(a) The Bureau of Justice Assistance is headed by a Director appointed by the Attorney General. Under the general authority of the Attorney General and reporting through the Assistant Attorney General, Office of Justice Programs, the Director performs functions and administers programs, including provision of financial assistance, under 42 U.S.C. 3741-3748; 3761-3764; and 3769, relating to the administration of State and local criminal justice systems. The Director also administers the Public Safety Officers' Death Benefits Program under 42 U.S.C. 3796, et seq.

(b) Subject to the authority and direction of the Attorney General, the Director of the Bureau of Justice Assistance is authorized to exercise the power and authority vested in the Attorney General by Executive Order No. 11755 of December 29, 1973, 39 FR 779, with respect to certification and revoking certification of work-release laws or regulations.