IL SB1697

Amends the Grant Accountability and Transparency Act (GATA) to clarify that provisions apply only to awards funded by federal pass-through awards from a State agency to public institutions of higher education, removing language requiring State appropriations compliance.

Recognizes provisions in 2 CFR 200 as applicable to public institutions of higher education, including Appendix III and cost principles under Subpart E.

Exempts Downstate Public Transportation Fund appropriations from GATA grant program requirements beginning in State fiscal year 2022, allowing the Department to approve programs based on Sections 2-5 and 2-11 requirements instead.

Modifies the Downstate Public Transportation Act to replace "grant" language with "agreement" and "funding" terminology, and adds provisions allowing the Department to extend application processing deadlines due to extraordinary circumstances.

Effective upon becoming law.