[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 111 (Friday, June 9, 2006)]
[Notices]
[Pages 33562-33569]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 06-5229]



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Part III





Department of Education





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Grants and Cooperative Agreements--Notice of Final Priorities and 
Notices of Funding Availability; Notices

  Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 111 / Friday, June 9, 2006 / 
Notices  

[[Page 33562]]


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DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION


National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research--
Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects and Centers Program--
Disability Rehabilitation Research Projects (DRRPs); Funding Priorities

AGENCY: Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, 
Department of Education.

ACTION: Notice of final priorities.

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SUMMARY: The Assistant Secretary for Special Education and 
Rehabilitative Services announces certain final priorities for the 
Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects and Centers Program 
administered by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation 
Research (NIDRR). Specifically, this notice announces two priorities--a 
priority for the Disability Business Technical Assistance Centers 
(DBTACs) and a priority for the Disability Business Technical 
Assistance Center Coordination, Outreach, and Research Center (DBTAC 
CORC). The Assistant Secretary may use these priorities for 
competitions in fiscal year (FY) 2006 and later years. We take this 
action to focus research attention on areas of national need. We intend 
these priorities to improve rehabilitation services and outcomes for 
individuals with disabilities.

DATES: Effective Date: These priorities are effective July 10, 2006.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Donna Nangle, U.S. Department of 
Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW., room 6030, Potomac Center Plaza, 
Washington, DC 20202-2700. Telephone: (202) 245-7462 or via Internet: 
[email protected].
    If you use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD), you may 
call the Federal Relay Service (FRS) at 1-800-877-8339.
    Individuals with disabilities may obtain this document in an 
alternative format (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, or computer 
diskette) on request to the contact person listed under FOR FURTHER 
INFORMATION CONTACT.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects (DRRP) Program

    The purpose of the DRRP program is to plan and conduct research, 
demonstration projects, training, and related activities to develop 
methods, procedures, and rehabilitation technology that maximize the 
full inclusion and integration into society, employment, independent 
living, family support, and economic and social self-sufficiency of 
individuals with disabilities, especially individuals with the most 
severe disabilities, and to improve the effectiveness of services 
authorized under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. DRRPs 
carry out one or more of the following types of activities, as 
specified and defined in 34 CFR 350.13 through 350.19: Research, 
development, demonstration, training, dissemination, utilization, and 
technical assistance.
    An applicant for assistance under this program must demonstrate in 
its application how it will address, in whole or in part, the needs of 
individuals with disabilities from minority backgrounds (34 CFR 
350.40(a)). The approaches an applicant may take to meet this 
requirement are found in 34 CFR 350.40(b). In addition, NIDRR intends 
to require all DRRP applicants to meet the requirements of the General 
Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects (DRRP) Requirements 
priority that it published in a notice of final priorities in the 
Federal Register on April 28, 2006 (71 FR 25472).
    Additional information on the DRRP program can be found at: http://www.ed.gov/rschstat/research/pubs/res-program.html#DRRP.
    We published a notice of proposed priorities (NPP) for NIDRR's 
Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects and Centers Program, 
including the DRRP program, in the Federal Register on February 7, 2006 
(71 FR 6318). The NPP included a background statement that described 
our rationale for each priority proposed in that notice.
    This notice of final priorities (NFP) addresses 2 of the 15 
priorities proposed in the NPP. The priorities addressed in this NFP 
are as follows:
     Disability Business Technical Assistance Centers (DBTACs) 
(a DRRP, designated as Priority 10 in the NPP).
     Disability Business Technical Assistance Center 
Coordination, Outreach, and Research Center (DBTAC CORC) (a DRRP, 
designated as Priority 11 in the NPP).
    Because of the volume of comments received in response to the NPP, 
NIDRR has published two other separate notices of final priorities for 
the other 12 priorities proposed in the NPP (i.e., those priorities 
designated as Priorities 1 through 9 and 13 through 15 in the NPP). 
More information on these other priorities and the projects and 
programs that NIDRR intends to fund in FY 2006 can be found on the 
Internet at the following site: http://www.ed.gov/fund/grant/apply/nidrr/priority-matrix.html.
    This NFP contains several changes from the NPP in both priorities. 
We fully explain these changes in the Analysis of Comments and Changes 
section that follows.

Analysis of Comments and Changes

    In response to our invitation in the NPP, 606 parties submitted 
comments on the proposed priorities addressed in this NFP.
    An analysis of the comments and the changes in the priorities since 
publication of the NPP follows.
    In their responses to the NPP, many commenters failed to specify 
whether their comments addressed one or both of the proposed 
priorities. In addition, many comments concerned the relationship 
between the DBTACs and the DBTAC CORC and, therefore, relate to both 
priorities. In reviewing the comments received, we determined that the 
comments could be organized into the following general categories: (1) 
DBTACs and Core Functions, (2) Research and Research Requirements, and 
(3) Other. Therefore, we have organized the Analysis and Comments and 
Changes section using these three categories.
    Of the 606 comments received, the majority of comments (597) 
expressed concerns about the structure of the DBTACs and the proposed 
changes to the DBTAC's activities; these concerns included questions 
related to the core functions of the currently funded DBTACs and 
NIDRR's proposal to require DBTACs to conduct research. We address 
these comments under the categories DBTACs and Core Functions and 
Research and Research Requirements. In addition, several commenters 
raised issues relating to technology, resource allocation, underserved 
populations, use of the name DBTAC, interagency coordination and 
collaboration and other concerns. We address these comments under the 
heading Other.
    Generally, we do not address technical and other minor changes, or 
suggested changes the law does not authorize us to make under the 
applicable statutory authority. In addition, we do not address general 
comments that raised concerns not directly related to the proposed 
priorities.

General

    The final priorities announced in this NFP are designed to align 
the DBTAC and DBTAC CORC activities with NIDRR's mission by requiring 
grantees to conduct scientifically based research and to use evidence-
based practices. Consistent with NIDRR's Final Long-

[[Page 33563]]

Range Plan for FY 2005-2009 (Plan), NIDRR is establishing these 
priorities to restructure and strengthen the DBTAC program, and to 
further enable program grantees to make significant impacts on 
disability and rehabilitation outcomes through scientifically based 
research.

DBTACs and Core Functions

    Comment: Many commenters stated opposition to what they believed 
amounted to a discontinuance of the DBTAC program, and urged NIDRR to 
retain the program.
    Discussion: NIDRR has not proposed to eliminate the DBTAC program. 
The proposed DBTACs priority is designed to expand the existing DBTAC 
program by aligning the mission of the program with NIDRR's mission of 
improving the lives of people with disabilities through research.
    Changes: None.
    Comment: Some commenters urged NIDRR to maintain the core functions 
of the DBTACs; these core functions are defined as information and 
referral, technical assistance, training, and dissemination of 
information on all titles of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 
1990, as amended (ADA).
    Discussion: The proposed DBTACs priority requires grantees to 
perform the core activities carried out under the existing DBTAC 
program. NIDRR believes that these activities are critical for DBTACs 
to help ensure full implementation of the ADA. NIDRR expects all 
grantees funded under the DBTACs priority to use their grant award to 
support activities that are consistent with the goals and purposes of 
all titles of the ADA.
    Changes: None.

Research and Research Requirements

    Comment: Several commenters expressed concern that the research 
component of the proposed DBTACs priority is being restricted 
exclusively to employment-related research.
    Discussion: While NIDRR believes that, given their relationships 
with both the business and disability communities, the DBTACs are 
uniquely positioned to conduct research on critical disability 
employment questions, NIDRR does not expect that DBTAC studies will be 
restricted to employment-related research. Consistent with the Plan, 
NIDRR establishes research priorities under specific research domains. 
The DBTAC activities support research in the employment domain and in 
the community living/participation domain (for more information on 
these domains, see the Plan). The proposed DBTACs priority provides for 
studies related to all titles of the ADA, and a range of other research 
topics, including technology and postsecondary education, technology 
and school-to-work transition, employment, and participation/community 
living.
    Changes: None.
    Comment: Some commenters were particularly concerned that the 
proposed DBTACs priority would shift too much of the DBTACs' focus to 
employment outcomes and to research. Other commenters suggested that by 
requiring DBTACs to conduct research, DBTACs would be forced to use 
limited funds and staff to conduct research activities, which would 
result in a dilution of resources for other activities that are core 
functions of the currently funded DBTACs. Many of these commenters 
recommended that NIDRR specify the percentage of DBTAC funding that 
DBTACs should devote to research activities.
    Discussion: NIDRR does not agree that the proposed DBTACs priority 
would shift too much of the focus to employment outcomes and to 
research. As stated elsewhere in this NFP, NIDRR has included research 
in the DBTACs priority in order to align the DBTAC program with NIDRR's 
overall mission. When addressing the research requirements of the 
DBTACs priority, NIDRR expects that grantees will consult with and 
receive expert technical assistance from the DBTAC CORC. Coordination 
with the DBTAC CORC will help ensure that DBTAC funds and resources 
devoted to research activities are used efficiently. In addition, the 
DBTAC CORC will help ensure that DBTACs conduct scientifically based 
studies by providing them with significant support in research planning 
and development, and on-going technical assistance.
    NIDRR does not prescribe specific funding amounts or allocations of 
project budgets in the proposed DBTACs and DBTAC CORC priorities. While 
we believe that the required DBTACs research activities would require 
grantees to devote at least fifteen percent of their project funds to 
research activities, NIDRR will determine whether the proposed amount 
is appropriate based on the nature and scope of the research activities 
to be performed.
    Changes: None.
    Comment: Commenters questioned the new focus of the DBTACs on 
research. A large number of these commenters recommended that the DBTAC 
CORC be primarily responsible for research.
    Discussion: NIDRR does not agree that the DBTAC CORC should have 
primary responsibility for research. The proposed DBTACs priority 
requires that research activities involve a collaborative partnership 
between the DBTAC CORC and the regional DBTACs. The proposed DBTAC CORC 
priority requires the DBTAC CORC to collaborate and consult with each 
regional DBTAC to achieve this goal. NIDRR expects that regional DBTACs 
will each have a focused program of research that is supported by the 
DBTAC CORC. Consistent with the proposed DBTAC CORC priority, the DBTAC 
CORC would have primary responsibility for systematic reviews and 
analyses of data and products submitted by the regional DBTACs. In 
addition, the DBTAC CORC would be responsible for reviewing regional 
DBTAC research proposals. As explained in the Background statement for 
the proposed DBTAC CORC priority in the NPP, the details regarding the 
administration of the required DBTAC CORC activities will be specified 
in the Department's cooperative agreement with the grantee that 
receives an award under this priority.
    Changes: None.
    Comment: Commenters requested clarification on how NIDRR envisions 
the respective roles of the DBTACs and the DBTAC CORC in research 
activities.
    Discussion: Under the proposed DBTAC CORC priority, the DBTAC CORC 
is expected to take the lead role in facilitating the development of a 
coordinated national research agenda for the DBTACs. Under the DBTACs 
priority, each DBTAC grantee must participate in and conduct research; 
at a minimum, DBTAC grantees are expected to conduct small research 
projects.
    NIDRR envisions a two-stage process for regional DBTAC research 
activities. The first stage will involve regional DBTAC preparation and 
submission of a preliminary research proposal that includes a brief 
description of a proposed research plan identifying topic(s), 
methodology, and expected outcomes to the DBTAC CORC. NIDRR expects 
that these preliminary research proposals will be further informed by 
systematic reviews and analyses by the DBTAC CORC. In the second stage, 
the DBTAC CORC will assess the merits of each research proposal and 
provide ongoing, expert technical assistance to each regional DBTAC. 
The DBTAC CORC Review Board, which will be composed of expert 
advisor(s), a methodology consultant, a research consortium 
coordinator, and research analysts, will support these activities. The 
DBTAC CORC Review Board will review research proposals submitted by

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the DBTACs, as well as DBTAC plans for new research activities, 
products, and publications. NIDRR envisions that the DBTAC CORC will 
support the regional DBTACs' research by using its expertise as well as 
the data provided by the regional DBTACs to generate research questions 
and hypotheses for DBTAC research.
    Similar to the regional DBTACs, the DBTAC CORC must also conduct 
research. NIDRR expects that the research conducted by the DBTAC CORC 
will complement research activities being implemented as part of the 
national DBTAC research agenda.
    We believe that the proposed priorities require some additional 
information to clarify the responsibilities of and the relationship 
between the DBTAC CORC and the regional DBTACs.
    Changes: NIDRR has revised the DBTACs and the DBTAC CORC priorities 
to provide more information on how NIDRR envisions the implementation 
and coordination of DBTAC and DBTAC CORC research-related activities, 
particularly the responsibilities and processes for collaboration and 
research capacity building. In an effort to clarify the research 
component of the DBTACs' priority, we have changed the order of the 
requirements and have included, in paragraphs (e), (f), and (g), 
additional information about the research-related responsibilities of 
the DBTACs and the DBTAC CORC, including the responsibility of all 
centers to collaborate. In addition, we have revised paragraphs (c), 
(d), and (e) of the DBTAC CORC priority to provide more information 
about DBTAC CORC research requirements and the requirements relating to 
DBTACs' research and collaboration. A more detailed description of the 
changes follows:
    We have revised paragraph (e) of the DBTACs' priority and paragraph 
(e) of the DBTAC CORC priority to clarify the two-stage process for the 
submission of preliminary research proposals by the DBTACs, the DBTAC 
CORC's review of DBTAC research proposals, and the provision of 
technical assistance and support by the DBTAC CORC to assist DBTACs 
with achievement of expected outcomes and to identify areas of 
potential collaborative research. These paragraphs also have been 
revised to clarify the responsibility of the DBTACs to conduct rigorous 
research beginning in the second year of the project and the 
requirement that the DBTAC CORC provide on-going technical assistance 
and support to the DBTACs to help ensure that the DBTACs' research is 
scientifically based and of high quality.
    We have moved and revised paragraph (h) of the proposed DBTACs 
priority. The paragraph, now designated as paragraph (f), has been 
revised to clarify that DBTACs are responsible for providing their 
program data and findings to the DBTAC CORC so that the DBTAC CORC can 
produce evidence reports, identify gaps in the research agenda where 
new or additional research is warranted, conduct relevant research, 
assist with an enhanced understanding of ADA compliance and 
implementation issues on a national level, and generate topics for a 
national DBTAC research agenda. We also have revised this paragraph to 
clarify that the specific research to be conducted by the individual 
DBTACs will be determined through coordination between the DBTAC and 
the DBTAC CORC.
    We have revised paragraph (f) of the proposed DBTACs priority (now 
designated as paragraph (g)) to clarify that DBTACs will collaborate 
with, and receive support from, the DBTAC CORC Review Board as they 
evaluate and disseminate their research-based information.
    We have revised paragraphs (c) and (d) of the DBTAC CORC priority 
to clarify the research requirement for the DBTAC CORC and to provide 
more information about the DBTAC CORC Review Board. We clarified who 
will serve on the DBTAC CORC Review Board and what functions the board 
will perform. The board must be composed of expert advisor(s), a 
methodology consultant, a research consortium coordinator, and research 
analysts. The board will review DBTAC research proposal plans for new 
research activities, products, and publications; assist to identify and 
recommend research activities that are best conducted via collaborative 
research; and conduct systematic reviews of the DBTAC research.
    Comment: One commenter asked NIDRR to clarify the roles and 
responsibilities between the DBTACs and the DBTAC CORC in collecting 
and analyzing research. For example, the commenter specifically asked 
if NIDRR intends that the DBTAC CORC will be responsible for analyzing 
data that DBTACs collect, or if DBTACs will be required to complete the 
entire research process for their studies.
    Discussion: For each research study conducted by a DBTAC using 
DBTAC funding, NIDRR intends that the regional DBTAC responsible for 
the study will collect and analyze the research study data, consistent 
with scientifically based research standards and procedures. All DBTACs 
are required to conduct research. Nothing in the DBTACs priority, 
however, prohibits DBTACs from proposing joint studies that they can 
conduct with other DBTACs. If DBTACs are engaging in joint studies, at 
least one of the DBTACs must be responsible for collecting and 
analyzing research study data.
    Changes: None.
    Comment: One commenter suggested that other NIDRR-funded entities 
specializing in disability research, such as the Rehabilitation 
Research and Training Centers (RRTCs), should be required to conduct 
the research that NIDRR proposes to include as part of the DBTACs 
priority. This commenter also stated that NIDRR should not change the 
service structure of the DBTACs to include a research component.
    Discussion: NIDRR does not agree with this comment and believes 
that it is critical to align the DBTACs with NIDRR's overall research 
mission. Both the DRRP and RRTC program mechanisms have unique, valued 
features. In general, the DRRP mechanism offers a more flexible vehicle 
to support certain research and training objectives than the RRTC 
mechanism. DRRPs may include research, demonstration projects, 
training, and related activities that help maximize the full inclusion 
and integration of individuals with disabilities into society and 
improve the effectiveness of services authorized under the 
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. Consistent with NIDRR's 
mission, NIDRR-funded entities specializing in disability research are 
required to conduct research. Accordingly, NIDRR expects that grantees 
funded under the DBTACs and DBTAC CORC priorities, both of which are 
priorities funded under the DRRP program, will conduct research.
    Changes: None.
    Comment: One commenter stated that each of the 10 geographically 
dispersed DBTACs have unique strengths, and expressed a concern that 
requiring them all to conduct research would make it difficult to 
maintain consistency and ensure high quality services and products. 
Further, the commenter recommended that NIDRR support a national 
research center to be responsible for the information technology 
assistance and support previously provided to DBTACs so that the 
services would be integrated into a central location.
    Discussion: NIDRR agrees that consideration must be given to the 
fact that the skills of the researchers at each DBTAC may differ, and 
that

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coordination among regional DBTACs is needed. NIDRR expects that the 
DBTAC CORC will provide a wide range of support and technical 
assistance, including significant support to the regional DBTACs in 
research planning and development activities. The DBTAC CORC is 
expected to provide support and ongoing technical assistance to the 
regional DBTACs for the duration of their project periods. NIDRR 
believes that the DBTAC CORC activities and the expertise of the DBTAC 
CORC Review Board will help to build research capacity across regional 
DBTAC projects and help ensure that the DBTACs conduct scientifically 
based research that meets the highest possible standards of quality.
    NIDRR also agrees that coordination of research activities for the 
10 regional DBTACs is critical. Therefore, NIDRR expects that the DBTAC 
CORC will centralize some aspects of DBTAC operations as well as 
facilitate coordination among the DBTACs by establishing a coordinated 
national DBTAC research agenda.
    Changes: None.
    Comment: Several commenters suggested that adding a research 
component to the DBTAC program would duplicate NIDRR's other research 
efforts. Some commenters also stated that the proposed DBTAC CORC would 
duplicate the efforts of NIDRR's current National Center on the 
Dissemination of Disability Research (NCDDR).
    Discussion: It is true that NIDRR supports research on many aspects 
of employment, participation and community living. Nonetheless, NIDRR 
believes that a more focused ADA research agenda that is directly 
associated with the DBTAC program will strengthen research capacity and 
further improve our understanding about disability and rehabilitation 
outcomes for individuals with disabilities, particularly how those 
outcomes can be enhanced through identification of impediments to 
compliance with the ADA. That said, NIDRR does not intend to fund 
research that is truly duplicative of current or recent NIDRR-funded 
studies and projects. Accordingly, NIDRR encourages applicants to 
become familiar with NIDRR's current and recent research portfolio to 
avoid proposing redundant studies.
    NIDRR also does not believe that the DBTAC CORC will duplicate the 
efforts of the NCDDR. NCDDR supports the translation and dissemination 
of much of the research supported by NIDRR, but it has a specific work 
scope defined in its grant. (For more information about NCDDR go to 
http://www.ncddr.org.) The NCDDR is not positioned to take on new 
research or products from an innovative and targeted program such as 
the DBTAC program.
    Changes: None.
    Comment: One commenter asked NIDRR to clarify whether ``rigorous 
research activities'' include the assessment of technical assistance, 
training, and information dissemination outcomes in addition to more 
traditional intervention research.
    Discussion: It is not entirely clear what the commenter means by 
traditional intervention research. NIDRR intends that all DBTAC 
research activities, including components that address the assessment 
of technical assistance, training, and information dissemination 
outcomes, will adhere to research standards and use scientifically 
based approaches consistent with defensible methodological standards. 
Paragraph (g) of the DBTACs priority requires that DBTACs adhere to 
standards and guidelines that are consistent with evidence-based 
practices for research dissemination and evaluation (see http://www.cebm.net, http://www.cochrane.org, www.campbellcollaboration.org/guide.flow.pdf, http://www.ngc.gov, http://www.science.gov).
    Changes: None.
    Comment: One commenter recommended that the priorities include 
indicators, such as process measures, in addition to outcome measures.
    Discussion: NIDRR has organized the DBTACs and DBTAC CORC priority 
requirements around programmatic outcomes. We believe that this 
approach supports the assessment of programmatic outcomes and is 
consistent with the logic model framework, as outlined in the Plan, as 
well as the Department of Education's desire to enhance accountability 
and demonstrate results. While NIDRR recognizes the value of indicators 
such as process measures, it does not believe that it is necessary to 
require all applicants to establish indicators.
    Changes: None.

Other

    Comment: Several commenters asked what is meant by the term 
``technology'', as it is used in the priorities, and wanted to know 
whether we intend for the term to refer to assistive technology (AT), 
information technology, or both.
    Discussion: As used in the DBTACs and DBTAC CORC priorities, NIDRR 
intends for the term ``technology'' to refer to AT, as defined in the 
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. The term refers to AT devices 
or AT services, and may include IT. According to section 7(3) of the 
Rehabilitation Act, the term AT device has the meaning given to the 
term in section 3 of the Assistive Technology Act of 1998; that is, 
``any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired 
commercially, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, 
maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with 
disabilities.''
    The term AT service, as, as defined in section 7(4) of the 
Rehabilitation Act means ``any service that directly assists an 
individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of 
an assistive device'' (see Section 3(5) of the Assistive Technology Act 
of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 3002) for more information on services that are 
considered AT services). As used in these priorities, therefore, the 
term technology could refer to information technology as long as the 
information technology would be considered AT, as defined in the 
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.
    Changes: None.
    Comment: One commenter expressed difficulty understanding the 
relationship between employment outcomes and the ADA. Another commenter 
recommended that the priority be revised to state: ``NIDRR recognizes 
that many elements of ADA implementation impact employment outcomes * * 
*''.
    Discussion: NIDRR believes that many elements of ADA implementation 
affect employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities. Grantees 
under the DBTACs priority are required to develop research proposals 
with research questions or hypotheses that are consistent with standard 
research practices. Accordingly, grantees can propose research 
questions or hypotheses that are designed to examine the relationship 
between the ADA and employment outcomes for individuals with 
disabilities.
    Changes: None.
    Comment: One commenter recommended that the DBTACs priority require 
DBTACs to partner with other federally funded programs, such as the 
Ticket to Work Program.
    Discussion: The DBTACs priority requires each DBTAC to collaborate 
with the DBTAC CORC and other DBTACs. The priority also requires DBTACs 
to develop and apply effective coordination strategies within the 
network of relevant NIDRR RRTCs, Rehabilitation Engineering Research 
Centers, DRRPs, NIDRR-funded knowledge translation and dissemination 
centers, employers, industries, community entities, and federally 
funded programs, such as the Rehabilitation Services Administration

[[Page 33566]]

AT State grants. NIDRR does not believe that it is appropriate to 
require grantees to participate in the type of partnership activities 
recommended by the commenter. That said, nothing in the priority 
prohibits an applicant from proposing these partnership activities.
    Changes: None.
    Comment: One commenter stated that paragraph (b) of the proposed 
DBTACs priority is shortsighted in that it does not recognize other 
important aspects of full implementation of the ADA, including facility 
accessibility, accessible transportation, and effective communication. 
According to the commenter, because all aspects of ADA implementation 
are addressed in the outcome described in paragraph (a) of the proposed 
priority, paragraph (b) should be removed.
    Discussion: NIDRR believes that the outcome described in paragraph 
(b) of the DBTACs priority is qualitatively different from the outcome 
described in paragraph (a) of the priority. The outcome described in 
paragraph (a) is broadly identified as an improved understanding about 
the rights and responsibilities under the ADA, as well as developments 
in case law, policy, and implementation. In paragraph (b), NIDRR 
intends to emphasize improved employment outcomes for individuals with 
disabilities in high growth industries. NIDRR believes it is necessary 
to emphasize this outcome to ensure that the DBTAC activities 
adequately address those industries that are potentially best situated 
to increase employment options and opportunities for individuals with 
disabilities.
    Changes: None.
    Comment: One commenter recommended that existing DBTAC databases 
and document portals be consolidated under the control of the DBTAC 
CORC and that paragraph (a) of the proposed DBTAC CORC priority be 
revised to reflect this recommendation.
    Discussion: NIDRR agrees with this commenter, and intends for the 
DBTAC CORC to serve as a national repository for DBTAC information and 
products, including data products and the content of previously funded 
ADA document portals and Web sites, and project and national DBTAC 
databases. For example, NIDRR intends for the DBTAC CORC to maintain 
the contents and functions of the ADA Document Portal and National 
DBTAC databases that currently exist, such as the ADA Impact 
Measurement System (AIMS) project databases and the national DBTAC 
Outcomes Databases, and other regional and national project databases.
    Changes: We have revised paragraph (a) of the DBTAC CORC priority 
to require the DBTAC CORC to serve as the central repository for DBTAC 
information and products, and to be responsible for the maintenance of 
data products and the content of previously funded ADA document portals 
and Web sites, and project and national DBTAC databases.
    Comment: One commenter recommended that NIDRR revise the outcome in 
paragraph (i) of the DBTAC CORC priority to focus on the ADA instead of 
``the state of the science.'' The commenter also recommended that NIDRR 
revise the priority to require a ``state of the ADA conference,'' and 
to encourage broad attendance at the conference by NIDRR grantees 
involved in applicable research as well as practitioners from the 
field, Federal agencies, and consumers.
    Discussion: NIDRR believes that the annual conference hosted by the 
DBTAC CORC should focus on an enhanced understanding of the ``state of 
the science,'' because a focus on the ``state of the science'' is more 
comprehensive than a narrow focus on the state of the ADA. As used in 
the DBTAC CORC priority, NIDRR intends for the term ``state of the 
science'' to refer to the current state of scientific evidence 
available on particular topics, such as those identified in the 
priority or those topics relating to all titles of the ADA, and the 
evaluation of the latest research findings in these topic areas. With 
regard to the commenter's second point, nothing in the priority 
precludes the DBTAC CORC from inviting the groups identified by the 
commenter to the annual conference it will host in accordance with 
paragraph (i) of the priority.
    Changes: None.
    Comment: One commenter recommended that NIDRR require all centers 
funded under the DBTACs priority to identify themselves with names that 
include the term ``DBTAC'' as the primary identifier. The commenter 
noted that it is difficult to locate DBTAC resources without the use of 
a common name. Another commenter requested that NIDRR change the name 
of the centers to be supported under the DBTACs priority, because 
adding a research focus to the priority is not consistent with the 
DBTAC history of service and is misleading to the public.
    Discussion: NIDRR agrees that a common name for DBTAC grantees 
would be beneficial. NIDRR also agrees that the DBTAC program has a 
long and distinguished history of services and wishes to maintain this 
tradition, as well as the DBTAC program name. Accordingly, NIDRR 
expects all entities funded under the DBTACs priority to support name 
recognition for the DBTAC program by identifying themselves as DBTAC 
projects with the term DBTAC prominently displayed in their project 
names. NIDRR expects grantees to adopt project names that use the 
following format: DBTAC--[Insert entity title or project name, region 
or other identifying information].
    NIDRR does not agree that the DBTAC name should be changed. The 
DBTACs priority requires that the core functions of the DBTAC program 
be maintained. Adding the research component to the priority neither 
detracts from nor diminishes the quality of service to be provided by 
the DBTACs. Instead, NIDRR believes that requiring research-related 
activities will help to ensure that services and interventions 
delivered by DBTACs are the most effective and relevant to meet the 
needs of the individuals and communities they serve.
    Changes: NIDRR has revised the DBTACs priority by adding paragraph 
(j) to clarify that a desired outcome of the project is to improve 
awareness, outreach, and access to DBTAC services by enhancing the name 
recognition of the DBTAC program. Specifically, the newly added 
paragraph requires grantees to use the term DBTAC as a primary 
identifier in project titles and specifies the naming convention format 
that must be used by all DBTACs.
    Comment: One commenter asked if the DBTAC CORC will be the only 
entity producing evidence reports. The commenter also asked what DBTAC 
data the DBTAC CORC will analyze.
    Discussion: The DBTAC CORC priority requires the DBTAC CORC to 
produce evidence reports. There is nothing in either the DBTACs or 
DBTAC CORC priorities to preclude regional DBTACs from generating or 
producing their own evidence reports provided that those reports are 
consistent with their project activities.
    With regard to the commenter's second point, the DBTAC CORC is 
responsible for conducting rigorous analyses of regional DBTAC data to 
accomplish the programmatic outcomes identified in the DBTAC CORC 
priority. The regional DBTACs and DBTAC CORC are required to 
collaborate on identification of data analysis needs.
    Changes: None.
    Comment: One commenter suggested that it would be a conflict of 
interest for a single entity to be awarded both a regional DBTAC grant 
and the DBTAC CORC grant, and encouraged NIDRR to fund separate 
entities under these priorities.
    Discussion: NIDRR intends to conduct an open competition for the 
DBTAC

[[Page 33567]]

CORC, and will not prohibit applicants for a regional DBTAC from 
applying under the DBTAC CORC competition. NIDRR intends to award DBTAC 
CORC funds under a cooperative agreement that will outline 
specifications for administration of the required DBTAC CORC 
activities. NIDRR will closely examine conflict of interest issues.
    Changes: None.
    Comment: One commenter stated that many DBTACs maintain bilingual 
staff in order to address the needs of individuals who do not speak 
English, and suggested that a shift in focus may eliminate the DBTAC's 
ability to address the needs of non-English speaking populations.
    Discussion: The DBTACs priority does not prohibit projects from 
addressing the needs of non-English speaking populations. In accordance 
with section 350.40 of the Disability and Rehabilitation Research 
Projects and Centers Program regulations, all applicants are required 
to demonstrate in their application how they will meet the needs of 
minority populations; this includes linguistic minorities. 
Additionally, in accordance with Federal law, the application must 
outline non-discrimination hiring policies. The DBTACs priority in no 
way prevents or prohibits projects from maintaining bilingual staff.
    Changes: None.
    Comment: None.
    Discussion: NIDRR believes that DBTAC and DBTAC CORC collaboration 
with other relevant federally funded programs will enhance the 
coordination of information dissemination and promote the use of 
research findings across relevant Federal programs.
    Changes: We have revised proposed paragraph (g) of the DBTACs 
priority (paragraph (h) in the final priority announced in this NFP) 
and paragraph (f) of the DBTACs CORC priority to include other 
federally funded programs, such as the Rehabilitation Services 
Administration (RSA) Assistive Technology (AT) State grants, among the 
entities with which the DBTACs and the DBTAC CORC must coordinate.


    Note: This notice does not solicit applications. In any year in 
which we choose to use these proposed priorities, we invite 
applications through a notice in the Federal Register. When inviting 
applications we designate the priorities as absolute, competitive 
preference, or invitational. The effect of each type of priority 
follows:
    Absolute priority: Under an absolute priority, we consider only 
applications that meet the priority (34 CFR 75.105(c)(3)).
    Competitive preference priority: Under a competitive preference 
priority, we give competitive preference to an application by either 
(1) awarding additional points, depending on how well or the extent 
to which the application meets the competitive preference priority 
(34 CFR 75.105(c)(2)(i)); or (2) selecting an application that meets 
the competitive preference priority over an application of 
comparable merit that does not meet the priority (34 CFR 
75.105(c)(2)(ii)).
    Invitational priority: Under an invitational priority, we are 
particularly interested in applications that meet the invitational 
priority. However, we do not give an application that meets the 
invitational priority a competitive or absolute preference over 
other applications (34 CFR 75.105(c)(1)).


    Note: This NFP is in concert with President George W. Bush's New 
Freedom Initiative (NFI) and the Plan. The NFI can be accessed on 
the Internet at the following site: http://www.whitehouse.gov/infocus/newfreedom.
    The Plan, which was published in the Federal Register on 
February 15, 2006 (71 FR 8165), can be accessed on the Internet at 
the following site: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/nidrr/policy.html.


    Through the implementation of the NFI and the Plan, NIDRR seeks 
to--(1) Improve the quality and utility of disability and 
rehabilitation research; (2) Foster an exchange of expertise, 
information, and training to facilitate the advancement of knowledge 
and understanding of the unique needs of traditionally underserved 
populations; (3) Determine best strategies and programs to improve 
rehabilitation outcomes for underserved populations; (4) Identify 
research gaps; (5) Identify mechanisms of integrating research and 
practice; and (6) Disseminate findings.
    Disability Business Technical Assistance Centers (DBTACs) Priority: 
The Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative 
Services establishes, under its Disability Rehabilitation Research 
Projects program, a priority for the funding of 10 Disability and 
Business Technical Assistance Centers (DBTACs), 1 within each of the 10 
U.S. Department of Education regions. Each DBTAC must be designed to 
contribute to the following outcomes:
    (a) Improved understanding about rights and responsibilities under 
the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 
12101 et seq. (ADA), as well as developments in case law, policy, and 
implementation through rigorous research and technical assistance 
activities.
    (b) Improved employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities 
by conducting activities that help to increase accommodations, access 
to technology, and supports in the workplace, especially in high growth 
industries.
    (c) Enhanced ADA information dissemination, awareness, and referral 
activities by establishing effective, coordinated local, regional, and 
national resource networks. The DBTAC will contribute to this outcome 
by, among other activities, partnering with the DBTAC Coordination, 
Outreach and Research Center (DBTAC CORC) and other regional DBTACs to 
develop, implement and evaluate these networks.
    (d) Enhanced capacity of entities at the local and State levels and 
within specific industries to provide technical assistance and training 
on the ADA through dissemination of information that promotes awareness 
of the ADA.
    (e) Identification of impediments to compliance with the ADA and 
individuals' access to technology, postsecondary education, and the 
workforce, and of tested solutions and innovative approaches for 
eliminating these impediments by conducting targeted, rigorous research 
activities in at least one of the following areas: Employment, 
technology and postsecondary education, technology and school-to-work 
transition, and participation and community living. Research activities 
require, in the first year of the project period, submission of a 
preliminary research proposal (i.e., topic, research hypotheses/
questions, research design and methodology, and expected outcomes) to 
the DBTAC CORC for review; the CORC will provide technical assistance 
for the regional DBTAC research activities and help to identify areas 
for potential collaborative research. Beginning in the second year of 
the project period, DBTAC grantees are required to conduct rigorous, 
high quality research.
    (f) Improved research capacity through scientifically-based data 
collection and analysis leading to identification of research topics 
and DBTAC CORC development of a preliminary research agenda for 
consideration by the DBTACs. Grantees must submit their program data 
and findings to the DBTAC CORC in order to assist the DBTAC CORC with 
producing evidence reports, identifying gaps in the research agenda 
where new or additional research is warranted, conducting relevant 
research, assisting with enhanced understanding of ADA compliance and 
implementation issues on a national level, and generating topics for a 
national DBTAC research agenda. The specific research to be conducted 
by the individual DBTAC will be determined through coordination between 
the DBTAC and the DBTAC CORC.
    (g) Enhanced quality and relevance of information, and 
dissemination of research-based information by adhering to standards 
and guidelines that are

[[Page 33568]]

consistent with evidence-based practices for research dissemination and 
evaluation (see http://www.cebm.net, http://www.cochrane.org, 
www.campbellcollaboration.org/guide.flow.pdf, http://www.ngc.gov, 
http://www.science.gov/), and through coordination with and support of 
the DBTAC's CORC Review Board.
    (h) Improved technical assistance and research capacity through 
development and application of effective coordination strategies within 
the network of relevant NIDRR Rehabilitation Research and Training 
Centers, Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers, Disability 
Rehabilitation Research Projects, NIDRR-funded knowledge translation 
and dissemination centers, employers, industries, community entities, 
and federally funded programs, such as the Rehabilitation Services 
Administration (RSA) Assistive Technology (AT) State grants.
    (i) Improved knowledge about the provision of ADA and employment-
related technical assistance, implementation of the ADA, and employment 
outcomes through submission of region-specific information and data to 
the DBTAC CORC for analysis and reporting.
    (j) Improved awareness, outreach, and access to technical 
assistance through clear identification of DBTAC projects leading to 
enhanced name recognition, including use of a primary identifier (i.e., 
DBTAC) in project titles. All grantees must provide for the prominent 
display of the term DBTAC in their project names using the following 
format: DBTAC--[insert entity title or project name, region, or other 
identifying information].
    Disability Business Technical Assistance Center Coordination, 
Outreach, and Research Center (DBTAC CORC) Priority: The Assistant 
Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services 
establishes, under its Disability Rehabilitation Research Projects 
program, a priority for the funding of a Disability Business Technical 
Assistance Center Coordination, Outreach, and Research Center (DBTAC 
CORC). The DBTAC CORC must be designed to contribute to the following 
outcomes:
    (a) Improved public access to information relating to the Americans 
with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq. 
(ADA), through development and maintenance of a public Web site that 
includes relevant information that is of national interest and useful 
across all DBTAC regions, preparation of documents in a format that 
meets a government or industry-recognized standard for accessibility, 
and establishment of a DBTAC database to support regional DBTAC 
activities. The DBTAC CORC also will serve as the central repository 
for DBTAC information and products, and will be responsible for the 
maintenance of data products and the content of previously funded ADA 
document portals and Web sites, and project and national DBTAC 
databases.
    (b) Improved technical assistance, collaboration, information 
dissemination, knowledge translation and training materials through a 
national, coordinated process for developing materials to address 
topics that are relevant across regions; and use of a CORC Review Board 
to assist with development and review of collaborative products, and 
research activities.
    (c) Increased research capacity building and high quality research 
through synthesis and analysis of ADA information and data provided by 
the regional DBTACs, and reviews of literature and related information 
from other sources, in order to produce evidence reports, generate 
topics for the regional DBTAC research activities, identify areas where 
additional research is warranted, conduct relevant research that is 
consistent with the research activities being implemented as part of 
the national DBTAC research agenda, and enhance understanding of ADA 
compliance and implementation issues on a national level.
    (d) Enhanced capacity of regional DBTACs to assist with improving 
employment outcomes, workplace supports and accommodations, and ADA 
compliance by producing evidence reports, conducting rigorous analyses 
of regional DBTAC data, and evaluating products and proposed 
publications. The DBTAC CORC will contribute to this outcome by (1) 
establishing a DBTAC CORC Review Board composed of expert advisor(s), a 
methodology consultant, a research consortium coordinator, and research 
analysts to (i) review regional DBTAC research proposal plans for new 
research activities, products, and publications; (ii) coordinate 
potential collaborative research activities; and (iii) conduct 
systematic reviews of DBTAC research using a set of evidence questions 
based on scientific studies and standards (see http://www.cebm.net, 
http://www.cochrane.org, www.campbellcollaboration.org/guide.flow.pdf, 
http://www.ngc.gov, http://www.science.gov/); (2) establishing 
guidelines for submission of information to the DBTAC CORC by the 
regional DBTACs; and (3) providing technical assistance to regional 
DBTACs.
    (e) Improved knowledge of and contribution to the state of the 
science within the subject areas covered by the regional DBTACs by 
serving as a consultant to regional DBTACs to support research capacity 
building, facilitating development of a coordinated national research 
agenda, assisting to identify proposed research activities that are 
duplicative; identifying potential collaborative research activities; 
and working cooperatively with regional DBTAC grantees to assist with 
the development of research topics and activities. The DBTAC CORC will 
review research proposal plans submitted by regional DBTACs beginning 
in the first year of the project period for the purpose of providing 
technical assistance and to assist with development of scientifically 
based research activities. The specific research to be conducted by the 
individual DBTAC will be determined through collaboration between the 
DBTAC and the DBTAC CORC. The DBTAC CORC will provide on-going 
technical assistance and support to the regional DBTACs to further 
ensure high quality, rigorous research activities for the duration of 
the funded activities.
    (f) Enhanced coordination of information dissemination on DBTAC 
activities, research findings, publications, products, and tools 
through coordination of the network of appropriate NIDRR research 
projects, including Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers, 
Disability Rehabilitation Research Projects, Field-Initiated Projects, 
Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers, and NIDRR dissemination 
centers, including the National Rehabilitation Information Center 
(www.naric.com) and the National Center for the Dissemination of 
Disability Research (www.ncddr.org); and other relevant federally 
supported programs, such as the Rehabilitation Services Administration 
(RSA) Assistive Technology (AT) State grants.
    (g) Increased use of DBTAC-generated products and information by 
developing strategies to promote the use of developed products and 
improved relevance and quality of the products through assessment of 
their effectiveness and impact on practice and policy.
    (h) Increased application of research findings and products through 
translation of DBTAC evidence reports into practice guidelines, quality 
improvement products, and technical assistance tools.

[[Page 33569]]

    (i) Enhanced understanding about the state of the science and 
improved program planning, development, and evaluation by hosting a 
DBTAC biannual program development and planning meeting beginning in 
year one of the project period; and an annual conference leading to a 
report of proceedings in years three through five of the project 
period.

Executive Order 12866

    This NFP has been reviewed in accordance with Executive Order 
12866. Under the terms of the order, we have assessed the potential 
costs and benefits of this regulatory action.
    The potential costs associated with this NFP are those resulting 
from statutory requirements and those we have determined as necessary 
for administering this program effectively and efficiently.
    In assessing the potential costs and benefits--both quantitative 
and qualitative--of this NFP, we have determined that the benefits of 
the final priorities justify the costs.
    Summary of potential costs and benefits: The potential costs 
associated with these final priorities are minimal while the benefits 
are significant. Grantees may incur some costs associated with 
completing the application process in terms of staff time, copying, and 
mailing or delivery. The use of e-Application technology reduces 
mailing and copying costs significantly.
    The benefits of the Disability and Rehabilitation Research Projects 
and Centers Programs have been well established over the years in that 
similar projects have been completed successfully. These final 
priorities will generate new knowledge and technologies through 
research, development, dissemination, utilization, and technical 
assistance projects.
    Another benefit of these final priorities is that the establishment 
of new DRRPs will support the President's NFI and will improve the 
lives of persons with disabilities. The new DRRPs will generate, 
disseminate, and promote the use of new information that will improve 
the options for individuals with disabilities.
    Applicable Program Regulations: 34 CFR part 350.

Electronic Access to This Document

    You may view this document, as well as all other Department of 
Education documents published in the Federal Register, in text or Adobe 
Portable Document Format (PDF) on the Internet at the following site: 
http://www.ed.gov/news/fedregister.
    To use PDF you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader, which is available 
free at this site. If you have questions about using PDF, call the U.S. 
Government Printing Office (GPO), toll free, at 1-888-293-6498; or in 
the Washington, DC, area at (202) 512-1530.


    Note: The official version of this document is the document 
published in the Federal Register. Free Internet access to the 
official edition of the Federal Register and the Code of Federal 
Regulations is available on GPO Access at: http://www.gpoaccess.gov/nara/index.html.

(Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Numbers 84.133A, Disability 
Rehabilitation Research Projects)

    Program Authority: 29 U.S.C. 762(g) and 764(a).

    Dated: June 5, 2006.
John H. Hager,
Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services.
[FR Doc. 06-5229 Filed 6-8-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4000-01-P