HHS Promises Less Red Tape for Family Violence Prevention Aid
Published Date: 4/6/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The government is making rules simpler for programs that help families facing violence. This change cuts out extra paperwork and confusing parts, making it easier for everyone to understand and use these services. People running these programs should get ready to comment by May 6, 2026, as this update aims to save time and keep money focused on helping families.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Less Red Tape for FVPSA Grants
The NPRM would remove specific regulatory sections (45 CFR 1370.1, 1370.3, 1370.6, and 45 CFR 1370.30–1370.32) to streamline the Family Violence Prevention and Services (FVPSA) regulations. ACF says these changes will reduce duplicative or unnecessary regulatory text and affect States, Territories, Tribes, and nongovernmental entities that apply for or receive FVPSA grants.
Grant Requirements Shifted into NOFOs
The NPRM proposes to move program detail and application requirements (including those in 45 CFR 1370.30–1370.32 for National Resource Centers, SSAPC grants, and the National Domestic Violence Hotline) out of regulation and into Notices of Funding Opportunity (NOFOs) or other sub-regulatory guidance. ACF states NOFOs already must include all application requirements and are a better place for detailed grant instructions.
Territorial Reporting Clarification Removed
The NPRM would remove 45 CFR 1370.6, which included a clarification that Territorial grantees must submit FVPSA performance reports unless they consolidate FVPSA funds into a Consolidated Block Grant under 45 CFR part 97, in which case they need not submit a separate performance report. ACF explains Territories are already on notice about this through 48 U.S.C. 1469a and existing regulations.
No New Paperwork or Big Costs
ACF states the proposed rule does not trigger the Paperwork Reduction Act and will not create new OMB-approved reporting burdens. The agency also says OIRA determined the NPRM is not a significant action under Executive Order 12866 and proposes to certify under the Regulatory Flexibility Act that it would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. ACF says the rule would not meet the Unfunded Mandates threshold (currently $193 million).
Opportunity to Comment by May 6, 2026
Written comments on the proposed rule must be received on or before May 6, 2026. Program operators, grantees, Tribes, States, Territories, and interested members of the public may submit comments at regulations.gov or by email using docket ACF-2026-0430 / RIN 0970-AD42.
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Key Dates
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