42 U.S.C. § 3131 — Establishment of economic development partnerships

(a) In general. When providing assistance under this subchapter, the Secretary^* must work with States and other entities so that, consistent with national objectives, federal programs fit with and advance state^*, regional, and local economic-development plans and comprehensive economic-development strategies.

(b) Technical assistance. The Secretary may give appropriate technical assistance to States, their political subdivisions, sub-State regional organizations (including cross-border organizations), multi-State regional organizations, and nonprofit organizations to (1) reduce economic distress; (2) encourage and support public-private partnerships that create or improve strategies sustaining and promoting economic development across the United States^*; and (3) promote infrastructure and technology investment that keeps pace with the changing global economy.

(c) Intergovernmental review. The Secretary must issue regulations ensuring that appropriate state and local agencies have a reasonable chance to review and comment on proposed projects under this subchapter that the Secretary decides may directly and significantly affect the area's economy.

(d) Cooperation agreements. (1) The Secretary may make a cooperation agreement with any two or more States, or an organization of any two or more States, to support effective economic development. (2) Each agreement must provide suitable participation by other governmental and nongovernmental entities representing significant economic-development interests and viewpoints in the area.