[Federal Register Volume 67, Number 102 (Tuesday, May 28, 2002)]
[Notices]
[Pages 36883-36890]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 02-13181]


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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Administration on Aging


Statement of Organization, Functions, and Delegations of 
Authority

    This notice amends Part B of the Statement of Organization, 
Functions, and Delegations of Authority of the Department of Health and 
Human Services (HHS), Administration on Aging (AoA) as follows: Part B, 
Administration on Aging (60 FR 65338-65346), as last amended, December 
19, 1995--continues the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Aging 
(OASA), abolishes the Congressional and White House Liaison, and 
establishes the Office of Evaluation Staff within the OASA, moving 
evaluation responsibilities from the Division of Personnel and Planning 
to this Office; establishes the Center for Communication and Consumer 
Services; establishes the Center for Planning and Policy Development 
(CPPD) and moves all planning and policy responsibilities from the 
Executive Secretariat and Policy Coordination Office and the Division 
of Personnel and Planning to CPPD; retitles the Office of Management as 
the Center for Management (CM), moves the Executive Secretariat from 
OASA to CM, retitles the Division of Personnel and Planning as the 
Office of Administrative Services, retitles the Division of Grants and 
Contracts as the Office of Grants Management, retitles the Division of 
Budget and Finance as the Office of Budget and Finance, and retitles 
the Division of Information Resources Management as the Office of 
Information Resources Management; retitles the Office of Program 
Operations and Development as the Center for Wellness and Community-
Based Services (CWCBS), moves the function of the Office of 
Governmental Affairs and Elder Rights (OGAER) to CWCBS,

[[Page 36884]]

retitles the subordinate Office of Elder Rights Programs in OGAER as 
the Office of Consumer Choice and Protection in CWCBS, retitles the 
Office of State and Community Programs as the Office of Community-Based 
Services, retains the Office of American Indian, Alaskan Native, and 
Native Hawaiian Programs, and retitles the Regional Offices on Aging as 
the Administration on Aging Regional Support Centers. This 
reorganization of AoA offices will achieve several important 
objectives: it will streamline the organization; consolidate and 
elevate AoA's external communications functions; focus AoA's 
programmatic efforts on those areas of greatest importance to older 
Americans; and strengthen and centralize its analytic and policy 
development activities.
    This Part is amended as follows:
    I. Delete Part B, ``The Administration on Aging'' in its entirety 
and replace with the following:

B.00 Mission
B.10 Organization
B.20 Functions

    B.00 Mission. The Administration on Aging (AoA) is the principal 
agency designated to carry out the provisions of the Older Americans 
Act (``OAA'' or ``The Act'') of 1965, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 3001 et 
seq., and the Alzheimer's Disease Demonstration Grants to States 
Program, established under section 398 of the Public Health Service Act 
(PHSA) as amended by Public Law 101-157, and by Public Law 105-379, the 
Health Professions Education Partnerships Act of 1998. AoA serves as 
the effective and visible advocate for older persons within the 
Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), and other Federal 
agencies. AoA assists the Secretary in all matters pertaining to 
opportunities and challenges of the elderly. It advocates for the needs 
of older persons in program planning and policy development within the 
Department and in other Federal agencies.
    B.10 Organization. The Administration on Aging is a principal 
operating division of the Department of Health and Human Services, 
which is headed by the Assistant Secretary for Aging who reports 
directly to the Secretary. In addition to the Assistant Secretary, the 
AoA consists of the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary and Staff and 
Program Offices. AoA is organized as follows:

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Aging (BA)
Center for Management (BE)
Center for Wellness and Community Based-Services (BF)
Center for Communication and Consumer Services (BG)
Center for Planning and Policy Development (BH)

    B.20 Functions. The Administration on Aging develops, recommends 
and issues policies, procedures and interpretations to provide 
direction to the programs it administers. It develops standards and 
issues best practice guidelines; disseminates information; provides 
technical assistance; and initiates policy related to services funded 
by the Department and provided to older persons. Advises the Secretary, 
Departmental components and other Federal departments and agencies on 
the characteristics, circumstances and needs of older people and 
develops policies, plans and programs designed to promote their 
welfare; under Title III of the Act administers a program of formula 
grants to States to establish State and community programs for older 
persons; administers a program of grants to American Indians, Alaskan 
Natives and Native Hawaiians to establish programs for older Native 
Americans under Title VI of the Act. Provides policy and procedural 
direction, advice and assistance to States and Native American grantees 
to promote the development of State and Native American-administered, 
community-based service systems of comprehensive social services for 
older persons.
    Administers long-term care ombudsman and protective services 
programs and legal services development programs for older people under 
Title VII of the Act. Approves or disapproves State plans and Native 
American funding applications. Administers programs of training, 
research and demonstration under Title IV of the Act and section 398 of 
the Public Health Service Act as amended. Administers national centers 
for service development and assistance, and information dissemination 
benefiting older persons.
    Promotes through the State and Area Agencies on Aging and Indian 
Tribal Organizations a national community-based long-term care program 
for older persons. Develops and issues program designs, guidelines, 
standards and assistance to State and Area Agencies, Indian Tribal 
Organizations and nutrition providers to support Titles III and VI 
nutrition services and disseminate nutrition education material.
    The functions of the organizational units of AoA are described in 
detail in the succeeding Parts.
    II. Establish Part BA, the Office of the Assistant Secretary for 
Aging, as follows:

BA.00 Mission
BA.10 Organization
BA.20 Functions

    BA.00 Mission. The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Aging 
provides executive direction, leadership, and guidance for OAA programs 
and the PHSA Alzheimer's Program, and serves as the focal point for the 
development, coordination and administration of those programs 
nationwide. The Office advises the Secretary on issues affecting 
America's elderly population.
    BA.10 Organization. The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Aging 
is headed by an Assistant Secretary, who reports to the Secretary and 
consists of:

The Office of the Assistant Secretary (BA)
Office of Evaluation Staff (BA-1)

    BA.20 Functions. A. The Office of the Assistant Secretary is 
responsible to the Secretary for carrying out AoA's mission and 
provides executive supervision to the major components of AoA. The 
Office serves as the effective and visible advocate within the Federal 
government to ensure the rights and entitlements of the elderly.
    Sets national policies, establishes national priorities, ensures 
policy consistency, and directs plans and programs conducted by AoA. 
Advises the Secretary, HHS agencies, and other Federal agencies on the 
characteristics, circumstances, and needs of older people, and on 
policies, plans and programs designed to promote their welfare. The 
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary serves as the Assistant 
Secretary's primary associate in carrying out the mission of the 
agency.
    In collaboration with other Federal agencies, develops and 
implements interagency agreements to assist older persons. Provides 
liaison with other Federal advisory committees focused on the aging. 
Works with national aging organizations, professional societies, and 
academic organizations to identify mutual interests and plan voluntary 
and funded approaches to meet the needs of older persons. Ensures 
affirmative action throughout the Aging Network in employment and 
service delivery.
    B. The Office of Evaluation implements, oversees and manages 
responsibilities assigned by the Government Performance and Results Act 
of 1993 (GPRA). Interprets AoA goals, priorities, and strategies for 
consistency with AoA long-range GPRA goals and strategies, and adjusts 
GPRA goals and strategies accordingly. Provides guidance and technical 
assistance to AoA organizational units in developing operational plans, 
particularly in developing measurable objectives and indicators 
reflecting

[[Page 36885]]

program and organizational performance. Prepares AoA's annual GPRA plan 
and report.
    Develops AoA plans and priorities for evaluation of AoA formula 
grant programs, with subject matter input from appropriate units. 
Manages contracting for mandated evaluation projects and performs 
intramural evaluation studies. Prepares reports of the results of 
program and impact evaluations conducted by and for AoA, with technical 
input from other AoA units. Provides technical guidance on evaluation 
activities conducted as part of AoA's discretionary grants programs.
    Coordinates AoA activities related to the collection, analysis, and 
dissemination of national and program data on older individuals. 
Develops and manages all aspects of data requirements associated with 
home and community-based services programs under Title III of the OAA.
    Develops and designs the criteria for collecting, analyzing and 
disseminating program performance data on State and Area Agencies' 
implementation of OAA programs, and prepares that data for reporting to 
Congress and the public. Designs, implements and provides guidance and 
technical assistance to State and Area Agencies on Aging and service 
providers on data collection and analysis (Section 202(b)(28)) and on 
uniform data collection procedures for State Units on Aging (Section 
202(b)(29)).
    Develops and operates a National Aging Program Information System 
focused on the information needs of AoA and the Network on Aging to 
both manage and advocate for the delivery of effective and efficient 
services to the elderly. Provides liaison with the Federal Task Force 
on Aging Statistics; in support of planning and program requirements; 
performs routine and special statistical analyses of data for AoA 
offices, other Federal and non-Federal organizations, and the general 
public.
    III. Establish Part BE, Center for Management, as follows:

BE.00 Mission
BE.10 Organization
BE.20 Functions

    BE.00 Mission. The Center for Management (CM) advises the Assistant 
Secretary for Aging on financial, grants, information resources, 
procurement, administrative and human resources management activities 
of AoA.
    BE.10 Organization. The Center for Management is headed by a 
Director who reports directly to the Assistant Secretary for Aging. The 
Center is organized as follows:

Office of the Director (BE)
    Executive Secretariat (BE-0)
Office of Budget and Finance (BE1)
Office of Administrative Services (BE2)
Office of Grants Management (BE3)
Office of Information Resources Management (BE4)

    BE.20 Functions. A. The Office of the Director directs and 
coordinates all activities of the Center for Management (CM). The 
Director serves as the AoA's Chief Financial Officer (CFO); Chief 
Grants Management Officer; Federal Managers' Financial Integrity Act 
(FMFIA) Management Control Officer; Chief Information Resources 
Management Official; and Reports Clearance Officer. The Director serves 
as principal advisor and counsel to the Assistant Secretary for Aging 
on all aspects of internal administration and management of AoA, and 
serves as the AoA liaison with the Assistant Secretary for 
Administration and Management, the Assistant Secretary for Budget, 
Technology and Finance, the Office of the General Counsel, the Office 
of the Inspector General, the General Accounting Office, and the Office 
of Management and Budget for areas under CM purview. The Office advises 
the Assistant Secretary for Aging on financial, grants, information 
resources, procurement, administrative and human resources management 
activities. The Office develops, administers, and coordinates 
financial, operational, and budgetary policies, processes, and controls 
necessary to administer AoA programs and financial resources; directs 
discretionary and formula grants activities; oversees the utilization 
of information resources, information systems and telecommunications 
management in AoA; and coordinates AoA's internal control activities.
    B. The Executive Secretariat (ES) coordinates essential policy and 
program concerns and ensures that issues requiring the attention of the 
Assistant Secretary, Deputy Assistant Secretary, and/or executive staff 
are addressed on a timely and coordinated basis. It serves as the AoA 
liaison with the HHS Executive Secretariat. ES receives, assesses, and 
controls incoming correspondence and assignments to the appropriate AoA 
component(s) for response and action; provides assistance and advice to 
AoA staff on the development of responses to correspondence and on the 
controlled correspondence system; and tracks development of periodic 
reports and facilitates departmental clearance. Maintains official 
copies of all policy and information issuances and data collection 
instruments, ensuring proper clearance before issuance and annually 
reviews for accuracy and compliance with laws and regulations; reviews 
all materials for Federal Register publication, ensuring compliance 
with guidelines; serves as records manager providing assistance to both 
Headquarters and Regional Support Centers staff regarding filing 
practices, retention and disposition of records. The Director of the 
Executive Secretariat Office serves as liaison with the Office of the 
Federal Register on regulatory actions and the Office of the Inspector 
General and the General Accounting Office on all program matters other 
than those related to grants or procurement management; and serves as 
the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Officer for AoA, reviews FOIA 
requests, and arranges for appropriate responses in coordination with 
the DHHS FOIA Officer.
    C. The Office of Budget and Finance (OBF) supports the Director for 
the Center for Management in fulfilling AoA's Chief Financial Officer 
and Management Control Officer responsibilities including preparation 
of the CFO 5 Year Plan, and oversees and coordinates AoA's FMFIA 
activities.
    OBF is responsible for budget formulation and execution and 
financial management. In coordination with AoA program offices, 
formulates and presents budget estimates; executes apportionment 
documents; plans, directs, and coordinates financial and budgetary 
programs of AoA. Provides guidance to AoA program offices in preparing 
budgets, justifications, and other budgetary materials. Solicits, 
obtains and consolidates information and data from other AoA offices, 
and prepares budget documents on behalf of the Assistant Secretary for 
presentation to the Department, the Office of Management and Budget 
(OMB), and Congress. Analyzes the budget as approved by the Congress 
and apportioned by OMB, obtains input from program offices and 
recommends for the Assistant Secretary's approval a financial plan for 
its execution. Makes allowances to AoA offices within the guidelines of 
the approved financial plan. Develops and maintains an overall system 
of budgetary controls to ensure observance of established ceilings on 
both program--including all formula discretionary grant accounts--and 
Salaries and Expense funds; maintains administrative control of funds 
against allotments and allowances; certifies funds availability for all 
AoA accounts; and coordinates the management of AoA's interagency 
agreement activities. Prepares requests for apportionment of 
appropriated funds; maintains separate financial operating plans for 
each of the

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Regional Support Centers; and prepares spending plans and status-of-
funds reports for the Assistant Secretary. Develops financial operating 
procedures and manuals; coordinates the preparation of AoA's financial 
audits; and provides analysis on financial issues. Serves as the AoA 
liaison with the Office of the Secretary and OMB on all budgetary 
matters. Acts as AoA's coordination point for all travel management 
activities; provides technical assistance and oversight on the use of 
the Travel Management System; manages employee participation in the 
Travel Charge Card program, and coordinates Travel Management Center 
services for AoA.
    D. The Office of Administrative Services (OAS) provides support to 
AoA in the areas of personnel, management analysis, facilities, 
acquisitions, and other human resources and administrative services. 
Prepares, coordinates and disseminates information, policy and 
procedural guidance on human resource and administrative management 
issues on an agency-wide basis. Plans, organizes and conducts 
management studies of organizational structures, functional statements, 
job structure, staffing patterns, management and administrative 
information systems. Develops and maintains organizational functional 
statements and delegations of authority for AoA.
    Provides direction to meet the human resource management needs 
within AoA. The Office is responsible for providing leadership, 
guidance, oversight and liaison functions for personnel related issues 
and activities as well as other administrative functions. Coordinates 
with the Department to provide staff with personnel services including 
position management, performance management, employee recognition, 
staffing, recruitment, employee and labor relations, employee 
assistance, payroll liaison, staff development and training, and 
special hiring and placement programs. Provides oversight and direction 
to meet the administrative needs of AoA components. Serves as liaison 
with the Office of the Secretary, the General Services Administration 
(GSA), and outside vendors to plan, develop and coordinate guidelines 
and activities for space and facilities services. Serves as the lead 
for AoA in coordination and liaison with Departmental, GSA, Federal 
Protective Service, and other Federal agencies for planning and 
executing the Agency's environmental health, safety and physical 
security programs.
    The Office assists other AoA components in securing contractor 
assistance by advising on appropriate acquisition vehicles, developing 
statements of work, and managing the technical aspects of contracts. 
Monitors the use of credit cards for small purchases and establishes 
and manages contracts and/or blanket purchase agreements for 
administrative support and facilities management services.
    The Office of Grants Management (OGM) serves as AoA's focal point 
for management, leadership and administration of discretionary and 
formula grants, and cooperative agreements. Provides national policy 
oversight and development for grants management and administration 
matters. Ensures that all grant awards conform to applicable statutory, 
regulatory, and administrative policy requirements, both before and 
following award. Maintains liaison and coordination with appropriate 
AoA and HHS organizations to ensure consistency between AoA 
discretionary and formula grant award activities, and the Department's 
payment systems for grants.
    Ensures that the administrative business and financial management 
aspects of discretionary grants administration are carried out and 
grantee performance is monitored. Performs cost analysis/budget 
analysis for all discretionary grant award documents and negotiates 
grant budgets, executing all awards for AoA Headquarters. Advises and 
assists management and program officials in developing, implementing 
and evaluating program plans, strategies, regulations, announcements, 
guidelines and procedures. Recommends approval or disapproval of any 
grant applications based on programmatic considerations. Only the 
Office of Grants Management has the authority to obligate the 
Government to the expenditure of funds for grants and cooperative 
agreements. Serves as liaison with other offices in the Department.
    Issues and maintains control over formula grant awards under the 
OAA, and makes adjustments to previously issued formula grant awards. 
In coordination with all AoA Headquarters and Regional Support Centers 
having grant administrative responsibilities: reviews and assesses AoA 
formula grant award procedures; directs and/or coordinates management 
initiatives to improve formula grant programs in financial areas; 
develops proposals for improving the efficiency in awarding grants and 
coordinating financial operations among AoA programs; establishes 
priorities and develops procedures for grantee financial monitoring; 
and, reviews activities at the field level for all AoA discretionary 
and formula grant programs. For formula grant activities, develops 
financial management standards for State and Area Agencies and provides 
guidance on and interpretation of applicable federal regulations to AoA 
staff. Based on formula grants management policies and procedures 
approved by the Department, reprograms formula grant funds as required 
under the OAA. Following consultation with all Headquarters and 
Regional Support Centers having grant administrative responsibilities, 
and with the approval of the Assistant Secretary: develops AoA 
instructions and procedures for the administration of the business 
aspects of all discretionary and formula grants, including those 
approved in AoA Regional Support Centers. Provides training, technical 
assistance, overall guidance, monitoring and assistance to AoA staff in 
all areas of administrative and financial management of grants. Has 
primary responsibility for developing grants management policy 
issuances, and ensuring consistent policy interpretation within AoA 
concerning grants management. Serves as AoA liaison with the General 
Accounting Office (GAO), the HHS Office of the Inspector General and 
the Department's Office of Grants and Acquisition Management on grant 
matters. Assists at discretionary and formula grant hearings, before 
the Departmental Appeals Board, in response to disallowances and other 
financial claims by AoA, State Agencies on Aging, and other grantees. 
Responds to Departmental and General Accounting Office audit reviews, 
ensuring proper analysis and resolution of audit findings by Regional 
Support Centers for final action by the Assistant Secretary. 
Coordinates receipt and processing of all grant and contract related 
materials.
    F. The Office of Information Resources Management (OIRM) provides 
information technology services to AoA and develops policies, 
standards, guidelines, and procedures. The IRM Director serves as the 
principal IRM Official, responsible for delegations of procurement 
authority and the annual five-year long-range plan. The Office provides 
or contracts for the management, maintenance and operation of AoA's 
automated information system, including the LAN, personal computers, 
software, and support systems and services; provides or contracts for 
training and technical assistance in all AoA systems, hardware

[[Page 36887]]

and software; coordinates the preparation of manuals and policy 
issuances required to meet the instructional and informational needs of 
users of the system; develops and implements procurement strategies for 
ADP support services; reviews all ADP acquisition documentation for 
compliance with applicable laws and regulations as well as for 
procurement strategy, assessing the need for and defining the 
specifications for procurement of all hardware and software for AoA; 
recommends and defines the need to share ADP services through inter-
government, inter-departmental and interagency agreements; directs and 
coordinates AoA's systems security and privacy responsibilities, 
including protection, security and integrity of AoA data; in 
coordination with the Executive Secretariat coordinates mandated OMB 
approvals required under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980, as 
amended; represents AoA on the Department's IRM Policy and Planning 
Board.
    The Office is responsible for establishing and maintaining a secure 
Inter- and intranet presence. It provides telecommunications planning, 
budgeting and management for AoA, including procurement, installation, 
alterations, and maintenance of telecommunications equipment and 
services such as telephones, pagers, cellular phone service, cable TV 
service, and audio conferencing equipment and services; provides 
liaison with HHS and GSA on telecommunications matters; and provides 
assistance to AoA components to identify telecommunications needs and 
use of communications equipment and systems.
    IV. Establish Part BF, Center for Wellness and Community-Based 
Services, as follows:

BF.00 Mission
BF.10 Organization
BF.20 Functions

    BF.00 Mission. The Center for Wellness and Community-Based Services 
(CWCBS) advises the Assistant Secretary for Aging on and provides 
leadership related to programs under the OAA.
    BF.10 Organization. A Director who reports directly to the 
Assistant Secretary for Aging heads the Center for Wellness and 
Community-Based Services. The Center is organized as follows:

Office of the Director (BF)
Office for Community-Based Services (BF1)
Office for American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian 
Programs (BF2)
Office for Consumer Choice and Protection (BF3)
AoA Regional Support Centers (BD1 to BD10)

    BE.20 Functions. A. The Office of the Director provides program 
expertise on program development, advocacy and initiatives within 
assigned areas. Provides leadership on behalf of Titles III, VI and VII 
of the OAA, and those parts of Title II and Title IV of the OAA for 
which the Office is responsible. Works in conjunction with the Office 
of Evaluation to plan, direct and evaluate the programs under the OAA 
designed to provide planning, coordination and services to older 
Americans through grant programs authorized under Titles II, III, IV, 
VI, and VII of the OAA.
    Consults with and provides technical assistance to and education 
for State and Area Agencies on Aging, Tribal grantees, and local 
community service providers in the development of plans, goals, and 
system development activities. Ensures that statutory requirements, 
regulations, policies, and instructions are implemented for Titles III, 
VI and VII, and for the functions under Title II and Title IV for which 
the Office is responsible. In addition, the Director provides oversight 
and leadership to the Nutrition Officer established in Title II of the 
OAA who provides technical assistance and guidance to Regional Support 
Centers, States, Area Agencies on Aging and community service 
providers.
    The Director carries out the functions of the Office of Long-Term 
Care Ombudsman Programs established in Section 201(d)(1) of the OAA. 
Serves as the effective and visible advocate regarding Federal policies 
and laws that may adversely affect the health, safety, welfare, or 
rights of older residents of long-term care facilities; reviews Federal 
legislation, regulations, and policies regarding long-term care 
ombudsman programs and makes recommendations to the Secretary and 
Assistant Secretary; coordinates the activities of AoA with other 
Federal, State and local entities relating to long-term care ombudsman 
programs; prepares an annual report to Congress on the effectiveness of 
services provided by State long-term care ombudsman programs; and 
establishes standards for the training of State long-term care 
ombudsman staff.
    Supervises and provides technical guidance to the Regional Support 
Centers as they implement the national programs of the OAA. Ensures 
that clear and consistent guidance is given on program and policy 
directives. Issues substantive operating procedures to guide Regional 
staff of AoA in the conduct of their responsibilities; establishes 
standards for performance plans and regularly assesses the performance 
against the established standards.
    B. The Office for Community-Based Services (OCBS) serves as the 
focal point within AoA for the operation, administration, management, 
and assessment of the programs authorized under Title III of the OAA. 
In addition, the Office performs the functions under Title II of the 
OAA related to consultation with other Federal agencies and the 
provision of information about aging services and programs in order to 
enhance service coordination and delivery.
    Implements Title III of the OAA through the development of 
regulations, policies and guidance governing the development and 
enhancement of comprehensive and coordinated home and community-based 
care service delivery systems by State and Area Agencies on Aging. This 
includes implementing and enhancing systems for supportive services and 
the operation of multi-purpose senior centers, congregate and home-
delivered nutrition services, health promotion and disease prevention 
services, and caregiver support and assistance services.
    Provides guidance regarding State Plan processing and approval, the 
process and criteria for approval of States' Intrastate Funding 
Formulas for the allocation and targeting of resources within States, 
and implementation of the Interstate Funding Formula for distribution 
of Title III funds among States. Fosters, oversees, ensures 
accountability and assesses the implementation of Title III by States 
and Area Agencies through guidance and direction to Regional staff 
regarding program reviews, and program and system development and 
enhancements. Designs and provides training and technical assistance 
for program compliance, effectiveness, and enhancement.
    Directs and assesses the development of State-administered, home 
and community-based long-term care systems, and social and supportive 
services for the elderly. Initiates and encourages expansion of the 
capacities of home and community-based social service and health care 
systems to deliver comprehensive services to the elderly. Provides 
technical and subject matter expertise for the development of these 
systems, targeted at enhancing the capabilities of State and Area 
Agencies and local community service delivery programs to improve their 
service to older people. Coordinates with the Center for Planning and 
Policy Development to achieve a fully

[[Page 36888]]

integrated approach for the enhancement of systems of care throughout 
the nation.
    Provides specialized input on programs under the OAA to long-range 
planning, operational plans and the budget process.
    Carries out the functions of the designated nutrition officer, who 
coordinates nutritional services under the Act and develops the 
regulations and guidelines, and provides technical assistance regarding 
nutrition to the AoA Regional Support Centers, State and Area Agencies, 
nutrition service providers, and other organizations; serves as the 
liaison to the United States Department of Agriculture and other 
Federal agencies and organizations related to nutrition policy and 
program issues.
    Coordinates with the Office of Evaluation to conduct operational 
studies, program analyses, and evaluations on special issues of concern 
to the Secretary, the Assistant Secretary, Regional Support Centers, 
and State and Area Agencies on Aging. Prepares reports on program 
operations under Title III for the Assistant Secretary, other AoA 
offices, the Secretary, the President, Congress and the public. Through 
the analysis of State Plans, evaluation findings and other relevant 
material, identifies potential Title III program and management issues 
and develops recommendations to the Assistant Secretary on possible 
solutions.
    C. The Office of American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native 
Hawaiian Programs (OAIANNHP) administers programs authorized by Title 
VI of the Older Americans Act, including the Tribal Family Caregiver 
Support Program formula and discretionary grants. On behalf of 
individuals who are older Native Americans, serves as the effective and 
visible advocate within the Department, with other Departments and 
agencies of the Federal Government, and with State, local and tribal 
governments providing leadership and coordination of activities, 
services and policies affecting American Indians, Alaskan Natives and 
Native Hawaiian elders; advocates and promotes linkages among national 
Indian organizations, national aging organizations, and national 
provider organizations with the goal of enhancing the interests of and 
services to Native American elders. Recommends to the Assistant 
Secretary policies and priorities with respect to the development and 
operation of programs and activities relating to individuals who are 
older Native Americans. The Office coordinates activities among other 
Federal departments and agencies to ensure a continuum of improved 
services through memoranda of agreements or through other appropriate 
means of coordination. Carries out the following responsibilities of 
Title II: evaluates the outreach under Title III and Title VI and 
recommends necessary action to improve service delivery, outreach, and 
coordination between Title III and Title VI services; encourages and 
assists the provision of information to older Native Americans with 
need for Supplemental Security Income, Medicaid, food assistance, 
housing assistance, and transportation assistance; develops research 
plans, conducts and arranges for research in the field of Native 
American aging; collects, analyzes, and disseminates information 
related to problems experienced by older Native Americans, including 
information on health status of older individuals who are Native 
Americans, elder abuse, in-home care, and other problems unique to 
Native Americans; develops, implements, and oversees the uniform data 
collection procedures for Tribal and Native Hawaiian Organizations; and 
implements and oversees the consultation requirements of Title II as 
they apply to Native American issues.
    Chairs the Interagency Task Force on Older Indians which is 
comprised of representatives from the Federal departments and agencies 
with an interest in the welfare of individuals who are older Indians 
and makes recommendations to the Assistant Secretary at six-month 
intervals, to facilitate coordination among Federally funded programs 
and improve services to older Indians.
    Provides the Native American input to the Center for Planning and 
Policy Development for inclusion in AoA's research plan. In addition, 
collaborates with the Center for Community-Based Services on Title VI--
Title III coordination.
    Provides input and feedback to the Center for Planning and Policy 
Development for the development and operation of Resource Centers on 
Native American Elders, which gather information, perform research, 
provide for dissemination of results of the research, and provide 
technical assistance and training to those who provide services to 
Native American elders.
    Provides specialized input on Title VI programs and the Native 
American components of Title II and Title VII-B programs to other 
Offices for long-range planning, operational plans, research and 
training, and the budget process. Determines the Title VI grant amounts 
from annual appropriations. Develops testimony and background documents 
concerning Native Americans for use by the Assistant Secretary.
    Serves as the AoA focal point for the administration and assessment 
of the programs authorized under Title VI and the Native American 
Organization provisions of Title VII-B of the OAA, including 
administering grants, cooperative agreements and contracts. Implements 
the American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian programs in 
the field through provision of program and policy direction, training 
and oversight to the Regional Support Centers in the execution of the 
Native American components of their Title II, Title VI and Title VII-B 
responsibilities. Oversees the Regional Support Centers' monitoring of 
Title VI grantees. Arranges for and manages on-going training and 
technical assistance for Title VI grantees. Coordinates additional 
training and technical assistance with other projects managed by the 
Center for Planning and Development.
    D. The Office for Consumer Choice and Protection (OCCP) develops 
and carries out the ombudsman, elder abuse prevention, legal assistance 
development, and pension counseling provisions of Titles II and VII of 
the OAA throughout the Aging Network, including administration of the 
National Ombudsman Resource Center and the National Center on Elder 
Abuse, and advising the Assistant Secretary on the operation of those 
Centers. In addition, OCCP administers the Senior Medicare Patrol 
projects under Title IV of the OAA and the Health Insurance Portability 
and Accountability Act of 1997.
    Reviews State Plans to determine eligibility for funding under the 
OAA and recommends approval or disapproval to the Assistant Secretary. 
Implements Title VII in the field through provision to Regional Support 
Centers guidance and information concerning AoA programs, and the 
development and interpretation of Title VII program regulations and 
policy. Ensures the implementation of guidance and instructions 
concerning long-term care ombudsman, prevention of elder abuse, and 
elder rights and legal assistance development programs. Provides 
guidance and leadership in the development of the pension counseling 
program and effective models for nationwide replication.
    Fosters, oversees, ensures accountability and assesses the 
implementation of Title VII by States through guidance and direction to 
Regional staff regarding program reviews, and program and system

[[Page 36889]]

development and enhancements. Designs and provides training and 
technical assistance for program compliance, effectiveness, and 
enhancement.
    Conducts staff functions and responsibilities for the operation of 
the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program and makes recommendations to the 
Director of the Center for Wellness and Community-Based Services for 
program and policy enhancement.
    Serves as the agency's focal point for coordinating, implementing, 
monitoring, expanding, evaluating, and promoting efforts to provide 
consumer information, education and protection designed to detect, 
prevent and report error, fraud and abuse in the Medicare and Medicaid 
programs. Provides in-depth expertise, information, leadership and 
technical assistance through the Regional Support Centers to the Senior 
Medicare Patrol network and serves as a reliable clearinghouse of 
information for the aging network, older persons and their families. 
Provides specialized input on Title VII and consumer protection 
programs to long-range planning, operational plans and the budget 
process. Develops program plans and instructions for AoA Regional 
Support Centers and State and Area Agencies to improve the Title VII 
protection and representational programs funded under the OAA.
    E. The AoA Regional Support Centers report to the Director, CWCBS 
and are headed by a Regional Administrator (RA).
    The Regional Support Centers serve as the focal point for the 
development, coordination and administration of OAA programs within the 
designated HHS region. Represent the Assistant Secretary for Aging 
within the region, providing information for, and contributing to the 
development of, national policy dealing with the elderly. Based on 
national policy and priorities, establish field program goals and 
objectives. Serve as the effective and visible advocates for the 
elderly to Federal agencies in their geographic jurisdiction to ensure 
the rights and entitlement of the elderly; advise, consult and 
cooperate with each Federal agency proposing or administering programs 
or services related to the aging; coordinate and assist in the planning 
and development by public (including Federal, State, Tribal and local 
agencies) and private organizations of comprehensive and coordinated 
services and opportunities for older individuals in each community of 
the nation; conduct active public education of officials and citizens 
and the aged to ensure broad understanding of the needs and 
capabilities of the aged.
    Monitor, assist and evaluate State Agencies on Aging administering 
programs supported under Titles II, III and VII of the OAA, and Indian 
Tribal Organizations administering projects under Title VI. Review OAA 
State Plans on Aging and recommend approval or disapproval to the 
Assistant Secretary for Aging, as appropriate. Review applications and 
recommend approval or disapproval of Title VI applications to the 
Assistant Secretary.
    Advise the Assistant Secretary of problems and progress of programs 
through the Director, CWCBS; recommend to the Assistant Secretary 
changes that would improve OAA operations; evaluate the effectiveness 
of OAA and related programs in the Regions and recommend to the 
Assistant Secretary or take positive action to gain improvement; and 
guide agencies and grantees in applications of policy to specific 
operational issues requiring resolution. Facilitate interagency 
cooperation at the Federal, Regional Support Center, State and Tribal 
levels to enhance resources and assistance available to the elderly. 
Disseminate and provide technical assistance regarding program 
guidelines and developments to State and Area Agencies, Indian Tribal 
Organizations and local community service providers.
    V. Establish a new Part BG as follows:
    The Center for Communication and Consumer Services.

BG.00 Mission
BG.10 Organization
BG.20 Functions

    BG.00 Mission. The Center for Communication and Consumer Services 
(CCCS) provides leadership and a central strategic focus for AoA's 
public information, education, consumer services, and outreach 
activities.
    BG.10 Organization. A Director who reports to the Assistant 
Secretary for Aging heads the Center for Communication and Consumer 
Services.
    BG.20 Functions. The Center for Communication and Consumer Services 
is responsible for developing information dissemination and outreach 
strategies for AoA and the National aging network and for coordinating 
the development of information materials, both printed and electronic. 
In coordination with the Department, CCCS manages AoA's media relations 
and legislative liaison activities.
    CCCS coordinates the development of legislative proposals, 
testimony, background statements, and other policy documents for use by 
the Assistant Secretary in activities related to legislation. In 
coordination with the DHHS Office of the Assistant Secretary for 
Legislation, analyzes proposed and enacted legislation related directly 
or indirectly to older people, including legislation directly affecting 
OAA programs. Through automated legislative information systems tracks 
bills related to the aging. Develops and issues status reports 
regarding key legislative developments to Headquarters and Regional 
Support Centers staff, the network of State and Area Agencies on Aging, 
and Indian Tribal Organizations.
    Coordinates with the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public 
Affairs, including planning and implementing strategy for relations 
with the news and other information media; initiates media outreach 
activities and responds to all media inquiries concerning AoA programs 
and related issues.
    Oversees the international liaison functions of AoA, coordinating 
AoA international activities with Departmental as well as other Federal 
agencies, States and national organizations concerned with 
international aging matters. At all levels, from national to the local 
service delivery level, develops methods and collaborations to 
articulate the problems and concerns of the elderly to organizations 
beyond the traditional network of agencies and works with these 
organizations to be more sensitive and responsive to age-related needs 
and issues.
    Compiles, publishes, and disseminates information on programs 
funded under the Act, as well as demographic data on the elderly 
population and data from other Federal agencies on the health, social 
and economic status of older persons. Promotes information 
dissemination in professional fields. Ensures dissemination of 
information such as best practice models, to exchange program 
experience with the network of State and Area Agencies on Aging; works 
with organizations in the field of aging and with other organizations 
in fields that impact older persons to enhance the dissemination of 
consumer and technical information. Works with the Office of Evaluation 
to ensures the successful collection of data and its analysis to 
demonstrate the effectiveness of AoA dissemination activities. Ensures 
that program and service information and trends are disseminated to 
advocates for older persons.
    Responds to written, phone and personal inquiries from all sources

[[Page 36890]]

dealing with services and needs of the aging.
    VI. Establish a new Part BH as follows:
    Center for Planning and Policy Development.

BH.00 Mission
BH.10 Organization
BH.20 Functions

    BH.00 Mission. The Center for Planning and Policy Development 
(CPPD) advises and supports the Assistant Secretary for Aging in 
serving as the visible and effective advocate for older people within 
the Federal government, and in promoting an effective Federal policy 
and program response to address the aging of the population, as 
mandated under Title II and Title IV of the Older Americans Act. Serves 
as the focal point within AoA for identifying and analyzing emerging 
policy and program issues and trends related to the aging population, 
identifying appropriate Federal responses, and formulating an agency-
wide policy and program development strategy consistent with the 
priorities established by the Assistant Secretary for Aging. Is 
responsible for leading the agency's strategic planning, policy 
development and program development functions, including the 
formulation of short and long-term strategies for advancing the 
Assistant Secretary for Aging's policy and program priorities.
    BH.10 Organization. A Director and reports to the Assistant 
Secretary for Aging head the Center for Planning and Policy 
Development.
    BH.20 Functions. The Center for Planning and Policy Development is 
responsible for analyzing trends in demographics, service needs, public 
policy and program development, and translating those trends into new 
policies and programs to assist the elderly. CPPD develops and 
maintains effective relationships with government and private sector 
entities and their representatives at the Federal, State and local 
levels to develop a unified policy toward, and promote the aims of the 
Older Americans Act; oversees development of more responsive service 
systems through intergovernmental and private sector initiatives and 
partnerships to address age-related issues and concerns.
    CPPD coordinates the development and implementation of the agency's 
strategic plan that establishes long and short-range goals; objectives, 
strategies and action plan for advancing the agency's policy and 
program agenda. Reviews and coordinates all policy and program 
development documents and activities to ensure consistency with AoA's 
strategic plan; adjusts goals and strategies as appropriate.
    The Center directs intergovernmental affairs activities as it 
relates to the agency's policy and program development agenda, and 
develops and maintains effective relationships with other governmental 
departments and agencies. Plans, negotiates, facilitates and updates, 
as appropriate, memoranda of understanding with other departments and 
agencies to promote agreements and cooperative relationships and 
ventures that address policies and services affecting the aging 
population.
    Maintains information on, and pursues collaborative opportunities 
with, other Federal agencies, non-profit organizations and private 
corporations that have the potential to contribute to AoA's policy and 
program development priorities.
    Supports the Assistant Secretary for Aging in implementing Section 
203(1) of the OAA by coordinating, advising, consulting with and 
cooperating with the head of each department, agency and 
instrumentality of the Federal Government proposing or administering 
programs or services substantially related to the objectives of the 
OAA. Oversees the consultation process by which agency heads must 
consult with AoA before establishing programs or services related to 
the OAA. Plans and implements the process for the collaboration of all 
Federal agencies with AoA in the execution by those agencies of 
programs and services related to the OAA.
    Provides technical, program and policy development input on 
legislative activities and the annual budget development cycle. 
Participates in Departmental and inter-departmental activities that 
concern health and social services; reviews and comments on 
Departmental regulations and policies regarding health programs and 
institutional and non-institutional long term care services. Provides 
agency-wide leadership on the programmatic functions of AoA's 
discretionary grant programs. Plans and directs activities authorized 
under Title IV of the OAA and section 398 of the Public Health Service 
Act as amended. Conducts activities for the development of adequate 
knowledge for improving the circumstances of older people. Develops a 
knowledge base for policy decisions and program development and 
coordination through support of a wide range of research, 
demonstration, and training activities.
    Prepares the planning documents for, and coordinates the 
development of, annual discretionary funds program announcements. 
Provides technical input for Congressional and budget presentations 
related to research and demonstration programs. Evaluates research, 
demonstration and training grant and contract proposals; and recommends 
approval/disapproval, monitors progress, gives technical guidance to, 
and evaluates the performance of grantees and contractors. Develops 
standards and identifies successful service and systems development 
strategies and best practice models for use by the Aging Network. 
Develops technical assistance material and dissemination strategies for 
these strategies, models, and best practice suggestions, in 
coordination with the other AoA Centers.
    Conducts relevant policy research and program demonstrations to 
inform policy and program development; undertakes qualitative and 
quantitative analyses to develop policy options and recommendations for 
the Assistant Secretary for Aging. Develops policy reports based on the 
needs and circumstances of older people, their family members and the 
aging population. Manages a program for the collection, analysis, and 
dissemination of information related to the needs and problems of older 
persons. Develops and coordinates initiatives with other Federal 
agencies, national aging organizations and universities to fill gaps in 
information in the field of aging. Reviews research findings from the 
literature and products from AoA, the Aging Network, and other sources 
regarding information on aging to identify new findings that will be 
useful to older people and professionals operating in the field of 
aging. Determines the relative utility of such products, and in 
collaboration with the Center for Communications and Consumer Services, 
their potential users and the most effective way to disseminate the 
information to users.
    Promotes coordination of AoA's research and demonstrations with 
other national, field and local programs related to aging. Within 
overall AoA strategy and long-range plans, conducts continuing studies 
and periodic reviews of needs and resources in the field of aging, and 
makes recommendations for action to the Assistant Secretary for Aging.

    Dated: May 20, 2002.
Josefina G. Carbonell,
Assistant Secretary for Aging.
[FR Doc. 02-13181 Filed 5-24-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4154-01-P