Report on Grant Consolidation Authority for Puerto Rico Act

This legislation mandates a comprehensive study by the Comptroller General of the United States regarding the consolidation of federal grant programs available to insular areas, specifically evaluating its suitability for Puerto Rico . The primary purpose is to identify ways to minimize the administrative burden on Puerto Rico's public sector and enhance its ability to access federal funding, particularly in light of its severe economic crisis and extensive post-disaster recovery from hurricanes and other events. Due within one year, the study will analyze the existing process for grant consolidation under 45 CFR part 97 and examine how Puerto Rico's local agencies currently access funding from relevant programs. It will identify specific challenges faced by these agencies and compile a list of additional grant programs that Puerto Rico officials recommend for consolidation. Crucially, the Comptroller General will assess whether extending similar grant consolidation authority to Puerto Rico would effectively address these challenges and will provide recommendations for improving the overall process of federal funding access.