork Reduction Act The Final Rule does not create any new, or revise any existing, collections of information under section 3504(h) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980.\24\ Consequently, no information collection request will be submitted to the OMB for review. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \24\ 44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Plain Language Act Section 722 of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act requires the FDIC to use plain language in all proposed and final rules published after January 1, 2000.\25\ Accordingly, the FDIC has attempted to write the Final Rule in clear and comprehensible language. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- \25\ Public Law 106-102, 113 Stat. 1338 (Nov. 12, 1999). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- List of Subjects in 12 CFR Part 308 Administrative practice and procedure, Banks, Banking, Claims, Crime, Equal access to justice, Ex parte communications, Hearing procedure, Lawyers, Penalties, State nonmember banks. [[Page 95416]] For the reasons set forth in the preamble, the FDIC amends 12 CFR part 308 as follows: PART 308--RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE 0 1. The authority citation for part 308 continues to read as follows: Authority: 5 U.S.C. 504, 554-557; 12 U.S.C. 93(b), 164, 505, 1464, 1467(d), 1467a, 1468, 1815(e), 1817, 1818, 1819, 1820, 1828, 1829, 1829(b), 1831i, 1831m(g)(4), 1831o, 1831p-1, 1832(c), 1884(b), 1972, 3102, 3108(a), 3349, 3909, 4717, 5412(b)(2)(C), 5414(b)(3); 15 U.S.C. 78(h) and (i), 78o(c)(4), 78o-4(c), 78o-5, 78q-1, 78s, 78u, 78u-2, 78u-3, 78w, 6801(b), 6805(b)(1); 28 U.S.C. 2461 note; 31 U.S.C. 330, 5321; 42 U.S.C. 4012a; Pub. L. 104-134, sec. 31001(s), 110 Stat. 1321; Pub. L. 109-351, 120 Stat. 1966; Pub. L. 111-203, 124 Stat. 1376; Pub. L. 114-74, sec. 701, 129 Stat. 584. 0 2. Revise Sec. 308.116(b)(4) to read as follows: Sec. 308.116 Assessment of penalties. * * * * * (b) * * * (4) Adjustment of civil money penalties by the rate of inflation pursuant to the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015. After January 15, 2017, for violations that occurred on or after November 2, 2015: (i) Any person who has engaged in a violation as set forth in paragraph (b)(1) of this section shall forfeit and pay a civil money penalty of not more than $9,623 for each day the violation continued. (ii) Any person who has engaged in a violation, unsafe or unsound practice or breach of fiduciary duty, as set forth in paragraph (b)(2) of this section, shall forfeit and pay a civil money penalty of not more than $48,114 for each day such violation, practice or breach continued. (iii) Any person who has knowingly engaged in a violation, unsafe or unsound practice or breach of fiduciary duty, as set forth in paragraph (b)(3) of this section, shall forfeit and pay a civil money penalty not to exceed: (A) In the case of a person other than a depository institution-- $1,924,589 per day for each day the violation, practice or breach continued; or (B) In the case of a depository institution--an amount not to exceed the lesser of $1,924,589 or one percent of the total assets of such institution for each day the violation, practice or breach continued. * * * * * 0 3. Revise Sec. 308.132(c) and (d) to read as follows: Sec. 308.132 Assessment of penalties. * * * * * (c) Authority of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors or its designee may assess civil money penalties under section 8(i) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1818(i)), and Sec. 308.1(e) of the Uniform Rules (this part). (d) Maximum civil money penalty amounts. Pursuant to the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015, after January 15, 2017, for violations that occurred on or after November 2, 2015, the Board of Directors or its designee may assess civil money penalties in the maximum amounts as follows: (1) Civil money penalties assessed pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1464(v) for late filing or the submission of false or misleading certified statements by State savings associations. Pursuant to section 5(v) of the Home Owners' Loan Act (12 U.S.C. 1464(v)), the Board of Directors or its designee may assess civil money penalties as follows: (i) Late filing--Tier One penalties. In cases in which an institution fails to make or publish its Report of Condition and Income (Call Report) within the appropriate time periods, a civil money penalty of not more than $3,849 per day may be assessed where the institution maintains procedures in place reasonably adapted to avoid inadvertent error and the late filing occurred unintentionally and as a result of such error; or the institution inadvertently transmitted a Call Report that is minimally late. For penalties assessed after January 15, 2017, for violations of this paragraph (d)(3)(i) that occurred on or after November 2, 2015, the following maximum Tier One penalty amounts contained in paragraphs (d)(1)(i)(A) and (B) of this section shall apply for each day that the violation continues. (A) First offense. Generally, in such cases, the amount assessed shall be $527 per day for each of the first 15 days for which the failure continues, and $1,056 per day for each subsequent day the failure continues, beginning on the sixteenth day. For institutions with less than $25,000,000 in assets, the amount assessed shall be the greater of $176 per day or 1/1000th of the institution's total assets (1/10th of a basis point) for each of the first 15 days for which the failure continues, and $352 or 1/500th of the institution's total assets, \1/5\ of a basis point) for each subsequent day the failure continues, beginning on the sixteenth day. (B) Subsequent offense. Where the institution has been delinquent in making or publishing its Call Report within the preceding five quarters, the amount assessed for the most current failure shall generally be $879 per day for each of the first 15 days for which the failure continues, and $1,759 per day for each subsequent day the failure continues, beginning on the sixteenth day. For institutions with less than $25,000,000 in assets, those amounts, respectively, shall be 1/500th of the bank's total assets and 1/250th of the institution's total assets. (C) Lengthy or repeated violations. The amounts set forth in this paragraph (d)(1)(i) will be assessed on a case by case basis where the amount of time of the institution's delinquency is lengthy or the institution has been delinquent repeatedly in making or publishing its Call Reports. (D) Waiver. Absent extraordinary circumstances outside the control of the institution, penalties assessed for late filing shall not be waived. (ii) Late-filing--Tier Two penalties. Where an institution fails to make or publish its Call Report within the appropriate time period, the Board of Directors or its designee may assess a civil money penalty of not more than $38,492 per day for each day the failure continues. (iii) False or misleading reports or information--(A) Tier One penalties. In cases in which an institution submits or publishes any false or misleading Call Report or information, the Board of Directors or its designee may assess a civil money penalty of not more than $3,849 per day for each day the information is not corrected, where the institution maintains procedures in place reasonably adapted to avoid inadvertent error and the violation occurred unintentionally and as a result of such error; or the institution inadvertently transmits a Call Report or information that is false or misleading. (B) Tier Two penalties. Where an institution submits or publishes any false or misleading Call Report or other information, the Board of Directors or its designee may assess a civil money penalty of not more than $38,492 per day for each day the information is not corrected. (C) Tier Three penalties. Where an institution knowingly or with reckless disregard for the accuracy of any Call Report or information submits or publishes any false or misleading Call Report or other information, the Board of Directors or its designee may assess a civil money penalty of not more than the lesser of $1,924,589 or 1 percent of the institution's total assets per day for each day the information is not corrected. (iv) Mitigating factors. The amounts set forth in this paragraph (d)(1) may be [[Page 95417]] reduced based upon the factors set forth in paragraph (b) of this section. (2) Civil money penalties assessed pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1467(d) for refusal by an affiliate of a State savings association to allow examination or to provide required information during an examination. Pursuant to section 9(d) of the Home Owners' Loan Act (12 U.S.C. 1467(d)), civil money penalties may be assessed against any State savings association if an affiliate of such an institution refuses to permit a duly-appointed examiner to conduct an examination or refuses to provide information during the course of an examination as set forth 12 U.S.C. 1467(d), in an amount not to exceed $9,623 for each day the refusal continues. (3) Civil money penalties assessed pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1817(a) for late filings or the submission of false or misleading reports of condition. Pursuant to section 7(a) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1817(a)), the Board of Directors or its designee may assess civil money penalties as follows: (i) Late filing--Tier One penalties. In cases in which an institution fails to make or publish its Report of Condition and Income (Call Report) within the appropriate time periods, a civil money penalty of not more than $3,849 per day may be assessed where the institution maintains procedures in place reasonably adapted to avoid inadvertent error and the late filing occurred unintentionally and as a result of such error; or the institution inadvertently transmitted a Call Report that is minimally late. For penalties assessed after January 15, 2017, for violations of this paragraph (d)(3)(i) that occurred on or after November 2, 2015, the following maximum Tier One penalty amounts contained in paragraphs (d)(3)(i)(A) and (B) of this section shall apply for each day that the violation continues. (A) First offense. Generally, in such cases, the amount assessed shall be $527 per day for each of the first 15 days for which the failure continues, and $1,056 per day for each subsequent day the failure continues, beginning on the sixteenth day. For institutions with less than $25,000,000 in assets, the amount assessed shall be the greater of $176 per day or 1/1000th of the institution's total assets (1/10th of a basis point) for each of the first 15 days for which the failure continues, and $352 or 1/500th of the institution's total assets, (\1/5\ of a basis point) for each subsequent day the failure continues, beginning on the sixteenth day. (B) Subsequent offense. Where the institution has been delinquent in making or publishing its Call Report within the preceding five quarters, the amount assessed for the most current failure shall generally be $879 per day for each of the first 15 days for which the failure continues, and $1,759 per day for each subsequent day the failure continues, beginning on the sixteenth day. For institutions with less than $25,000,000 in assets, those amounts, respectively, shall be 1/500th of the bank's total assets and 1/250th of the institution's total assets. (C) Lengthy or repeated violations. The amounts set forth in this paragraph (d)(3)(i) will be assessed on a case by case basis where the amount of time of the institution's delinquency is lengthy or the institution has been delinquent repeatedly in making or publishing its Call Reports. (D) Waiver. Absent extraordinary circumstances outside the control of the institution, penalties assessed for late filing shall not be waived. (ii) Late-filing--Tier Two penalties. Where an institution fails to make or publish its Call Report within the appropriate time period, the Board of Directors or its designee may assess a civil money penalty of not more than $38,492 per day for each day the failure continues. (iii) False or misleading reports or information--(A) Tier One penalties. In cases in which an institution submits or publishes any false or misleading Call Report or information, the Board of Directors or its designee may assess a civil money penalty of not more than $3,849 per day for each day the information is not corrected, where the institution maintains procedures in place reasonably adapted to avoid inadvertent error and the violation occurred unintentionally and as a result of such error; or the institution inadvertently transmits a Call Report or information that is false or misleading. (B) Tier Two penalties. Where an institution submits or publishes any false or misleading Call Report or other information, the Board of Directors or its designee may assess a civil money penalty of not more than $38,492 per day for each day the information is not corrected. (C) Tier Three penalties. Where an institution knowingly or with reckless disregard for the accuracy of any Call Report or information submits or publishes any false or misleading Call Report or other information, the Board of Directors or its designee may assess a civil money penalty of not more than the lesser of $1,924,589 or 1 percent of the institution's total assets per day for each day the information is not corrected. (iv) Mitigating factors. The amounts set forth in this paragraph (d)(3) may be reduced based upon the factors set forth in paragraph (b) of this section. (4) Civil money penalties assessed pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1817(c) for late filing or the submission of false or misleading certified statements. Tier One civil money penalties may be assessed pursuant to section 7(c)(4)(A) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1817(c)(4)(A)) in an amount not to exceed $3,519 for each day during which the failure to file continues or the false or misleading information is not corrected. Tier Two civil money penalties may be assessed pursuant to section 7(c)(4)(B) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1817(c)(4)(B)) in an amount not to exceed $35,186 for each day during which the failure to file continues or the false or misleading information is not corrected. Tier Three civil money penalties may be assessed pursuant to section 7(c)(4)(C) in an amount not to exceed the lesser of $1,759,309 or 1 percent of the total assets of the institution for each day during which the failure to file continues or the false or misleading information is not corrected. (5) Civil money penalties assessed pursuant to section 8(i)(2) of the FDIA. Tier One civil money penalties may be assessed pursuant to section 8(i)(2)(A) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1818(i)(2)(A)) in an amount not to exceed $9,623 for each day during which the violation continues. Tier Two civil money penalties may be assessed pursuant to section 8(i)(2)(B) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1818(i)(2)(B)) in an amount not to exceed $48,114 for each day during which the violation, practice or breach continues. Tier Three civil money penalties may be assessed pursuant to section 8(i)(2)(C) (12 U.S.C. 1818(i)(2)(C)) in an amount not to exceed, in the case of any person other than an insured depository institution $1,924,589 or, in the case of any insured depository institution, an amount not to exceed the lesser of $1,924,589 or 1 percent of the total assets of such institution for each day during which the violation, practice, or breach continues. (i) Pursuant to 7(j)(16) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1817(j)(16)), a civil money penalty may be assessed for violations of change in control of insured depository institution provisions pursuant to section 8(i)(2) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1818(i)(2)) in the amounts set forth in this paragraph (d)(5). (ii) Pursuant to the International Banking Act of 1978 (IBA) (12 U.S.C. 3108(b)), civil money penalties may be assessed for failure to comply with the requirements of the IBA pursuant to [[Page 95418]] section 8(i)(2) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1818(i)(2)), in the amounts set forth in this paragraph (d)(5). (iii) Pursuant to section 1120(b) of the Financial Institutions Recovery, Reform, and Enforcement Act of 1989 (FIRREA) (12 U.S.C. 3349(b)), where a financial institution seeks, obtains, or gives any other thing of value in exchange for the performance of an appraisal by a person that the institution knows is not a state certified or licensed appraiser in connection with a federally related transaction, a civil money penalty may be assessed pursuant to section 8(i)(2) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1818(i)(2)) in the amounts set forth in this paragraph (d)(5). (iv) Pursuant to the Community Development Banking and Financial Institution Act (Community Development Banking Act) (12 U.S.C. 4717(b)) a civil money penalty may be assessed for violations of the Community Development Banking Act pursuant to section 8(i)(2) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1818(i)(2)), in the amount set forth in this paragraph (d)(5). (v) Civil money penalties may be assessed pursuant to section 8(i)(2) of the FDIA in the amounts set forth in this paragraph (d)(5) for violations of various consumer laws, including, but not limited to, the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (12 U.S.C. 2804 et seq. and 12 CFR 203.6), the Expedited Funds Availability Act (12 U.S.C. 4001 et seq.), the Truth in Savings Act (12 U.S.C. 4301 et seq.), the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (12 U.S.C. 2601 et seq.), the Truth in Lending Act (15 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.), the Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681 et seq.), the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (15 U.S.C. 1691 et seq.), the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (15 U.S.C. 1692 et seq.), the Electronic Funds Transfer Act (15 U.S.C. 1693 et seq.) and the Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. 3601 et seq.). (6) Civil money penalties assessed pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1820(e) for refusal to allow examination or to provide required information during an examination. Pursuant to section 10(e)(4) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1820(e)(4)), civil money penalties may be assessed against any affiliate of an insured depository institution that refuses to permit a duly-appointed examiner to conduct an examination or to provide information during the course of an examination as set forth in section 20(b) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1820(b)), in an amount not to exceed $8,797 for each day the refusal continues. (7) Civil money penalties assessed pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1820(k) for violation of one-year restriction on Federal examiners of financial institutions. Pursuant to section 10(k) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1820(k)), the Board of Directors or its designee may assess a civil money penalty of up to $316,566 against any covered former Federal examiner of a financial institution who, in violation of section 10(k) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1820(k)) and within the one-year period following termination of government service as an employee, serves as an officer, director, or consultant of a financial or depository institution, a holding company, or of any other entity listed in section 10(k) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1820(k)), without the written waiver or permission by the appropriate Federal banking agency or authority under section 10(k)(5) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1820(k)(5)). (8) Civil money penalties assessed pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1828(a) for incorrect display of insurance logo. Pursuant to section 18(a)(3) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1828(a)(3)), civil money penalties may be assessed against an insured depository institution that fails to correctly display its insurance logo pursuant to that section, in an amount not to exceed $120 for each day the violation continues. (9) Civil money penalties assessed pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1828(h) for failure to timely pay assessment--(i) In general. Subject to paragraph (d)(9)(iii) of this section, any insured depository institution that fails or refuses to pay any assessment shall be subject to a penalty in an amount of not more than 1 percent of the amount of the assessment due for each day that such violation continues. (ii) Exception in case of dispute. Paragraph (d)(9)(i) of this section shall not apply if-- (A) The failure to pay an assessment is due to a dispute between the insured depository institution and the Corporation over the amount of such assessment; and (B) The insured depository institution deposits security satisfactory to the Corporation for payment upon final determination of the issue. (iii) Special rule for small assessment amounts. If the amount of the assessment that an insured depository institution fails or refuses to pay is less than $10,000 at the time of such failure or refusal, the amount of any penalty to which such institution is subject under paragraph (d)(9)(i) of this section shall not exceed $120 for each day that such violation continues. (iv) Authority to modify or remit penalty. The Corporation, in the sole discretion of the Corporation, may compromise, modify, or remit any penalty that the Corporation may assess or has already assessed under paragraph (d)(9)(i) of this section upon a finding that good cause prevented the timely payment of an assessment. (10) Civil money penalties assessed pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1829b(j) for recordkeeping violations. Pursuant to section 19b(j) of the FDIA (12 U.S.C. 1829b(j)), civil money penalties may be assessed against an insured depository institution and any director, officer or employee thereof who willfully or through gross negligence violates or causes a violation of the recordkeeping requirements of that section or its implementing regulations in an amount not to exceed $20,111 per violation. (11) Civil money penalties pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1832(c) for violation of provisions regarding interest-bearing demand deposit accounts. Pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1832(c), any depository institution that violates the prohibition regarding interest-bearing demand deposit accounts shall be subject to a fine of $2,795 per violation. (12) Civil penalties for violations of security measure requirements under 12 U.S.C. 1884. Pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1884, an institution that violates a rule establishing minimum security requirements as set forth in 12 U.S.C. 1882, shall be subject to a civil penalty not to exceed $279 for each day of the violation. (13) Civil money penalties assessed pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1972(2)(F) for prohibited tying arrangements. Pursuant to the Bank Holding Company Act of 1970, Tier One civil money penalties may be assessed pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1972(2)(F)(i) in an amount not to exceed $9,623 for each day during which the violation continues. Tier Two civil money penalties may be assessed pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1972(2)(F)(ii) in an amount not to exceed $48,114 for each day during which the violation, practice or breach continues. Tier Three civil money penalties may be assessed pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 1972(2)(F)(iii) in an amount not to exceed, in the case of any person other than an insured depository institution $1,924,589 for each day during which the violation, practice, or breach continues or, in the case of any insured depository institution, an amount not to exceed the lesser of $1,924,589 or 1 percent of the total assets of such institution for each day during which the violation, practice, or breach continues. (14) Civil money penalties assessed pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 3909(d). Pursuant to the International Lending Supervision Act (ILSA) (12 U.S.C. 3909(d)), civil money penalties may be assessed against any institution or any officer, director, employee, agent or [[Page 95419]] other person participating in the conduct of the affairs of such institution is an amount not to exceed $2,394 for each day a violation of the ILSA or any rule, regulation or order issued pursuant to ILSA continues. (15) Civil money penalties assessed for violations of 15 U.S.C. 78u-2. Pursuant to section 21B of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange Act) (15 U.S.C. 78u-2), civil money penalties may be assessed for violations of certain provisions of the Exchange Act, where such penalties are in the public interest. Tier One civil money penalties may be assessed pursuant to 15 U.S.C. 78u-2(b)(1) in an amount not to exceed $9,054 for a natural person or $90,535 for any other person for violations set forth in 15 U.S.C. 78u-2(a). Tier Two civil money penalties may be assessed pursuant to 15 U.S.C. 78u-2(b)(2) in an amount not to exceed--for each violation set forth in 15 U.S.C. 78u- 2(a)--$90,535 for a natural person or $452,677 for any other person if the act or omission involved fraud, deceit, manipulation, or deliberate or reckless disregard of a regulatory requirement. Tier Three civil money penalties may be assessed pursuant to 15 U.S.C. 78u-2(b)(3) for each violation set forth in 15 U.S.C. 78u-2(a), in an amount not to exceed $181,071 for a natural person or $905,353 for any other person, if the act or omission involved fraud, deceit, manipulation, or deliberate or reckless disregard of a regulatory requirement; and such act or omission directly or indirectly resulted in substantial losses, or created a significant risk of substantial losses to other persons or resulted in substantial pecuniary gain to the person who committed the act or omission. (16) Civil money penalties assessed pursuant to 15 U.S.C. 1639e(k) for appraisal independence violations. Pursuant to section 1472(a) of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Appraisal Independence Rule) (15 U.S.C. 1639e(k)), civil money penalties may be assessed for an initial violation of the Appraisal Independence Rule in an amount not to exceed $11,053 for each day during which the violation continues and, for subsequent violations, $22,105 for each day during which the violation continues. (17) Civil money penalties assessed for false claims and statements pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 3802. Pursuant to the Program Fraud Civil Remedies Act (31 U.S.C. 3802), civil money penalties of not more than $10,957 per claim or statement may be assessed for violations involving false claims and statements. (18) Civil money penalties assessed for violations of 42 U.S.C. 4012a(f). Pursuant to the Flood Disaster Protection Act (FDPA) (42 U.S.C. 4012a(f)), civil money penalties may be assessed against any regulated lending institution that engages in a pattern or practice of violations of the FDPA in an amount not to exceed $2,090 per violation. Dated at Washington, DC, this 21st day of December, 2016. By order of the Board of Directors. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Robert E. Feldman, Executive Secretary. [FR Doc. 2016-31240 Filed 12-27-16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6714-01-P
![95412 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 249 / Wednesday, December 28, 2016 / Rules and Regulations
the current NRC dose terminology. On stakeholder input on these questions In the next edition of the Unified
the other hand, one commenter and issues to develop the regulatory Agenda, the NRC will update the entry
indicated that terminology should be basis. for these rulemaking activities and
adopted in order to be consistent with The NRC received 20 comment letters reference this document to indicate that
the terminology used by the U.S. on the 10 CFR part 50, appendix I, they are no longer being pursued. These
Department of Energy, as revised in ANPR. The comments, in addition to rulemaking activities will appear in the
2007, but use of the updated feedback from the August 24, 2015, NRC completed actions section of that
methodology should be delayed until public meeting held in Rockville, MD, edition of the Unified Agenda but will
the updated dose coefficients are included the following: (1) The not appear in future editions. If the NRC
published by ICRP. Finally, one potential revisions will result in decides to pursue similar or related
commenter supported revision of 10 intangible benefits such as transparency rulemaking activities in the future, it
CFR part 20 to align more closely with in the regulatory process, consistent will inform the public through new
ICRP Publication 103 methodology and terminology and methodology, and rulemaking entries in the Unified
terminology, but acknowledged that the comparison of technologies and Agenda.
realignment may result in little, if any, operations across international borders
Dated at Rockville, Maryland, this 14th day
improvement in occupational or public and environmental media; (2) of December 2016.
safety. implementation of the potential
For the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
As explained in SECY–16–0009, the revisions will result in a resource
additional resource expenditure in this burden; (3) the potential revisions are Michael R. Johnson,
area did not result in a recommendation unlikely to be cost-beneficial with little Acting Executive Director for Operations.
for a revised rule. The current NRC to no incremental improvement in the [FR Doc. 2016–31372 Filed 12–27–16; 8:45 am]
regulatory framework continues to health and safety of occupational BILLING CODE 7590–01–P
provide adequate protection of the workers, the public, or the environment;
health and safety of workers, the public, (4) in lieu of the potential revisions,
and the environment. In addition, a limited changes in the NRC guidance to FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE
majority of the comments submitted and address changes in methodology and CORPORATION
meeting feedback from stakeholders did terminology would require fewer
not support the proposed changes. licensee resources; and (5) should the 12 CFR Part 308
Therefore, the NRC staff believes that NRC proceed with rulemaking,
RIN 3064–AE52
there is minimal adverse impact on the consideration of on-going work on the
NRC’s mission, principles, or values by accuracy of the effluent doses to Rules of Practice and Procedure
discontinuing this rulemaking. In the members of the public could further
SRM for SECY–16–0009, the inform the proposed rulemaking. AGENCY: Federal Deposit Insurance
Commission approved the NRC staff’s Overall, the commenters recognized a Corporation.
recommendation to discontinue this need to update the NRC’s regulations ACTION: Final rule.
rulemaking. based on the advances in science and
technology; however, the SUMMARY: The Federal Deposit
IV. Reactor Effluents (RIN 3150–AJ38; implementation costs would be a Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is
NRC–2014–0044) significant burden to the industry that adjusting the maximum amount of each
The NRC published an ANPR in the would not be justified by improvements civil money penalty (CMP) within its
Federal Register (80 FR 25237; May 4, in public and occupational protection. jurisdiction to account for inflation.
2015), to obtain input from members of In addition, some commenters provided This action is required by the Federal
the public and other stakeholders on the additional options for the NRC to Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act
development of a regulatory basis for a consider, should it continue with Improvements Act of 2015 (2015
potential revision to 10 CFR part 50, rulemaking, including limited scope Adjustment Act). The FDIC is also
appendix I, the NRC’s regulations for updates to existing NRC guidance. amending its rules of practice and
licensees of light water cooled reactors As explained in SECY–16–0009, the procedure to correct a technical error
to meet the ALARA standard with staff recommended that this rulemaking from the previous inflation-adjustment
respect to radioactive effluents from activity be discontinued because during rulemaking.
such reactor sites. The publication of the development of the regulatory basis
the 10 CFR part 50, appendix I, ANPR for the proposed rule change, the staff DATES: This rule is effective on January
was also in response to the determined that the regulations do not 15, 2017.
Commission’s direction in the SRM for require changes at this time. Therefore, FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Seth
SECY–12–0064, which stated that the based on this determination and P. Rosebrock, Supervisory Counsel,
NRC staff should, along with the consideration of the comments received, Legal Division (202) 898–6609, or
development of the draft regulatory the NRC staff believes that there is Graham N. Rehrig, Senior Attorney,
basis for the 10 CFR part 20 regulations, minimal adverse impact on the NRC’s Legal Division (202) 898–3829.
engage in a parallel effort to develop a mission, principles, or values by SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
draft regulatory basis for aligning the 10 discontinuing this rulemaking. In the
CFR part 50, appendix I, design I. Policy Objectives
SRM for SECY–16–0009, the
objectives with the most recent Commission approved the NRC staff’s The Final Rule changes the maximum
terminology and dose-related recommendation to discontinue this limit for CMPs according to inflation as
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES
methodology published in ICRP rulemaking. mandated by Congress in the 2015
Publication 103. In the ANPR, the NRC Adjustment Act.1 The intended effect of
staff identified specific questions and V. Conclusion annually adjusting maximum civil
issues with respect to a possible The NRC is no longer pursuing the money penalties in accordance with
revision of 10 CFR part 50, appendix I, revisions to regulations in 10 CFR part changes in the Consumer Price Index is
and related guidance. The NRC staff 20 and 10 CFR part 50, appendix I, for
planned to consider public and other the reasons discussed in this document. 1 Public Law 114–74, sec. 701, 129 Stat. 584.
VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:15 Dec 27, 2016 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\28DER1.SGM 28DER1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/81_FR_95661/page/1.svg)
![Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 249 / Wednesday, December 28, 2016 / Rules and Regulations 95413
to minimize any distortion in the real subsequent adjustments apply to all is publishing the adjustments through a
value of those maximums due to CMPs covered by the 2015 Adjustment final rule.
inflation, thereby promoting a more Act.9 The FDIC published its interim Moreover, the FDIC is correcting a
consistent deterrent effect in the final rulemaking—containing the initial technical error found at 12 CFR
structure of CMPs. The Final Rule also catch-up adjustments—on June 29, 308.132(c). During the last CMP-
amends the FDIC’s rules of practice and 2016.10 The 2015 Adjustment Act adjustment process, the FDIC sought to
procedure under 12 CFR part 308 to requires subsequent annual adjustments revise 12 CFR 308.132(c) to articulate
remove a technical error found at 12 to be made by January 15 of each year.11 the FDIC Board’s authority to assess
CFR 308.132(c). Although the 2015 Adjustment Act CMPs. The FDIC also intended to
increases the maximum penalty that transfer the substance of current 12 CFR
II. Background 308.132(c)(2) through 12 CFR
may be assessed under each applicable
The FDIC assesses CMPs under statute, the FDIC possesses discretion to 308.132(c)(3)(xvii) to current 12 CFR
section 8(i) of the Federal Deposit impose CMP amounts below the 308.132(d), and to remove the now-
Insurance Act (FDIA), 12 U.S.C. 1818, maximum level in accordance with the duplicative language of 12 CFR
and a variety of other statutes.2 Congress severity of the misconduct at issue. 308.132(c)(2) through 12 CFR
established maximum penalties that When making a determination as to the 308.132(c)(3)(xvii). The Final Rule
could be assessed under these statutes. appropriate level of any given penalty, amends 12 CFR 308.132(c) accordingly
In many cases, these statutes contain the FDIC is guided by statutory factors by removing 12 CFR 308.132(c)(2)
multiple penalty tiers, permitting the set forth in section 8(i)(2)(G) of the through 12 CFR 308.132(c)(3)(xvii) and
assessment of penalties at various levels FDIA, 12 U.S.C. 1818(i)(2)(G), and those retitling current 12 CFR 308.132(c)(1).
depending upon the severity of the factors identified in the Interagency The FDIC believes that all of these
misconduct at issue.3 Policy Statement Regarding the changes are technical and ministerial in
In 1990, Congress determined that the Assessment of CMPs by the Federal character, and therefore, the FDIC is not
assessment of CMPs plays ‘‘an Financial Institutions Regulatory soliciting public comment on the
important role in deterring violations Agencies.12 Such factors include, but changes.
and furthering the policy goals are not limited to, the gravity and III. Description and Expected Effects of
embodied in such laws and regulations’’ duration of the misconduct, and the the Final Rule
and concluded that ‘‘the impact of many intent related to the misconduct.
civil monetary penalties has been and is The Final Rule modifies the
While the 2015 Adjustment Act maximum limit for CMPs according to
diminished due to the effect of required the FDIC to initially adjust its
inflation.’’ 4 Consequently, Congress inflation as mandated by Congress in
maximum CMP amounts through an the 2015 Adjustment Act. The 2015
required federal agencies with authority interim final rulemaking, for subsequent
to impose CMPs to periodically adjust Adjustment Act directs federal agencies
adjustments, the FDIC ‘‘shall adjust to follow guidance issued by the Office
by rulemaking the maximum CMPs [CMPs] and shall make the adjustment
which these agencies were authorized to of Management and Budget (OMB) on
notwithstanding section 553 of title 5, December 16, 2016 (OMB Guidance),
impose in order to ‘‘maintain the United States Code’’ (the Administrative
deterrent effect of civil monetary when calculating new maximum
Procedure Act).13 The FDIC, therefore, penalty levels.14 The adjustments are to
penalties and promote compliance with is not obligated to publish the
the law.’’ 5 Under the 1990 Adjustment be based on the percent change between
subsequent adjustments through notice- the Consumer Price Index for all Urban
Act, the FDIC adjusted its CMP amounts and-comment rulemaking, and the FDIC
every four years.6 Consumers (CPI–U) 15 for October 2015
In 2015, Congress revised the process and the October 2016 CPI–U.
9 See Public Law 101–410, sec. 3(2), 104 Stat. 890
by which federal agencies adjust (amended 2015) (codified as amended at 28 U.S.C. Summary of the FDIC’s Calculations
applicable CMPs for inflation.7 Under 2461 note). In keeping with the OMB Guidance,
the 2015 Adjustment Act, the FDIC is 10 81 FR 42235. Although the FDIC was not
the FDIC multiplied each of its CMP
required to (1) adjust the CMP levels obligated to solicit comments for the interim final
rule, the FDIC asked for comments from the public amounts by the relevant inflation
with an initial catch-up adjustment and received one comment. See https:// factor.16 After applying the multiplier,
through an interim final rulemaking and www.fdic.gov/regulations/laws/federal/2016/2016_ the FDIC rounded each penalty level to
(2) make subsequent annual adjustments rules_of_practice_and_procedure_
the nearest dollar. In making these
for inflation.8 The initial and 3064%E2%80%93AE43.html. The comment noted
that the FDIC interim final rule was issued calculations, the FDIC consulted with
2 See, e.g., 12 U.S.C. 1972(2)(F) (authorizing the
according to a statutory mandate, but expressed staff from the Office of the Comptroller
disappointment that the FDIC ‘‘did not promulgate of the Currency, the Board of Governors
FDIC to impose CMPs for violations of the Bank [its] interim final CMP rules pursuant to the normal
Holding Company Act of 1970 related to prohibited administrative process, whereby interested
for the Federal Reserve System, the
tying arrangements); 15 U.S.C. 78u–2 (authorizing stakeholders among the public have an opportunity National Credit Union Administration,
the FDIC to impose CMPs for violations of certain to comment on a ‘Proposed Rule’ before it is
provisions of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934); finalized.’’ Id. The commenter made no specific 14 See OMB, Implementation of the 2017 Annual
42 U.S.C. 4012a(f) (authorizing the FDIC to impose request that the final rule be amended or changed, Adjustment Pursuant to the Federal Civil Penalties
CMPs for pattern or practice violations of the Flood however, but requested that the FDIC exercise its Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of
Disaster Protection Act). ‘‘discretion to impose CMP amounts below the
3 For example, Section 8(i)(2) of the FDIA, 12
2015, M–17–11 (Dec. 16, 2016), available at https://
maximum level in accordance with the severity of www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/
U.S.C. 1818(i)(2), provides for three tiers of CMPs, the misconduct at issue.’’ Id. As noted above, the memoranda/2017/m-17-11_0.pdf (noting that the
with the size of such CMPs increasing with the FDIC followed an explicit statutory mandate in applicable 2017 CMP-adjustment multiplier is
gravity of the misconduct. creating the interim final rule. Moreover, the FDIC 1.01636).
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES
4 Section 2 of the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation
intends to continue to exercise its discretion—in 15 The CPI–U is compiled by the Bureau of
Adjustment Act of 1990 (1990 Adjustment Act). accordance with statutory requirements—in Statistics of the Department of Labor.
Public Law 101–410, 104 Stat. 890 (amended 2015) imposing appropriate CMP amounts. See 12 U.S.C. 16 Under the 1990 Adjustment Act, adjustments
(codified as amended at 28 U.S.C. 2461 note). 1818(i)(2)(G).
5 Id.
have been made only to CMPs that are for specific
11 Public Law 114–74, sec. 701(b), 129 Stat. 584.
dollar amounts or maximums. CMPs that are
6 See, e.g., 77 FR 74573 (Dec. 17, 2012). 12 63 FR 30227 (June 3, 1998).
assessed based upon a fixed percentage of an
7 See Public Law 114–74, sec. 701, 129 Stat. 584. 13 Public Law 114–74, sec. 701(b), 129 Stat. 584 institution’s total assets are not subject to
8 See id. at sec. 701(b). (emphasis added). adjustment.
VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:15 Dec 27, 2016 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\28DER1.SGM 28DER1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/81_FR_95661/page/2.svg)
![Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 249 / Wednesday, December 28, 2016 / Rules and Regulations 95419
other person participating in the Pursuant to the Flood Disaster formed. The final rule also adds new
conduct of the affairs of such institution Protection Act (FDPA) (42 U.S.C. reporting and other requirements for
is an amount not to exceed $2,394 for 4012a(f)), civil money penalties may be passive investments to help protect
each day a violation of the ILSA or any assessed against any regulated lending SBA’s financial interests and ensure
rule, regulation or order issued pursuant institution that engages in a pattern or adequate oversight and makes minor
to ILSA continues. practice of violations of the FDPA in an technical amendments. Finally, this rule
(15) Civil money penalties assessed amount not to exceed $2,090 per makes a conforming change to the
for violations of 15 U.S.C. 78u–2. violation. regulations regarding the amount of
Pursuant to section 21B of the Securities Dated at Washington, DC, this 21st day of leverage available to SBICs under
Exchange Act of 1934 (Exchange Act) December, 2016. common control. This change is
(15 U.S.C. 78u–2), civil money penalties By order of the Board of Directors. necessary for consistency with the
may be assessed for violations of certain Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2016,
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
provisions of the Exchange Act, where which increased the maximum amount
such penalties are in the public interest. Robert E. Feldman,
of such leverage to $350 million.
Tier One civil money penalties may be Executive Secretary.
DATES: This rule is effective January 27,
assessed pursuant to 15 U.S.C. 78u– [FR Doc. 2016–31240 Filed 12–27–16; 8:45 am]
2017.
2(b)(1) in an amount not to exceed BILLING CODE 6714–01–P
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
$9,054 for a natural person or $90,535
for any other person for violations set Theresa Jamerson, Office of Investment
forth in 15 U.S.C. 78u–2(a). Tier Two and Innovation, (202) 205–7563 or sbic@
SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION sba.gov.
civil money penalties may be assessed
pursuant to 15 U.S.C. 78u–2(b)(2) in an 13 CFR Part 107 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
amount not to exceed—for each RIN 3245–AG67 I. Background Information
violation set forth in 15 U.S.C. 78u–
2(a)—$90,535 for a natural person or The SBIC Program is an SBA
Small Business Investment financing program authorized under
$452,677 for any other person if the act Companies: Passive Business
or omission involved fraud, deceit, Title III of the Small Business
Expansion and Technical Clarifications Investment Act of 1958, 15 U.S.C. 681
manipulation, or deliberate or reckless
disregard of a regulatory requirement. AGENCY: U.S. Small Business et seq. Congress created the Small
Tier Three civil money penalties may be Administration. Business Investment Company (SBIC)
assessed pursuant to 15 U.S.C. 78u– ACTION: Final rule. program to ‘‘stimulate and supplement
2(b)(3) for each violation set forth in 15 the flow of private equity capital and
U.S.C. 78u–2(a), in an amount not to SUMMARY: The U.S. Small Business long-term loan funds, which small-
exceed $181,071 for a natural person or Administration (SBA) is revising the business concerns need for the sound
$905,353 for any other person, if the act regulations for the Small Business financing of their business operations
or omission involved fraud, deceit, Investment Company (SBIC) program to and for their growth, expansion, and
manipulation, or deliberate or reckless expand permitted investments in modernization, and which are not
disregard of a regulatory requirement; passive businesses and provide further available in adequate supply . . . .’’ 15
and such act or omission directly or clarification with regard to investments U.S.C. 661. Congress intended that the
indirectly resulted in substantial losses, in such businesses. SBICs are generally program ‘‘be carried out in such manner
or created a significant risk of prohibited from investing in passive as to insure the maximum participation
substantial losses to other persons or businesses under the Small Business of private financing sources.’’ Id. In
resulted in substantial pecuniary gain to Investment Act of 1958, as amended accordance with that policy, SBA does
the person who committed the act or (Act). SBIC program regulations provide not invest directly in small businesses.
omission. for two exceptions that allow an SBIC to Rather, through the SBIC Program, SBA
(16) Civil money penalties assessed structure an investment utilizing a licenses and provides debenture
pursuant to 15 U.S.C. 1639e(k) for passive small business as a pass- leverage (Leverage) to SBICs. SBICs are
appraisal independence violations. through. The first exception provides privately-owned and professionally
Pursuant to section 1472(a) of the Dodd- conditions under which an SBIC may managed for-profit investment funds
Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer structure an investment through up to that make loans to, and investments in,
Protection Act (Appraisal Independence two levels of passive entities to make an qualified small businesses using a
Rule) (15 U.S.C. 1639e(k)), civil money investment in a non-passive business combination of privately raised capital
penalties may be assessed for an initial that is a subsidiary of the passive and Leverage guaranteed by SBA. SBA
violation of the Appraisal Independence business directly financed by the SBIC. will guarantee the repayment of
Rule in an amount not to exceed The second exception, prior to this final debentures issued by an SBIC based on
$11,053 for each day during which the rule, enabled a partnership SBIC, with the amount of qualifying private capital
violation continues and, for subsequent SBA’s prior approval, to provide raised by an SBIC up to a maximum
violations, $22,105 for each day during financing to a small business through a amount of $150 million in Leverage.
which the violation continues. passive, wholly-owned C corporation SBICs are generally prohibited from
(17) Civil money penalties assessed (commonly known as a blocker investing in passive businesses under
for false claims and statements corporation), but only if a direct the Small Business Investment Act of
pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 3802. Pursuant to financing would cause the SBIC’s 1958. Prior to this final rule, the SBIC
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES
the Program Fraud Civil Remedies Act investors to incur Unrelated Business program regulations provided for the
(31 U.S.C. 3802), civil money penalties Taxable Income (UBTI). This final rule following two exceptions that allowed
of not more than $10,957 per claim or clarifies several aspects of the first an SBIC to structure an investment
statement may be assessed for violations exception and in the second exception utilizing a passive small business as a
involving false claims and statements. eliminates the prior approval pass-through:
(18) Civil money penalties assessed requirement and expands the purposes A. ‘‘Holding company exception’’—
for violations of 42 U.S.C. 4012a(f). for which a blocker corporation may be § 107.720(b)(2): This exception provides
VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:15 Dec 27, 2016 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\28DER1.SGM 28DER1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/81_FR_95661/page/8.svg)
Document Created: 2016-12-28 02:16:59
Document Modified: 2016-12-28 02:16:59
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Rules and Regulations | |
| Action | Final rule. | |
| Dates | This rule is effective on January 15, 2017. | |
| Contact | Seth P. Rosebrock, Supervisory Counsel, Legal Division (202) 898-6609, or Graham N. Rehrig, Senior Attorney, Legal Division (202) 898-3829. | |
| FR Citation | 81 FR 95412 | |
| RIN Number | 3064-AE52 | |
| CFR Associated | Administrative Practice and Procedure; Banks; Banking; Claims; Crime; Equal Access to Justice; Ex Parte Communications; Hearing Procedure; Lawyers; Penalties and State Nonmember Banks |
2025 Federal Register | Disclaimer | Privacy Policy
USC | CFR | eCFR