[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 41 (Thursday, March 2, 2006)]
[Notices]
[Pages 10798-10820]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 06-1959]



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Part IV





Department of Labor





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Employment and Training Administration



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Older Americans Act--Solicitation for Grant Applications; Senior 
Community Service Employment Program National Grants for Program Year 
2006; Notice

  Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 41 / Thursday, March 2, 2006 / 
Notices  

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DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

Employment and Training Administration


Older Americans Act--Solicitation for Grant Applications; Senior 
Community Service Employment Program National Grants for Program Year 
2006

AGENCY: Employment and Training Administration, DOL.

ACTION: Notice of availability of funds and solicitation for grant 
applications for the national grants portion of the Senior Community 
Service Employment Program.

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    Announcement Type: New.
    Funding Opportunity Number: SGA/DFA-PY 05-06.

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number: 17.235.

DATES: The closing date for receipt of applications is April 17, 2006.
SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Labor (the Department), Employment and 
Training Administration (ETA) announces a grant competition for 
national grantee funding under the Senior Community Service Employment 
Program (SCSEP) authorized under title V of the Older Americans Act 
Amendments of 2000 (OAA Amendments), Pub. L. 106-501, 42 U.S.C. 3056 
and implemented under 20 CFR part 641 (April 9, 2004).
    These projects will promote part-time work-based training 
opportunities in local communities for unemployed, low-income 
individuals who are age 55 and over, and will foster increased 
prospects for their economic self-sufficiency. SCSEP is the only 
nationwide Federal program that focuses on training and placing older 
individuals into community work-based training and unsubsidized 
employment.
    The total amount of funds available for this SGA is approximately 
$341,000,000, or 78 percent of the total appropriation for Program Year 
(PY) 2006 (July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2007). It is anticipated that 
no more than 20 awards will be made under this SGA, including at least 
one award to an Indian and Native American organization and at least 
one award to an Asian Pacific Islander organization, as required by 
section 506(a)(3) of the OAA Amendments. Eligible entities include any 
non-profit organization, Federal public agency, or Tribal organization 
that has the ability to operate in more than one state and that meets 
the eligibility and responsibility requirements outlined in 20 CFR part 
641 subpart D. The remaining 22 percent of the appropriation is 
reserved for state formula-funded programs and therefore, is not 
included in this SGA.
    The Department is holding a full and open competition in order to 
provide better services to SCSEP participants, employers, and the 
communities served by the national grant program. Open competition is 
not only the preferred vehicle for obtaining new grantees, but in most 
cases, it is the required vehicle for obtaining new grantees. The 
Department favors full and open competition because it provides an 
opportunity to ensure that the best applicants are awarded grants and 
that the program is administered effectively.
    The Department held the first competition for national grant 
funding in PY 2003. As a result of that competition, the Department 
selected four new national grantees, and made extensive changes to the 
areas served by the incumbent grantees. These grantees provide 
diversity in services, including expertise in serving individuals with 
disabilities and minority populations as well as close connections with 
One-Stop Career Centers. The Department deems it important to maintain 
diversity among qualified service providers to the extent possible. The 
Department is especially interested in organizations that demonstrate a 
partnership with local One-Stop Career Centers and community colleges 
and that promote employment through high growth job opportunities.
    Under this SGA, the Department will be consolidating grantee 
service areas to increase program effectiveness and achieve economies 
of scale. Therefore, applicants are required to apply for contiguous 
locations within a state. Applicants applying as Asian and Pacific 
Islander and/or Indian organizations, pursuant to section 506(a)(3) of 
title V of the OAA, are exempt from this contiguousness requirement. 
The Department reserves the right to negotiate with successful 
applicants on the final service areas.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This SGA consists of eight (8) sections:
     Section I provides background information about the 
program.
     Section II describes the size and nature of the 
anticipated awards.
     Section III describes applicant eligibility criteria.
     Section IV outlines the application submission and 
withdrawal requirements.
     Section V describes the application review process and 
rating criteria.
     Section VI outlines additional award administration 
information.
     Section VII contains DOL agency contact information.
     Section VIII describes the notice to state and incumbent 
national grantees, bidders' conference information, and procedures for 
asking questions about this SGA. This section also lists appendices for 
other supplemental information, including a list of resources.

I. Funding Opportunity Description

    The SCSEP was originally authorized in 1965 by the Economic 
Opportunity Act, Public Law 89-73. In 1973 the SCSEP was authorized 
under the Older Americans Act (OAA). As authorized by title V of the 
OAA of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 3056 et seq.), the SCSEP fosters and promotes 
useful part-time work-based training opportunities in community 
organizations for persons with low incomes who are 55 years of age or 
older. Program participants receive on-the-job training at local public 
or non-profit agencies and are paid the higher of the Federal, state, 
or local minimum wage or the comparable wage for approximately 20 hours 
per week while in job training (OAA Amendments Sec.  502(b)(1)(J); 20 
CFR 641.565(a)). The ultimate goal is to assist the transition of older 
individuals into unsubsidized employment that leads to self-
sufficiency.
    The Fiscal Year 2005 total appropriation was $438,678,400 and 
applied to the Program Year that began on July 1, 2005. This funding 
supported over 61,300 positions and will result in approximately 93,000 
people being served during the program year that ends on June 30, 2006.
    The following information describes key aspects of the program. For 
a more in-depth understanding, applicants should read the resources 
listed in Section VIII of this SGA.
    Eligible Participant. An individual is eligible for the program if 
he or she is unemployed at the time of enrollment, is age 55 or older, 
and has an income of no more than 125 percent of the Federal poverty 
guidelines.
    Services for Individuals with Multiple Barriers to Employment. 
SCSEP is a focused program that seeks to serve those most in need as 
provided at 20 CFR 641.525. These individuals are age 60 or over and 
who have the greatest economic need, or greatest social need, or poor 
employment history or prospects.
    Individual Employment Plans (IEP). As required at 20 CFR 641.535, 
each SCSEP participant must be assessed to determine his or her skills 
and employment-related needs and a plan must be developed to improve 
the participant's employability. The IEP generally includes a goal of

[[Page 10799]]

unsubsidized employment and an appropriate sequence of services and 
training for that participant based on the assessment. (Other 
employment and training programs sometimes refer to this type of plan 
as an Individual Development Plan or Individual Training Plan). 
Grantees should monitor IEP progress regularly and are required to 
update an IEP (if necessary) for each participant at least twice during 
a 12-month period.
    Unsubsidized Employment. An important goal of the program is to 
help participants achieve self-sufficiency. Grantees provide training 
opportunities that enable participants to obtain employment. In 
addition, grantees provide regular follow-up communication with the 
participant and employer to ensure that the participant is retained in 
the job. Grantees may also provide supportive services to successfully 
placed participants for up to 6 months to enable them to remain 
employed. Successful employment and retention in a job should result 
from quality training efforts and good employer relationships.
    Community Service Work-Based Training. Providing subsidized work-
based training through community service is an important aspect of 
SCSEP. Participants obtain the confidence needed to become employable 
and the organizations that ``host'' the participants receive volunteer 
work. As provided at 20 CFR 641.140, community service may include, but 
is not limited to, such activities as social, health, welfare and 
educational services, counseling services, including tax counseling, 
environmental efforts, weatherization efforts and economic development. 
The training provided at these host agencies must be consistent with 
the participant's IEP. Participants receive wages paid by the grantee 
while they are in work-based training.
    Host Agencies. Host agencies provide the worksites for program 
participants and may be public or private 501(c)(3) organizations, 
including community-based and faith-based organizations, authorized 
Federal agencies, state agencies, or local public agencies. Host 
agencies are an important component of the program because they provide 
training and work experience for participants. Grantees must work with 
host agencies to identify appropriate training that does not lead to 
maintenance of effort violations. Therefore, the grantee's 
communication with and training for the host agency directly affects 
the value of the work-based training experience for the participants, 
and the participants' ability to obtain unsubsidized employment.
    Other Permissible Training. Training other than work-based training 
is an important tool to improve the skills and talents of participants, 
to help them succeed in their community service assignments, and to 
facilitate placement of participants in unsubsidized employment. How 
much training, and what types of training are necessary are based on 
each individual participant's IEP, but may include classroom training, 
general skills training, or specialized training.
    Coordination With One-Stop Career Centers, State and Local 
Workforce Investment Boards, State Agencies on Aging, Area Agencies on 
Aging, Other Grantees and SCSEP 502(e) Program Grantees. As a required 
partner, all SCSEP grantees are required to coordinate activities with 
local One-Stop Career Centers administered by Local Workforce 
Investment Boards under the Workforce Investment Act (WIA), Pub. L. 
105-220, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). For instance, as 
provided at 20 CFR 641.230, participant determinations of eligibility 
and needs assessments completed by the SCSEP satisfy any condition for 
an assessment under WIA and vice-versa.
    Coordination with state agencies on aging and area agencies on 
aging is required to ensure seamless support of aging individuals, 
which also helps participants achieve self-sufficiency. These 
organizations often operate local SCSEP programs but also offer 
supportive benefits to seniors. Grantees are also encouraged to 
coordinate efforts with other SCSEP grantees.
    Participant Wages and Fringe Benefits. Grantees are required to 
spend a minimum of 75 percent of the Federal grant funds on participant 
wages and fringe benefits. Participant wages are based on the higher of 
the Federal, state, or local minimum wage, or at a comparable wage for 
time spent in approved program activities only (e.g., community service 
training, other permissible training). See Section II of this SGA for 
funding calculation information. Generally, payments are made every 2 
weeks.
    Although the Department discourages grantees from providing 
permissive fringe benefits, such as annual leave and sick leave, 
because they dissuade participants from obtaining unsubsidized 
employment, applicants will not be penalized if they elect to provide 
such benefits. If a grantee provides such benefits, they must be 
consistently applied to all participants and expire at the end of every 
program year. Workers' compensation is a statutorily required fringe 
benefit that must be provided to each participant, and falls into a 
different cost classification from the workers' compensation provided 
to the grantee's employees. Please see 20 CFR 641.565(b)(iii). Physical 
examinations must also be offered to every participant as required 
under 20 CFR 641.565(b)(ii)(A).
    Equitable Distribution (ED). Section 507 of the OAA Amendments 
requires the Department to ensure that services are provided equitably 
within each state. The calculation is based on census data by county 
and state and annual program appropriations, and results in the number 
of authorized positions or ``slots'' that are allocated to each county. 
The number of authorized positions is proportional to the number of 
eligible people in the county compared to the state total. For every 
slot, one or more individuals can receive services through the program 
year. For instance, when a participant exits the program for 
employment, a new individual may be enrolled based on remaining program 
funds.
    Right of First Refusal. Under this solicitation, all successful 
applicants must allow the current participants to remain in the program 
under the same conditions in which they are found in order to minimize 
disruptions to the program. Therefore, while participants may not elect 
to remain under a former grantee, they must be able to continue 
community service work-based training with the same host agency for a 
minimum of 90 days after July 1, 2006.
    Administrative Costs. The administrative allowance for the program 
is 13.5 percent of the Federal share. Administrative costs are defined 
in the OAA Amendments at section 502(c)(4) and 20 CFR 641.856. This 
administrative limit may be extended to 15 percent as permitted under 
section 502(c)(3) of the OAA Amendments and 20 CFR 641.867.
    Non-Federal Share Requirement. Section 502(c)(1)-(2) limits the 
Department's cost of operating the program to 90 percent. Therefore, 
each grantee must contribute a minimum of 10 percent to the program 
through cash or in-kind contributions. This requirement also applies to 
Federal agencies unless a statutory exemption is demonstrated. Grantees 
are prohibited from requiring local projects or subgrantees from 
providing match as a condition of receiving funds. For more information 
on non-Federal share requirements, please see 20 CFR 641.809 and 29 CFR 
95.23.

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    Subgrantee. This is defined as any organization that provides 
program services on behalf of the grantee. There are no statutory 
restrictions on the type of entity that may be a subgrantee; however, 
all subgrantees are required to follow all applicable Department rules, 
regulations, and policy advisories. Some examples of entities that may 
be subgrantees include, but are not limited to, community and faith-
based organizations, community colleges, state agencies, One-Stop 
Career Centers, for-profit organizations, and tribal organizations.
    Extension of Funding. At the request of a grantee, the Department 
may permit a grantee to extend the use of any remaining program year 
grant funds beyond the program year. The Department discourages such 
practice and will grant an extension only under extenuating 
circumstances.
    Performance Measures. The performance measures for the program are 
outlined in 20 CFR part 641 subpart G and Appendix I. These goals are 
designed to ensure that grantees are enrolling those individuals who 
need the most training assistance to obtain employment. They also 
ensure that participants are placed into and retained in jobs and that 
they continue to improve their skills and employability. The Department 
expects continuous performance improvement from the program overall, 
which is measured under the Government Performance and Results Act 
(GPRA) of 1993 through established program goals. The ability of a 
grantee to meet the performance measures depends largely on how 
successful the grantee is at recruiting, conducting outreach, 
identifying job openings, training participants, and successfully 
matching participants with jobs.

II. Award Information

    Type of Assistance Instrument. This is an initial one year grant 
unless extended by the Department under extenuating circumstances as 
described in Section II-C. The grant may be extended for an additional 
two years, contingent upon the grantee meeting or exceeding the minimum 
negotiated performance measures as required by section 514(a) of the 
OAA Amendments and 20 CFR 641.700.

A. Service Locations

    The applicable service locations are listed by state and county in 
Section VIII, Appendix F of this SGA. Please note that national grant 
funds are not allocated for the states of Alaska, Delaware, and Hawaii, 
and for the territories of American Samoa, Guam, Northern Marianas 
Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

B. Funding Levels

    (1) Funding Amount and Total Awards. The total amount of funds 
available for this SGA is approximately $341,000,000. It is anticipated 
that no more than 20 awards will be made under this SGA, including at 
least one award to an Indian organization and at least one to an Asian 
Pacific Islander organization that serve older individuals.
    (2) Minimum Request for Funding. In order to deliver services more 
efficiently and to reduce duplicative administrative costs, the 
Department seeks to reduce the number of national grantees serving 
individual local areas through this SGA. To that end, certain 
requirements have been placed on the size of requests for funding.
    Applicants must apply for at least 10 percent of the state 
allocation or $1,600,000 (approximately 224 slots) in each state, 
whichever is greater. (See examples 1 and 2 below.) This requirement 
does not preclude an applicant from applying for more than 10 percent 
of the allocated amount in a state. In fact, the Department encourages 
applicants to apply for 20-25 percent for maximum efficiencies of 
operation.
    Applicants must also apply for all of the positions allocated in a 
county, except in large counties that exceed the 10 percent or $1.6 
million state minimum. The Department may award two or more grants in 
large counties that have more than 224 positions (or more than $1.6 
million). For those large counties, the applicant may apply for a 
portion of the county; but if that does not meet the 10 percent or $1.6 
million state minimum, the applicant must also apply for surrounding 
contiguous counties.
    In addition, requests for multiple counties in a state must be 
contiguously located to receive consideration. An applicant may apply 
for more than one cluster of counties in a state, such as in larger 
states, but each cluster must meet the minimum state funding 
requirements.
    Applicants must list their requests for locations and number of 
positions by county and state in a chart format. This chart is 
available in Excel format with accompanying instructions at http://www.doleta.gov/seniors/. Applicants are required to submit this file 
electronically as part of the application packet.

    Example 1: Organization A submits an application to provide 
services in Wyoming, which has 230 available slots. Organization A 
must apply for all of the available slots in Wyoming.
    Example 2: Organization B submits an application to provide 
services in California, which has 4,080 available slots but only 
wants to operate in the Oakland area, which is in Alameda County. In 
order to be considered for an application, Organization B must meet 
the minimum funding requirements, which in this case is 10 percent 
or $2,918,424 (408 slots) in California. Organization B must apply 
for the 158 slots in Alameda County or $1,130,174, and the slots in 
any contiguous counties to meet the minimum state funding request. 
In this example, Contra Costa, Santa Clara, and Stanislaus Counties 
are contiguously located. Therefore, Organization B could also apply 
for 81 slots in Contra Costa or $579,606; 131 slots in Santa Clara 
County or $937,043; and 61 slots in Stanislaus County or $436,333 
for a total request of $3,082,943, or other contiguous counties to 
meet the minimum funding requirements.

    (3) The Calculation Formula. Applicants can calculate the estimated 
amount of funds allocated to a state by county using the ``cost per 
authorized position'' formula in section 506(g)(1) of the OAA 
Amendments. The unit cost is roughly $7,153 per authorized position 
based on the Federal minimum wage. This amount represents the total 
funding allocated for each authorized position, including 
administrative costs. Applicants should multiply this amount by the 
number of positions in the county as listed in Section VIII, Appendix F 
of this SGA.

    Example: Stanislaus County, California has 61 available 
positions in the county. Therefore, the amount of funding would be 
$7,153 x 61 = $436,333. Although this is only an estimate of cost 
per authorized position, it is a useful tool for applicants to 
determine their funding request under this proposal.


    Note: A higher state minimum wage does not impact the slot 
funding calculation, but is a factor that is considered for 
performance measure calculations.

    (4) Calculation Requirements. Calculations must be based on the 
number of authorized positions as a result of equitable distribution 
rather than the actual number of positions that currently exist in the 
county. This requirement encourages equitable distribution of 
positions. Therefore, under-served areas will be funded to provide 
services to more needy individuals in those counties. However, those 
counties that are over-served will not be funded to provide for all 
current participants. It will be the successful applicant's 
responsibility to move these eligible participants into unsubsidized 
employment or to fund the positions as part of a non-Federal share 
contribution. In exceptional circumstances, the transition period may 
exceed one year.

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(See Appendix F for the number of authorized positions in each county.)

    Example 1: Alameda County, California should receive 158 
positions according to the equitable distribution formula. However, 
this county is currently over-served by 20 positions. An 
organization applying for this county will only be funded for the 
158 positions or $1,130,174. The successful applicant will be 
responsible for either placing 20 participants in unsubsidized 
employment or funding the positions using grant or non-Federal share 
(match) funds. (See Appendix F for the number of authorized 
positions and the current level of filled positions.)
    Example 2: San Joaquin County, California should receive 85 
positions according to the equitable distribution formula. However, 
this county is currently under-served by 7 positions. An 
organization applying for this county will be funded for 85 
positions or $608,005 and will be able to enroll additional 
participants in the program in the county.

    (5) Disqualification Statement. A failure in the application to 
adhere to these requirements will result in the disqualification of the 
applicant to compete for the area(s) impacted.

    Note: The Department reserves the right to make final decisions 
on the service providers in an area and may take into consideration 
special local conditions and otherwise unforeseen circumstances 
including combining metropolitan areas across state borders.

C. Period of Performance

    Successful applicants under this SGA are expected to commence 
program operations on July 1, 2006. The period of performance will 
initially be for one (1) year (unless extended by the Department under 
extenuating circumstances) with an option to be funded for an 
additional two (2) years at the Department's discretion. However, the 
Department's option to refund the initial grant is contingent upon the 
grantee meeting or exceeding the minimum negotiated performance 
measures as required by section 514(a) of the OAA Amendments and 20 CFR 
641.700.

III. Eligibility Information

A. Eligible Applicants

    In order to be eligible to compete for funds under this SGA, the 
applicant must demonstrate that it is capable of operating in more than 
one state as required at 20 CFR 641.140. This requirement does not 
preclude an organization from applying for areas in only one state as 
long as the other requirements are met. Note, however, that the 
Department reserves the right to award only one applicant per state.
    Applicants must also meet the responsibility and eligibility tests 
under section 514(b)-(d) of the OAA Amendments and 20 CFR 641.430--
641.440 and the funding requirements in Section II above.
    Applicants may apply to receive a grant under one or more of the 
following three (3) categories:
    (1) General National Grant Funds. Applications for general SCSEP 
national grant funds will be accepted from public and private nonprofit 
agencies and organizations, including faith-based and community-based 
organizations, and tribal organizations consistent with section 
502(b)(1) of the OAA Amendments and 20 CFR 641.400(a), that are 
familiar with the areas and populations to be served and that can 
administer an effective program in more than one state.
    ``Nonprofit'' is defined as an agency, institution, or organization 
which is, or is owned and operated by, one or more corporations or 
associations no part of the net earnings of which inures, or may 
lawfully inure, to the benefit of any private shareholder or individual 
(OAA Amendments Sec.  101(4)).
    ``Public agency'' is defined as a Federal public agency with the 
statutory authority to receive other Federal grant funds (also known as 
gift authority) (20 CFR 641.400).
    ``Tribal organizations'' is defined as the recognized governing 
body of any Indian tribe, or any legally established organization of 
Indians which is controlled, sanctioned, or chartered by such governing 
body (OAA Amendments Sec.  101(7) and 20 CFR 641.140). In any case in 
which a contract is let or grant made to an organization to perform 
services benefiting more than one Indian tribe, the approval of each 
such Indian tribe is a prerequisite to the letting or making of such 
contract or grant.
    Applicants must mark a ``G'' on the application and state 
specifically in the application that they are applying for general 
SCSEP national grant funds.
    (2) Indian Grant Funds. Applications will be accepted from public 
or nonprofit national Indian aging organizations with the ability to 
provide employment services to older Indians as required by section 
506(a)(3) of the OAA Amendments.
    ``Indian'' means a person who is a member of an Indian tribe (OAA 
Amendments Sec.  101(5) and 20 CFR 641.140).
    ``Indian tribe'' means any tribe, band, nation, or other organized 
group or community of Indians (including Alaska Native village or 
regional or village corporation as defined in or established pursuant 
to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act) which (A) is recognized as 
eligible for the special programs and services provided by the United 
States to Indians because of their status as Indians; or (B) is located 
on, or in proximity to, a Federal or state reservation (OAA Amendments 
Sec.  101(6) and 20 CFR 641.140).
    Applicants must mark an ``I'' on the application and state 
specifically in the application that they are applying for Indian SCSEP 
national grant funds. The Department may take local needs and 
population characteristics into consideration when making funding 
decisions.
    (3) Pacific Islander and Asian American National Grant Funds. 
Applications for Pacific Islander and Asian American national grant 
funds will be accepted from national public or nonprofit Pacific 
Islander and Asian American aging organizations with the ability to 
provide employment to older Pacific Islanders and Asian Americans, as 
required by section 506(a)(3) of the OAA Amendments.
    ``Pacific Islander and Asian American'' means Americans having 
origins in any of the original peoples of the Far East, Southeast Asia, 
the Indian Subcontinent, or the Pacific Islands (OAA Amendments Sec.  
516(3)).
    Applicants must mark an ``AP'' on the application and state 
specifically in the application that they are applying for Pacific 
Islander and Asian American SCSEP national grant funds. The Department 
may take local needs and population characteristics into consideration 
when making funding decisions.
    (4) Other Useful Information. Applicants applying for more than one 
category above must submit separate applications for each category for 
which they are applying. Please note, however, that regardless of the 
category selected, all successful applicants are required to serve any 
eligible individual within the awarded counties and states. 
Consideration of ethnic or racial status is only a factor for tracking 
services provided to individuals with multiple barriers to employment 
as defined in Section I of this SGA.
    Entities may apply as a consortium, but each member of the 
consortium must meet all eligibility and responsibility tests. Entities 
applying as a consortium are also jointly and severally liable for 
meeting all requirements for administering this Federally-funded 
program.
    In the context of this SGA, a consortium is two or more eligible 
entities that enter into a legal agreement to apply for SCSEP funds as 
if they were applying as a single organization. For grant 
administration purposes, the

[[Page 10802]]

consortium must identify one organization as the lead contact.

B. Veterans Priority

    This program is subject to the priority provisions of the Jobs for 
Veterans Act, 38 U.S.C. 4215 et seq. In cases where providers of 
services must choose between two or more candidates with similar 
backgrounds and skill sets, the Jobs for Veterans Act requires that 
veterans and spouses of certain specified veterans be given priority. 
Please note that, to obtain priority of service, a veteran must meet 
the program's eligibility requirements. The advisory providing policy 
guidance on veterans' priority is at http://www.doleta.gov/programs/VETs/. Veterans priority for SCSEP is described at 20 CFR 641.520.
    Legal rules pertaining to inherently religious activities by 
organizations that receive Federal financial assistance. The government 
is generally prohibited from providing direct Federal financial 
assistance for inherently religious activities. Grants under the 
solicitation may not be used for religious instruction, worship, 
prayer, proselytizing, or other inherently religious activities. 
Neutral, non-religious criteria that neither favor nor disfavor 
religion will be employed in the selection of grant recipients and must 
be employed by grantees in the selection of sub-recipients.

C. Ineligible Applicants

    Proposals will not be accepted from the following applicants:
    (1) Organizations described in section 501(c)(4) of the Internal 
Revenue Code that engage in lobbying are prohibited from receiving 
Federal awards under Section 18 of the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995, 
Public Law 104-65.
    (2) Organizations that fail to provide any of the required 
information described in this SGA, or fail to clearly identify the 
number and location by county of slots requested.
    (3) Organizations that fail to demonstrate that they are capable of 
operating in more than one state, as required by 20 CFR 641.400(a).
    (4) Organizations that apply to serve Alaska, Delaware, and/or 
Hawaii only.
    (5) With the exception of Federal public agencies, other public 
agencies, such as state agencies or local governments, are not eligible 
to apply.

D. Cost Sharing or Matching

    All applicants, including Federal agencies, must demonstrate a 
minimum of 10 percent non-Federal contribution to the program and the 
source of such non-Federal share. Federal agencies that have a 
statutory exemption to the non-Federal share requirement must attach a 
copy of the exemption language. The source of such documentation must 
be easily determined. Please see 20 CFR 641.809 for further 
information.

IV. Application and Submission Information

A. Address To Request Application Package

    All application materials will be made available on the following 
Web sites: http://www.doleta.gov/sga/; http://www.grants.gov; and 
http://www.doleta.gov/seniors/. Please note that this announcement 
includes all information and forms needed to apply for this funding 
opportunity.

B. Content and Form of Application

    Each application must include the original signed application and 
two hard copies. The proposal must consist of two separate and distinct 
parts: Part A--Financial Proposal and Part B--Technical Proposal. Both 
parts must be included in each copy of a complete application. 
Applications that fail to adhere to the instructions in this section 
will be deemed non-responsive and will not be considered for funding.
1. Requirements for the Technical Proposal
    Page Limit. Maximum forty-five (45) page narrative, including all 
optional attachments, single-side only on 8\1/2\ x 
11 paper. Pages must be numbered. Only those attachments 
listed below as ``Required Attachments'' will be excluded from the page 
limit. Optional attachments must be limited to meaningful information 
that contributes to and/or verifies the proposed activities, such as 
letters of commitment.
    Spacing. Double-spaced with the exception of optional and required 
attachments. Major sections and sub-sections of the application should 
be divided and clearly identified.
    Font Size and Typeface. Minimum 12 points in Times New Roman 
typeface.
    Margins. Must be a minimum of one inch on all sides.
    Required Attachments. The following attachments must be affixed as 
separate, clearly identified appendices to the application and will not 
count against the page limit:
    (a) An organizational chart, resumes of key personnel, and complete 
staffing plans. Resumes of all key staff (e.g., Executive Director, 
Project Director, etc.) must include a description of each individual's 
roles and responsibilities, his/her current employment status and 
previous work experience, including position title, duties, dates in 
position, employing organizations, and educational background. Staffing 
plans must identify all key tasks, the person(s) or days required to 
complete each task, and the percentage of time allocated to the program 
by individuals assigned to the task, including sub-contractors and 
consultants;
    (b) A list of all government grants and contracts the applicant and 
its affiliates have had in the past 3 years, including grant officer 
contact name, telephone number and e-mail address, amount of award, 
summary of the work performed, period of performance, and performance 
record and/or accomplishments. For purposes of this SGA, the term 
``affiliate'' refers to the applicant's subsidiaries, divisions, 
predecessors, and successors;
    (c) Chart listing the number of positions for which the applicant 
is applying to serve by county and state. (See Section VIII, Appendix K 
of this SGA);
    (d) Consortium agreement, if applicable; and
    (e) Federal agencies must submit a clearly identifiable copy of the 
statutory provision that permits it to receive other Federal funds and 
a clearly identifiable copy of any applicable exemptions from the non-
Federal share requirements.

    Note: Applicants receiving awards will be expected to show audit 
reports for the past 3 years for the applicant and its affiliates 
before final awards are made.

2. Requirements for the Cost Proposal
    Application for Federal Assistance SF-424. The SF-424 must clearly 
identify the applicant and be signed by an individual with authority to 
enter into a grant agreement on behalf of the applicant. Upon 
confirmation of an award, the individual signing the SF-424 on behalf 
of the applicant shall represent the responsible entity. All 
applications for Federal grant and funding opportunities are required 
to have a Dun and Bradstreet (DUNS) number. Applicants must supply 
their DUNS number in item 8 of SF-424. The DUNS number is easy 
to obtain and there is no charge. To obtain a DUNS number, access 
http://www.dnb.com or call 1-866-705-5711.
    Budget Information for SF-424A. Standard Form 424A must contain a 
detailed cost break out on each of the expenditures under Section B of 
the form, including Federal and non-Federal funds. Copies of all 
required forms along with the instructions for completing the forms are 
provided at the appendices of this SGA.


[[Page 10803]]


    Note: The Application for Federal Assistance (SF424) and the 
Budget Information Form (SF-424A) are available at http://www.grants.gov/GovtWideForms.

    Indirect Cost Rate. An indirect cost rate is required when an 
organization operates under more than one grant or other activity 
whether Federally-assisted or not. Organizations must use the indirect 
cost rate supplied by the cognizant Federal agency. If an organization 
requires a new indirect cost rate or has a pending indirect cost rate, 
the Department's Grant Officer will award a billing rate for 90 days 
until a provisional rate can be issued.
    Cost Categories. Expenditures must fall under one of two cost 
categories: Administrative, which is to be divided between headquarters 
and local, and Program Costs, which includes wages, fringe benefits, 
and other participant costs.
    Sufficient Local Funding. The OAA, at section 502(b)(1)(R) requires 
each grantee to allocate funding for administrative costs incurred at 
subrecipient levels for program administrative activities. In addition, 
grantees may not require a subgrantee to contribute financial resources 
to program operations as a condition of operating the program. Please 
see 20 CFR 641.861 and 641.809(e) for further information.
    Transition and Training Costs. Applicants are required to provide a 
line item for transition costs (i.e., start-up [costs], participant 
transfers, year-end closeout), as well as for sufficient training costs 
for local staff that may be required by the Department throughout the 
program year. Procurement procedures must comply with OMB Circular A-
122.
    Required Attachments. Assurances, Certifications, Signature page 
and Disclosure of Lobbying Activities form are required.

    Note: The cost proposal must be prepared to cover program costs 
for one (1) year of operation only.

C. Submission Dates, Times, and Addresses

    Applications may be submitted in either method described below but 
must be received no later than 4:45 p.m., Eastern Time on the closing 
date. The application will not be considered if an applicant fails to 
adhere to the submission instructions below.
    Electronic Submissions. The Department requests that applicants 
apply online at http://www.grants.gov. The Department strongly 
recommends that applicants initiate and complete the ``Get Started'' 
steps to register with grants.gov at http://www.grants.gov/GetStarted. 
Please note that these steps could take several days to complete, which 
should factor into an applicant's submission timing to avoid the 
rejection of an application due to potential delays. Documents should 
be saved as .doc or .pdf prior to electronic submission through 
grants.gov.
    U.S. Postal Mail and Overnight Submissions. Submit one (1) blue-ink 
signed, typewritten original of the application, and two signed 
photocopies in one package to: U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and 
Training Administration, Attention: James Stockton, Mail Stop N-4716, 
200 Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20210.
    Other Methods of Submission. Applications submitted by e-mail, 
telegram, or facsimile will not be accepted.
    Late Applications. Any application received after the closing date 
will not be considered, unless it is received before awards are made 
and:
    (a) It was sent by U.S. Postal Service registered or certified mail 
not later than the fifth calendar day before the closing date (e.g., an 
application required by the 20th of the month must be postmarked by the 
15th of that month); or
    (b) It was sent by U.S. Postal Service Express Mail/Next Day 
Service from the post office to the addressee no later than 4:45 pm at 
the place of mailing, two (2) working days (excluding weekends and 
Federal holidays and days when the Federal Government is closed), prior 
to the closing date; or
    (c) It is determined by the Government that the late receipt was 
due solely to the mishandling by the Government after receipt at the 
U.S. Department of Labor at the address indicated.
    Acceptable Evidence for Late Applications. The only acceptable 
evidence to establish the date of mailing of a late application sent by 
registered or certified mail is the U.S. Postal Service postmark on the 
envelope or wrapper and on the original receipt from the U.S. Postal 
Service. If the postmark is not legible, an application received after 
the closing date and time shall be considered as if mailed late.
    The only acceptable evidence to establish the date of mailing of a 
late application sent by U.S Postal Service Express Mail/Next Day 
Service from the post office to the addressee is the date entered by 
the Post Office receiving clerk on the ``Express Mail/Next Day 
Service--Post Office to Addressee'' label and the postmark on the 
envelope or wrapper on the original receipt from the U.S. Postal 
Service.
    ``Postmarked'' means a printed, stamped, or otherwise placed 
impression (exclusive of a postage meter machine impression) that is 
readily identifiable, with further action, as having been supplied or 
affixed on the date of mailing by an employee of the U.S. Postal 
Service. Therefore, applicants should request the postal clerk to place 
a legible hand cancellation ``bull's eye'' postmark on both the receipt 
and the envelope or wrapper.
    Mail Advisory in the DC Area. All applicants are advised that U.S. 
mail delivery in the Washington, DC area is erratic. Packages addressed 
to the U.S. Department of Labor are subject to radiation before 
delivery. All applicants must take this into consideration when 
preparing to meet the application closing date, as each applicant 
assumes the risk for ensuring a timely submission of its application. 
The Department recommends that applicants confirm receipt of their 
applications by contacting James Stockton, U.S. Department of Labor, 
Employment and Training Administration, Office of Grants and Contract 
Management, telephone (202) 693-3335 before the closing date. [This is 
not a toll-free number.]
    Applications may be withdrawn by written notice or telegram 
(including mailgram) at any time before the Department makes an award. 
An applicant may withdraw its submissions in person by the applicant or 
through an authorized representative of the applicant if the applicant 
makes the representative's identity known to the Grant Officer and the 
representative signs a receipt when he or she receives the withdrawn 
application.

D. Intergovernmental Review

    This program is subject to Executive Order (E.O.) 12372, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.'' Each applicant must 
contact the office or official designated as the Single Point of 
Contact (SPOC) in each applicable state for information on the process 
the state requires to be followed in applying for assistance. In some 
cases the SPOC may not have selected the SCSEP for review. Names and 
addresses for the SPOCs are listed in the Office of Management and 
Budget (OMB) at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html. 
Additional information on Executive Order 12372 can be found at http://www.fws.gov/policy/library/rgeo12372.pdf.

E. Funding Restrictions

    The minimum funding requirement must be at least 10 percent of the 
state

[[Page 10804]]

allocation or $1,600,000 (approximately 224 slots), whichever is 
greater. Applicants are also required to apply for contiguously located 
counties within a state, unless an applicant can meet the greater of 
$1,600,000 or 10 percent state allocation, within a single county. 
Applicants should follow the minimum request for funding guidance found 
in Section II.B.

F. Other Submission Requirements

    Each applicant must submit a copy of the technical proposal 
(including the chart of service areas but no other attachment 
requirements) and the SF-424 to the Governor in each state that it 
proposes to serve before submitting an application to the Department as 
required by section 503(a)(5) of the OAA Amendments and 20 CFR 641.410. 
Under this provision, the Governor of each state may submit a 
recommendation to the Secretary relating to the anticipated effect of 
an applicant's proposal on the overall distribution of positions within 
the state; recommendations for redistribution of positions to under-
served areas (i.e., Equitable Distribution); and recommendations for 
distribution of any newly available positions. The Department will not 
consider comments that are outside the scope of this provision.
    Please note that Governors are not required to provide comments to 
applicants. Therefore, applicants should not wait for communication 
from the Governor before submitting the application to the Department.
    Applicants submitting as an Indian (``I'') grant are not required 
to submit copies of their applications to the Governors under this 
section, but are encouraged to voluntarily comply with this provision.

V. Application Review Information

A. Evaluation Criteria

    All applicants are required to use the Rating Criteria format when 
developing their proposals. The technical panel will review grant 
applications against the criteria listed below on the basis of 100 
maximum points. In order to receive full credit, applicants must 
provide quality information that does more than reiterate the 
requirement statement or merely state how it will be accomplished. 
Therefore, responses must be thoughtful and reflect a strategic vision 
for how these requirements will be achieved. In addition, an applicant 
that describes only what has been accomplished in the past but lacks a 
full description of what it will do during the grant period will not 
receive credit for that response.
    Points Summary:
    1. Design and Governance--15 points.
    2. Program and Grant Management Systems--10 points.
    3. Financial Management System--10 points.
    4. Program Service Delivery--40 points.
    5. Performance Accountability--25 points.
    Total--100 points.
1. Design and Governance: (15 Points)
    Strategic Planning. The applicant must demonstrate how it will 
develop and implement a strategic approach to meeting business and 
industry needs for a prepared and competitive workforce through a 
demand-driven approach.
    Applicants may wish to consider the following when formulating a 
response:
     Strategies for consulting with business leaders from the 
state and local area in forming and managing demand-driven approaches 
and strategies.
     Strategies for functioning as a partner with the public 
workforce system, business and industry, economic development agencies, 
and education and training providers, including community colleges.
     Strategies for identifying high-growth business and 
industries, the workforce needs, and the skills and competencies needed 
to perform jobs in these key business areas.
    Service Design. The applicant must describe its service delivery 
system design that will accomplish its strategic objectives for helping 
older workers.
    Applicants may wish to consider the following when formulating a 
response:
     Resources within the organization including services, 
skills, expertise and monetary resources, or through partners, 
contributors, or vendors that will enhance the program.
     Services to targeted industry employers and host agencies, 
including any strategies to prevent maintenance of effort violations.
     Process for determining the needs of employers that assist 
employers in training and retaining older workers to meet that need.
     Strategies for leveraging the workforce system's resources 
over the grant period to create human resource solutions for employers.
    Program Integration. Applicants must describe how integration will 
be supported, codified in policy, measures, and demonstrated at the 
leadership level of the organization.
    Applicants may wish to consider the following when formulating a 
response:
     Strategies for engaging senior level leadership (including 
board members, if applicable) in support of program integration into 
the larger workforce investment system.
     Strategies for coordinating with the public workforce 
system, SCSEP State Coordinators, area agencies on aging, 502(e) 
grantees, as applicable and other SCSEP grantees that also serve in the 
state.
     Strategies for ensuring negotiated MOUs that improve the 
delivery of services to low-income older workers in every local area of 
operation and that resolve impasse situations prior to seeking Federal 
assistance.
2. Program and Grant Management Systems: (10 Points)
    Administrative Controls. The applicant must demonstrate that its 
administrative controls are sufficient to ensure grant integrity.
    Applicants may wish to consider the following when formulating a 
response:
     The policies and procedures that are in place or will be 
in place to manage core functions and program operations.
     The monitoring tools and procedures that will be used to 
track grant operations against performance objectives and compliance 
with uniform administrative requirements. Consideration may also be 
given to how often monitoring will occur, and under what circumstances.
    Personnel. The applicant must describe how the management structure 
and staffing of the organization are aligned with the grant 
requirements, vision, and goals, and how the structure and staffing are 
designed to assure responsible general management of the organization.
    Non-Federal Share. The applicant must describe its policies and 
procedures to meet non-Federal share requirements, including the use of 
leveraged resources.
    Procurement. The applicant must demonstrate that its procurement 
actions are conducted according to Federal requirements.
    The following must be included in the response:
     Applicants must describe written procurement policies and 
procedures and the extent to which they provide for ``full and open 
competition.''
     Applicants must describe the procedures for the 
competition and selection of subrecipients, if applicable.
    Reporting Systems. The applicant must describe how Enterprise 
Business Support System (EBSS, formerly EIMS) will be used to fulfill 
financial and programmatic requirements and how data collection and the 
SCSEP Performance and Results QPR (SPARQ)

[[Page 10805]]

system will be implemented and populated to meet reporting requirements 
and track program performance. For information on SPARQ, go to http://charteroakgroup.org/resources/scsep.shtml.
    Applicants may wish to consider the following when formulating a 
response:
     How financial data will be used to drive program 
performance, including tracking the minimum 75 percent wages and fringe 
benefits expenditure requirement, the remaining 13.5 percent 
administrative expenditure requirement, the use of the remaining funds 
for other participant costs, and the enrollment of participants.
3. Financial Management System: (10 Points)
    Budget Controls. The applicant must describe its method for 
tracking planned expenditures that will allow it to compare actual 
expenditures or outlays to planned or estimated expenditures. The 
following information must be included in the response:
     Applicants must describe the process that will be in place 
to compare planned and actual expenditures on a regular basis, 
including whether the applicant has a formalized process for comparing 
and analyzing planned and actual costs.
     Applicants must also describe the strategies to ensure 
that obligations do not exceed available funds.
    Internal Controls. The applicant must describe how it will ensure 
effective control, integrity and accountability for all grant and 
subrecipient grant assets.
4. Program Service Delivery: (40 Points)
    Participant Recruitment. The applicant must describe how it will 
broaden local awareness of the program in order to recruit eligible 
individuals to the program.
    The following must be included in the response:
     Applicants must describe the outreach efforts that will be 
made in local communities to raise awareness of the program. Please 
include a description of the various methods of outreach that will be 
utilized.
     Applicants must describe how outreach efforts will be 
designed to encourage low-income older individuals age 55 or over to 
enroll in the program. Please include a description of how the outreach 
efforts will be specifically designed to attract priority individuals 
age 60 and over, and those individuals who should be given special 
consideration--e.g., those with multiple barriers to employment, and 
individuals with poor or no employment history or prospects consistent 
with the regulations at 20 CFR 641.520 and 641.525.
     Applicants must describe how recruitment goals for the 
target population will be consistently met. Applicants must also 
include a description of how they will ensure that all vacant positions 
remain filled as program participants exit for unsubsidized employment.
    Participant Eligibility. The applicant must describe how it will 
ensure that individuals applying to be program participants and 
continuing program participants meet the eligibility criteria to enroll 
or remain in the program.
    The following must be included in the response:
     Applicants must describe their procedures to ensure the 
accuracy of the individual's income and age eligibility. Applicants 
must include a description of how often eligibility will be certified.
     Applicants must describe their procedures to ensure that 
the individual is unemployed at the time of enrollment and while 
enrolled in the program.
     Applicants must describe how ineligible individuals will 
be notified of their ineligibility and any other action that the 
applicant may implement. This response must describe both pre-
enrollment and post-enrollment situations.
     Applicants must describe their plans for ensuring that the 
veterans' priority and SCSEP priorities are properly implemented when 
there is a wait list for services.
    Assessments and IEPs. The applicant must describe how it will 
continuously assess program participants using the IEP and other 
assessment tools to ensure participants are trained for viable 
employment opportunities.
    The following must be included in the response:
     Applicants must describe how often assessments and IEPs 
will be completed.
     Applicants must describe how the training and services 
reflected on the IEP will enhance and improve the participant's skills 
and lead to higher level skills that will enhance employability.
     Applicants must describe any procedures that will be in 
place to ensure that the participant acknowledges and agrees with the 
training plan.
     Applicants must describe how assessments will capture the 
assistance that participants may need, including those services that 
will be acquired through other programs, such as disability programs, 
veteran programs, aging programs, transportation programs or services, 
etc.
     Applicants must describe policies that will be implemented 
to assure that local projects consistently document activities and 
execute the plans established by the assessments and IEPs.
     Applicants must identify whether felony background checks 
will be required for all participants and if so, how this requirement 
will be applied consistently to all participants, and where the 
information will be maintained.
    Orientation. The applicant must describe how it will introduce 
program participants and host agencies to program requirements, roles 
and responsibilities, and permissible and impermissible activities. 
Please include general timeframes for when orientation will occur and 
how often.
    Community Service Work-Based Training. The applicant must describe 
how participants will be trained through community service 
organizations, how it will ensure that the work-based training is of 
high quality, and how this training will lead to unsubsidized 
employment.
    The following must be included in the response:
     Applicants must describe how host agency organizations 
will be recruited and selected, including the factors that will be used 
to determine whether the host agency will provide quality job training.
     Applicants must describe how assignments to community 
service work-based training will be made to ensure that the training is 
consistent with the participant's IEP, including a description of the 
contractual relationship that will exist between the applicant and the 
host agency.
     Applicants must describe plans for ensuring that 
participants are only placed in work-based training assignments that 
are in addition to employment opportunities that would be available 
without assistance under the OAA. Please include a description of the 
action steps that will take place if a maintenance of effort violation 
is discovered.
     Applicants must describe plans for ensuring appropriate 
community service work-based training assignments for ex-offenders.
     Applicants must describe how local projects will ensure 
that participants receive adequate supervision during training hours.
     Applicant must describe procedures for rotating 
participants to other host agency assignments, if the applicant intends 
to implement a participant rotational requirement.
     Applicants must describe plans and procedures for 
documenting and

[[Page 10806]]

ensuring that host agencies are either public agencies or have 
501(c)(3) designation, and how such records will be maintained.
     Applicants must describe procedures for terminating host 
agency relationships and the circumstances that would create cause for 
termination--e.g., maintenance of effort violations, inaccurate 
timekeeping, poor training opportunities, failing to fulfill 
contractual responsibilities, etc.
    Other Training. The applicant must describe any training that will 
be offered, required, and/or provided to program participants and host 
agencies.
    The following should be included in the response:
     Applicants should describe plans for ensuring regular 
training of staff on program operations, new initiatives, and 
innovative ideas.
     Applicants should describe the types of permissible 
training that will be offered to participants. Please include a 
description on how training will be paid from other sources to leverage 
program training opportunities, and how often the training will be 
offered.
     Applicants should describe how computer training will be 
provided to participants, and how community colleges will be utilized 
for computer and other training opportunities.
     Applicants should describe how the training identified 
will lead to employment opportunities that would not have otherwise 
been available to the participant.
    Fringe Benefits. The applicant must describe any permissible and/or 
required fringe benefits that will be offered to participants and how 
it will terminate (``zero-out'') any permissible fringe benefits at the 
end of each program year. If no permissible fringe benefits will be 
offered, the applicant must provide a statement to that effect.
    Supportive Services. The applicant must describe any supportive 
services that will be offered to participants and the additional 
resources the applicant will use to support those services. The 
applicant must also address those supportive services that will be 
offered to participants once they are placed in an unsubsidized job in 
order to help retain them in those positions.
    Unsubsidized Employment. The applicant must describe how it plans 
to place participants in high growth jobs according to local labor 
market data. In addition, the applicant must describe how the targeted 
jobs will enable participants to become self-sufficient in positions 
for which they would not have otherwise had the necessary skill 
training provided by the program. Applicants should include in this 
description the types of jobs it will seek for participants. A chart 
may be attached if necessary.
    Termination. The applicant must describe the circumstances under 
which a participant may be terminated from the program, including its 
maximum duration policy (if any), for cause, or other reasons. Please 
include description of the criteria that will be used for ``for cause'' 
terminations.
    Transition to Minimize Disruptions. The applicant must describe how 
participants will be transitioned to and from a service provider if the 
grant is terminated for any reason, including loss of funds through a 
competitive process, in a manner that is least disruptive to program 
participants.
    The following must be included in the response:
     Applicants must address how participant files will be 
transferred to a new provider.
     Applicants must address how new offices will be 
established within short timeframes, if necessary, to ensure seamless 
services. A short timeframe is defined as 2 weeks to 1 month.
     Applicants must address how participants will continue to 
be paid during the transition from the incumbent provider to the new 
provider.
     Applicants must address how complete cooperation of local 
staff will be ensured to complete a smooth transition.
     Applicants must describe how the transition of 
participants to and from service providers will occur to ensure a 
smooth transition. Please include a description of how and when 
participants will receive notification and/or other communication 
informing them of the transition.
    Confidentiality of Files. The applicant must describe how 
participant files will be kept confidential from personnel not 
affiliated with the project. If the applicant plans on enlisting 
volunteer assistance, the applicant must describe how it will ensure 
volunteer compliance with the confidentiality requirements.
    Complaint Resolution Process. The applicant must describe the 
complaint resolution process that will be in place for program 
applicants, participants and/or host agency complaints or grievances 
without Federal intervention. For complaints involving illegal acts or 
discrimination, the applicant must describe the complaint resolution 
process that will be in place for participants and/or host agencies 
prior to Federal appeal.
5. Performance Accountability: (25 Points)
    Performance Management. The applicant must describe how it will 
monitor funding and program activities to achieve the performance 
measures.
    Applicants may wish to consider the following when formulating a 
response:
     Implementation of plans that guide the daily work of staff 
and that identify project goals, activity levels, spending targets and 
timeframes to achieve grant goals.
     Ensuring that spending will occur at a rate consistent 
with the amounts budgeted through the most recent quarter being 
reviewed.
     Strategies for ensuring that performance measures are met 
or exceeded.
     Procedures that will be in place to communicate high or 
low performance to staff and local projects or subrecipients.
     Actions that will be taken to improve low performance.
     Strategies for ensuring that subrecipient performance 
goals are met and actions that will be taken to address poor 
performance.

B. Review and Selection Process

    Selection Process. The Grant Officer will organize several panels 
that include three individuals per panel to review the applications. 
The panels will use the point scoring system and the Rating Criteria 
format specified in Section A above to evaluate each application. The 
Grant Officer will rank applications based on the score assigned by the 
panels through the evaluation process. The ranking will be the primary 
basis used to identify applicants as potential grantees; however, the 
panel's conclusions are advisory in nature and are not binding on the 
Grant Officer.
    Other Evaluation Factors. The Department may establish a range, 
based upon the application evaluation, for the purpose of selecting 
qualified applicants and to ensure that the best applicants are awarded 
grants.
    The Grant Officer may take into account an applicant's 
demonstration of past program, financial and administrative capability 
in administering Federal grants or contracts during the past three (3) 
years. The Grant Officer may also take into account the applicant's key 
personnel and staffing plans. The lack of prior SCSEP experience will 
not disadvantage applicants.
    The Department further reserves the right to select applicants out 
of rank order if such a selection would result in the most effective 
and appropriate

[[Page 10807]]

combination of funding; administrative costs (e.g., cost per enrollment 
and placement); program goals (e.g., serving the needs of minorities, 
limited English speakers, Indian eligible individuals, and those of 
greatest economic need); service coverage; and statutory requirements.

VI. Award Administration Information

A. Award Notices

    The Department anticipates completing its review and ranking 
proposals by mid-May 2006. The Grant Officer expects to announce the 
results of this competition in mid- to late-May 2006. Applicants may 
appeal a Grant Officer decision according to the provisions outlined at 
20 CFR 641.900.

B. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

    All grants will be subject to the following administrative 
standards and provisions, as applicable to the particular grantee and/
or sub-awardee:
     29 CFR part 2, subpart D--Equal Treatment in Department of 
Labor Programs for Religious Organizations; Protection of Religious 
Liberty of Department of Labor Social Service Providers and 
Beneficiaries.
     29 CFR part 30--Equal Employment Opportunity in 
Apprenticeship and Training.
     29 CFR part 31--Nondiscrimination in Federally Assisted 
Programs of the Department of Labor--Effectuation of Title VI of the 
Civil Rights Act of 1964.
     29 CFR part 32--Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Handicap 
in Programs or Activities Receiving Federal Financial Assistance.
     29 CFR part 33--Enforcement of Nondiscrimination on the 
Basis of Handicap in Programs of Activities Conducted by the Department 
of Labor.
     29 CFR part 35--Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Age in 
Programs and Activities Receiving Federal Financial Assistance from the 
Department of Labor.
     29 CFR part 36--Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex in 
Education Programs or Activities Receiving Federal Assistance.
     29 CFR part 37--Implementation of the Nondiscrimination 
and Equal Opportunity Provisions of the Workforce Investment Act of 
1998 (WIA)
     29 CFR part 93--New Restrictions on Lobbying.
     29 CFR part 94--Government-wide Requirements for Drug-Free 
Workplace (Financial Assistance).
     29 CFR part 95--Grants and Agreements with Institutions of 
Higher Education, Hospitals, and other Non-Profit Organizations, and 
with Commercial Organizations.
     29 CFR part 96--Audit Requirements for Grants, Contracts, 
and Other Agreements.
     29 CFR part 99--Audit of States, Local Governments, and 
Non-Profit Organizations.
     Applicable cost principles and audit requirements under 
OMB Circulars A-21, A-87, A-110, A-122, A-133, and 48 CFR part 31.

C. Reporting

    Data Collection System. All selected grantees must collect and 
report all SCSEP data requirements according to specified time 
schedules. Each grantee will be required to use the new OMB approved 
SCSEP Data Collection System (SPARQ) unless the grantee has a method 
for uploading information into SPARQ that, for all intents and 
purposes, provides the seamless population of data in SPARQ as if it 
were entered directly into the system. SPARQ tracks participant records 
beginning at the time of enrollment. SPARQ has other case management 
capabilities, although the primary use of SPARQ is to track participant 
training and employment, generate Quarterly Progress Reports (QPR), 
alert grantees when follow-ups are required, and lead grantees to 
program improvement. Applicants must ensure that all local providers 
will have high-speed Internet access and the ability to use SPARQ. For 
a preview of the SPARQ system, applicants may visit http://dol.saic-solutions.com/sparq2prototype/index.html.
    For financial data, grantees are required to use the EBSS. Grantees 
must submit quarterly financial reports using the SF-269.
    Negotiated Performance Measures. In PY 2006, each grantee will be 
subject to negotiated performance measures. All national grantees must 
meet the state goals in each state in which they operate. Please see 
Appendix I for the list of state goals established for PY 2005.
    Incumbent grantees that are successful in this competition will 
have performance measures that reflect prior performance and previously 
established goals. Adjustments may be negotiated based on factors such 
as populations with barriers to employment and poverty and unemployment 
in the new areas served. Incumbents' PY 2006 performance measures will 
continue into the second year of the three-year sanction and incentive 
cycle.
    For new grantees, PY 2006 will be a baseline year for establishing 
goals at the national grantee level. They will be assigned national 
grantee goals that are the proportional aggregation of the state goals 
where they operate. New grantees will be subject to the incentives and 
sanctions cycle beginning in PY 2007, if the initial one-year grant 
period is extended.
    The performance measures that apply to the program are listed 
below. Please note that the program also collects information on the 
common performance measures that apply to all ETA programs.
    The performance measures that apply to the program are as follows:
    Placement into Unsubsidized Employment: Grantees must place a 
minimum of 20 percent of the individuals in authorized slots into 
employment. The national goal is 30 percent.
    Retention in Unsubsidized Employment: The national goal for 
retention is currently 55 percent. Retention is measured by determining 
the number of placed participants that remain employed 6 months after 
the first quarter they exit the program.
    Participation Service Rate: The national service rate goal for 
Program Year 2005 is 160 percent. This represents the number of 
participants served beyond the number of authorized slots. For example, 
using the current program goal, a grantee that has 100 slots will be 
required to serve at least 160 people during the program year.
    Service to the Most in Need: Grantees are required to give special 
consideration to enrolling individuals who qualify as having the 
greatest need. The current national goal is 67 percent.
    Community Services: This measure represents the number of hours a 
participant spends in community service work-based training 
assignments. This measure does not currently have a goal and is not 
subject to sanctions.
    Customer Satisfaction: The satisfaction of participants, employers 
and host agencies is a required performance measure and is measured 
using the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) questions in 
addition to other questions that are designed to provide useful 
feedback on program operations. Only the 3 ACSI scores are used in the 
performance measures to ease the burden on grantees. The Department 
currently utilizes a mail house with grantee letterhead and electronic 
signature to organize survey samples from participant and host 
agencies. Grantees must meet a minimum sample size and response rate to 
have a valid sample.

[[Page 10808]]

    Earnings: The Department plans to establish an average earnings 
measure.

VII. Agency Contacts

    James Stockton, Grant Officer of the Division of Federal 
Assistance, at (202) 693-3335.
[This is not a toll-free number.]

VIII. Other Information

A. Notice to Incumbent National Grantees and State Grantees

    With the publication of this SGA, incumbent national grantees and 
state grantees are notified that no slot movements due to Equitable 
Distribution or for other reasons will be approved until the completion 
of the competition.

B. Bidders' Conference

    The Department is planning on holding a webinar in lieu of the 
traditional bidders' conference format in order to reach more 
interested organizations and to reduce costs. Bidders will be able to 
access information on the date and time of the bidders' conference at 
http://www.doleta.gov/Seniors.

C. Questions about the Program or SGA.

    Individuals may submit questions about the program or information 
in this SGA to the Department by faxing the question(s) to: James 
Stockton, Grant Officer. Facsimile Number: 202-693-2879.
    Please note the SGA number on all submitted questions (SGA/DFA PY 
05-06). Please also include your name, facsimile number and contact 
number on your submission.
    Responses will be posted on the Employment and Training 
Administration Web site at http://www.doleta.gov/seniors. Questions 
will be received for one month after publication only. The Department 
will not respond to duplicate questions or questions that are not 
within the scope of this SGA. Please do not direct questions to the 
Division of Older Worker Programs.

D. Post-Selection Negotiations and Requirements

    A successful applicant may be required to negotiate with the 
Department on the geographic areas it will serve to ensure that 
grantees serve contiguous counties within a state and that all 
geographic areas continue to be served. Therefore, a successful 
applicant may not be awarded all areas that it proposes to serve, and 
may be required to serve one or more counties not identified in its 
application. The Department will assure that all areas currently served 
continue to be served through the selection and negotiation processes. 
The Grant Officer expects to negotiate the final assignments of slots 
by the end of May.
    In addition, all successful applicants will be required to produce 
verification of workers' compensation coverage for the participants, 
and will negotiate performance goals with the Department that will be 
included in the grant agreement. Successful applicants may want to 
consider grouping resources under an umbrella insurance plan to 
minimize the costs to any one organization of workers compensation 
costs.
    In order to receive a grant, successful applicants must make any 
mandatory changes to the application requested by the Grant Officer 
before the Department makes an official grant award.

E. Transition of Participants

    The Department expects the transition period from incumbent 
grantees to new providers to take place from June 1-June 30, 2006. 
Currently, participants occupy nearly all SCSEP positions. If 
transitions are made from one grantee to another as a result of this 
competition, the enrolled participants must be given the opportunity to 
continue in the program. Therefore, by applying for funds under this 
SGA, selected applicants agree to offer incumbent SCSEP participants 
the first opportunity to continue in the SCSEP authorized position in 
the grantee's program (i.e., ``right of first refusal''). As such, 
selected grantees must offer incumbent SCSEP participants the 
opportunity to continue in the SCSEP in the same geographic area, and 
in the same host agency for up to 90 days. At the end of the 90-day 
period, selected grantees may choose to move participants into new host 
agencies, or they may continue to utilize the current host agencies. 
Participants may not remain with an incumbent grantee that is no longer 
serving in that area.
    The Department is committed to minimizing disruptions to the extent 
possible, and the requirements that applicants and grantees must meet 
reflect this commitment. The Department will work with grantees to 
promote a seamless transition if there is a new grantee in an area. The 
Department will support the transition by providing technical 
assistance, participant and host agency data, and pre-award cost 
approval, in accordance with 29 CFR part 95 and the applicable cost 
principles in OMB Circular A-122, prior to the start of the grant 
period.
    Successful applicants and incumbent grantees will be required to 
ensure minimum disruptions to participants, including continuous 
payments during the transition. Therefore, the Department expects new 
grantees to assume payroll responsibilities on July 1, 2006. Successful 
applicants must plan to make the first payment to participants in the 
first or second week of July 2006.

F. Transition Roles and Responsibilities

The Department
    In addition to the responsibilities described throughout this SGA, 
the Department will be responsible for:
     Convening a national SCSEP Program Year 2006 Orientation 
and Training conference to inform all national grantees about program 
administration and management. (The estimated date of this conference 
is mid-June.);
     Institution of regularly scheduled conference calls that 
include national and regional Department staff and national grantees; 
and
     Provision of an appropriate script for Customer Service 
Representatives at the Toll-Free Help Line national call center to 
respond to questions from participants and other interested parties 
about the transition.
State Grantees
    State grantees have coordination responsibilities to ensure that 
services are adequately provided across the state. This opportunity is 
the Department's attempt to include state coordinators in this process, 
which also facilitates the working relationship the state coordinators 
will have with any providers in the state. In addition, this process 
will assist the state coordinators with their Equitable Distribution 
report requirements as well as local board MOU negotiation 
responsibilities.
    Therefore, the Department will expect state coordinators to assist 
with the transition of national grantees to ensure a smooth transition 
for participants. Specifically, state coordinators should:
     Hold a meeting (by conference call if necessary) with the 
incumbent and new national grantee(s) to discuss the transition process 
and timelines;
     Ensure that positive communications are presented to 
participants regarding the transition;
     Alert the responsible national grantee organization when a 
complaint is made to the state office regarding the transition;
     Reassure participants who are concerned about the 
transition process;
     Assist with turnover of records to the new national 
grantee, if necessary; and

[[Page 10809]]

     Report issues that cannot be resolved to the Department.
National Grantees
    The national grantees will be responsible for:
     Maintaining open lines of communication with the states 
and attending any state or Federally scheduled conference calls;
     Ensuring that all participants have the right of first 
refusal regarding new work-based community service assignments for up 
to 90 days;
     Ensuring that check payments to participants are made in a 
timely manner;
     Determining how and when participants will be notified of 
changes;
     Establishing procedures to transfer records, as 
applicable;
     Maintaining privacy of individual records; and
     Establishing a mechanism for the PY 2006 national grantees 
to communicate among themselves.

G. Appendices

Appendix A: Application for Federal Assistance, Standard Form 424
Appendix B: Budget Information Sheet, Standard Form 424A
Appendix C: Standard Form 424A Clarifying Instructions
Appendix D: Assurances and Certifications Signature Page
Appendix E: Standard Form LLL, Disclosure of Lobbying Activities
Appendix F: Current County and State Authorized Positions
Appendix G: States that Require 10 Percent Minimum Bid
Appendix H: PY 2005 Levels of Funding for Current National Grantees
Appendix I: List of State Performance Measures in PY 2005
Appendix J: List of Resources
Appendix K: Positions Bid Form

    Signed at Washington, DC, this 22nd day of February, 2006.
Emily DeRocco,
Assistant Secretary, Employment and Training Administration.
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Appendix C: Standard Form 424A Clarifying Instructions

Budget Information Instructions

    Part 2 of the proposal should be titled ``PART II--PROPOSED 
PROJECT BUDGET.'' The applicant must prepare the proposed budget 
using Standard Form (SF) 424A (available in Adobe Acrobat format at 
http://www.doleta.gov/seniors/other_docs/SF424a.pdf.) or a 
comparable format.
    Sections A, B, C, and D of the Budget Information Form should 
include budget estimate for the entire grant Period. Sections A and 
B require information on the four basic grant functional areas: (1) 
Administration; (2) Local Administration; (3) Participant Wages and 
Fringe Benefits; and (4) Other Participant Costs. Costs attributable 
to these function areas are described in the regulations. (See also 
20 CFR 641.847-641.873). Applicants must ensure that the 
proportional distribution of the Federal funds among these 
functional areas meets the program requirements.
    The following instructions are intended to clarify the process 
of completing the SF-424 grant application and the SF-424A budget 
form. The current regulations should be reviewed as well as OW 
Bulletin No. 00-20, Allocation of Indirect Costs, and OAA Amendments 
sections 502(b)(3)-(b)(4). Local Administration includes estimated 
sums associated with the administration of state and Local SCSEP 
project activities including subgrantees, subcontractors, or other 
affiliates (OAA Amendments section 502(b)(1)(R)). Sufficient funding 
for administrative costs must go to the local levels of program 
operation.

Clarifying Instructions for Standard Form 424

    If additional space is needed to complete an item, insert an 
asterisk and use an extra sheet of paper. For the most part, this 
form is self-explanatory. Complete all applicable items.
    Item 12. List the counties with the number of authorized 
positions to be placed in each one. If the space on the form is not 
sufficient, please continue on a separate page. This list must be 
consistent with the appropriate current individual State Equitable 
Distribution plans.
    Item 15. The Federal funding for Program Year 2005 for all State 
applicants is listed in Attachment V or may be obtained by calling 
your primary contact.

Clarifying Instructions for Standard Form 424-A

Section A--Budget Summary

    Lines 1-4, Columns (a) and (b). Under Column (a), enter the 
following:

Line 1--``Administration''
Line 2--``Local Administration''
Line 3--``Participant Wages and Fringe Benefits (PW/FB)''
Line 4--``Other Participant Costs (OPC)''

    Under Column (b) on Line 1, enter ``17.235''.
    Lines 1-4, Column (c) through (g). Leave Columns (c) and (d) 
blank. For each line entry under Column (a), enter in Columns (e) 
(Federal), (f), (Non-Federal) and (g) the appropriate amounts of 
funds needed to support the project for the grant period.
    Line 5. Show totals for all columns of the non-Federal funds. 
The non-Federal share must be no less than 10 percent of the total 
cost of the project. The legislative requirement is found in section 
502(c)(1) of the OAA Amendments. Rules regarding States and non-
Federal funds are found in the administrative regulations, 29 CFR 
Part 97. Please indicate as a remark (on Line 23) the specific 
source(s) and amounts (if known) of any non-Federal funds and 
include this information in the detailed cost breakout.

Section B--Budget Categories

    In the column headings at Line 6 titled ``Object Class 
Categories'' (1) through (4), enter the titles of the grant 
functional areas (Administration, Local Administration, PW/FB, and 
OEC) shown on Lines 1-4, Column (a), Section A. For each functional 
area fill in the total funds needed (Federal plus non-Federal) by 
object class categories. The object class categories are those 
listed in lines 6(a) through 6(k) including totals.
    Lines 6a through 6h. Show the estimated amount (include the 
combined Federal and non-Federal share) for each direct object class 
category under each column used. All costs to be incurred under 
contracts or subgrants should be reflected in line 6f (Contractual). 
The costs to be incurred under individual contracts or sub-grants 
must be properly attributed among the three basic functional areas 
(i.e., Administration, Local Administration, PW/FB, and OPC). Under 
the PW/FB column (Participant Wages and Fringe Benefits), entries 
may be made in three object class categories: ``Personnel'' 
(Participant Wages), ``Fringe Benefits'' (Participant Fringe 
Benefits), or ``Contractual'' (when funds for participant wages and 
fringe benefits are to be included in contracts or subgrants).
    Line 6i. Show the total of entries made for lines 6a through 6h 
in each column.
    Line 6j. Show the amount of indirect costs. A copy of the 
current indirect cost rate agreement must be sent with the 
application. If it is not available please provide an explanation 
and an estimate as to when it will be available.
    Line 6k. Enter the totals of the amounts indicated on lines 6i 
and 6j. For all applications, the total amount in Column (5), Line 
6k, should be the same as the total amount shown in Section A, 
Column (g), Line 5.
    Line 7. Enter the estimated amount of income, if any, expected 
to be generated from this project. Do not add or subtract this 
amount from the total project amount. Under the project narrative 
statement describe the nature and source of such income. Note: 
Income generated by SCSEP projects must be used for SCSEP 
activities.

Section C--Source of Non-Federal Resources

    Line 8. Enter amounts of non-Federal resources that will be used 
in the grant.
    Column (a). On Line (8) Column (a) only, enter ``SCSEP'' (Senior 
Community Service Employment Program). A breakdown by functional 
areas is not necessary. Use Line (8) for entries under all columns.
    Column (b). Enter the amount of applicant cash and/or in-kind 
contributions to be made.
    Column (c). Enter the State(s) contribution. This requirement 
does not apply to State grantees.
    Column (d). Enter the amount of cash and/or in-kind 
contributions to be made from all other sources.
    Column (e). Enter totals of Columns (b), (c), and (d). The 
amount under Column (e) should be equal to the amount on Line 5, 
Column (f), Section A.
    Line 12. Under each column enter the same figure entered in Line 
(8).

Section D--Forecasted Cash Needs

    Make no entries.

Section E--Budget Estimates of Federal Funds Needed for Balance of 
Project

    Make no entries.

Section F--Other Budget Information

    Line 21--Direct Charges. In the space provided type ``A Detailed 
Cost Breakout is Attached.''
    A Detailed Cost Breakout is required with the Grant Application 
Package. All applicants should prepare this and have available for 
inspection the basis for their estimated costs by line item 
(including the detail for the ``Other'' line item). The cost 
breakout should reflect the SF-424A so that totals match for both 
the form and the detailed breakout. Information should be presented 
by line item and category. Applicants are encouraged to describe any 
extraordinary item such as planned conferences, travel, and unusual 
expenses.
    It is important that the cost breakout demonstrate how costs are 
distributed vertically as well as horizontally, showing costs that 
occur at the local levels. The detailed cost breakout should also 
indicate the specific kind of non-Federal resources; for instance, 
the provision of office space or the salaries of project staff.
    The applicant may consult with the Federal Project Officer 
regarding the needed level of detail. In categorizing costs and 
their applicability, all sponsors must follow OAA 2000 Section 
502(c) and the Regulations at 20 CFR Part 641 Subpart D, sections 
641.847-641.876. Please also see the discussion of administrative 
costs in the One-Stop Comprehensive Financial Management Guide at 
http://wdsc.doleta.gov/sga/pdf/FinalTAG_August_02.pdf, pages II-5-
3 to II-5-6.
    Other considerations: Successful applicants may be expected to 
attend Department-sponsored training and should prepare their 
budgets accordingly. It will also be useful to budget amounts for 
training, software and new computers (including Internet access) 
related to new reporting requirements. NOTE: Applicants must have 
current computer technology and ensure that their organizations have 
the capability to link to the Internet. Reporting will be done via 
the Internet.
    When applicants divide costs between the ``Administration'' and 
``Other Participant Costs'' Categories for the same cost item (such 
as a local project director), they should describe the basis for 
that division and

[[Page 10815]]

include mention of any surveys used to determine the allocations. 
The Department of Labor reserves the right to require additional 
information on any budget line item or cost category.
    Line 22--Indirect Charges. Enter the type of indirect rate 
(provisional, predetermined, final, or fixed) that will be in effect 
during the grant period, and the nature and the amount of the base 
to which the rate is applied, and the total indirect charges. 
Include a copy of your agency's approved indirect cost rate 
agreement. It should cover the entire grant period. If not, state 
that a new one will be provided when available.
    Applicants that have not previously used an indirect cost rate 
but wish to do so must contact the Grant Officer, who will advise 
the grant applicant of the documents and materials that must 
accompany the grant application in support of the request. Where 
indirect charges are approved, the terms and conditions relating to 
the payment of indirect costs, which are subject to negotiation by 
the Department, will be specified in the grant document.
    Line 23--Remarks. Provide any other explanations or comments 
deemed necessary, such as specific sources of non-Federal funds. It 
is also suggested that the words ``See Attached Detailed Cost 
Breakout'' be entered in this section.

Appendix D: Assurances and Certifications Signature Page

THE GRANT CONDITIONS AND CLAUSES WILL BE PROVIDED TO GRANTEES BY THE 
DIVISION OF FEDERAL ASSISTANCE (GRANT OFFICER) ALONG WITH A GRANT 
SIGNATURE SHEET AND PACKAGE FOR THE GRANTEE'S SIGNATORY OFFICIAL. 
SHOULD THERE BE ANY INCONSISTENCY BETWEEN THE CONDITIONS AND THE 
GRANTEE'S PROPOSAL, THE CONDITIONS SHALL GOVERN. FURTHER, IF THERE 
SHOULD BE SUCH INCONSISTENCY BETWEEN THE CONDITIONS AND THE SPECIAL 
CLAUSES, THE SPECIAL CLAUSES SHALL GOVERN.
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Appendix F: County and State Authorized Positions

    Note: The following text is the instructions for reviewing 
Appendix F, which is located at http://www.doleta.gov/Seniors/SGA/SGA.cfm.

    In making decisions about areas to be served, applicants should 
be mindful of the number of ``authorized positions'' in each county 
as compared to the number of ``actual positions.''
    Funding will be based on the number of ``authorized positions,'' 
which is the first column of the state charts in this Appendix. The 
actual number of participants in each county is shown in the second 
column. In many counties the two numbers are different.
    In counties in which the actual positions are greater than the 
authorized positions, grantees will have to manage their state-wide 
allocation to accommodate actual on-board participants in the over-
served areas even though their funding allocation is based on the 
authorized position level, which may be less. Generally, in most 
counties that are over-served, the difference is small and can be 
adjusted by normal attrition or targeted efforts to place more 
participants into unsubsidized employment. It is expected that these 
imbalances will be resolved by the end of the grant period.
    In a few states, there is one or more significantly over-served 
counties. In these states, applicants that wish to serve these 
counties may consider proposing to also serve enough contiguous 
under-served counties to compensate for the over-service in the 
other counties. In addition to temporarily utilizing allocations 
from the under served areas, attrition, and concentrated efforts to 
make additional unsubsidized placements, the grantee can use other 
local, non-Federal resources. In a few extreme cases in which the 
number of actual participants is far out of proportion to the number 
of available contiguous counties, the Department, in consultation 
with the state grantee, will intervene to alleviate the situation.

Other Resources

    For additional information regarding which grantees are 
currently in a county and where the state SCSEP grantee's service 
areas are located, applicants may consult the Equitable Distribution 
Report which is found at the SCSEP Web site http://www.doleta.gov/
seniors and the maps found at the SGA item under ``What's New.''


         Appendix G.--States That Require 10 Percent Minimum Bid
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                 Funding amount   Slots
------------------------------------------------------------------------
California.....................................     $29,193,091    4,079
Florida........................................      20,122,897    2,813
New York.......................................      22,540,759    3,151
Pennsylvania...................................      18,297,675    2,558
Texas..........................................      18,928,589    2,646
------------------------------------------------------------------------


  Appendix H.--PY 2005 Levels of Funding for Current National Grantees
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
AARP Foundation.........................................      73,454,709
Asociacion Nacional Pro Personas Mayores................       7,689,923
Easter Seals, Inc.......................................      16,077,169
Experience Works........................................      85,790,315
Mature Services, Inc....................................       5,514,963
National Able Network, Inc..............................       5,435,364
National Asian Pacific Center on Aging..................       5,978,047
National Caucus & Center on Black Aged..................      15,228,375
National Council on the Aging...........................      21,838,654
National Indian Council on Aging........................       6,027,252
Senior Service America, Inc.............................      50,970,214
SER--Jobs for Progress, Inc.............................      26,168,160
USDA Forest Service.....................................      20,369,239
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Appendix I: State Performance Measures in PY 2005

    Note: These values may be slightly higher (1-2 percent) in PY 
2006 in order to promote continuous improvement in program 
performance and to reflect actual performance.


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                          Service      Most in
                                                               Placement    Retention      level         need
                                                               (percent)    (percent)    (percent)    (percent)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alabama.....................................................           23           55          162           70
Alaska......................................................           40           54          162           64
Arizona.....................................................           29           54          162           67
Arkansas....................................................           25           54          151           67
California..................................................           26           67          162           71
Colorado....................................................           29           54          162           67
Connecticut.................................................           36           55          162           67
Delaware....................................................           30           67          162           67
District of Columbia........................................           20           50          162           81
Florida.....................................................           33           82          162           73
Georgia.....................................................           35           88          162           67
Hawaii......................................................           30           55          162           67
Idaho.......................................................           29           54          151           67
Illinois....................................................           30           55          160           67
Indiana.....................................................           30           55          151           67
Iowa........................................................           30           55          162           67
Kansas......................................................           21           53          151           73
Kentucky....................................................           30           55          162           67
Louisiana...................................................           28           53          162           67
Maine.......................................................           29           54          162           67
Maryland....................................................           30           55          162           67
Massachusetts...............................................           30           55          162           67
Michigan....................................................           22           54          151           67
Minnesota...................................................           23           55          151           67
Mississippi.................................................           30           55          162           67
Missouri....................................................           30           55          162           67
Montana.....................................................           31           55          151           67
Nebraska....................................................           28           53          162           67
Nevada......................................................           66           54          162           79
New Hampshire...............................................           21           53          151           64
New Jersey..................................................           25           50          162           67
New Mexico..................................................           25           54          151           67
New York....................................................           30           55          162           67
North Carolina..............................................           29           55          162           67
North Dakota................................................           21           53          151           77

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Ohio........................................................           30           58          160           67
Oklahoma....................................................           30           55          160           71
Oregon......................................................           27           52          162           67
Pennsylvania................................................           30           55          162           67
Puerto Rico.................................................           25           52          162           67
Rhode Island................................................           20           52          162           67
South Carolina..............................................           29           54          151           67
South Dakota................................................           30           55          151           67
Tennessee...................................................           23           55          151           70
Texas.......................................................           29           54          162           67
Utah........................................................           27           52          162           67
Vermont.....................................................           34           53          162           64
Virginia....................................................           30           82          160           70
Virgin Islands..............................................           20           52          162           67
Washington..................................................           30           55          162           67
West Virginia...............................................           22           54          151           73
Wisconsin...................................................           29           54          162           67
Wyoming.....................................................           41           54          162           67
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Appendix J: Resource List

1. Program Legislation, Regulations, and Policies

     Older Americans Act Amendments of 2000, Pub. L. 106-501 
http://www.doleta.gov/Seniors/other_docs/owp-106-501.pdf
     SCSEP Final Rule, 20 CFR part 641
http://www.doleta.gov/Seniors/other_docs/etaOAreg.pdf

641.440-460, Responsibility Review of Applicants
641.500, Participant Eligibility
641.700-715, Grantee Performance Measures
641.750-770, Sanctions for Failure to Meet
Negotiated Levels of Performance
641.844, Maintenance of Effort Requirements
641.856, Administrative Costs
641.864, Program Costs

     Older Worker Bulletins and Training and Employment 
Guidance Letters

TEGL No. 29-04, PY 2005 Fringe Benefit Guidelines

http://166.97.5.198/Seniors/other_docs/TEGL29-04.pdf

TEGL No. 21-04, Revised Federal Poverty Guidelines for SCSEP

http://166.97.5.198/Seniors/other_docs/teig_21-04.pdf

TEGL No. 13-04, Revised Income Definitions and Income Inclusions and 
Exclusions for Determining SCSEP Eligibility and Attachments

http://166.97.5.198/Seniors/other_docs/teig_13-04.pdf
http://166.97.5.198/Seniors/other_docs/TEGL_PopSurvey.pdf
http://166.97.5.198/Seniors/other_docs/TEGL_ComputeIncome.pdf

2. Applicable Forms

Routine Program Forms

http://166.97.5.198/Seniors/html_docs/Forms.cfm

SGA Forms

http://www.doleta.gov/sga/forms.cfm

3. Financial Resources

     OMB Circulars

http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/circulars.html
     Allowable and Unallowable Cost Requirements 20 CFR 
641.850

http://www.doleta.gov/Seniors/other_docs/etaOAreg.pdf

     Allocation of Indirect Costs Under the SCSEP

http://www.doleta.gov/Seniors/html_docs/docs/00-20.cfm

     One-Stop Comprehensive Financial Management Assistance 
Guide, Administrative Costs and Limitations, Chapter II-5-3 through 
II-5-6

http://www.doleta.gov/sga/pdf/FinalTAG_August_02.pdf

4. Other Applicable Laws

     Civil Rights Laws

Title IX, Education Amendments of 1972--49 CFR part 25 (gender)
Americans with Disabilities Act--28 CFR part 35 (Disability)
Rehabilitation Act--29 CFR part 32 Section 504 (Disability)
Civil Rights Act of 1964--29 CFR part 31 Title VI (Race, color, 
national origin, sex)
Workforce Investment Act--29 CFR part 37, Section 188 (race, color, 
national origin, sex, religion, disability, political affiliation or 
belief, and age).
Age Discrimination Act of 1975--29 CFR part 35 (any age)
    U.S. Department of Labor Civil Right Center contact information: 
Office of Compliance Assistance and Planning (202) 693-6501

http://www.dol.gov/oasam/programs/crc/crcwelcome.htm
     Jobs for Veterans Act

http://www.doleta.gov/seniors/html_docs/regs.cfm
     Workforce Investment Act, Pub. L. 105-220

http://www.doleta.gov/seniors/html_docs/regs.cfm
     Workforce Investment Act Final Rules, 20 CFR part 652

http://www.doleta.gov/seniors/html_docs/regs.cfm

5. ETA Initiatives

     High Growth Job Training Initiative

http://www.doleta.gov/BRG/JobTrainInitiative/

     Community College Initiative

http://www.doleta.gov/business/Community-BasedJobTrainingGrants.cfm

     Hispanic Initiative

http://www.doleta.gov/reports/HWI_brief.cfm and
http://www.doleta.gov/reports/DPLD.cfm

6. SCSEP Data Collection System (DCS)/SPARQ

     DCS/SPARQ Forms and Management Reports Handbook

http://www.doleta.gov/Seniors/html_docs/GranteePerf.cfm

     DCS/SPARQ 2 Prototype

http://dol.saic-solutions.com/sparq2prototype/index.html

7. Grantee Contact Information

     Current National Grantees

http://166.97.5.198/Seniors/html_docs/docs/NationalGrantees.cfm

     State Grantees

http://166.97.5.198/Seniors/html_docs/docs/statecontacts04.cfm

8. Other Contact Information

     One-Stop Career Centers
     State Units on Aging
     National Association of Area Agencies on Aging
http://www.n4a.org/


     502(e) Grantees and PY 2005 Service Areas

[[Page 10820]]

Appendix K: Positions Bid Form

    Note: Appendix K is located at http://www.doleta.gov/Seniors/SGA/SGA.cfm.

[FR Doc. 06-1959 Filed 3-1-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4510-30-P