Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services; National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research; Notice Inviting Applications for New Awards Under Certain Programs for Fiscal Year 1996

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

[CFDA Nos.: 84.133A, 84.133B and 84.133E]

Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services; National

Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research; Notice Inviting

Applications for New Awards Under Certain Programs for Fiscal Year 1996

Note to Applicants

This notice is a complete application package. Together with the

statute authorizing the programs and applicable regulations governing

the programs, including the Education Department General Administrative

Regulations (EDGAR), this notice contains information, application

forms, and instructions needed to apply for a grant under these

competitions.

These programs support the National Education Goal that calls for

all Americans to possess the knowledge and skills necessary to compete

in a global economy and exercise the rights and responsibilities of

citizenship.

The estimated funding levels in this notice do not bind the

Department of Education to make awards in any of these categories, or

to any specific number of awards or funding levels, unless otherwise

specified in statute.

Applicable Regulations

The Education Department General Administrative Regulations

(EDGAR), 34 CFR parts 74, 75, 77, 80, 81, 82, 85, and 86; and the

following program regulations:

Research and Demonstration Projects (R&D)--34 CFR parts 350 and

351.

Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers (RRTCs)--34 CFR parts

350 and 352.

Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers (RERCs)--34 CFR Parts

350 and 353.

Program Title: Research and Demonstration Projects.

CFDA Number: 84.133A.

Purpose of Program: The Research and Demonstration Projects program

is designed to support discrete research, demonstration, training, and

related projects to develop methods, procedures, and technology that

maximize the full inclusion and integration into society, independent

living, employment, family support, and economic and social self-

sufficiency of individuals with disabilities, especially those with the

most severe disabilities. In addition, the R&D program supports

discrete research, demonstration, and training projects that

specifically address the implementation of Titles I, III, VI, VII, and

VIII of the Rehabilitation Act, with emphasis on projects to improve

the effectiveness of these programs and to meet the needs described in

State Plans submitted to the Rehabilitation Services Administration by

State vocational rehabilitation agencies.

Application Notice for Fiscal Year 1996, Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center Program, CFDA No. 84.133E

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Maximum

Deadline for transmittal of Estimated award Project

Funding priority applications number of amount (per period

awards year)* (months)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Assistive Technology for Older Persons July 19, 1996................ 1 $500,000 60

with Disabilities.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Note: The Secretary will reject without consideration or evaluation any application that proposes a project

funding level that exceeds the stated maximum award amount (See 34 CFR 75.104(b)).

Selection Criteria

The Secretary uses the following selection criteria to evaluate

applications under this program.

(a) Potential Impact of Outcomes: Importance of Program (Weight

3.0). The Secretary reviews each application to determine to what

degree--

(1) The proposed activity relates to the announced priority;

(2) The research is likely to produce new and useful information

(research activities only);

(3) The need and target population are adequately defined;

(4) The outcomes are likely to benefit the defined target

population;

(5) The training needs are clearly defined (training activities

only);

(6) The training methods and developed subject matter are likely to

meet the defined need (training activities only); and

(7) The need for information exists (utilization activities only).

(b) Potential Impact of Outcomes: Dissemination/Utilization (Weight

3.0). The Secretary reviews each application to determine to what

degree--

(1) The research results are likely to become available to others

working in the field (research activities only);

(2) The means to disseminate and promote utilization by others are

defined;

(3) The training methods and content are to be packaged for

dissemination and use by others (training activities only); and

(4) The utilization approach is likely to address the defined need

(utilization activities only).

(c) Probability of Achieving Proposed Outcomes: Program/Project

Design (Weight 5.0). The Secretary reviews each application to

determine to what degree--

(1) The objectives of the project(s) are clearly stated;

[[Page 28444]]

(2) The hypothesis is sound and based on evidence (research

activities only);

(3) The project design/methodology is likely to achieve the

objectives;

(4) The measurement methodology and analysis is sound;

(5) The conceptual model (if used) is sound (development/

demonstration activities only);

(6) The sample populations are correct and significant (research

and development/demonstration activities only);

(7) The human subjects are sufficiently protected (research and

development/demonstration activities only);

(8) The device(s) or model system is to be developed in an

appropriate environment;

(9) The training content is comprehensive and at an appropriate

level (training activities only);

(10) The training methods are likely to be effective (training

activities only);

(11) The new materials (if developed) are likely to be of high

quality and uniqueness (training activities only);

(12) The target populations are linked to the project (utilization

activities only); and

(13) The format of the dissemination medium is the best to achieve

the desired result (utilization activities only).

(d) Probability of Achieving Proposed Outcomes: Key Personnel

(Weight 4.0). The Secretary reviews each application to determine to

what degree--

(1) The principal investigator and other key staff have adequate

training and/or experience and demonstrate appropriate potential to

conduct the proposed research, demonstration, training, development, or

dissemination activity;

(2) The principal investigator and other key staff are familiar

with pertinent literature and/or methods;

(3) All required disciplines are effectively covered;

(4) Commitments of staff time are adequate for the project; and

(5) The applicant is likely, as part of its non-discriminatory

employment practices, to encourage applications for employment from

persons who are members of groups that traditionally have been

underrepresented, such as--

(i) Members of racial or ethnic minority groups;

(ii) Women;

(iii) Handicapped persons; and

(iv) The elderly.

(e) Probability of Achieving Proposed Outcomes: Evaluation Plan

(Weight 1.0). The Secretary reviews each application to determine to

what degree--

(1) There is a mechanism to evaluate plans, progress and results;

(2) The evaluation methods and objectives are likely to produce

data that are quantifiable; and

(3) The evaluation results, where relevant, are likely to be

assessed in a service setting.

(f) Program/Project Management: Plan of Operation (Weight 2.0). The

Secretary reviews each application to determine to what degree--

(1) There is an effective plan of operation that insures proper and

efficient administration of the project(s);

(2) The applicant's planned use of its resources and personnel is

likely to achieve each objective;

(3) Collaboration between institutions, if proposed, is likely to

be effective; and

(4) There is a clear description of how the applicant will include

eligible project participants who have been traditionally

underrepresented, such as--

(i) Members of racial or ethnic minority groups;

(ii) Women;

(iii) Handicapped persons; and

(iv) The elderly.

(g) Program/Project Management: Adequacy of Resources (Weight 1.0).

The Secretary reviews each application to determine to what degree--

(1) The facilities planned for use are adequate;

(2) The equipment and supplies planned for use are adequate; and

(3) The commitment of the applicant to provide administrative

support and adequate facilities is evident.

(h) Program/Project Management: Budget and Cost Effectiveness

(Weight 1.0). The Secretary reviews each application to determine to

what degree--

(1)The budget for the project(s) is adequate to support the

activities;

(2) The costs are reasonable in relation to the objectives of the

project(s); and

(3) The budget for subcontracts (if required) is detailed and

appropriate.

Eligible Applicants: Parties eligible to apply for grants under

this program are public and private nonprofit and for-profit agencies

and organizations, including institutions of higher education and

Indian tribes and tribal organizations.

Program Authority: 29 U.S.C. 761a and 762.

PROGRAM TITLE: Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers

CFDA Number: 84.133B

PURPOSE OF PROGRAM: RRTCs conduct coordinated and advanced programs

of research on disability and rehabilitation that will produce new

knowledge that will improve rehabilitation methods and service delivery

systems, alleviate or stabilize disabling conditions, and promote

maximum social and economic independence for individuals with

disabilities. RRTCs provide training to service providers at the pre-

service, in-service training, undergraduate, and graduate levels to

improve the quality and effectiveness of rehabilitation services. They

also provide advanced research training to individuals with

disabilities and those from minority backgrounds, engaged in research

on disability and rehabilitation. RRTCs serve as national and regional

technical assistance resources, and provide training for service

providers, individuals with disabilities and families and

representatives, and rehabilitation researchers.

The Rehabilitation Services Administration is collaborating with

NIDRR to provide financial support for the RRTCs included in this

notice.

Application Notice for Fiscal Year 1996, Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers CFDA No. 84.133B

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Maximum

Deadline for transmittal of Estimated award Project

Funding priority applications number of amount (per period

awards year) * (months)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Vocational Rehabilitation Services for July 19, 1996................ 1 $650,000 60

Individuals Who Are Blind or Visually

Impaired.

Vocational Rehabilitation Services for July 19, 1996................ 1 $650,000 60

Individuals Who Are Deaf or Hard of

Hearing.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Note: The Secretary will reject without consideration or evaluation any application that proposes a project

funding level that exceeds the stated maximum award amount (See 34 CFR 75.104(b)).

[[Page 28445]]

Selection Criteria

The Secretary uses the following selection criteria to evaluate

applications under this program.

(a) Relevance and importance of the research program (20 points).

The Secretary reviews each application to determine to what degree--

(1) The proposed activities are responsive to a priority

established by the Secretary and address a significant need of a

disabled target population and rehabilitation service providers;

(2) The overall research program of the Center includes appropriate

interdisciplinary and collaborative research activities, is likely to

lead to new and useful knowledge in the priority area, and is likely to

become a nationally recognized source of scientific knowledge; and

(3) The applicant demonstrates that all component activities of the

Center are related to the overall objective of the Center, and will

build upon and complement each other to enhance the likelihood of

solving significant rehabilitation problems.

(b) Quality of the research design (35 points). The Secretary

reviews each application to determine to what degree--

(1) The applicant proposes a comprehensive research program for the

entire project period, including at least three interrelated research

projects;

(2) The research design and methodology of each proposed activity

are meritorious in that--

(i) The literature review is appropriate and indicates familiarity

with current research in the field;

(ii) The research hypotheses are important and scientifically

relevant;

(iii) The sample populations are appropriate and significant;

(iv) The data collection and measurement techniques are appropriate

and likely to be effective;

(v) The data analysis methods are appropriate; and

(vi) The applicant assures that human subjects, animals, and the

environment are adequately protected; and

(3) The application discusses the anticipated research results and

demonstrates how those results would satisfy the original hypotheses

and could be used for planning future research, including generation of

new hypotheses where applicable.

(c) Quality of the training and dissemination program (25 points).

The Secretary reviews each application to determine the degree to

which--

(1) The proposed plan for training and dissemination provides

evidence that research results will be effectively disseminated and

utilized based on the identification of appropriate and accessible

target groups; the proposed training materials and methods are

appropriate; the proposed activities are relevant to the regional and

national needs of the rehabilitation field; and the training materials

and dissemination packages will be developed in alternate media that

are usable by people with various types of disabilities.

(2) The proposed plan for training and dissemination provides for--

(i) Advanced training in rehabilitation research;

(ii) Training rehabilitation service personnel and other

appropriate individuals to improve practitioner skills based on new

knowledge derived from research;

(iii) Training packages that make research results available to

service providers, researchers, educators, individuals with

disabilities, parents, and others;

(iv) Technical assistance or consultation that is responsive to the

concerns of service providers and consumers; and

(v) Dissemination of research findings through publication in

professional journals, textbooks, and consumer and other publications,

and through other appropriate media such as audiovisual materials and

telecommunications.

(vi) Dissemination of research findings and other materials in

appropriate formats and accessible media for use by individuals with

various disabilities.

(d) Quality of the organization and management (20 points). The

Secretary reviews each application to determine the degree to which--

(1) The staffing plan for the Center provides evidence that the

project director, research director, training director, principal

investigators, and other personnel have appropriate training and

experience in disciplines required to conduct the proposed activities;

the commitment of staff time is adequate to conduct all proposed

activities; and the Center, as part of its nondiscriminatory employment

practices, will ensure that its personnel are selected for employment

without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, age, or

handicapping conditions;

(2) The budgets for the Center and for each component project are

reasonable, adequate, and cost-effective for the proposed activities;

(3) The facilities, equipment, and other resources are adequate and

are appropriately accessible to persons with disabilities;

(4) The plan of operations is adequate to accomplish the Center's

objectives and to ensure proper and efficient management of the Center;

(5) The proposed relationships with Federal, State, and local

rehabilitation service providers and consumer organizations are likely

to ensure that the Center program is relevant and applicable to the

needs of consumers and service providers;

(6) The past performance and accomplishments of the applicant

indicate an ability to complete successfully the proposed scope of

work;

(7) The application demonstrates appropriate commitment and support

by the host institution and opportunities for interdisciplinary

activities and collaboration with other institutions; and

(8) The plan for evaluation of the Center provides for an annual

assessment of the outcomes of the research, the impact of the training

and dissemination activities on the target populations, and the extent

to which the overall objectives have been accomplished.

Eligible Applicants

Institutions of higher education and public or private agencies and

organizations collaborating with institutions of higher education,

including Indian tribes and tribal organizations, are eligible to apply

for awards under this program.

Program Authority: 29 U.S.C. 762.

PROGRAM TITLE: Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers

CFDA Number: 84.133E

Purpose of Program

Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers conduct research,

demonstration, and training activities regarding rehabilitation

technology--including rehabilitation engineering, assistive technology

devices, and assistive technology services, in order to enhance the

opportunities to better meet the needs of, and address the barriers

confronted by, individuals with disabilities in all aspects of their

lives.

[[Page 28446]]

Application Notice for Fiscal Year 1996, Research and Demonstration Projects 84.133YA

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Maximum

Deadline for transmittal of Estimated award Project

Funding priority applications number of amount (per period

awards year) * (months)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Emerging Disability Populations........... July 19, 1996................ 1 $350,000 36

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Note: The Secretary will reject without consideration or evaluation any application that proposes a project

funding level that exceeds the stated maximum award amount (See 34 CFR 75.104(b)).

Selection Criteria

The Secretary uses the following selection criteria to evaluate

applications under this program.

(a) Relevance and Importance of the Research Program (25 points).

The Secretary reviews each application to determine to what degree--

(1) The proposed activities are responsive to a priority

established by the Secretary and address a significant need of a

disabled target population and rehabilitation service providers;

(2) The overall research program of the Center includes appropriate

interdisciplinary and collaborative research activities, is likely to

lead to new and useful knowledge in the priority area and to the

development of new technology or new applications of existing

technology, and is likely to become a nationally recognized source of

information on technology in the priority area; and

(3) The applicant demonstrates that all component activity of the

Center are related to the overall objectives of the Center, and will

build upon and complement each other to enhance the likelihood of

finding solutions to significant rehabilitation problems.

(b) Quality of the Research Design (25 points). The Secretary

reviews each application to determine to what degree--

(1) The applicant proposes a comprehensive program of research for

the total project period, including at least three interrelated

research projects;

(2) The research design and methodology of each proposed activity

are meritorious in that--

(i) The literature review is appropriate and indicates familiarity

with the state-of-the-art and current research in rehabilitation

technology;

(ii) The research hypotheses are important and scientifically

relevant;

(iii) The sample populations are appropriate and significant;

(iv) The data collection and measurement techniques are appropriate

and likely to be effective;

(v) The data analysis methods are appropriate; and

(vi) The applicant assures that human subjects, animals, and the

environment are adequately protected;

(3) The plan for development, clinical testing, and evaluation of

new devices and technology is likely to yield significant products; and

(4) The application discusses the anticipated research results and

demonstrates how those results would satisfy the original hypotheses;

and could be used for planning additional research, including the

generation of new hypotheses where applicable.

(c) Quality of the Dissemination and Utilization Program (25

points). The Secretary reviews each application to determine to what

degree--

(1) The proposed plan for dissemination provides evidence utilized

based on the identification of appropriate and accessible target

groups; the proposed activities are relevant to regional and national

needs of the rehabilitation field; and dissemination packages will be

prepared in a form usable by individuals with all types of

disabilities;

(2) The proposed plan for dissemination and utilization of the

research and development provides for--

(i) Orientation programs for rehabilitation service personnel to

improve the application of rehabilitation technology;

(ii) Programs which specifically demonstrate means for utilizing

rehabilitation technology;

(iii) Technical assistance and consultation that are responsive to

concerns of service providers and consumers; and

(iv) Dissemination of research findings through publication in

professional journals, textbooks, and consumer and other publications,

and through other appropriate media such as audiovisual materials and

telecommunications, in an effort to make research results accessible to

manufacturers, rehabilitation service providers, researchers,

educators, disabled individuals and their families, and others; and

(3) There is an appropriate plan to ensure the distribution and

utilization of new devices and technology.

(d) Quality of the Organization and Management (25 points). The

Secretary reviews each application to determine to what degree--

(1) The staffing plan for the Center provides evidence that the

principal investigator and other personnel have appropriate training

and experience in disciplines required to conduct the proposed

activities; the commitment of time for all staff is adequate to conduct

all proposed activities; and the Center, as part of its

nondiscriminatory employment practices, will ensure that its personnel

are selected for employment without regard to race, color, national

origin, gender, age, or handicapping condition;

(2) The budgets for the Center and each of the proposed activities

are reasonable, adequate, and cost-effective for the proposed

activities;

(3) The facilities, equipment, and other resources are adequate and

are appropriately accessible to persons with disabilities;

(4) The plan of operations is adequate to accomplish the Center's

objectives and to ensure proper and efficient management of the Center;

(5) The proposed relationships with Federal, State, and local

rehabilitation service providers and consumer organizations are likely

to ensure that the Center program is relevant and applicable to the

needs of consumers and service providers;

(6) The past performance and accomplishments of the applicant

indicate an ability to complete successfully the proposed scope of

work;

(7) The application demonstrates appropriate commitment and support

by the host institution and opportunities for interdisciplinary

activities and collaboration with other institutions; and

(8) The plan for evaluation of the Center will assess annually the

outcomes of the discrete and interrelated research projects, the impact

of the training and dissemination activities on the target populations,

and the extent to which the overall objectives have been accomplished.

[[Page 28447]]

Eligible Applicants

Public or private entities, including Indian tribes and tribal

organizations, are eligible to receive awards under this program

provided they ensure that the Center is operated in collaboration with

an organization of higher education or a nonprofit organization.

Program Authority: 29 U.S.C. 763(b)(3)(A)).

Instructions for Transmittal of Applications

(a) If an applicant wants to apply for a grant, the applicant

shall--

(1) Mail the original and two copies of the application on or

before the deadline date to: U.S. Department of Education, Application

Control Center, Attention: (CFDA # (Applicant must insert number and

letter)), Washington, DC 20202-4725, or

(2) Hand deliver the original and two copies of the application by

4:30 p.m. (Washington, DC time) on the deadline date to: U.S.

Department of Education, Application Control Center, Attention: (CFDA #

(Applicant must insert number and letter)), Room #3633, Regional Office

Building #3, 7th and D Streets, SW., Washington, DC.

(b) An applicant must show one of the following as proof of

mailing:

(1) A legibly dated U.S. Postal Service postmark.

(2) A legible mail receipt with the date of mailing stamped by the

U.S. Postal Service.

(3) A dated shipping label, invoice, or receipt from a commercial

carrier.

(4) Any other proof of mailing acceptable to the Secretary.

(c) If an application is mailed through the U.S. Postal Service,

the Secretary does not accept either of the following as proof of

mailing:

(1) A private metered postmark.

(2) A mail receipt that is not dated by the U.S. Postal Service.

Notes: (1) The U.S. Postal Service does not uniformly provide a

dated postmark. Before relying on this method, an applicant should

check with its local post office.

(2) An applicant wishing to know that its application has been

received by the Department must include with the application a

stamped self-addressed postcard containing the CFDA number and title

of this program.

(3) The applicant must indicate on the envelope and--if not

provided by the Department--in Item 10 of the Application for

Federal Assistance (Standard Form 424) the CFDA number--and letter,

if any--of the competition under which the application is being

submitted.

Application Forms and Instructions

The appendix to this application is divided into four parts. These

parts are organized in the same manner that the submitted application

should be organized. These parts are as follows:

Part I: Application for Federal Assistance (Standard Form 424 (Rev.

4-88)) and instructions.

Part II: Budget Form--Non-Construction Programs (Standard Form

524A) and instructions.

Part III: Application Narrative.

Additional Materials

Estimated Public Reporting Burden.

Assurances--Non-Construction Programs (Standard Form 424B).

Certification Regarding Lobbying, Debarment, Suspension, and Other

Responsibility Matters: and Drug-Free Work-Place Requirements (ED Form

80-0013).

Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility and

Voluntary Exclusion: Lower Tier Covered Transactions (ED Form 80-0014)

and instructions. (NOTE: ED Form GCS-014 is intended for the use of

primary Participants and should not be transmitted to the Department.)

Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (Standard Form LLL (if

applicable) and instructions; and Disclosure Lobbying Activities

Continuation Sheet (Standard Form LLL-A).

An applicant may submit information on a photostatic copy of the

application and budget forms, the assurances, and the certifications.

However, the application form, the assurances, and the certifications

must each have an original signature. No grant may be awarded unless a

completed application form has been received.

For Applications Contact: In order to obtain an application

package, contact William H. Whalen, U.S. Department of Education, 600

Independence Avenue SW, Switzer Building, Room 3411, Washington, DC.

20202. Telephone: (202) 205-9141. Individuals who use a

telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) may call the TDD number at

(202) 205-8887.

Information about the Department's funding opportunities, including

copies of application notices for discretionary grant competitions, can

be viewed on the Department's electronic bulletin board (ED Board),

telephone (202) 260-9950; on the Internet Gopher Server at

GOPHER.ED.GOV (under Announcements, Bulletins, and Press Releases); or

on the World Wide Web at http://www.ed.gov/money.html However, the

official application notice for a discretionary grant competition is

the notice published in the Federal Register.

Program Authority: 29 U.S.C. 760-762.

Dated: May 29, 1996.

Andrew Pepin,

Acting Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative

Services.

Appendix

Application Forms and Instructions

Applicants are advised to reproduce and complete the application

forms in this Section. Applicants are required to submit an original

and two copies of each application as provided in this Section.

Frequent Questions

1. Can I Get an Extension of the Due Date?

No! On rare occasions the Department of Education may extend a

closing date for all applicants. If that occurs, a notice of the

revised due date is published in the Federal Register. However, there

are no extensions or exceptions to the due date made for individual

applicants.

2. What Should Be Included in the Application?

The application should include a project narrative, vitae of key

personnel, and a budget, as well as the Assurances forms included in

this package. Vitae of staff or consultants should include the

individual's title and role in the proposed project, and other

information that is specifically pertinent to this proposed project.

The budgets for both the first year and all subsequent project years

should be included.

If collaboration with another organization is involved in the

proposed activity, the application should include assurances of

participation by the other parties, including written agreements or

assurances of cooperation. It is not useful to include general letters

of support or endorsement in the application.

If the applicant proposes to use unique tests or other measurement

instruments that are not widely known in the field, it would be helpful

to include the instrument in the application.

Many applications contain voluminous appendices that are not

helpful and in many cases cannot even be mailed to the reviewers. It is

generally not helpful to include such things as brochures, general

capability statements of collaborating organizations, maps, copies of

publications, or descriptions of other projects completed by the

applicant.

3. What Format Should Be Used for the Application?

NIDRR generally advises applicants that they may organize the

application

[[Page 28448]]

to follow the selection criteria that will be used. The specific review

criteria vary according to the specific program, and are contained in

this Consolidated Application Package.

4. May I Submit Applications to More Than One NIDRR Program Competition

or More Than One Application to a Program?

Yes, you may submit applications to any program for which they are

responsive to the program requirements. You may submit the same

application to as many competitions as you believe appropriate. You may

also submit more than one application in any given competition.

5. What Is the Allowable Indirect Cost Rate?

The limits on indirect costs vary according to the program and the

type of application.

Applicants in the R&D and RERC grants programs should limit

indirect charges to the organization's approved rate. If the

organization does not have an approved rate, the application should

include an estimated actual rate. Applicants for projects in the RRTC

program are limited to an indirect rate of 15 percent.

6. Can Profitmaking Businesses Apply for Grants?

Yes. However, for-profit organizations will not be able to collect

a fee or profit on the grant, and in some programs will be required to

share in the costs of the project.

7. Can Individuals Apply for Grants?

No. Only organizations are eligible to apply for grants under NIDRR

programs. However, individuals are the only entities eligible to apply

for fellowships.

8. Can NIDRR Staff Advise Me Whether My Project Is of Interest to NIDRR

or Likely To Be Funded?

No. NIDRR staff can advise you of the requirements of the program

in which you propose to submit your application. However, staff cannot

advise you of whether your subject area or proposed approach is likely

to receive approval.

9. How Do I Assure That My Application Will Be Referred to the Most

Appropriate Panel for Review?

Applicants should be sure that their applications are referred to

the correct competition by clearly including the competition title and

CFDA number, including alphabetical code, on the Standard Form 424, and

including a project title that describes the project.

10. How Soon After Submitting My Application Can I Find Out if It Will

Be Funded?

The time from closing date to grant award date varies from program

to program. Generally speaking, NIDRR endeavors to have awards made

within five to six months of the closing date. Unsuccessful applicants

generally will be notified within that time frame as well. For the

purpose of estimating a project start date, the applicant should

estimate approximately six months from the closing date, but no later

than the following September 30.

11. Can I Call NIDRR To Find Out if My Application Is Being Funded?

No. When NIDRR is able to release information on the status of

grant applications, it will notify applicants by letter. The results of

the peer review cannot be released except through this formal

notification.

12. If My Application Is Successful, Can I Assume I Will Get the

Requested Budget Amount in Subsequent Years?

No. Funding in subsequent years is subject to availability of funds

and project performance.

13. Will All Approved Applications Be Funded?

No. It often happens that the peer review panels approve for

funding more applications than NIDRR can fund within available

resources. Applicants who are approved but not funded are encouraged to

consider submitting similar applications in future competitions.

BILLING CODE 4000-01-P

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Public reporting burden for these collections of information is

estimated to average 30 hours per response, including the time for

reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and

maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the

collection of information.

Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of

these collections of information, including suggestions for reducing

this burden, to: the U.S. Department of Education, Information

Management and Compliance Division, Washington, D.C. 20202-4651; and to

the Office of Management and Budget, Paperwork Reduction Project 1820-

0027, Washington, D.C. 20503.

Research and Demonstration Projects (CFDA No. 84.133A) 34 CFR Parts

350 and 351.

Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (CFDA No. 84.133B) 34

CFR Parts 350 and 352.

Rehabilitation Engineering and Research Center (CFDA No. 84.133E)

34 CFR Parts 350 and 353.

BILLING CODE 4000-01-P

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Assurances--Non-Construction Programs

Note: Certain of these assurances may not be applicable to your

project or program. If you have questions, please contact the

awarding agency. Further, certain Federal awarding agencies may

require applicants to certify to additional assurances. If such is

the case, you will be notified.

As the duly authorized representative of the applicant I certify

that the applicant:

1. Has the legal authority to apply for Federal assistance, and

the institutional, managerial and financial capability (including

funds sufficient to pay the non-Federal share of project costs) to

ensure proper planning, management and completion of the project

described in this application.

2. Will give the awarding agency, the Comptroller General of the

United States, and if appropriate, the State, through any authorized

representative, access to and the right to examine all records,

books, papers, or documents related to the award; and will establish

a proper accounting system in accordance with generally accepted

accounting standards or agency directives.

3. Will establish safeguards to prohibit employees from using

their positions for a purpose that constitutes or presents the

appearance of personal or organizational conflict of interest, or

personal gain.

4. Will initiate and complete the work within the applicable

time frame after receipt of approval of the awarding agency.

5. Will comply with the Intergovernmental Personnel Act of 1970

(42 U.S.C. Secs. 4728-4763) relating to prescribed standards for

merit systems for programs funded under one of the nineteen statutes

or regulations specified in Appendix A of OPM's Standards for a

Merit System of Personnel Administration (5 C.F.R. 900, Subpart F).

6. Will comply with all Federal statutes relating to

nondiscrimination. These include but are not limited to: (a) Title

VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (P.L. 88-352) which prohibits

discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin; (b)

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended (20 U.S.C.

Secs. 1681-1683, and 1685-1686), which prohibits discrimination on

the basis of sex; (c) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973,

as amended (29 U.S.C. Sec. 794), which prohibits discrimination on

the basis of handicaps; (d) the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as

amended (42 U.S.C. Secs. 6101-6107), which prohibits discrimination

on the basis of age; (e) the Drug Abuse Office and Treatment Act of

1972 (P.L. 92-255), as amended, relating to nondiscrimination on the

basis of drug abuse; (f) the Comprehensive Alcohol Abuse and

Alcoholism Prevention, Treatment and Rehabilitation Act of 1970

(P.L. 91-616), as amended, relating to nondiscrimination on the

basis of alcohol abuse or alcoholism; (g) Secs. 523 and 527 of the

Public Health Service Act of 1912 (42 U.S.C. 290 dd-3 and 290 ee-3),

as amended, relating to confidentiality of alcohol and drug abuse

patient records; (h) Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 (42

U.S.C. Sec. 3601 et seq.), as amended, relating to nondiscrimination

in the sale, rental or financing of housing; (i) any other

nondiscrimination provisions in the specific statute(s) under which

application for Federal assistance is being made; and (j) the

requirements of any other nondiscrimination statute(s) which may

apply to the application.

7. Will comply, or has already complied, with the requirements

of Titles II and III of the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real

Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (P.L. 91-646) which

provide for fair and equitable treatment of persons displaced or

whose property is acquired as a result of Federal or federally

assisted programs. These requirements apply to all interests in real

property acquired for project purposes regardless of Federal

participation in purchases.

8. Will comply with the provisions of the Hatch Act (5 U.S.C.

Secs. 1501-1508 and 7324-7328) which limit the political activities

of employees whose principal employment activities are funded in

whole or in part with Federal funds.

9. Will comply, as applicable, with the provisions of the Davis-

Bacon Act (40 U.S.C. Secs. 276a to 276a-7), the Copeland Act (40

U.S.C. Sec. 276c and 18 U.S.C. Sec. 874), and the Contract Work

Hours and Safety Standards Act (40 U.S.C. Secs. 327-333), regarding

labor standards for federally assisted construction subagreements.

10. Will comply, if applicable, with flood insurance purchase

requirements of Section 102(a) of the Flood Disaster Protection Act

of 1973 (P.L. 93-234) which requires recipients in a special flood

hazard area to participate in the program and to purchase flood

insurance if the total cost of insurable construction and

acquisition is $10,000 or more.

11. Will comply with environmental standards which may be

prescribed pursuant to the following: (a) institution of

environmental quality control measures under the National

Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (P.L. 91-190) and Executive Order

(EO) 11514; (b) notification of violating facilities pursuant to EO

11738; (c) protection of wetlands pursuant to EO 11990; (d)

evaluation of flood hazards in floodplains in accordance with EO

11988; (e) assurrance of project consistency with the approved State

management program developed under the Coastal Zone Management Act

of 1972 (16 U.S.C. Secs. 1451 et seq.); (f) conformity of Federal

actions to State (Clear Air) Implementation Plans under Section

176(c) of the Clear Air Act of 1955, as amended (42 U.S.C. Sec. 7401

et seq.); (g) protection of underground sources of drinking water

under the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974, as amended (P.L. 93-523);

and (h) protection of endangered species under the Endangered

Species Act of 1973, as amended (P.L. 93-205).

12. Will comply with the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 (16

U.S.C. Secs. 1271 et seq.) related to protecting components or

potential components of the national wide and scenic rivers system.

13. Will assist the awarding agency in assuring compliance with

Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as

amended (16 U.S.C. 470), E.O. 11593 (identification and protection

of historic properties), and the Archaeological and Historic

Preservation Act of 1974 (16 U.S.C. 469a-1 et seq.).

14. Will comply with P.L. 93-348 regarding the protection of

human subjects involved in research, development, and related

activities supported by this award of assistance.

15. Will comply with the Laboratory Animal Welfare Act of 1966

(P.L. 89-544, as amended, 7 U.S.C. 2131 et seq.) pertaining to the

care, handling, and treatment of warm blooded animals held for

research, teaching, or other activities supported by this award of

assistance.

16. Will comply with the Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention

Act (42 U.S.C. Secs. 4801 et seq.) which prohibits the use of lead

based paint in costruction or rehabilitation of residence

structures.

17. Will cause to be performed the required financial and

compliance audits in accordance with the Single Audit Act of 1984.

18. Will comply with all applicable requirements of all other

Federal laws, executive orders, regulations and policies governing

this program.

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SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED CERTIFYING OFFICIAL

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TITLE

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APPLICANT ORGANIZATION

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DATE SUBMITTED

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[FR Doc. 96-13908 Filed 6-3-96; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 4000-01-C