[105th Congress Public Law 220] [From the U.S. Government Printing Office] <DOC> [DOCID: f:publ220.105] [[Page 935]] WORKFORCE INVESTMENT ACT OF 1998 [[Page 112 STAT.936]] Public Law 105-220 105th Congress An Act To consolidate, coordinate, and improve employment, training, literacy, and vocational rehabilitation programs in the United States, and for other purposes. <<NOTE: Aug. 7, 1998 - [H.R. 1385]>> Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS. <<NOTE: Workforce Investment Act of 1998.>> (a) <<NOTE: 20 USC 9201 note.>> Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Workforce Investment Act of 1998''. (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as follows: Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. TITLE I--WORKFORCE INVESTMENT SYSTEMS Subtitle A--Workforce Investment Definitions Sec. 101. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2801.>> Definitions. Subtitle B--Statewide and Local Workforce Investment Systems Sec. 106. Purpose. Chapter 1--State Provisions Sec. 111. State workforce investment boards. Sec. 112. State plan. Chapter 2--Local Provisions Sec. 116. Local workforce investment areas. Sec. 117. Local workforce investment boards. Sec. 118. Local plan. Chapter 3--Workforce Investment Activities Providers Sec. 121. Establishment of one-stop delivery systems. Sec. 122. Identification of eligible providers of training services. Sec. 123. Identification of eligible providers of youth activities. Chapter 4--Youth Activities Sec. 126. General authorization. Sec. 127. State allotments. Sec. 128. Within State allocations. Sec. 129. Use of funds for youth activities. Chapter 5--Adult and Dislocated Worker Employment and Training Activities Sec. 131. General authorization. Sec. 132. State allotments. Sec. 133. Within State allocations. Sec. 134. Use of funds for employment and training activities. Chapter 6--General Provisions Sec. 136. Performance accountability system. Sec. 137. Authorization of appropriations. [[Page 112 STAT.937]] Subtitle C--Job Corps Sec. 141. Purposes. Sec. 142. Definitions. Sec. 143. Establishment. Sec. 144. Individuals eligible for the Job Corps. Sec. 145. Recruitment, screening, selection, and assignment of enrollees. Sec. 146. Enrollment. Sec. 147. Job Corps centers. Sec. 148. Program activities. Sec. 149. Counseling and job placement. Sec. 150. Support. Sec. 151. Operating plan. Sec. 152. Standards of conduct. Sec. 153. Community participation. Sec. 154. Industry councils. Sec. 155. Advisory committees. Sec. 156. Experimental, research, and demonstration projects. Sec. 157. Application of provisions of Federal law. Sec. 158. Special provisions. Sec. 159. Management information. Sec. 160. General provisions. Sec. 161. Authorization of appropriations. Subtitle D--National Programs Sec. 166. Native American programs. Sec. 167. Migrant and seasonal farmworker programs. Sec. 168. Veterans' workforce investment programs. Sec. 169. Youth opportunity grants. Sec. 170. Technical assistance. Sec. 171. Demonstration, pilot, multiservice, research, and multistate projects. Sec. 172. Evaluations. Sec. 173. National emergency grants. Sec. 174. Authorization of appropriations. Subtitle E--Administration Sec. 181. Requirements and restrictions. Sec. 182. Prompt allocation of funds. Sec. 183. Monitoring. Sec. 184. Fiscal controls; sanctions. Sec. 185. Reports; recordkeeping; investigations. Sec. 186. Administrative adjudication. Sec. 187. Judicial review. Sec. 188. Nondiscrimination. Sec. 189. Administrative provisions. Sec. 190. Reference. Sec. 191. State legislative authority. Sec. 192. Workforce flexibility plans. Sec. 193. Use of certain real property. Sec. 194. Continuation of State activities and policies. Sec. 195. General program requirements. Subtitle F--Repeals and Conforming Amendments Sec. 199. Repeals. Sec. 199A. Conforming amendments. TITLE II--ADULT EDUCATION AND LITERACY Sec. 201. Short title. Sec. 202. Purpose. Sec. 203. Definitions. Sec. 204. Home schools. Sec. 205. Authorization of appropriations. Subtitle A--Adult Education and Literacy Programs Chapter 1--Federal Provisions Sec. 211. Reservation; grants to eligible agencies; allotments. Sec. 212. Performance accountability system. Chapter 2--State Provisions Sec. 221. State administration. [[Page 112 STAT.938]] Sec. 222. State distribution of funds; matching requirement. Sec. 223. State leadership activities. Sec. 224. State plan. Sec. 225. Programs for corrections education and other institutionalized individuals. Chapter 3--Local Provisions Sec. 231. Grants and contracts for eligible providers. Sec. 232. Local application. Sec. 233. Local administrative cost limits. Chapter 4--General Provisions Sec. 241. Administrative provisions. Sec. 242. National Institute for Literacy. Sec. 243. National leadership activities. Subtitle B--Repeals Sec. 251. Repeals. TITLE III--WORKFORCE INVESTMENT-RELATED ACTIVITIES Subtitle A--Wagner-Peyser Act Sec. 301. Definitions. Sec. 302. Functions. Sec. 303. Designation of State agencies. Sec. 304. Appropriations. Sec. 305. Disposition of allotted funds. Sec. 306. State plans. Sec. 307. Repeal of Federal advisory council. Sec. 308. Regulations. Sec. 309. Employment statistics. Sec. 310. Technical amendments. Sec. 311. Effective date. Subtitle B--Linkages With Other Programs Sec. 321. Trade Act of 1974. Sec. 322. Veterans' employment programs. Sec. 323. Older Americans Act of 1965. Subtitle C--Twenty-First Century Workforce Commission Sec. 331. Short title. Sec. 332. Findings. Sec. 333. Definitions. Sec. 334. Establishment of Twenty-First Century Workforce Commission. Sec. 335. Duties of the Commission. Sec. 336. Powers of the Commission. Sec. 337. Commission personnel matters. Sec. 338. Termination of the Commission. Sec. 339. Authorization of appropriations. Subtitle D--Application of Civil Rights and Labor-Management Laws to the Smithsonian Institution Sec. 341. Application of civil rights and labor-management laws to the Smithsonian Institution. TITLE IV--REHABILITATION ACT AMENDMENTS OF 1998 Sec. 401. Short title. Sec. 402. Title. Sec. 403. General provisions. Sec. 404. Vocational rehabilitation services. Sec. 405. Research and training. Sec. 406. Professional development and special projects and demonstrations. Sec. 407. National Council on Disability. Sec. 408. Rights and advocacy. Sec. 409. Employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Sec. 410. Independent living services and centers for independent living. Sec. 411. Repeal. Sec. 412. Helen Keller National Center Act. Sec. 413. President's Committee on Employment of People With Disabilities. Sec. 414. Conforming amendments. [[Page 112 STAT.939]] TITLE V--GENERAL PROVISIONS Sec. 501. State unified plan. Sec. 502. Definitions for indicators of performance. Sec. 503. Incentive grants. Sec. 504. Privacy. Sec. 505. Buy-American requirements. Sec. 506. Transition provisions. Sec. 507. Effective date. TITLE I--WORKFORCE INVESTMENT SYSTEMS Subtitle A--Workforce Investment Definitions SEC. 101. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2801.>> DEFINITIONS. In this title: (1) Adult.--Except in sections 127 and 132, the term ``adult'' means an individual who is age 18 or older. (2) Adult education; adult education and literacy activities.--The terms ``adult education'' and ``adult education and literacy activities'' have the meanings given the terms in section 203. (3) Area vocational education school.--The term ``area vocational education school'' has the meaning given the term in section 521 of the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Education Act (20 U.S.C. 2471). (4) Basic skills deficient.--The term ``basic skills deficient'' means, with respect to an individual, that the individual has English reading, writing, or computing skills at or below the 8th grade level on a generally accepted standardized test or a comparable score on a criterion- referenced test. (5) Case management.--The term ``case management'' means the provision of a client-centered approach in the delivery of services, designed-- (A) to prepare and coordinate comprehensive employment plans, such as service strategies, for participants to ensure access to necessary workforce investment activities and supportive services, using, where feasible, computer-based technologies; and (B) to provide job and career counseling during program participation and after job placement. (6) Chief elected official.--The term ``chief elected official'' means-- (A) the chief elected executive officer of a unit of general local government in a local area; and (B) in a case in which a local area includes more than one unit of general local government, the individuals designated under the agreement described in section 117(c)(1)(B). (7) Community-based organization.--The term ``community- based organization'' means a private nonprofit organization that is representative of a community or a significant segment of a community and that has demonstrated expertise and effectiveness in the field of workforce investment. [[Page 112 STAT.940]] (8) Customized training.--The term ``customized training '' means training-- (A) that is designed to meet the special requirements of an employer (including a group of employers); (B) that is conducted with a commitment by the employer to employ an individual on successful completion of the training; and (C) for which the employer pays for not less than 50 percent of the cost of the training. (9) Dislocated worker.--The term ``dislocated worker'' means an individual who-- (A)(i) has been terminated or laid off, or who has received a notice of termination or layoff, from employment; (ii)(I) is eligible for or has exhausted entitlement to unemployment compensation; or (II) has been employed for a duration sufficient to demonstrate, to the appropriate entity at a one-stop center referred to in section 134(c), attachment to the workforce, but is not eligible for unemployment compensation due to insufficient earnings or having performed services for an employer that were not covered under a State unemployment compensation law; and (iii) is unlikely to return to a previous industry or occupation; (B)(i) has been terminated or laid off, or has received a notice of termination or layoff, from employment as a result of any permanent closure of, or any substantial layoff at, a plant, facility, or enterprise; (ii) is employed at a facility at which the employer has made a general announcement that such facility will close within 180 days; or (iii) for purposes of eligibility to receive services other than training services described in section 134(d)(4), intensive services described in section 134(d)(3), or supportive services, is employed at a facility at which the employer has made a general announcement that such facility will close; (C) was self-employed (including employment as a farmer, a rancher, or a fisherman) but is unemployed as a result of general economic conditions in the community in which the individual resides or because of natural disasters; or (D) is a displaced homemaker. (10) Displaced homemaker.--The term ``displaced homemaker'' means an individual who has been providing unpaid services to family members in the home and who-- (A) has been dependent on the income of another family member but is no longer supported by that income; and (B) is unemployed or underemployed and is experiencing difficulty in obtaining or upgrading employment. (11) Economic development agencies.--The term ``economic development agencies'' includes local planning and zoning commissions or boards, community development agencies, and other local agencies and institutions responsible for regulating, promoting, or assisting in local economic development. (12) Eligible provider.--The term ``eligible provider'', used with respect to-- [[Page 112 STAT.941]] (A) training services, means a provider who is identified in accordance with section 122(e)(3); (B) intensive services, means a provider who is identified or awarded a contract as described in section 134(d)(3)(B); (C) youth activities, means a provider who is awarded a grant or contract in accordance with section 123; or (D) other workforce investment activities, means a public or private entity selected to be responsible for such activities, such as a one-stop operator designated or certified under section 121(d). (13) Eligible youth.--Except as provided in subtitles C and D, the term ``eligible youth'' means an individual who-- (A) is not less than age 14 and not more than age 21; (B) is a low-income individual; and (C) is an individual who is one or more of the following: (i) Deficient in basic literacy skills. (ii) A school dropout. (iii) Homeless, a runaway, or a foster child. (iv) Pregnant or a parent. (v) An offender. (vi) An individual who requires additional assistance to complete an educational program, or to secure and hold employment. (14) Employment and training activity.--The term ``employment and training activity'' means an activity described in section 134 that is carried out for an adult or dislocated worker. (15) Family.--The term ``family'' means two or more persons related by blood, marriage, or decree of court, who are living in a single residence, and are included in one or more of the following categories: (A) A husband, wife, and dependent children. (B) A parent or guardian and dependent children. (C) A husband and wife. (16) Governor.--The term ``Governor'' means the chief executive of a State. (17) Individual with a disability.-- (A) In general.--The term ``individual with a disability'' means an individual with any disability (as defined in section 3 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12102)). (B) Individuals with disabilities.--The term ``individuals with disabilities'' means more than one individual with a disability. (18) Labor market area.--The term ``labor market area'' means an economically integrated geographic area within which individuals can reside and find employment within a reasonable distance or can readily change employment without changing their place of residence. Such an area shall be identified in accordance with criteria used by the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the Department of Labor in defining such areas or similar criteria established by a Governor. (19) Literacy.--The term ``literacy'' has the meaning given the term in section 203. [[Page 112 STAT.942]] (20) Local area.--The term ``local area'' means a local workforce investment area designated under section 116. (21) Local board.--The term ``local board'' means a local workforce investment board established under section 117. (22) Local performance measure.--The term ``local performance measure'' means a performance measure established under section 136(c). (23) Local educational agency.--The term ``local educational agency'' has the meaning given the term in section 14101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 8801). (24) Lower living standard income level.--The term ``lower living standard income level'' means that income level (adjusted for regional, metropolitan, urban, and rural differences and family size) determined annually by the Secretary based on the most recent lower living family budget issued by the Secretary. (25) Low-income individual.--The term ``low-income individual'' means an individual who-- (A) receives, or is a member of a family that receives, cash payments under a Federal, State, or local income-based public assistance program; (B) received an income, or is a member of a family that received a total family income, for the 6-month period prior to application for the program involved (exclusive of unemployment compensation, child support payments, payments described in subparagraph (A), and old-age and survivors insurance benefits received under section 202 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 402)) that, in relation to family size, does not exceed the higher of-- (i) the poverty line, for an equivalent period; or (ii) 70 percent of the lower living standard income level, for an equivalent period; (C) is a member of a household that receives (or has been determined within the 6-month period prior to application for the program involved to be eligible to receive) food stamps pursuant to the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 2011 et seq.); (D) qualifies as a homeless individual, as defined in subsections (a) and (c) of section 103 of the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11302); (E) is a foster child on behalf of whom State or local government payments are made; or (F) in cases permitted by regulations promulgated by the Secretary of Labor, is an individual with a disability whose own income meets the requirements of a program described in subparagraph (A) or of subparagraph (B), but who is a member of a family whose income does not meet such requirements. (26) Nontraditional employment.--The term ``nontraditional employment'' refers to occupations or fields of work for which individuals from one gender comprise less than 25 percent of the individuals employed in each such occupation or field of work. (27) Offender.--The term ``offender'' means any adult or juvenile-- [[Page 112 STAT.943]] (A) who is or has been subject to any stage of the criminal justice process, for whom services under this Act may be beneficial; or (B) who requires assistance in overcoming artificial barriers to employment resulting from a record of arrest or conviction. (28) Older individual.--The term ``older individual'' means an individual age 55 or older. (29) One-stop operator.--The term ``one-stop operator'' means 1 or more entities designated or certified under section 121(d). (30) One-stop partner.--The term ``one-stop partner'' means-- (A) an entity described in section 121(b)(1); and (B) an entity described in section 121(b)(2) that is participating, with the approval of the local board and chief elected official, in the operation of a one-stop delivery system. (31) On-the-job training.--The term ``on-the-job training '' means training by an employer that is provided to a paid participant while engaged in productive work in a job that-- (A) provides knowledge or skills essential to the full and adequate performance of the job; (B) provides reimbursement to the employer of up to 50 percent of the wage rate of the participant, for the extraordinary costs of providing the training and additional supervision related to the training; and (C) is limited in duration as appropriate to the occupation for which the participant is being trained, taking into account the content of the training, the prior work experience of the participant, and the service strategy of the participant, as appropriate. (32) Outlying area.--The term ``outlying area'' means the United States Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau. (33) Out-of-school youth.--The term ``out-of-school youth'' means-- (A) an eligible youth who is a school dropout; or (B) an eligible youth who has received a secondary school diploma or its equivalent but is basic skills deficient, unemployed, or underemployed. (34) Participant.--The term ``participant'' means an individual who has been determined to be eligible to participate in and who is receiving services (except followup services authorized under this title) under a program authorized by this title. Participation shall be deemed to commence on the first day, following determination of eligibility, on which the individual began receiving subsidized employment, training, or other services provided under this title. (35) Postsecondary educational institution.--The term ``postsecondary educational institution'' means an institution of higher education, as defined in section 481 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1088). (36) Poverty line.--The term ``poverty line'' means the poverty line (as defined by the Office of Management and [[Page 112 STAT.944]] Budget, and revised annually in accordance with section 673(2) of the Community Services Block Grant Act (42 U.S.C. 9902(2))) applicable to a family of the size involved. (37) Public assistance.--The term ``public assistance'' means Federal, State, or local government cash payments for which eligibility is determined by a needs or income test. (38) Rapid response activity.--The term ``rapid response activity'' means an activity provided by a State, or by an entity designated by a State, with funds provided by the State under section 134(a)(1)(A), in the case of a permanent closure or mass layoff at a plant, facility, or enterprise, or a natural or other disaster, that results in mass job dislocation, in order to assist dislocated workers in obtaining reemployment as soon as possible, with services including-- (A) the establishment of onsite contact with employers and employee representatives-- (i) immediately after the State is notified of a current or projected permanent closure or mass layoff; or (ii) in the case of a disaster, immediately after the State is made aware of mass job dislocation as a result of such disaster; (B) the provision of information and access to available employment and training activities; (C) assistance in establishing a labor-management committee, voluntarily agreed to by labor and management, with the ability to devise and implement a strategy for assessing the employment and training needs of dislocated workers and obtaining services to meet such needs; (D) the provision of emergency assistance adapted to the particular closure, layoff, or disaster; and (E) the provision of assistance to the local community in developing a coordinated response and in obtaining access to State economic development assistance. (39) School dropout.--The term ``school dropout'' means an individual who is no longer attending any school and who has not received a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent. (40) Secondary school.--The term ``secondary school'' has the meaning given the term in section 14101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 8801). (41) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Labor, and the term means such Secretary for purposes of section 503. (42) State.--The term ``State'' means each of the several States of the United States, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. (43) State adjusted level of performance.--The term ``State adjusted level of performance'' means a level described in clause (iii) or (v) of section 136(b)(3)(A). (44) State board.--The term ``State board'' means a State workforce investment board established under section 111. (45) State performance measure.--The term ``State performance measure'' means a performance measure established under section 136(b). (46) Supportive services.--The term ``supportive services'' means services such as transportation, child care, dependent [[Page 112 STAT.945]] care, housing, and needs-related payments, that are necessary to enable an individual to participate in activities authorized under this title, consistent with the provisions of this title. (47) Unemployed individual.--The term ``unemployed individual'' means an individual who is without a job and who wants and is available for work. The determination of whether an individual is without a job shall be made in accordance with the criteria used by the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the Department of Labor in defining individuals as unemployed. (48) Unit of general local government.--The term ``unit of general local government'' means any general purpose political subdivision of a State that has the power to levy taxes and spend funds, as well as general corporate and police powers. (49) Veteran; related definition.-- (A) Veteran.--The term ``veteran'' means an individual who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released from such service under conditions other than dishonorable. (B) Recently separated veteran.--The term ``recently separated veteran'' means any veteran who applies for participation under this title within 48 months after the discharge or release from active military, naval, or air service. (50) Vocational education.--The term ``vocational education'' has the meaning given the term in section 521 of the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Education Act (20 U.S.C. 2471). (51) Workforce investment activity.--The term ``workforce investment activity'' means an employment and training activity, and a youth activity. (52) Youth activity.--The term ``youth activity'' means an activity described in section 129 that is carried out for eligible youth (or as described in section 129(c)(5)). (53) Youth council.--The term ``youth council'' means a council established under section 117(h). Subtitle B--Statewide and Local Workforce Investment Systems SEC. 106. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2811.>> PURPOSE. The purpose of this subtitle is to provide workforce investment activities, through statewide and local workforce investment systems, that increase the employment, retention, and earnings of participants, and increase occupational skill attainment by participants, and, as a result, improve the quality of the workforce, reduce welfare dependency, and enhance the productivity and competitiveness of the Nation. CHAPTER 1--STATE PROVISIONS SEC. 111. <<NOTE: Establishment. 29 USC 2821.>> STATE WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARDS. (a) In General.--The Governor of a State shall establish a State workforce investment board to assist in the development [[Page 112 STAT.946]] of the State plan described in section 112 and to carry out the other functions described in subsection (d). (b) Membership.-- (1) In general.--The State Board shall include-- (A) the Governor; (B) 2 members of each chamber of the State legislature, appointed by the appropriate presiding officers of each such chamber; and (C) representatives appointed by the Governor, who are-- (i) representatives of business in the State, who-- (I) are owners of businesses, chief executives or operating officers of businesses, and other business executives or employers with optimum policymaking or hiring authority, including members of local boards described in section 117(b)(2)(A)(i); (II) represent businesses with employment opportunities that reflect the employment opportunities of the State; and (III) are appointed from among individuals nominated by State business organizations and business trade associations; (ii) chief elected officials (representing both cities and counties, where appropriate); (iii) representatives of labor organizations, who have been nominated by State labor federations; (iv) representatives of individuals and organizations that have experience with respect to youth activities; (v) representatives of individuals and organizations that have experience and expertise in the delivery of workforce investment activities, including chief executive officers of community colleges and community-based organizations within the State; (vi)(I) the lead State agency officials with responsibility for the programs and activities that are described in section 121(b) and carried out by one-stop partners; and (II) in any case in which no lead State agency official has responsibility for such a program, service, or activity, a representative in the State with expertise relating to such program, service, or activity; and (vii) such other representatives and State agency officials as the Governor may designate, such as the State agency officials responsible for economic development and juvenile justice programs in the State. (2) Authority and regional representation of board members.--Members of the board that represent organizations, agencies, or other entities shall be individuals with optimum policymaking authority within the organizations, agencies, or entities. The members of the board shall represent diverse regions of the State, including urban, rural, and suburban areas. (3) Majority.--A majority of the members of the State Board shall be representatives described in paragraph (1)(C)(i). [[Page 112 STAT.947]] (c) Chairman.--The Governor shall select a chairperson for the State Board from among the representatives described in subsection (b)(1)(C)(i). (d) Functions.--The State Board shall assist the Governor in-- (1) development of the State plan; (2) development and continuous improvement of a statewide system of activities that are funded under this subtitle or carried out through a one-stop delivery system described in section 134(c) that receives funds under this subtitle (referred to in this title as a ``statewide workforce investment system''), including-- (A) development of linkages in order to assure coordination and nonduplication among the programs and activities described in section 121(b); and (B) review of local plans; (3) commenting at least once annually on the measures taken pursuant to section 113(b)(14) of the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Education Act (20 U.S.C 2323(b)(14)); (4) designation of local areas as required in section 116; (5) development of allocation formulas for the distribution of funds for adult employment and training activities and youth activities to local areas as permitted under sections 128(b)(3)(B) and 133(b)(3)(B); (6) development and continuous improvement of comprehensive State performance measures, including State adjusted levels of performance, to assess the effectiveness of the workforce investment activities in the State as required under section 136(b); (7) preparation of the annual report to the Secretary described in section 136(d); (8) development of the statewide employment statistics system described in section 15(e) of the Wagner-Peyser Act; and (9) development of an application for an incentive grant under section 503. (e) Alternative Entity.-- (1) In general.--For purposes of complying with subsections (a), (b), and (c), a State may use any State entity (including a State council, State workforce development board, combination of regional workforce development boards, or similar entity) that-- (A) was in existence on December 31, 1997; (B)(i) was established pursuant to section 122 or title VII of the Job Training Partnership Act, as in effect on December 31, 1997; or (ii) is substantially similar to the State board described in subsections (a), (b), and (c); and (C) includes representatives of business in the State and representatives of labor organizations in the State. (2) References.--References in this Act to a State board shall be considered to include such an entity. (f ) Conflict of Interest.--A member of a State board may not-- (1) vote on a matter under consideration by the State board-- [[Page 112 STAT.948]] (A) regarding the provision of services by such member (or by an entity that such member represents); or (B) that would provide direct financial benefit to such member or the immediate family of such member; or (2) engage in any other activity determined by the Governor to constitute a conflict of interest as specified in the State plan. (g) Sunshine Provision.--The State board shall make available to the public, on a regular basis through open meetings, information regarding the activities of the State board, including information regarding the State plan prior to submission of the plan, information regarding membership, and, on request, minutes of formal meetings of the State board. SEC. 112. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2822.>> STATE PLAN. (a) In General.--For a State to be eligible to receive an allotment under section 127 or 132, or to receive financial assistance under the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49 et seq.), the Governor of the State shall submit to the Secretary for consideration by the Secretary, a single State plan (referred to in this title as the ``State plan'') that outlines a 5-year strategy for the statewide workforce investment system of the State and that meets the requirements of section 111 and this section. (b) Contents.--The State plan shall include-- (1) a description of the State board, including a description of the manner in which such board collaborated in the development of the State plan and a description of how the board will continue to collaborate in carrying out the functions described in section 111(d); (2) a description of State-imposed requirements for the statewide workforce investment system; (3) a description of the State performance accountability system developed for the workforce investment activities to be carried out through the statewide workforce investment system, that includes information identifying State performance measures as described in section 136(b)(3)(A)(ii); (4) information describing-- (A) the needs of the State with regard to current and projected employment opportunities, by occupation; (B) the job skills necessary to obtain such employment opportunities; (C) the skills and economic development needs of the State; and (D) the type and availability of workforce investment activities in the State; (5) an identification of local areas designated in the State, including a description of the process used for the designation of such areas; (6) an identification of criteria to be used by chief elected officials for the appointment of members of local boards based on the requirements of section 117; (7) the detailed plans required under section 8 of the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49g); (8)(A) a description of the procedures that will be taken by the State to assure coordination of and avoid duplication among-- [[Page 112 STAT.949]] (i) workforce investment activities authorized under this title; (ii) other activities authorized under this title; (iii) programs authorized under the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49 et seq.), title II of this Act, title I of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 720 et seq.), part A of title IV of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 601 et seq.), and section 6(d)(4) of the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 2015(d)(4)), activities authorized under title V of the Older Americans Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3056 et seq.), and postsecondary vocational education activities authorized under the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Education Act (20 U.S.C. 2301 et seq.); (iv) work programs authorized under section 6(o) of the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 2015(o)); (v) activities authorized under chapter 2 of title II of the Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2271 et seq.); (vi) activities authorized under chapter 41 of title 38, United States Code; (vii) employment and training activities carried out under the Community Services Block Grant Act (42 U.S.C. 9901 et seq.); (viii) activities authorized under the National and Community Service Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12501 et seq.); (ix) employment and training activities carried out by the Department of Housing and Urban Development; and (x) programs authorized under State unemployment compensation laws (in accordance with applicable Federal law); and (B) a description of the common data collection and reporting processes used for the programs and activities described in subparagraph (A); (9) a description of the process used by the State, consistent with section 111(g), to provide an opportunity for public comment, including comment by representatives of businesses and representatives of labor organizations, and input into development of the plan, prior to submission of the plan; (10) information identifying how the State will use funds the State receives under this subtitle to leverage other Federal, State, local, and private resources, in order to maximize the effectiveness of such resources, and to expand the participation of business, employees, and individuals in the statewide workforce investment system; (11) assurances that the State will provide, in accordance with section 184 for fiscal control and fund accounting procedures that may be necessary to ensure the proper disbursement of, and accounting for, funds paid to the State through the allotments made under sections 127 and 132; (12)(A) a description of the methods and factors the State will use in distributing funds to local areas for youth activities and adult employment and training activities under sections 128(b)(3)(B) and 133(b)(3)(B), including-- (i) a description of how the individuals and entities represented on the State board were involved in determining such methods and factors of distribution; and [[Page 112 STAT.950]] (ii) a description of how the State consulted with chief elected officials in local areas throughout the State in determining such distribution; (B) assurances that the funds will be distributed equitably throughout the State, and that no local areas will suffer significant shifts in funding from year to year; and (C) a description of the formula prescribed by the Governor pursuant to section 133(b)(2)(B) for the allocation of funds to local areas for dislocated worker employment and training activities; (13) information specifying the actions that constitute a conflict of interest prohibited in the State for purposes of sections 111(f ) and 117(g); (14) with respect to the one-stop delivery systems described in section 134(c) (referred to individually in this title as a ``one-stop delivery system''), a description of the strategy of the State for assisting local areas in development and implementation of fully operational one-stop delivery systems in the State; (15) a description of the appeals process referred to in section 116(a)(5); (16) a description of the competitive process to be used by the State to award grants and contracts in the State for activities carried out under this title; (17) with respect to the employment and training activities authorized in section 134-- (A) a description of-- (i) the employment and training activities that will be carried out with the funds received by the State through the allotment made under section 132; (ii) how the State will provide rapid response activities to dislocated workers from funds reserved under section 133(a)(2) for such purposes, including the designation of an identifiable State rapid response dislocated worker unit to carry out statewide rapid response activities; (iii) the procedures the local boards in the State will use to identify eligible providers of training services described in section 134(d)(4) (other than on-the-job training or customized training), as required under section 122; and (iv) how the State will serve the employment and training needs of dislocated workers (including displaced homemakers), low-income individuals (including recipients of public assistance), individuals training for nontraditional employment, and other individuals with multiple barriers to employment (including older individuals and individuals with disabilities); and (B) an assurance that veterans will be afforded the employment and training activities by the State, to the extent practicable; and (18) with respect to youth activities authorized in section 129, information-- (A) describing the State strategy for providing comprehensive services to eligible youth, particularly those eligible youth who are recognized as having significant barriers to employment; [[Page 112 STAT.951]] (B) identifying the criteria to be used by local boards in awarding grants for youth activities, including criteria that the Governor and local boards will use to identify effective and ineffective youth activities and providers of such activities; (C) describing how the State will coordinate the youth activities carried out in the State under section 129 with the services provided by Job Corps centers in the State (where such centers exist); and (D) describing how the State will coordinate youth activities described in subparagraph (C) with activities carried out through the youth opportunity grants under section 169. (c) Plan Submission and Approval.--A State plan submitted to the Secretary under this section by a Governor shall be considered to be approved by the Secretary at the end of the 90-day period beginning on the day the Secretary receives the plan, unless the Secretary makes a written determination, during the 90-day period, that-- (1) the plan is inconsistent with the provisions of this title; and (2) in the case of the portion of the plan described in section 8(a) of the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49g(a)), the portion does not satisfy the criteria for approval provided in section 8(d) of such Act. (d) Modifications to Plan.--A State may submit modifications to a State plan in accordance with the requirements of this section and section 111 as necessary during the 5-year period covered by the plan. CHAPTER 2--LOCAL PROVISIONS SEC. 116. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2831.>> LOCAL WORKFORCE INVESTMENT AREAS. (a) Designation of Areas.-- (1) In general.-- (A) Process.--Except as provided in subsection (b), and consistent with paragraphs (2), (3), and (4), in order for a State to receive an allotment under section 127 or 132, the Governor of the State shall designate local workforce investment areas within the State-- (i) through consultation with the State board; and (ii) after consultation with chief elected officials and after consideration of comments received through the public comment process as described in section 112(b)(9). (B) Considerations.--In making the designation of local areas, the Governor shall take into consideration the following: (i) Geographic areas served by local educational agencies and intermediate educational agencies. (ii) Geographic areas served by postsecondary educational institutions and area vocational education schools. (iii) The extent to which such local areas are consistent with labor market areas. (iv) The distance that individuals will need to travel to receive services provided in such local areas. [[Page 112 STAT.952]] (v) The resources of such local areas that are available to effectively administer the activities carried out under this subtitle. (2) Automatic designation.--The Governor shall approve any request for designation as a local area-- (A) from any unit of general local government with a population of 500,000 or more; (B) of the area served by a rural concentrated employment program grant recipient of demonstrated effectiveness that served as a service delivery area or substate area under the Job Training Partnership Act, if the grant recipient has submitted the request; and (C) of an area that served as a service delivery area under section 101(a)(4)(A)(ii) of the Job Training Partnership Act (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act) in a State that has a population of not more than 1,100,000 and a population density greater than 900 persons per square mile. (3) Temporary and subsequent designation.-- (A) Criteria.--Notwithstanding paragraph (2)(A), the Governor shall approve any request, made not later than the date of submission of the initial State plan under this subtitle, for temporary designation as a local area from any unit of general local government (including a combination of such units) with a population of 200,000 or more that was a service delivery area under the Job Training Partnership Act on the day before the date of enactment of this Act if the Governor determines that the area-- (i) performed successfully, in each of the last 2 years prior to the request for which data are available, in the delivery of services to participants under part A of title II and title III of the Job Training Partnership Act (as in effect on such day); and (ii) has sustained the fiscal integrity of the funds used by the area to carry out activities under such part and title. (B) Duration and subsequent designation.--A temporary designation under this paragraph shall be for a period of not more than 2 years, after which the designation shall be extended until the end of the period covered by the State plan if the Governor determines that, during the temporary designation period, the area substantially met (as defined by the State board) the local performance measures for the local area and sustained the fiscal integrity of the funds used by the area to carry out activities under this subtitle. (C) Technical assistance.--The Secretary shall provide the States with technical assistance in making the determinations required by this paragraph. The Secretary shall not issue regulations governing determinations to be made under this paragraph. (D) Performed successfully.--In this paragraph, the term ``performed successfully'' means that the area involved met or exceeded the performance standards for activities administered in the area that-- [[Page 112 STAT.953]] (i) are established by the Secretary for each year and modified by the adjustment methodology of the State (used to account for differences in economic conditions, participant characteristics, and combination of services provided from the combination assumed for purposes of the established standards of the Secretary); and (ii)(I) if the area was designated as both a service delivery area and a substate area under the Job Training Partnership Act (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act)-- (aa) relate to job retention and earnings, with respect to activities carried out under part A of title II of such Act (as in effect on such day); or (bb) relate to entry into employment, with respect to activities carried out under title III of such Act (as in effect on such day); (II) if the area was designated only as a service delivery area under such Act (as in effect on such day), relate to the standards described in subclause (I)(aa); or (III) if the area was only designated as a substate area under such Act (as in effect on such day), relate to the standards described in subclause (I)(bb). (E) Sustained the fiscal integrity.--In this paragraph, the term ``sustained the fiscal integrity'', used with respect to funds used by a service delivery area or local area, means that the Secretary has not made a final determination during any of the last 3 years for which data are available, prior to the date of the designation request involved, that either the grant recipient or the administrative entity of the area misexpended the funds due to willful disregard of the requirements of the Act involved, gross negligence, or failure to observe accepted standards of administration. (4) Designation on recommendation of state board.--The Governor may approve a request from any unit of general local government (including a combination of such units) for designation (including temporary designation) as a local area if the State board determines, taking into account the factors described in clauses (i) through (v) of paragraph (1)(B), and recommends to the Governor, that such area should be so designated. (5) Appeals.--A unit of general local government (including a combination of such units) or grant recipient that requests but is not granted designation of an area as a local area under paragraph (2) or (3) may submit an appeal to the State board under an appeal process established in the State plan. If the appeal does not result in such a designation, the Secretary, after receiving a request for review from the unit or grant recipient and on determining that the unit or grant recipient was not accorded procedural rights under the appeal process established in the State plan or that the area meets the requirements of paragraph (2) or (3), as appropriate, may require that the area be designated as a local area under such paragraph. [[Page 112 STAT.954]] (b) Small States.--The Governor of any State that was a single State service delivery area under the Job Training Partnership Act as of July 1, 1998, may designate the State as a single State local area for the purposes of this title. In the case of such a designation, the Governor shall identify the State as a local area under section 112(b)(5). (c) Regional Planning and Cooperation.-- (1) Planning.--As part of the process for developing the State plan, a State may require regional planning by local boards for a designated region in the State. The State may require the local boards for a designated region to participate in a regional planning process that results in the establishment of regional performance measures for workforce investment activities authorized under this subtitle. The State may award regional incentive grants to the designated regions that meet or exceed the regional performance measures. (2) Information sharing.--The State may require the local boards for a designated region to share, in feasible cases, employment statistics, information about employment opportunities and trends, and other types of information that would assist in improving the performance of all local areas in the designated region on local performance measures. (3) Coordination of services.--The State may require the local boards for a designated region to coordinate the provision of workforce investment activities authorized under this subtitle, including the provision of transportation and other supportive services, so that services provided through the activities may be provided across the boundaries of local areas within the designated region. (4) Interstate regions.--Two or more States that contain an interstate region that is a labor market area, economic development region, or other appropriate contiguous subarea of the States may designate the area as a designated region for purposes of this subsection, and jointly exercise the State functions described in paragraphs (1) through (3). (5) Definitions.--In this subsection: (A) Designated region.--The term ``designated region'' means a combination of local areas that are partly or completely in a single labor market area, economic development region, or other appropriate contiguous subarea of a State, that is designated by the State, except as provided in paragraph (4). (B) Local board for a designated region.--The term ``local board for a designated region'' means a local board for a local area in a designated region. SEC. 117. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2832.>> LOCAL WORKFORCE INVESTMENT BOARDS. (a) Establishment.--There shall be established in each local area of a State, and certified by the Governor of the State, a local workforce investment board, to set policy for the portion of the statewide workforce investment system within the local area (referred to in this title as a ``local workforce investment system''). (b) Membership.-- (1) State criteria.--The Governor of the State, in partnership with the State board, shall establish criteria for use by chief elected officials in the local areas for appointment of [[Page 112 STAT.955]] members of the local boards in such local areas in accordance with the requirements of paragraph (2). (2) Composition.--Such criteria shall require, at a minimum, that the membership of each local board-- (A) shall include-- (i) representatives of business in the local area, who-- (I) are owners of businesses, chief executives or operating officers of businesses, and other business executives or employers with optimum policymaking or hiring authority; (II) represent businesses with employment opportunities that reflect the employment opportunities of the local area; and (III) are appointed from among individuals nominated by local business organizations and business trade associations; (ii) representatives of local educational entities, including representatives of local educational agencies, local school boards, entities providing adult education and literacy activities, and postsecondary educational institutions (including representatives of community colleges, where such entities exist), selected from among individuals nominated by regional or local educational agencies, institutions, or organizations representing such local educational entities; (iii) representatives of labor organizations (for a local area in which employees are represented by labor organizations), nominated by local labor federations, or (for a local area in which no employees are represented by such organizations), other representatives of employees; (iv) representatives of community-based organizations (including organizations representing individuals with disabilities and veterans, for a local area in which such organizations are present); (v) representatives of economic development agencies, including private sector economic development entities; and (vi) representatives of each of the one-stop partners; and (B) may include such other individuals or representatives of entities as the chief elected official in the local area may determine to be appropriate. (3) Authority of board members.--Members of the board that represent organizations, agencies, or other entities shall be individuals with optimum policymaking authority within the organizations, agencies, or entities. (4) Majority.--A majority of the members of the local board shall be representatives described in paragraph (2)(A)(i). (5) Chairperson.--The local board shall elect a chairperson for the local board from among the representatives described in paragraph (2)(A)(i). (c) Appointment and Certification of Board.-- (1) Appointment of board members and assignment of responsibilities.-- [[Page 112 STAT.956]] (A) In general.--The chief elected official in a local area is authorized to appoint the members of the local board for such area, in accordance with the State criteria established under subsection (b). (B) Multiple units of local government in area.-- (i) In general.--In a case in which a local area includes more than 1 unit of general local government, the chief elected officials of such units may execute an agreement that specifies the respective roles of the individual chief elected officials-- (I) in the appointment of the members of the local board from the individuals nominated or recommended to be such members in accordance with the criteria established under subsection (b); and (II) in carrying out any other responsibilities assigned to such officials under this subtitle. (ii) Lack of agreement.--If, after a reasonable effort, the chief elected officials are unable to reach agreement as provided under clause (i), the Governor may appoint the members of the local board from individuals so nominated or recommended. (C) Concentrated employment programs.--In the case of a local area designated in accordance with section 116(a)(2)(B), the governing body of the concentrated employment program involved shall act in consultation with the chief elected official in the local area to appoint members of the local board, in accordance with the State criteria established under subsection (b), and to carry out any other responsibility relating to workforce investment activities assigned to such official under this Act. (2) Certification.-- (A) In general.--The Governor shall, once every 2 years, certify 1 local board for each local area in the State. (B) Criteria.--Such certification shall be based on criteria established under subsection (b) and, for a second or subsequent certification, the extent to which the local board has ensured that workforce investment activities carried out in the local area have enabled the local area to meet the local performance measures. (C) Failure to achieve certification.--Failure of a local board to achieve certification shall result in reappointment and certification of another local board for the local area pursuant to the process described in paragraph (1) and this paragraph. (3) Decertification.-- (A) Fraud, abuse, failure to carry out functions.-- Notwithstanding paragraph (2), the Governor may decertify a local board, at any time after providing notice and an opportunity for comment, for-- (i) fraud or abuse; or (ii) failure to carry out the functions specified for the local board in any of paragraphs (1) through (7) of subsection (d). (B) Nonperformance.--Notwithstanding paragraph (2), the Governor may decertify a local board if a local area fails to meet the local performance measures for such [[Page 112 STAT.957]] local area for 2 consecutive program years (in accordance with section 136(h)). (C) Plan.--If the Governor decertifies a local board for a local area under subparagraph (A) or (B), the Governor may require that a new local board be appointed and certified for the local area pursuant to a reorganization plan developed by the Governor, in consultation with the chief elected official in the local area, and in accordance with the criteria established under subsection (b). (4) Single state area.--Notwithstanding subsection (b) and paragraphs (1) and (2), if a State described in section 116(b) indicates in the State plan that the State will be treated as a local area for purposes of the application of this title, the Governor may designate the State board to carry out any of the functions described in subsection (d). (d) Functions of Local Board.--The functions of the local board shall include the following: (1) Local plan.--Consistent with section 118, each local board, in partnership with the chief elected official for the local area involved, shall develop and submit a local plan to the Governor. (2) Selection of operators and providers.-- (A) Selection of one-stop operators.--Consistent with section 121(d), the local board, with the agreement of the chief elected official-- (i) shall designate or certify one-stop operators as described in section 121(d)(2)(A); and (ii) may terminate for cause the eligibility of such operators. (B) Selection of youth providers.--Consistent with section 123, the local board shall identify eligible providers of youth activities in the local area by awarding grants or contracts on a competitive basis, based on the recommendations of the youth council. (C) Identification of eligible providers of training services.--Consistent with section 122, the local board shall identify eligible providers of training services described in section 134(d)(4) in the local area. (D) Identification of eligible providers of intensive services.--If the one-stop operator does not provide intensive services in a local area, the local board shall identify eligible providers of intensive services described in section 134(d)(3) in the local area by awarding contracts. (3) Budget and administration.-- (A) Budget.--The local board shall develop a budget for the purpose of carrying out the duties of the local board under this section, subject to the approval of the chief elected official. (B) Administration.-- (i) Grant recipient.-- (I) In general.--The chief elected official in a local area shall serve as the local grant recipient for, and shall be liable for any misuse of, the grant funds allocated to the local area under sections 128 and 133, unless the chief elected official reaches an agreement with the Governor for the [[Page 112 STAT.958]] Governor to act as the local grant recipient and bear such liability. (II) Designation.--In order to assist in the administration of the grant funds, the chief elected official or the Governor, where the Governor serves as the local grant recipient for a local area, may designate an entity to serve as a local grant subrecipient for such funds or as a local fiscal agent. Such designation shall not relieve the chief elected official or the Governor of the liability for any misuse of grant funds as described in subclause (I). (III) Disbursal.--The local grant recipient or an entity designated under subclause (II) shall disburse such funds for workforce investment activities at the direction of the local board, pursuant to the requirements of this title, if the direction does not violate a provision of this Act. The local grant recipient or entity designated under subclause (II) shall disburse the funds immediately on receiving such direction from the local board. (ii) Staff.--The local board may employ staff. (iii) Grants and donations.--The local board may solicit and accept grants and donations from sources other than Federal funds made available under this Act. (4) Program oversight.--The local board, in partnership with the chief elected official, shall conduct oversight with respect to local programs of youth activities authorized under section 129, local employment and training activities authorized under section 134, and the one-stop delivery system in the local area. (5) Negotiation of local performance measures.--The local board, the chief elected official, and the Governor shall negotiate and reach agreement on local performance measures as described in section 136(c). (6) Employment statistics system.--The local board shall assist the Governor in developing the statewide employment statistics system described in section 15(e) of the Wagner- Peyser Act. (7) Employer linkages.--The local board shall coordinate the workforce investment activities authorized under this subtitle and carried out in the local area with economic development strategies and develop other employer linkages with such activities. (8) Connecting, brokering, and coaching.--The local board shall promote the participation of private sector employers in the statewide workforce investment system and ensure the effective provision, through the system, of connecting, brokering, and coaching activities, through intermediaries such as the one-stop operator in the local area or through other organizations, to assist such employers in meeting hiring needs. (e) Sunshine Provision.--The local board shall make available to the public, on a regular basis through open meetings, information regarding the activities of the local board, including information [[Page 112 STAT.959]] regarding the local plan prior to submission of the plan, and regarding membership, the designation and certification of one-stop operators, and the award of grants or contracts to eligible providers of youth activities, and on request, minutes of formal meetings of the local board. (f ) Limitations.-- (1) Training services.-- (A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph (B), no local board may provide training services described in section 134(d)(4). (B) Waivers of training prohibition.--The Governor of the State in which a local board is located may, pursuant to a request from the local board, grant a written waiver of the prohibition set forth in subparagraph (A) (relating to the provision of training services) for a program of training services, if the local board-- (i) submits to the Governor a proposed request for the waiver that includes-- (I) satisfactory evidence that there is an insufficient number of eligible providers of such a program of training services to meet local demand in the local area; (II) information demonstrating that the board meets the requirements for an eligible provider of training services under section 122; and (III) information demonstrating that the program of training services prepares participants for an occupation that is in demand in the local area; (ii) makes the proposed request available to eligible providers of training services and other interested members of the public for a public comment period of not less than 30 days; and (iii) includes, in the final request for the waiver, the evidence and information described in clause (i) and the comments received pursuant to clause (ii). (C) Duration.-- <<NOTE: Applicability.>> A waiver granted to a local board under subparagraph (B) shall apply for a period of not to exceed 1 year. The waiver may be renewed for additional periods of not to exceed 1 year, pursuant to requests from the local board, if the board meets the requirements of subparagraph (B) in making the requests. (D) Revocation.--The Governor may revoke a waiver granted under this paragraph during the appropriate period described in subparagraph (C) if the State determines that the local board involved has engaged in a pattern of inappropriate referrals to training services operated by the local board. (2) Core services; intensive services; designation or certification as one-stop operators.--A local board may provide core services described in section 134(d)(2) or intensive services described in section 134(d)(3) through a one-stop delivery system described in section 134(c) or be designated or certified as a one-stop operator only with the agreement of the chief elected official and the Governor. (3) Limitation on authority.--Nothing in this Act shall be construed to provide a local board with the authority to mandate curricula for schools. [[Page 112 STAT.960]] (g) Conflict of Interest.--A member of a local board may not-- (1) vote on a matter under consideration by the local board-- (A) regarding the provision of services by such member (or by an entity that such member represents); or (B) that would provide direct financial benefit to such member or the immediate family of such member; or (2) engage in any other activity determined by the Governor to constitute a conflict of interest as specified in the State plan. (h) Youth Council.-- (1) Establishment.--There shall be established, as a subgroup within each local board, a youth council appointed by the local board, in cooperation with the chief elected official for the local area. (2) Membership.--The membership of each youth council-- (A) shall include-- (i) members of the local board described in subparagraph (A) or (B) of subsection (b)(2) with special interest or expertise in youth policy; (ii) representatives of youth service agencies, including juvenile justice and local law enforcement agencies; (iii) representatives of local public housing authorities; (iv) parents of eligible youth seeking assistance under this subtitle; (v) individuals, including former participants, and representatives of organizations, that have experience relating to youth activities; and (vi) representatives of the Job Corps, as appropriate; and (B) may include such other individuals as the chairperson of the local board, in cooperation with the chief elected official, determines to be appropriate. (3) Relationship to local board.--Members of the youth council who are not members of the local board described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of subsection (b)(2) shall be voting members of the youth council and nonvoting members of the board. (4) Duties.--The duties of the youth council include-- (A) developing the portions of the local plan relating to eligible youth, as determined by the chairperson of the local board; (B) subject to the approval of the local board and consistent with section 123-- (i) recommending eligible providers of youth activities, to be awarded grants or contracts on a competitive basis by the local board to carry out the youth activities; and (ii) conducting oversight with respect to the eligible providers of youth activities, in the local area; (C) coordinating youth activities authorized under section 129 in the local area; and (D) other duties determined to be appropriate by the chairperson of the local board. [[Page 112 STAT.961]] (i) Alternative Entity.-- (1) In general.--For purposes of complying with subsections (a), (b), and (c), and paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (h), a State may use any local entity (including a local council, regional workforce development board, or similar entity) that-- (A) is established to serve the local area (or the service delivery area that most closely corresponds to the local area); (B) is in existence on December 31, 1997; (C)(i) is established pursuant to section 102 of the Job Training Partnership Act, as in effect on December 31, 1997; or (ii) is substantially similar to the local board described in subsections (a), (b), and (c), and paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (h); and (D) includes-- (i) representatives of business in the local area; and (ii)(I) representatives of labor organizations (for a local area in which employees are represented by labor organizations), nominated by local labor federations; or (II) (for a local area in which no employees are represented by such organizations), other representatives of employees in the local area. (2) References.--References in this Act to a local board or a youth council shall be considered to include such an entity or a subgroup of such an entity, respectively. SEC. 118. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2833.>> LOCAL PLAN. (a) In General.--Each local board shall develop and submit to the Governor a comprehensive 5-year local plan (referred to in this title as the ``local plan''), in partnership with the appropriate chief elected official. The plan shall be consistent with the State plan. (b) Contents.--The local plan shall include-- (1) an identification of-- (A) the workforce investment needs of businesses, jobseekers, and workers in the local area; (B) the current and projected employment opportunities in the local area; and (C) the job skills necessary to obtain such employment opportunities; (2) a description of the one-stop delivery system to be established or designated in the local area, including-- (A) a description of how the local board will ensure the continuous improvement of eligible providers of services through the system and ensure that such providers meet the employment needs of local employers and participants; and (B) a copy of each memorandum of understanding described in section 121(c) (between the local board and each of the one-stop partners) concerning the operation of the one-stop delivery system in the local area; (3) a description of the local levels of performance negotiated with the Governor and chief elected official pursuant to section 136(c), to be used to measure the performance of [[Page 112 STAT.962]] the local area and to be used by the local board for measuring the performance of the local fiscal agent (where appropriate), eligible providers, and the one-stop delivery system, in the local area; (4) a description and assessment of the type and availability of adult and dislocated worker employment and training activities in the local area; (5) a description of how the local board will coordinate workforce investment activities carried out in the local area with statewide rapid response activities, as appropriate; (6) a description and assessment of the type and availability of youth activities in the local area, including an identification of successful providers of such activities; (7) a description of the process used by the local board, consistent with subsection (c), to provide an opportunity for public comment, including comment by representatives of businesses and comment by representatives of labor organizations, and input into the development of the local plan, prior to submission of the plan; (8) an identification of the entity responsible for the disbursal of grant funds described in section 117(d)(3)(B)(i)(III), as determined by the chief elected official or the Governor under section 117(d)(3)(B)(i); (9) a description of the competitive process to be used to award the grants and contracts in the local area for activities carried out under this subtitle; and (10) such other information as the Governor may require. (c) Process.--Prior to the date on which the local board submits a local plan under this section, the local board shall-- (1) make available copies of a proposed local plan to the public through such means as public hearings and local news media; (2) allow members of the local board and members of the public, including representatives of business and representatives of labor organizations, to submit comments on the proposed local plan to the local board, not later than the end of the 30-day period beginning on the date on which the proposed local plan is made available; and (3) include with the local plan submitted to the Governor under this section any such comments that represent disagreement with the plan. (d) Plan Submission and Approval.--A local plan submitted to the Governor under this section shall be considered to be approved by the Governor at the end of the 90-day period beginning on the day the Governor receives the plan, unless the Governor makes a written determination during the 90-day period that-- (1) deficiencies in activities carried out under this subtitle have been identified, through audits conducted under section 184 or otherwise, and the local area has not made acceptable progress in implementing corrective measures to address the deficiencies; or (2) the plan does not comply with this title. [[Page 112 STAT.963]] CHAPTER 3--WORKFORCE INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES PROVIDERS SEC. 121. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2841.>> ESTABLISHMENT OF ONE-STOP DELIVERY SYSTEMS. (a) In General.--Consistent with the State plan, the local board for a local area, with the agreement of the chief elected official for the local area, shall-- (1) <<NOTE: Contracts.>> develop and enter into the memorandum of understanding described in subsection (c) with one-stop partners; (2) designate or certify one-stop operators under subsection (d); and (3) conduct oversight with respect to the one-stop delivery system in the local area. (b) One-Stop Partners.-- (1) Required partners.-- (A) In general.--Each entity that carries out a program or activities described in subparagraph (B) shall-- (i) make available to participants, through a one-stop delivery system, the services described in section 134(d)(2) that are applicable to such program or activities; and (ii) participate in the operation of such system consistent with the terms of the memorandum described in subsection (c), and with the requirements of the Federal law in which the program or activities are authorized. (B) Programs and activities.--The programs and activities referred to in subparagraph (A) consist of-- (i) programs authorized under this title; (ii) programs authorized under the Wagner- Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49 et seq.); (iii) adult education and literacy activities authorized under title II; (iv) programs authorized under title I of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 720 et seq.); (v) programs authorized under section 403(a)(5) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 603(a)(5)) (as added by section 5001 of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997); (vi) activities authorized under title V of the Older Americans Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3056 et seq.); (vii) postsecondary vocational education activities authorized under the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Education Act (20 U.S.C. 2301 et seq.); (viii) activities authorized under chapter 2 of title II of the Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2271 et seq.); (ix) activities authorized under chapter 41 of title 38, United States Code; (x) employment and training activities carried out under the Community Services Block Grant Act (42 U.S.C. 9901 et seq.); (xi) employment and training activities carried out by the Department of Housing and Urban Development; and [[Page 112 STAT.964]] (xii) programs authorized under State unemployment compensation laws (in accordance with applicable Federal law). (2) Additional partners.-- (A) In general.--In addition to the entities described in paragraph (1), other entities that carry out a human resource program described in subparagraph (B) may-- (i) make available to participants, through the one-stop delivery system, the services described in section 134(d)(2) that are applicable to such program; and (ii) participate in the operation of such system consistent with the terms of the memorandum described in subsection (c), and with the requirements of the Federal law in which the program is authorized; if the local board and chief elected official involved approve such participation. (B) Programs.--The programs referred to in subparagraph (A) may include-- (i) programs authorized under part A of title IV of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 601 et seq.); (ii) programs authorized under section 6(d)(4) of the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 2015(d)(4)); (iii) work programs authorized under section 6(o) of the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 2015(o)); (iv) programs authorized under the National and Community Service Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12501 et seq.); and (v) other appropriate Federal, State, or local programs, including programs in the private sector. (c) Memorandum of Understanding.-- (1) Development.--The local board, with the agreement of the chief elected official, shall develop and enter into a memorandum of understanding (between the local board and the one-stop partners), consistent with paragraph (2), concerning the operation of the one-stop delivery system in the local area. (2) Contents.--Each memorandum of understanding shall contain-- (A) provisions describing-- (i) the services to be provided through the one-stop delivery system; (ii) how the costs of such services and the operating costs of the system will be funded; (iii) methods for referral of individuals between the one-stop operator and the one-stop partners, for the appropriate services and activities; and (iv) the duration of the memorandum and the procedures for amending the memorandum during the term of the memorandum; and (B) such other provisions, consistent with the requirements of this title, as the parties to the agreement determine to be appropriate. (d) One-Stop Operators.-- (1) Designation and certification.--Consistent with paragraphs (2) and (3), the local board, with the agreement of the chief elected official, is authorized to designate or certify [[Page 112 STAT.965]] one-stop operators and to terminate for cause the eligibility of such operators. (2) Eligibility.--To be eligible to receive funds made available under this subtitle to operate a one-stop center referred to in section 134(c), an entity (which may be a consortium of entities)-- (A) shall be designated or certified as a one-stop operator-- (i) through a competitive process; or (ii) in accordance with an agreement reached between the local board and a consortium of entities that, at a minimum, includes 3 or more of the one-stop partners described in subsection (b)(1); and (B) may be a public or private entity, or consortium of entities, of demonstrated effectiveness, located in the local area, which may include-- (i) a postsecondary educational institution; (ii) an employment service agency established under the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49 et seq.), on behalf of the local office of the agency; (iii) a private, nonprofit organization (including a community-based organization); (iv) a private for-profit entity; (v) a government agency; and (vi) another interested organization or entity, which may include a local chamber of commerce or other business organization. (3) Exception.--Elementary schools and secondary schools shall not be eligible for designation or certification as one- stop operators, except that nontraditional public secondary schools and area vocational education schools shall be eligible for such designation or certification. (e) Established One-Stop Delivery System.--If a one-stop delivery system has been established in a local area prior to the date of enactment of this Act, the local board, the chief elected official, and the Governor involved may agree to certify an entity carrying out activities through the system as a one-stop operator for purposes of subsection (d), consistent with the requirements of subsection (b), of the memorandum of understanding, and of section 134(c). SEC. 122. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2842.>> IDENTIFICATION OF ELIGIBLE PROVIDERS OF TRAINING SERVICES. (a) Eligibility Requirements.-- (1) In general.--Except as provided in subsection (h), to be identified as an eligible provider of training services described in section 134(d)(4) (referred to in this section as ``training services'') in a local area and to be eligible to receive funds made available under section 133(b) for the provision of training services, a provider of such services shall meet the requirements of this section. (2) Providers.--Subject to the provisions of this section, to be eligible to receive the funds, the provider shall be-- (A) a postsecondary educational institution that-- (i) is eligible to receive Federal funds under title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070 et seq.); and [[Page 112 STAT.966]] (ii) provides a program that leads to an associate degree, baccalaureate degree, or certificate; (B) an entity that carries out programs under the Act of August 16, 1937 (commonly known as the ``National Apprenticeship Act''; 50 Stat. 664, chapter 663; 29 U.S.C. 50 et seq.); or (C) another public or private provider of a program of training services. (b) Initial Eligibility Determination.-- (1) Postsecondary educational institutions and entities carrying out apprenticeship programs.--To be initially eligible to receive funds as described in subsection (a) to carry out a program described in subparagraph (A) or (B) of subsection (a)(2), a provider described in subparagraph (A) or (B), respectively, of subsection (a)(2) shall submit an application, to the local board for the local area in which the provider desires to provide training services, at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the local board may require. (2) Other eligible providers.-- (A) Procedure.--Each Governor of a State shall establish a procedure for use by local boards in the State in determining the initial eligibility of a provider described in subsection (a)(2)(C) to receive funds as described in subsection (a) for a program of training services, including the initial eligibility of-- (i) a postsecondary educational institution to receive such funds for a program not described in subsection (a)(2)(A); and (ii) a provider described in subsection (a)(2)(B) to receive such funds for a program not described in subsection (a)(2)(B). (B) Recommendations.--In developing such procedure, the Governor shall solicit and take into consideration the recommendations of local boards and providers of training services within the State. (C) Opportunity to submit comments.--The Governor shall provide an opportunity, during the development of the procedure, for interested members of the public, including representatives of business and labor organizations, to submit comments on such procedure. (D) Requirements.--In establishing the procedure, the Governor shall require that, to be initially eligible to receive funds as described in subsection (a) for a program, a provider described in subsection (a)(2)(C)-- (i) shall submit an application, to the local board for the local area in which the provider desires to provide training services, at such time and in such manner as may be required, and containing a description of the program; (ii) if the provider provides training services through a program on the date of application, shall include in the application an appropriate portion of the performance information and program cost information described in subsection (d) for the program, [[Page 112 STAT.967]] as specified in the procedure, and shall meet appropriate levels of performance for the program, as specified in the procedure; and (iii) if the provider does not provide training services on such date, shall meet appropriate requirements, as specified in the procedure. (c) Subsequent Eligibility Determination.-- (1) Procedure.--Each Governor of a State shall establish a procedure for use by local boards in the State in determining the eligibility of a provider described in subsection (a)(2) to continue to receive funds as described in subsection (a) for a program after an initial period of eligibility under subsection (b) (referred to in this section as ``subsequent eligibility''). (2) Recommendations.--In developing such procedure, the Governor shall solicit and take into consideration the recommendations of local boards and providers of training services within the State. (3) Opportunity to submit comments.--The Governor shall provide an opportunity, during the development of the procedure, for interested members of the public, including representatives of business and labor organizations, to submit comments on such procedure. (4) Considerations.--In developing such procedure, the Governor shall ensure that the procedure requires the local boards to take into consideration, in making the determinations of subsequent eligibility-- (A) the specific economic, geographic, and demographic factors in the local areas in which providers seeking eligibility are located; and (B) the characteristics of the populations served by providers seeking eligibility, including the demonstrated difficulties in serving such populations, where applicable. (5) Requirements.--In establishing the procedure, the Governor shall require that, to be eligible to continue to receive funds as described in subsection (a) for a program after the initial period of eligibility, a provider described in subsection (a)(2) shall-- (A) submit the performance information and program cost information described in subsection (d)(1) for the program and any additional information required to be submitted in accordance with subsection (d)(2) for the program annually to the appropriate local board at such time and in such manner as may be required; and (B) annually meet the performance levels described in paragraph (6) for the program, as demonstrated utilizing quarterly records described in section 136, in a manner consistent with section 136. (6) Levels of performance.-- (A) In general.--At a minimum, the procedure described in paragraph (1) shall require the provider to meet minimum acceptable levels of performance based on the performance information referred to in paragraph (5)(A). (B) Higher levels of performance eligibility.--The local board may require higher levels of performance [[Page 112 STAT.968]] than the levels referred to in subparagraph (A) for subsequent eligibility to receive funds as described in subsection (a). (d) Performance and Cost Information.-- (1) Required information.--For a provider of training services to be determined to be subsequently eligible under subsection (c) to receive funds as described in subsection (a), such provider shall, under subsection (c), submit-- (A) verifiable program-specific performance information consisting of-- (i) program information, including-- (I) the program completion rates for all individuals participating in the applicable program conducted by the provider; (II) the percentage of all individuals participating in the applicable program who obtain unsubsidized employment, which may also include information specifying the percentage of the individuals who obtain unsubsidized employment in an occupation related to the program conducted; and (III) the wages at placement in employment of all individuals participating in the applicable program; and (ii) training services information for all participants who received assistance under section 134 to participate in the applicable program, including-- (I) the percentage of participants who have completed the applicable program and who are placed in unsubsidized employment; (II) the retention rates in unsubsidized employment of participants who have completed the applicable program, 6 months after the first day of the employment; (III) the wages received by participants who have completed the applicable program, 6 months after the first day of the employment involved; and (IV) where appropriate, the rates of licensure or certification, attainment of academic degrees or equivalents, or attainment of other measures of skills, of the graduates of the applicable program; and (B) information on program costs (such as tuition and fees) for participants in the applicable program. (2) Additional information.--Subject to paragraph (3), in addition to the performance information described in paragraph (1)-- (A) the Governor may require that a provider submit, under subsection (c), such other verifiable program- specific performance information as the Governor determines to be appropriate to obtain such subsequent eligibility, which may include information relating to-- (i) retention rates in employment and the subsequent wages of all individuals who complete the applicable program; [[Page 112 STAT.969]] (ii) where appropriate, the rates of licensure or certification of all individuals who complete the program; and (iii) the percentage of individuals who complete the program who attain industry- recognized occupational skills in the subject, occupation, or industry for which training is provided through the program, where applicable; and (B) the Governor, or the local board, may require a provider to submit, under subsection (c), other verifiable program-specific performance information to obtain such subsequent eligibility. (3) Conditions.-- (A) In general.--If the Governor or a local board requests additional information under paragraph (2) that imposes extraordinary costs on providers, or if providers experience extraordinary costs in the collection of information required under paragraph (1)(A)(ii), the Governor or the local board shall provide access to cost-effective methods for the collection of the information involved, or the Governor shall provide additional resources to assist providers in the collection of such information from funds made available as described in sections 128(a) and 133(a)(1), as appropriate. (B) Higher education eligibility requirements.--The local board and the designated State agency described in subsection (i) may accept program-specific performance information consistent with the requirements for eligibility under title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070 et seq.) from a provider for purposes of enabling the provider to fulfill the applicable requirements of this subsection, if such information is substantially similar to the information otherwise required under this subsection. (e) Local Identification.-- <<NOTE: Records.>> (1) In general.--The local board shall place on a list providers submitting an application under subsection (b)(1) and providers determined to be initially eligible under subsection (b)(2), and retain on the list providers determined to be subsequently eligible under subsection (c), to receive funds as described in subsection (a) for the provision of training services in the local area served by the local board. The list of providers shall be accompanied by any performance information and program cost information submitted under subsection (b) or (c) by the provider. (2) Submission to state agency.--On placing or retaining a provider on the list, the local board shall submit, to the designated State agency described in subsection (i), the list and the performance information and program cost information referred to in paragraph (1). If the agency determines, within 30 days after the date of the submission, that the provider does not meet the performance levels described in subsection (c)(6) for the program (where applicable), the agency may remove the provider from the list for the program. The agency may not remove from the list an agency submitting an application under subsection (b)(1). [[Page 112 STAT.970]] (3) Identification of eligible providers.--A provider who is placed or retained on the list under paragraph (1), and is not removed by the designated State agency under paragraph (2), for a program, shall be considered to be identified as an eligible provider of training services for the program. (4) Availability.-- (A) State list.--The designated State agency shall compile a single list of the providers identified under paragraph (3) from all local areas in the State and disseminate such list, and the performance information and program cost information described in paragraph (1), to the one-stop delivery systems within the State. Such list and information shall be made widely available to participants in employment and training activities authorized under section 134 and others through the one- stop delivery system. (B) Selection from state list.--Individuals eligible to receive training services under section 134(d)(4) shall have the opportunity to select any of the eligible providers, from any of the local areas in the State, that are included on the list described in subparagraph (A) to provide the services, consistent with the requirements of section 134. (5) Acceptance of individual training accounts by other states.--States may enter into agreements, on a reciprocal basis, to permit eligible providers of training services in a State to accept individual training accounts provided in another State. (f ) Enforcement.-- (1) Accuracy of information.--If the designated State agency, after consultation with the local board involved, determines that an eligible provider or individual supplying information on behalf of the provider intentionally supplies inaccurate information under this section, the agency shall terminate the eligibility of the provider to receive funds described in subsection (a) for any program for a period of time, but not less than 2 years. (2) Noncompliance.--If the designated State agency, or the local board working with the State agency, determines that an eligible provider described in subsection (a) substantially violates any requirement under this Act, the agency, or the local board working with the State agency, may terminate the eligibility of such provider to receive funds described in subsection (a) for the program involved or take such other action as the agency or local board determines to be appropriate. (3) Repayment.--A provider whose eligibility is terminated under paragraph (1) or (2) for a program shall be liable for repayment of all funds described in subsection (a) received for the program during any period of noncompliance described in such paragraph. (4) Construction.--This subsection and subsection (g) shall be construed to provide remedies and penalties that supplement, but do not supplant, other civil and criminal remedies and penalties. (g) <<NOTE: Procedures.>> Appeal.--The Governor shall establish procedures for providers of training services to appeal a denial of eligibility by the local board or the designated State agency under subsection (b), (c), or (e), a termination of eligibility or other action by the [[Page 112 STAT.971]] board or agency under subsection (f ), or a denial of eligibility by a one-stop operator under subsection (h). Such procedures shall provide an opportunity for a hearing and prescribe appropriate time limits to ensure prompt resolution of the appeal. (h) On-the-Job Training or Customized Training Exception.-- (1) In general.--Providers of on-the-job training or customized training shall not be subject to the requirements of subsections (a) through (e). (2) Collection and dissemination of information.--A one-stop operator in a local area shall collect such performance information from on-the-job training and customized training providers as the Governor may require, determine whether the providers meet such performance criteria as the Governor may require, and disseminate information identifying providers that meet the criteria as eligible providers, and the performance information, through the one-stop delivery system. Providers determined to meet the criteria shall be considered to be identified as eligible providers of training services. (i) Administration.--The Governor shall designate a State agency to make the determinations described in subsection (e)(2), take the enforcement actions described in subsection (f ), and carry out other duties described in this section. SEC. 123. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2843.>> IDENTIFICATION OF ELIGIBLE PROVIDERS OF YOUTH ACTIVITIES. From funds allocated under paragraph (2)(A) or (3) of section 128(b) to a local area, the local board for such area shall identify eligible providers of youth activities by awarding grants or contracts on a competitive basis, based on the recommendations of the youth council and on the criteria contained in the State plan, to the providers to carry out the activities, and shall conduct oversight with respect to the providers, in the local area. CHAPTER 4--YOUTH ACTIVITIES SEC. 126. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2851.>> GENERAL AUTHORIZATION. The Secretary shall make an allotment under section 127(b)(1)(C) to each State that meets the requirements of section 112 and a grant to each outlying area that complies with the requirements of this title, to assist the State or outlying area, and to enable the State or outlying area to assist local areas, for the purpose of providing workforce investment activities for eligible youth in the State or outlying area and in the local areas. SEC. 127. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2852.>> STATE ALLOTMENTS. (a) In General.--The Secretary shall-- (1) for each fiscal year in which the amount appropriated under section 137(a) exceeds $1,000,000,000, reserve a portion determined under subsection (b)(1)(A) of the amount appropriated under section 137(a) for use under sections 167 (relating to migrant and seasonal farmworker programs) and 169 (relating to youth opportunity grants); and (2) use the remainder of the amount appropriated under section 137(a) for a fiscal year to make allotments and grants in accordance with subparagraphs (B) and (C) of subsection (b)(1) and make funds available for use under section 166 (relating to Native American programs). [[Page 112 STAT.972]] (b) Allotment Among States.-- (1) Youth activities.-- (A) Youth opportunity grants.-- (i) In general.--For each fiscal year in which the amount appropriated under section 137(a) exceeds $1,000,000,000, the Secretary shall reserve a portion of the amount to provide youth opportunity grants and other activities under section 169 (relating to youth opportunity grants) and provide youth activities under section 167 (relating to migrant and seasonal farmworker programs). (ii) Portion.--The portion referred to in clause (i) shall equal, for a fiscal year-- (I) except as provided in subclause (II), the difference obtained by subtracting $1,000,000,000 from the amount appropriated under section 137(a) for the fiscal year; or (II) for any fiscal year in which the amount is $1,250,000,000 or greater, $250,000,000. (iii) Youth activities for farmworkers.--From the portion described in clause (i) for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall make available 4 percent of such portion to provide youth activities under section 167. (iv) Role model academy project.--From the portion described in clause (i) for fiscal year 1999, the Secretary shall make available such sums as the Secretary determines to be appropriate to carry out section 169(g). (B) Outlying areas.-- (i) In general.--From the amount made available under subsection (a)(2) for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall reserve not more than \1/4\ of 1 percent of the amount appropriated under section 137(a) for the fiscal year-- (I) to provide assistance to the outlying areas to carry out youth activities and statewide workforce investment activities; and (II) for each of fiscal years 1999, 2000, and 2001, to carry out the competition described in clause (ii), except that the funds reserved to carry out such clause for any such fiscal year shall not exceed the amount reserved for the Freely Associated States for fiscal year 1997, from amounts reserved under sections 252(a) and 262(a)(1) of the Job Training Partnership Act (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act). (ii) <<NOTE: Territories.>> Limitation for freely associated states.-- (I) Competitive grants.--The Secretary shall use funds described in clause (i)(II) to award grants to Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Freely Associated States to carry out youth activities and statewide workforce investment activities. (II) Award basis.--The Secretary shall award grants pursuant to subclause (I) on a competitive basis and pursuant to the recommendations of experts in the field of employment and training, [[Page 112 STAT.973]] working through the Pacific Region Educational Laboratory in Honolulu, Hawaii. (III) Assistance requirements.--Any Freely Associated State that desires to receive assistance under this subparagraph shall submit an application to the Secretary and shall include in the application for assistance-- (aa) information demonstrating that the Freely Associated State will meet all conditions that apply to States under this title; (bb) an assurance that, notwithstanding any other provision of this title, the Freely Associated State will use such assistance only for the direct provision of services; and (cc) such other information and assurances as the Secretary may require. (IV) Termination of eligibility.-- Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Freely Associated States shall not receive any assistance under this subparagraph for any program year that begins after September 30, 2001. (V) Administrative costs.--The Secretary may provide not more than 5 percent of the funds made available for grants under subclause (I) to pay the administrative costs of the Pacific Region Educational Laboratory in Honolulu, Hawaii, regarding activities assisted under this clause. (iii) Additional requirement.--The provisions of Public Law 95-134, permitting the consolidation of grants by the outlying areas, shall not apply to assistance provided to those areas, including the Freely Associated States, under this subparagraph. (C) States.-- (i) In general.--After determining the amounts to be reserved under subparagraph (A) (if any) and subparagraph (B), the Secretary shall-- (I) from the amount referred to in subsection (a)(2) for a fiscal year, make available not more than 1.5 percent to provide youth activities under section 166 (relating to Native Americans); and (II) allot the remainder of the amount referred to in subsection (a)(2) for a fiscal year to the States pursuant to clause (ii) for youth activities and statewide workforce investment activities. (ii) Formula.--Subject to clauses (iii) and (iv), of the remainder-- (I) 33\1/3\ percent shall be allotted on the basis of the relative number of unemployed individuals in areas of substantial unemployment in each State, compared to the total number of unemployed individuals in areas of substantial unemployment in all States; (II) 33\1/3\ percent shall be allotted on the basis of the relative excess number of unemployed individuals in each State, compared to the total excess number of unemployed individuals in all States; and [[Page 112 STAT.974]] (III) 33\1/3\ percent shall be allotted on the basis of the relative number of disadvantaged youth in each State, compared to the total number of disadvantaged youth in all States, except as described in clause (iii). (iii) Calculation.--In determining an allotment under clause (ii)(III) for any State in which there is a local area designated under section 116(a)(2)(B) (relating to the area served by a rural concentrated employment program grant recipient), the allotment shall be based on the higher of-- (I) the number of individuals who are age 16 through 21 in families with an income below the low-income level in such area; or (II) the number of disadvantaged youth in such area. (iv) Minimum and maximum percentages and minimum allotments.--In making allotments under this subparagraph, the Secretary shall ensure the following: (I) Minimum percentage and allotment.--Subject to subclause (IV), the Secretary shall ensure that no State shall receive an allotment for a fiscal year that is less than the greater of-- (aa) an amount based on 90 percent of the allotment percentage of the State for the preceding fiscal year; or (bb) 100 percent of the total of the allotments of the State under sections 252 and 262 of the Job Training Partnership Act (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act) for fiscal year 1998. (II) Small state minimum allotment.-- Subject to subclauses (I), (III), and (IV), the Secretary shall ensure that no State shall receive an allotment under this subparagraph that is less than the total of-- (aa) \3/10\ of 1 percent of $1,000,000,000 of the remainder described in clause (i)(II) for the fiscal year; and (bb) if the remainder described in clause (i)(II) for the fiscal year exceeds $1,000,000,000, \2/5\ of 1 percent of the excess. (III) Maximum percentage.--Subject to subclause (I), the Secretary shall ensure that no State shall receive an allotment percentage for a fiscal year that is more than 130 percent of the allotment percentage of the State for the preceding fiscal year. (IV) Minimum funding.--In any fiscal year in which the remainder described in clause (i)(II) does not exceed $1,000,000,000, the minimum allotments under subclauses (I) and (II) shall be calculated by the methodology for calculating the corresponding allotments under parts B and C of title II of the Job Training Partnership Act, as in effect on July 1, 1998. [[Page 112 STAT.975]] (2) Definitions.--For the purpose of the formula specified in paragraph (1)(C): (A) Allotment percentage.--The term ``allotment percentage'', used with respect to fiscal year 2000 or a subsequent fiscal year, means a percentage of the remainder described in paragraph (1)(C)(i)(II) that is received through an allotment made under paragraph (1)(C) for the fiscal year. The term, used with respect to fiscal year 1998 or 1999, means the percentage of the amounts allotted to States under sections 252(b) and 262(a) of the Job Training Partnership Act (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act) that is received under such sections by the State involved for fiscal year 1998 or 1999. (B) Area of substantial unemployment.--The term ``area of substantial unemployment'' means any area that is of sufficient size and scope to sustain a program of workforce investment activities carried out under this subtitle and that has an average rate of unemployment of at least 6.5 percent for the most recent 12 months, as determined by the Secretary. For purposes of this subparagraph, determinations of areas of substantial unemployment shall be made once each fiscal year. (C) Disadvantaged youth.--Subject to paragraph (3), the term ``disadvantaged youth'' means an individual who is age 16 through 21 who received an income, or is a member of a family that received a total family income, that, in relation to family size, does not exceed the higher of-- (i) the poverty line; or (ii) 70 percent of the lower living standard income level. (D) Excess number.--The term ``excess number'' means, used with respect to the excess number of unemployed individuals within a State, the higher of-- (i) the number that represents the number of unemployed individuals in excess of 4.5 percent of the civilian labor force in the State; or (ii) the number that represents the number of unemployed individuals in excess of 4.5 percent of the civilian labor force in areas of substantial unemployment in such State. (E) Low-income level.--The term ``low-income level'' means $7,000 with respect to income in 1969, and for any later year means that amount that bears the same relationship to $7,000 as the Consumer Price Index for that year bears to the Consumer Price Index for 1969, rounded to the nearest $1,000. (3) Special rule.--For the purpose of the formula specified in paragraph (1)(C), the Secretary shall, as appropriate and to the extent practicable, exclude college students and members of the Armed Forces from the determination of the number of disadvantaged youth. (4) Definition.--In this subsection, the term ``Freely Associated State'' means the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau. (c) Reallotment.-- [[Page 112 STAT.976]] (1) In general.--The Secretary shall, in accordance with this subsection, reallot to eligible States amounts that are allotted under this section for youth activities and statewide workforce investment activities and that are available for reallotment. (2) Amount.--The amount available for reallotment for a program year is equal to the amount by which the unobligated balance of the State allotment under this section for such activities, at the end of the program year prior to the program year for which the determination under this paragraph is made, exceeds 20 percent of such allotment for the prior program year. (3) Reallotment.--In making reallotments to eligible States of amounts available pursuant to paragraph (2) for a program year, the Secretary shall allot to each eligible State an amount based on the relative amount allotted to such State under this section for such activities for the prior program year, as compared to the total amount allotted to all eligible States under this section for such activities for such prior program year. (4) Eligibility.--For purposes of this subsection, an eligible State means a State that has obligated at least 80 percent of the State allotment under this section for such activities for the program year prior to the program year for which the determination under paragraph (2) is made. (5) Procedures.--The Governor of each State shall prescribe uniform procedures for the obligation of funds by local areas within the State in order to avoid the requirement that funds be made available for reallotment under this subsection. The Governor shall further prescribe equitable procedures for making funds available from the State and local areas in the event that a State is required to make funds available for reallotment under this subsection. SEC. 128. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2853.>> WITHIN STATE ALLOCATIONS. (a) Reservations for State Activities.-- (1) In general.--The Governor of a State shall reserve not more than 15 percent of each of the amounts allotted to the State under section 127(b)(1)(C) and paragraphs (1)(B) and (2)(B) of section 132(b) for a fiscal year for statewide workforce investment activities. (2) Use of funds.--Regardless of whether the reserved amounts were allotted under section 127(b)(1)(C), or under paragraph (1)(B) or (2)(B) of section 132(b), the Governor may use the reserved amounts to carry out statewide youth activities described in section 129(b) or statewide employment and training activities, for adults or for dislocated workers, described in paragraph (2)(B) or (3) of section 134(a). (b) Within State Allocation.-- (1) Methods.--The Governor, acting in accordance with the State plan, and after consulting with chief elected officials in the local areas, shall allocate the funds that are allotted to the State for youth activities and statewide workforce investment activities under section 127(b)(1)(C) and are not reserved under subsection (a), in accordance with paragraph (2) or (3). (2) Formula allocation.-- (A) Youth activities.-- [[Page 112 STAT.977]] (i) Allocation.--In allocating the funds described in paragraph (1) to local areas, a State may allocate-- (I) 33\1/3\ percent of the funds on the basis described in section 127(b)(1)(C)(ii)(I); (II) 33\1/3\ percent of the funds on the basis described in section 127(b)(1)(C)(ii)(II); and (III) 33\1/3\ percent of the funds on the basis described in clauses (ii)(III) and (iii) of section 127(b)(1)(C). (ii) Minimum percentage.--Effective at the end of the second full fiscal year after the date on which a local area is designated under section 116, the local area shall not receive an allocation percentage for a fiscal year that is less than 90 percent of the average allocation percentage of the local area for the 2 preceding fiscal years. Amounts necessary for increasing such allocations to local areas to comply with the preceding sentence shall be obtained by ratably reducing the allocations to be made to other local areas under this subparagraph. (iii) Definition.--The term ``allocation percentage'', used with respect to fiscal year 2000 or a subsequent fiscal year, means a percentage of the funds referred to in clause (i), received through an allocation made under this subparagraph, for the fiscal year. (B) Application.--For purposes of carrying out subparagraph (A)-- (i) references in section 127(b) to a State shall be deemed to be references to a local area; (ii) references in section 127(b) to all States shall be deemed to be references to all local areas in the State involved; and (iii) except as described in clause (i), references in section 127(b)(1) to the term ``excess number'' shall be considered to be references to the term as defined in section 127(b)(2). (3) Youth discretionary allocation.--In lieu of making the allocation described in paragraph (2)(A), in allocating the funds described in paragraph (1) to local areas, a State may distribute-- (A) a portion equal to not less than 70 percent of the funds in accordance with paragraph (2)(A); and (B) the remaining portion of the funds on the basis of a formula that-- (i) incorporates additional factors (other than the factors described in paragraph (2)(A)) relating to-- (I) excess youth poverty in urban, rural, and suburban local areas; and (II) excess unemployment above the State average in urban, rural, and suburban local areas; and (ii) was developed by the State board and approved by the Secretary as part of the State plan. (4) Limitation.-- (A) In general.--Of the amount allocated to a local area under this subsection and section 133(b) for a fiscal year, not more than 10 percent of the amount may be [[Page 112 STAT.978]] used by the local board for the administrative cost of carrying out local workforce investment activities described in subsection (d) or (e) of section 134 or in section 129(c). (B) Use of funds.--Funds made available for administrative costs under subparagraph (A) may be used for the administrative cost of any of the local workforce investment activities described in subsection (d) or (e) of section 134 or in section 129(c), regardless of whether the funds were allocated under this subsection or section 133(b). (C) Regulations.--The Secretary, after consulting with the Governors, shall develop and issue regulations that define the term ``administrative cost'' for purposes of this title. Such definition shall be consistent with generally accepted accounting principles. (c) Reallocation Among Local Areas.-- (1) In general.--The Governor may, in accordance with this subsection, reallocate to eligible local areas within the State amounts that are allocated under paragraph (2)(A) or (3) of subsection (b) for youth activities and that are available for reallocation. (2) Amount.--The amount available for reallocation for a program year is equal to the amount by which the unobligated balance of the local area allocation under paragraph (2)(A) or (3) of subsection (b) for such activities, at the end of the program year prior to the program year for which the determination under this paragraph is made exceeds 20 percent of such allocation for the prior program year. (3) Reallocation.--In making reallocations to eligible local areas of amounts available pursuant to paragraph (2) for a program year, the Governor shall allocate to each eligible local area within the State an amount based on the relative amount allocated to such local area under subsection (b)(3) for such activities for the prior program year, as compared to the total amount allocated to all eligible local areas in the State under subsection (b)(3) for such activities for such prior program year. For purposes of this paragraph, local areas that received allocations under subsection (b)(2)(A) for the prior program year shall be treated as if the local areas received allocations under subsection (b)(3) for such year. (4) Eligibility.--For purposes of this subsection, an eligible local area means a local area that has obligated at least 80 percent of the local area allocation under paragraph (2)(A) or (3) of subsection (b) for such activities, for the program year prior to the program year for which the determination under paragraph (2) is made. SEC. 129. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2854.>> USE OF FUNDS FOR YOUTH ACTIVITIES. (a) Purposes.--The purposes of this section are-- (1) to provide, to eligible youth seeking assistance in achieving academic and employment success, effective and comprehensive activities, which shall include a variety of options for improving educational and skill competencies and provide effective connections to employers; (2) to ensure on-going mentoring opportunities for eligible youth with adults committed to providing such opportunities; (3) to provide opportunities for training to eligible youth; [[Page 112 STAT.979]] (4) to provide continued supportive services for eligible youth; (5) to provide incentives for recognition and achievement to eligible youth; and (6) to provide opportunities for eligible youth in activities related to leadership, development, decisionmaking, citizenship, and community service. (b) Statewide Youth Activities.-- (1) In general.--Funds reserved by a Governor for a State as described in sections 128(a) and 133(a)(1)-- (A) shall be used to carry out the statewide youth activities described in paragraph (2); and (B) may be used to carry out any of the statewide youth activities described in paragraph (3), regardless of whether the funds were allotted to the State under section 127(b)(1) or under paragraph (1) or (2) of section 132(b). (2) Required statewide youth activities.--A State shall use funds reserved as described in sections 128(a) and 133(a)(1) (regardless of whether the funds were allotted to the State under section 127(b)(1) or paragraph (1) or (2) of section 132(b)) to carry out statewide youth activities, which shall include-- (A) disseminating a list of eligible providers of youth activities described in section 123; (B) carrying out activities described in clauses (ii) through (vi) of section 134(a)(2)(B), except that references in such clauses to activities authorized under section 134 shall be considered to be references to activities authorized under this section; and (C) providing additional assistance to local areas that have high concentrations of eligible youth to carry out the activities described in subsection (c). (3) Allowable statewide youth activities.--A State may use funds reserved as described in sections 128(a) and 133(a)(1) (regardless of whether the funds were allotted to the State under section 127(b)(1) or paragraph (1) or (2) of section 132(b)) to carry out additional statewide youth activities, which may include-- (A) carrying out activities described in clauses (i), (ii), (iii), (iv)(II), and (vi)(II) of section 134(a)(3)(A), except that references in such clauses to activities authorized under section 134 shall be considered to be references to activities authorized under this section; and (B) carrying out, on a statewide basis, activities described in subsection (c). (4) Prohibition.--No funds described in this subsection or section 134(a) shall be used to develop or implement education curricula for school systems in the State. (c) Local Elements and Requirements.-- (1) Program design.--Funds allocated to a local area for eligible youth under paragraph (2)(A) or (3), as appropriate, of section 128(b) shall be used to carry out, for eligible youth, programs that-- (A) provide an objective assessment of the academic levels, skill levels, and service needs of each participant, which assessment shall include a review of basic skills, occupational skills, prior work experience, employability, [[Page 112 STAT.980]] interests, aptitudes (including interests and aptitudes for nontraditional jobs), supportive service needs, and developmental needs of such participant, except that a new assessment of a participant is not required if the provider carrying out such a program determines it is appropriate to use a recent assessment of the participant conducted pursuant to another education or training program; (B) develop service strategies for each participant that shall identify an employment goal (including, in appropriate circumstances, nontraditional employment), appropriate achievement objectives, and appropriate services for the participant taking into account the assessment conducted pursuant to subparagraph (A), except that a new service strategy for a participant is not required if the provider carrying out such a program determines it is appropriate to use a recent service strategy developed for the participant under another education or training program; and (C) provide-- (i) preparation for postsecondary educational opportunities, in appropriate cases; (ii) strong linkages between academic and occupational learning; (iii) preparation for unsubsidized employment opportunities, in appropriate cases; and (iv) effective connections to intermediaries with strong links to-- (I) the job market; and (II) local and regional employers. (2) Program elements.--The programs described in paragraph (1) shall provide elements consisting of-- (A) tutoring, study skills training, and instruction, leading to completion of secondary school, including dropout prevention strategies; (B) alternative secondary school services, as appropriate; (C) summer employment opportunities that are directly linked to academic and occupational learning; (D) as appropriate, paid and unpaid work experiences, including internships and job shadowing; (E) occupational skill training, as appropriate; (F) leadership development opportunities, which may include community service and peer-centered activities encouraging responsibility and other positive social behaviors during non-school hours, as appropriate; (G) supportive services; (H) adult mentoring for the period of participation and a subsequent period, for a total of not less than 12 months; (I) followup services for not less than 12 months after the completion of participation, as appropriate; and (J) comprehensive guidance and counseling, which may include drug and alcohol abuse counseling and referral, as appropriate. (3) Additional requirements.-- (A) Information and referrals.--Each local board shall ensure that each participant or applicant who meets [[Page 112 STAT.981]] the minimum income criteria to be considered an eligible youth shall be provided-- (i) information on the full array of applicable or appropriate services that are available through the local board or other eligible providers or one-stop partners, including those receiving funds under this subtitle; and (ii) referral to appropriate training and educational programs that have the capacity to serve the participant or applicant either on a sequential or concurrent basis. (B) Applicants not meeting enrollment requirements.--Each eligible provider of a program of youth activities shall ensure that an eligible applicant who does not meet the enrollment requirements of the particular program or who cannot be served shall be referred for further assessment, as necessary, and referred to appropriate programs in accordance with subparagraph (A) to meet the basic skills and training needs of the applicant. (C) Involvement in design and implementation.--The local board shall ensure that parents, participants, and other members of the community with experience relating to programs for youth are involved in the design and implementation of the programs described in paragraph (1). (4) Priority.-- (A) In general.--At a minimum, 30 percent of the funds described in paragraph (1) shall be used to provide youth activities to out-of-school youth. (B) Exception.--A State that receives a minimum allotment under section 127(b)(1) in accordance with section 127(b)(1)(C)(iv)(II) or under section 132(b)(1) in accordance with section 132(b)(1)(B)(iv)(II) may reduce the percentage described in subparagraph (A) for a local area in the State, if-- (i) after an analysis of the eligible youth population in the local area, the State determines that the local area will be unable to meet the percentage described in subparagraph (A) due to a low number of out-of-school youth; and (ii)(I) the State submits to the Secretary, for the local area, a request including a proposed reduced percentage for purposes of subparagraph (A), and the summary of the eligible youth population analysis; and (II) the request is approved by the Secretary. (5) Exceptions.--Not more than 5 percent of participants assisted under this section in each local area may be individuals who do not meet the minimum income criteria to be considered eligible youth, if such individuals are within one or more of the following categories: (A) Individuals who are school dropouts. (B) Individuals who are basic skills deficient. (C) Individuals with educational attainment that is one or more grade levels below the grade level appropriate to the age of the individuals. (D) Individuals who are pregnant or parenting. [[Page 112 STAT.982]] (E) Individuals with disabilities, including learning disabilities. (F) Individuals who are homeless or runaway youth. (G) Individuals who are offenders. (H) Other eligible youth who face serious barriers to employment as identified by the local board. (6) Prohibitions.-- (A) Prohibition against federal control of education.--No provision of this Act shall be construed to authorize any department, agency, officer, or employee of the United States to exercise any direction, supervision, or control over the curriculum, program of instruction, administration, or personnel of any educational institution, school, or school system, or over the selection of library resources, textbooks, or other printed or published instructional materials by any educational institution, school, or school system. (B) Nonduplication.--All of the funds made available under this Act shall be used in accordance with the requirements of this Act. None of the funds made available under this Act may be used to provide funding under the School-to-Work Opportunities Act of 1994 (20 U.S.C. 6101 et seq.) or to carry out, through programs funded under this Act, activities that were funded under the School-to-Work Opportunities Act of 1994, unless the programs funded under this Act serve only those participants eligible to participate in the programs under this Act. (C) Noninterference and nonreplacement of regular academic requirements.--No funds described in paragraph (1) shall be used to provide an activity for eligible youth who are not school dropouts if participation in the activity would interfere with or replace the regular academic requirements of the youth. (7) Linkages.--In coordinating the programs authorized under this section, youth councils shall establish linkages with educational agencies responsible for services to participants as appropriate. (8) Volunteers.--The local board shall make opportunities available for individuals who have successfully participated in programs carried out under this section to volunteer assistance to participants in the form of mentoring, tutoring, and other activities. CHAPTER 5--ADULT AND DISLOCATED WORKER EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING ACTIVITIES SEC. 131. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2861.>> GENERAL AUTHORIZATION. The Secretary shall make allotments under paragraphs (1)(B) and (2)(B) of section 132(b) to each State that meets the requirements of section 112 and a grant to each outlying area that complies with the requirements of this title, to assist the State or outlying area, and to enable the State or outlying area to assist local areas, for the purpose of providing workforce investment activities for adults, and dislocated workers, in the State or outlying area and in the local areas. [[Page 112 STAT.983]] SEC. 132. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2862.>> STATE ALLOTMENTS. (a) <<NOTE: Grants.>> In General.--The Secretary shall-- (1) make allotments and grants from the total amount appropriated under section 137(b) for a fiscal year in accordance with subsection (b)(1); and (2)(A) reserve 20 percent of the amount appropriated under section 137(c) for a fiscal year for use under subsection (b)(2)(A), and under sections 170(b) (relating to dislocated worker technical assistance), 171(d) (relating to dislocated worker projects), and 173 (relating to national emergency grants); and (B) make allotments from 80 percent of the amount appropriated under section 137(c) for a fiscal year in accordance with subsection (b)(2)(B). (b) Allotment Among States.-- (1) Adult employment and training activities.-- (A) Reservation for outlying areas.-- (i) In general.--From the amount made available under subsection (a)(1) for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall reserve not more than \1/4\ of 1 percent to provide assistance to the outlying areas. (ii) Applicability of additional requirements.--From the amount reserved under clause (i), the Secretary shall provide assistance to the outlying areas for adult employment and training activities and statewide workforce investment activities in accordance with the requirements of section 127(b)(1)(B), except that the reference in section 127(b)(1)(B)(i)(II) to sections 252(d) and 262(a)(1) of the Job Training Partnership Act shall be deemed to be a reference to section 202(a)(1) of the Job Training Partnership Act (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act). (B) States.-- (i) In general.--After determining the amount to be reserved under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall allot the remainder of the amount referred to in subsection (a)(1) for a fiscal year to the States pursuant to clause (ii) for adult employment and training activities and statewide workforce investment activities. (ii) Formula.--Subject to clauses (iii) and (iv), of the remainder-- (I) 33\1/3\ percent shall be allotted on the basis of the relative number of unemployed individuals in areas of substantial unemployment in each State, compared to the total number of unemployed individuals in areas of substantial unemployment in all States; (II) 33\1/3\ percent shall be allotted on the basis of the relative excess number of unemployed individuals in each State, compared to the total excess number of unemployed individuals in all States; and (III) 33\1/3\ percent shall be allotted on the basis of the relative number of disadvantaged adults in each State, compared to the total number of [[Page 112 STAT.984]] disadvantaged adults in all States, except as described in clause (iii). (iii) Calculation.--In determining an allotment under clause (ii)(III) for any State in which there is a local area designated under section 116(a)(2)(B), the allotment shall be based on the higher of-- (I) the number of adults in families with an income below the low-income level in such area; or (II) the number of disadvantaged adults in such area. (iv) Minimum and maximum percentages and minimum allotments.--In making allotments under this subparagraph, the Secretary shall ensure the following: (I) Minimum percentage and allotment.--Subject to subclause (IV), the Secretary shall ensure that no State shall receive an allotment for a fiscal year that is less than the greater of-- (aa) an amount based on 90 percent of the allotment percentage of the State for the preceding fiscal year; or (bb) 100 percent of the allotment of the State under section 202 of the Job Training Partnership Act (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act) for fiscal year 1998. (II) Small state minimum allotment.--Subject to subclauses (I), (III), and (IV), the Secretary shall ensure that no State shall receive an allotment under this subparagraph that is less than the total of-- (aa) \3/10\ of 1 percent of $960,000,000 of the remainder described in clause (i) for the fiscal year; and (bb) if the remainder described in clause (i) for the fiscal year exceeds $960,000,000, \2/5\ of 1 percent of the excess. (III) Maximum percentage.--Subject to subclause (I), the Secretary shall ensure that no State shall receive an allotment percentage for a fiscal year that is more than 130 percent of the allotment percentage of the State for the preceding fiscal year. (IV) Minimum funding.--In any fiscal year in which the remainder described in clause (i) does not exceed $960,000,000, the minimum allotments under subclauses (I) and (II) shall be calculated by the methodology for calculating the corresponding allotments under part A of title II of the Job Training Partnership Act, as in effect on July 1, 1998. (v) Definitions.--For the purpose of the formula specified in this subparagraph: (I) Adult.--The term ``adult'' means an individual who is not less than age 22 and not more than age 72. [[Page 112 STAT.985]] (II) Allotment percentage.--The term ``allotment percentage'', used with respect to fiscal year 2000 or a subsequent fiscal year, means a percentage of the remainder described in clause (i) that is received through an allotment made under this subparagraph for the fiscal year. The term, used with respect to fiscal year 1998 or 1999, means the percentage of the amounts allotted to States under section 202(a) of the Job Training Partnership Act (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act) that is received under such section by the State involved for fiscal year 1998 or 1999. (III) Area of substantial unemployment.--The term ``area of substantial unemployment'' means any area that is of sufficient size and scope to sustain a program of workforce investment activities carried out under this subtitle and that has an average rate of unemployment of at least 6.5 percent for the most recent 12 months, as determined by the Secretary. For purposes of this subclause, determinations of areas of substantial unemployment shall be made once each fiscal year. (IV) Disadvantaged adult.--Subject to subclause (V), the term ``disadvantaged adult'' means an adult who received an income, or is a member of a family that received a total family income, that, in relation to family size, does not exceed the higher of-- (aa) the poverty line; or (bb) 70 percent of the lower living standard income level. (V) Disadvantaged adult special rule.--The Secretary shall, as appropriate and to the extent practicable, exclude college students and members of the Armed Forces from the determination of the number of disadvantaged adults. (VI) Excess number.--The term ``excess number'' means, used with respect to the excess number of unemployed individuals within a State, the higher of-- (aa) the number that represents the number of unemployed individuals in excess of 4.5 percent of the civilian labor force in the State; or (bb) the number that represents the number of unemployed individuals in excess of 4.5 percent of the civilian labor force in areas of substantial unemployment in such State. (2) Dislocated worker employment and training.-- (A) Reservation for outlying areas.-- (i) In general.--From the amount made available under subsection (a)(2)(A) for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall reserve not more than \1/4\ of 1 percent of the amount appropriated under section 137(c) for the fiscal year to provide assistance to the outlying areas. [[Page 112 STAT.986]] (ii) Applicability of additional requirements.--From the amount reserved under clause (i), the Secretary shall provide assistance to the outlying areas for dislocated worker employment and training activities and statewide workforce investment activities in accordance with the requirements of section 127(b)(1)(B), except that the reference in section 127(b)(1)(B)(i)(II) to sections 252(a) and 262(a)(1) of the Job Training Partnership Act shall be deemed to be a reference to section 302(e) of the Job Training Partnership Act (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act). (B) States.-- (i) In general.--The Secretary shall allot the amount referred to in subsection (a)(2)(B) for a fiscal year to the States pursuant to clause (ii) for dislocated worker employment and training activities and statewide workforce investment activities. (ii) Formula.--Of the amount-- (I) 33\1/3\ percent shall be allotted on the basis of the relative number of unemployed individuals in each State, compared to the total number of unemployed individuals in all States; (II) 33\1/3\ percent shall be allotted on the basis of the relative excess number of unemployed individuals in each State, compared to the total excess number of unemployed individuals in all States; and (III) 33\1/3\ percent shall be allotted on the basis of the relative number of individuals in each State who have been unemployed for 15 weeks or more, compared to the total number of individuals in all States who have been unemployed for 15 weeks or more. (iii) Definition.--In this subparagraph, the term ``excess number'' means, used with respect to the excess number of unemployed individuals within a State, the number that represents the number of unemployed individuals in excess of 4.5 percent of the civilian labor force in the State. (3) Definitions.--For the purpose of the formulas specified in this subsection: (A) Freely associated states.--The term ``Freely Associated States'' means the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau. (B) Low-income level.--The term ``low-income level'' means $7,000 with respect to income in 1969, and for any later year means that amount that bears the same relationship to $7,000 as the Consumer Price Index for that year bears to the Consumer Price Index for 1969, rounded to the nearest $1,000. (c) Reallotment.-- (1) In general.--The Secretary shall, in accordance with this subsection, reallot to eligible States amounts that are [[Page 112 STAT.987]] allotted under this section for employment and training activities and statewide workforce investment activities and that are available for reallotment. (2) Amount.--The amount available for reallotment for a program year is equal to the amount by which the unobligated balance of the State allotments under this section for such activities, at the end of the program year prior to the program year for which the determination under this paragraph is made, exceeds 20 percent of such allotments for the prior program year. (3) Reallotment.--In making reallotments to eligible States of amounts available pursuant to paragraph (2) for a program year, the Secretary shall allot to each eligible State an amount based on the relative amount allotted to such State under this section for such activities for the prior program year, as compared to the total amount allotted to all eligible States under this section for such activities for such prior program year. (4) Eligibility.--For purposes of this subsection, an eligible State means a State that has obligated at least 80 percent of the State allotment under this section for such activities for the program year prior to the program year for which the determination under paragraph (2) is made. (5) Procedures.--The Governor of each State shall prescribe uniform procedures for the obligation of funds by local areas within the State in order to avoid the requirement that funds be made available for reallotment under this subsection. The Governor shall further prescribe equitable procedures for making funds available from the State and local areas in the event that a State is required to make funds available for reallotment under this subsection. SEC. 133. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2863.>> WITHIN STATE ALLOCATIONS. (a) Reservations for State Activities.-- (1) Statewide workforce investment activities.--The Governor of a State shall make the reservation required under section 128(a). (2) Statewide rapid response activities.--The Governor of the State shall reserve not more than 25 percent of the total amount allotted to the State under section 132(b)(2)(B) for a fiscal year for statewide rapid response activities described in section 134(a)(2)(A). (b) Within State Allocation.-- (1) Methods.--The Governor, acting in accordance with the State plan, and after consulting with chief elected officials in the local areas, shall allocate-- (A) the funds that are allotted to the State for adult employment and training activities and statewide workforce investment activities under section 132(b)(1)(B) and are not reserved under subsection (a)(1), in accordance with paragraph (2) or (3); and (B) the funds that are allotted to the State for dislocated worker employment and training activities under section 132(b)(2)(B) and are not reserved under paragraph (1) or (2) of subsection (a), in accordance with paragraph (2). (2) Formula allocations.-- [[Page 112 STAT.988]] (A) Adult employment and training activities.-- (i) Allocation.--In allocating the funds described in paragraph (1)(A) to local areas, a State may allocate-- (I) 33\1/3\ percent of the funds on the basis described in section 132(b)(1)(B)(ii)(I); (II) 33\1/3\ percent of the funds on the basis described in section 132(b)(1)(B)(ii)(II); and (III) 33\1/3\ percent of the funds on the basis described in clauses (ii)(III) and (iii) of section 132(b)(1)(B). (ii) <<NOTE: Effective date.>> Minimum percentage.--Effective at the end of the second full fiscal year after the date on which a local area is designated under section 116, the local area shall not receive an allocation percentage for a fiscal year that is less than 90 percent of the average allocation percentage of the local area for the 2 preceding fiscal years. Amounts necessary for increasing such allocations to local areas to comply with the preceding sentence shall be obtained by ratably reducing the allocations to be made to other local areas under this subparagraph. (iii) Definition.--The term ``allocation percentage'', used with respect to fiscal year 2000 or a subsequent fiscal year, means a percentage of the funds referred to in clause (i), received through an allocation made under this subparagraph, for the fiscal year. (B) Dislocated worker employment and training activities.-- (i) Formula.--In allocating the funds described in paragraph (1)(B) to local areas, a State shall allocate the funds based on an allocation formula prescribed by the Governor of the State. Such formula may be amended by the Governor not more than once for each program year. Such formula shall utilize the most appropriate information available to the Governor to distribute amounts to address the State's worker readjustment assistance needs. (ii) Information.--The information described in clause (i) shall include insured unemployment data, unemployment concentrations, plant closing and mass layoff data, declining industries data, farmer-rancher economic hardship data, and long- term unemployment data. (C) Application.--For purposes of carrying out subparagraph (A)-- (i) references in section 132(b) to a State shall be deemed to be references to a local area; (ii) references in section 132(b) to all States shall be deemed to be references to all local areas in the State involved; and (iii) except as described in clause (i), references in section 132(b)(1) to the term ``excess number'' shall be considered to be references to the term as defined in section 132(b)(1). (3) Adult employment and training discretionary allocations.--In lieu of making the allocation described in [[Page 112 STAT.989]] paragraph (2)(A), in allocating the funds described in paragraph (1)(A) to local areas, a State may distribute-- (A) a portion equal to not less than 70 percent of the funds in accordance with paragraph (2)(A); and (B) the remaining portion of the funds on the basis of a formula that-- (i) incorporates additional factors (other than the factors described in paragraph (2)(A)) relating to-- (I) excess poverty in urban, rural, and suburban local areas; and (II) excess unemployment above the State average in urban, rural, and suburban local areas; and (ii) was developed by the State board and approved by the Secretary as part of the State plan. (4) Transfer authority.--A local board may transfer, if such a transfer is approved by the Governor, not more than 20 percent of the funds allocated to the local area under paragraph (2)(A) or (3), and 20 percent of the funds allocated to the local area under paragraph (2)(B), for a fiscal year between-- (A) adult employment and training activities; and (B) dislocated worker employment and training activities. (5) Allocation.-- (A) In general.--The Governor of the State shall allocate the funds described in paragraph (1) to local areas under paragraphs (2) and (3) for the purpose of providing a single system of employment and training activities for adults and dislocated workers in accordance with subsections (d) and (e) of section 134. (B) Additional requirements.-- (i) Adults.--Funds allocated under paragraph (2)(A) or (3) shall be used by a local area to contribute proportionately to the costs of the one-stop delivery system described in section 134(c) in the local area, and to pay for employment and training activities provided to adults in the local area, consistent with section 134. (ii) Dislocated workers.--Funds allocated under paragraph (2)(B) shall be used by a local area to contribute proportionately to the costs of the one-stop delivery system described in section 134(c) in the local area, and to pay for employment and training activities provided to dislocated workers in the local area, consistent with section 134. (c) Reallocation Among Local Areas.-- (1) In general.--The Governor may, in accordance with this subsection, reallocate to eligible local areas within the State amounts that are allocated under paragraph (2)(A) or (3) of subsection (b) for adult employment and training activities and that are available for reallocation. (2) Amount.--The amount available for reallocation for a program year is equal to the amount by which the unobligated balance of the local area allocation under paragraph (2)(A) or (3) of subsection (b) for such activities, at the end of the [[Page 112 STAT.990]] program year prior to the program year for which the determination under this paragraph is made exceeds 20 percent of such allocation for the prior program year. (3) Reallocation.--In making reallocations to eligible local areas of amounts available pursuant to paragraph (2) for a program year, the Governor shall allocate to each eligible local area within the State an amount based on the relative amount allocated to such local area under subsection (b)(3) for such activities for the prior program year, as compared to the total amount allocated to all eligible local areas in the State under subsection (b)(3) for such activities for such prior program year. For purposes of this paragraph, local areas that received allocations under subsection (b)(2)(A) for the prior program year shall be treated as if the local areas received allocations under subsection (b)(3) for such year. (4) Eligibility.--For purposes of this subsection, an eligible local area means a local area that has obligated at least 80 percent of the local area allocation under paragraph (2)(A) or (3) of subsection (b) for such activities, for the program year prior to the program year for which the determination under paragraph (2) is made. SEC. 134. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2864.>> USE OF FUNDS FOR EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING ACTIVITIES. (a) Statewide Employment and Training Activities.-- (1) In general.--Funds reserved by a Governor for a State-- (A) as described in section 133(a)(2) shall be used to carry out the statewide rapid response activities described in paragraph (2)(A); and (B) as described in sections 128(a) and 133(a)(1)-- (i) shall be used to carry out the statewide employment and training activities described in paragraph (2)(B); and (ii) may be used to carry out any of the statewide employment and training activities described in paragraph (3), regardless of whether the funds were allotted to the State under section 127(b)(1) or under paragraph (1) or (2) of section 132(b). (2) Required statewide employment and training activities.-- (A) Statewide rapid response activities.--A State shall use funds reserved as described in section 133(a)(2) to carry out statewide rapid response activities, which shall include-- (i) provision of rapid response activities, carried out in local areas by the State or by an entity designated by the State, working in conjunction with the local boards and the chief elected officials in the local areas; and (ii) provision of additional assistance to local areas that experience disasters, mass layoffs or plant closings, or other events that precipitate substantial increases in the number of unemployed individuals, carried out in local areas by the State or by an entity designated by the State, working in conjunction with [[Page 112 STAT.991]] the local boards and the chief elected officials in the local areas. (B) Other required statewide employment and training activities.--A State shall use funds reserved as described in sections 128(a) and 133(a)(1) (regardless of whether the funds were allotted to the State under section 127(b)(1) or paragraph (1) or (2) of section 132(b)) to carry out other statewide employment and training activities, which shall include-- (i) disseminating the State list of eligible providers of training services, including eligible providers of nontraditional training services, information identifying eligible providers of on- the-job training and customized training, and performance information and program cost information, as described in subsections (e) and (h) of section 122; (ii) conducting evaluations, under section 136(e), of activities authorized in this section, in coordination with the activities carried out under section 172; (iii) providing incentive grants to local areas for regional cooperation among local boards (including local boards for a designated region as described in section 116(c)), for local coordination of activities carried out under this Act, and for exemplary performance by local areas on the local performance measures; (iv) providing technical assistance to local areas that fail to meet local performance measures; (v) assisting in the establishment and operation of one-stop delivery systems described in subsection (c); and (vi) operating a fiscal and management accountability information system under section 136(f ). (3) Allowable statewide employment and training activities.-- (A) In general.--A State may use funds reserved as described in sections 128(a) and 133(a)(1) (regardless of whether the funds were allotted to the State under section 127(b)(1) or paragraph (1) or (2) of section 132(b)) to carry out additional statewide employment and training activities, which may include-- (i) subject to subparagraph (B), administration by the State of the activities authorized under this section; (ii) provision of capacity building and technical assistance to local areas, one-stop operators, one-stop partners, and eligible providers, including the development and training of staff and the development of exemplary program activities; (iii) conduct of research and demonstrations; (iv)(I) implementation of innovative incumbent worker training programs, which may include the establishment and implementation of an employer loan program to assist in skills upgrading; and (II) the establishment and implementation of programs targeted to empowerment zones and enterprise communities; (v) support for the identification of eligible providers of training services as required under section 122; [[Page 112 STAT.992]] (vi)(I) implementation of innovative programs for displaced homemakers, which for purposes of this subclause may include an individual who is receiving public assistance and is within 2 years of exhausting lifetime eligibility under part A of title IV of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 601 et seq.); and (II) implementation of programs to increase the number of individuals training for and placed in nontraditional employment; and (vii) carrying out other activities authorized in this section that the State determines to be necessary to assist local areas in carrying out activities described in subsection (d) or (e) through the statewide workforce investment system. (B) Limitation.-- (i) In general.--Of the funds allotted to a State under sections 127(b) and 132(b) and reserved as described in sections 128(a) and 133(a)(1) for a fiscal year-- (I) not more than 5 percent of the amount allotted under section 127(b)(1); (II) not more than 5 percent of the amount allotted under section 132(b)(1); and (III) not more than 5 percent of the amount allotted under section 132(b)(2), may be used by the State for the administration of youth activities carried out under section 129 and employment and training activities carried out under this section. (ii) Use of funds.--Funds made available for administrative costs under clause (i) may be used for the administrative cost of any of the statewide youth activities or statewide employment and training activities, regardless of whether the funds were allotted to the State under section 127(b)(1) or paragraph (1) or (2) of section 132(b). (b) Local Employment and Training Activities.--Funds allocated to a local area for adults under paragraph (2)(A) or (3), as appropriate, of section 133(b), and funds allocated to a local area for dislocated workers under section 133(b)(2)(B)-- (1) shall be used to carry out employment and training activities described in subsection (d) for adults or dislocated workers, respectively; and (2) may be used to carry out employment and training activities described in subsection (e) for adults or dislocated workers, respectively. (c) Establishment of One-Stop Delivery System.-- (1) In general.--There shall be established in a State that receives an allotment under section 132(b) a one-stop delivery system, which-- (A) shall provide the core services described in subsection (d)(2); (B) shall provide access to intensive services and training services as described in paragraphs (3) and (4) of subsection (d), including serving as the point of access to individual training accounts for training services to participants in accordance with subsection (d)(4)(G); [[Page 112 STAT.993]] (C) shall provide access to the activities carried out under subsection (e), if any; (D) shall provide access to programs and activities carried out by one-stop partners and described in section 121(b); and (E) shall provide access to the information described in section 15 of the Wagner-Peyser Act and all job search, placement, recruitment, and other labor exchange services authorized under the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49 et seq.). (2) One-stop delivery.--At a minimum, the one-stop delivery system-- (A) shall make each of the programs, services, and activities described in paragraph (1) accessible at not less than one physical center in each local area of the State; and (B) may also make programs, services, and activities described in paragraph (1) available-- (i) through a network of affiliated sites that can provide one or more of the programs, services, and activities to individuals; and (ii) through a network of eligible one-stop partners-- (I) in which each partner provides one or more of the programs, services, and activities to such individuals and is accessible at an affiliated site that consists of a physical location or an electronically or technologically linked access point; and (II) that assures individuals that information on the availability of the core services will be available regardless of where the individuals initially enter the statewide workforce investment system, including information made available through an access point described in subclause (I). (3) Specialized centers.--The centers and sites described in paragraph (2) may have a specialization in addressing special needs, such as the needs of dislocated workers. (d) Required Local Employment and Training Activities.-- (1) In general.-- (A) Allocated funds.--Funds allocated to a local area for adults under paragraph (2)(A) or (3), as appropriate, of section 133(b), and funds allocated to the local area for dislocated workers under section 133(b)(2)(B), shall be used-- (i) to establish a one-stop delivery system described in subsection (c); (ii) to provide the core services described in paragraph (2) to adults and dislocated workers, respectively, through the one-stop delivery system in accordance with such paragraph; (iii) to provide the intensive services described in paragraph (3) to adults and dislocated workers, respectively, described in such paragraph; and (iv) to provide training services described in paragraph (4) to adults and dislocated workers, respectively, described in such paragraph. [[Page 112 STAT.994]] (B) Other funds.--A portion of the funds made available under Federal law authorizing the programs and activities described in section 121(b)(1)(B), including the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49 et seq.), shall be used as described in clauses (i) and (ii) of subparagraph (A), to the extent not inconsistent with the Federal law involved. (2) Core services.--Funds described in paragraph (1)(A) shall be used to provide core services, which shall be available to individuals who are adults or dislocated workers through the one-stop delivery system and shall, at a minimum, include-- (A) determinations of whether the individuals are eligible to receive assistance under this subtitle; (B) outreach, intake (which may include worker profiling), and orientation to the information and other services available through the one-stop delivery system; (C) initial assessment of skill levels, aptitudes, abilities, and supportive service needs; (D) job search and placement assistance, and where appropriate, career counseling; (E) provision of employment statistics information, including the provision of accurate information relating to local, regional, and national labor market areas, including-- (i) job vacancy listings in such labor market areas; (ii) information on job skills necessary to obtain the jobs described in clause (i); and (iii) information relating to local occupations in demand and the earnings and skill requirements for such occupations; and (F) provision of performance information and program cost information on eligible providers of training services as described in section 122, provided by program, and eligible providers of youth activities described in section 123, providers of adult education described in title II, providers of postsecondary vocational education activities and vocational education activities available to school dropouts under the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Education Act (20 U.S.C. 2301 et seq.), and providers of vocational rehabilitation program activities described in title I of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 720 et seq.); (G) provision of information regarding how the local area is performing on the local performance measures and any additional performance information with respect to the one-stop delivery system in the local area; (H) provision of accurate information relating to the availability of supportive services, including child care and transportation, available in the local area, and referral to such services, as appropriate; (I) provision of information regarding filing claims for unemployment compensation; (J) assistance in establishing eligibility for-- (i) welfare-to-work activities authorized under section 403(a)(5) of the Social Security Act (as added by section 5001 of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997) available in the local area; and [[Page 112 STAT.995]] (ii) programs of financial aid assistance for training and education programs that are not funded under this Act and are available in the local area; and (K) followup services, including counseling regarding the workplace, for participants in workforce investment activities authorized under this subtitle who are placed in unsubsidized employment, for not less than 12 months after the first day of the employment, as appropriate. (3) Intensive services.-- (A) In general.--Funds allocated to a local area for adults under paragraph (2)(A) or (3), as appropriate, of section 133(b), and funds allocated to the local area for dislocated workers under section 133(b)(2)(B), shall be used to provide intensive services to adults and dislocated workers, respectively-- (i)(I) who are unemployed and are unable to obtain employment through core services provided under paragraph (2); and (II) who have been determined by a one-stop operator to be in need of more intensive services in order to obtain employment; or (ii) who are employed, but who are determined by a one-stop operator to be in need of such intensive services in order to obtain or retain employment that allows for self-sufficiency. (B) Delivery of services.--Such intensive services shall be provided through the one-stop delivery system-- (i) directly through one-stop operators identified pursuant to section 121(d); or (ii) through contracts with service providers, which may include contracts with public, private for-profit, and private nonprofit service providers, approved by the local board. (C) Types of services.--Such intensive services may include the following: (i) Comprehensive and specialized assessments of the skill levels and service needs of adults and dislocated workers, which may include-- (I) diagnostic testing and use of other assessment tools; and (II) in-depth interviewing and evaluation to identify employment barriers and appropriate employment goals. (ii) Development of an individual employment plan, to identify the employment goals, appropriate achievement objectives, and appropriate combination of services for the participant to achieve the employment goals. (iii) Group counseling. (iv) Individual counseling and career planning. (v) Case management for participants seeking training services under paragraph (4). (vi) Short-term prevocational services, including development of learning skills, communication skills, interviewing skills, punctuality, personal maintenance skills, and professional conduct, to prepare individuals for unsubsidized employment or training. [[Page 112 STAT.996]] (4) Training services.-- (A) In general.--Funds allocated to a local area for adults under paragraph (2)(A) or (3), as appropriate, of section 133(b), and funds allocated to a local area for dislocated workers under section 133(b)(2)(B) shall be used to provide training services to adults and dislocated workers, respectively-- (i) who have met the eligibility requirements for intensive services under paragraph (3)(A) and who are unable to obtain or retain employment through such services; (ii) who after an interview, evaluation, or assessment, and case management, have been determined by a one-stop operator or one-stop partner, as appropriate, to be in need of training services and to have the skills and qualifications to successfully participate in the selected program of training services; (iii) who select programs of training services that are directly linked to the employment opportunities in the local area involved or in another area in which the adults or dislocated workers receiving such services are willing to relocate; (iv) who meet the requirements of subparagraph (B); and (v) who are determined to be eligible in accordance with the priority system, if any, in effect under subparagraph (E). (B) Qualification.-- (i) Requirement.--Except as provided in clause (ii), provision of such training services shall be limited to individuals who-- (I) are unable to obtain other grant assistance for such services, including Federal Pell Grants established under title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070 et seq.); or (II) require assistance beyond the assistance made available under other grant assistance programs, including Federal Pell Grants. (ii) Reimbursements.--Training services may be provided under this paragraph to an individual who otherwise meets the requirements of this paragraph while an application for a Federal Pell Grant is pending, except that if such individual is subsequently awarded a Federal Pell Grant, appropriate reimbursement shall be made to the local area from such Federal Pell Grant. (C) Provider qualification.--Training services shall be provided through providers identified in accordance with section 122. (D) Training services.--Training services may include-- (i) occupational skills training, including training for nontraditional employment; (ii) on-the-job training; (iii) programs that combine workplace training with related instruction, which may include cooperative education programs; [[Page 112 STAT.997]] (iv) training programs operated by the private sector; (v) skill upgrading and retraining; (vi) entrepreneurial training; (vii) job readiness training; (viii) adult education and literacy activities provided in combination with services described in any of clauses (i) through (vii); and (ix) customized training conducted with a commitment by an employer or group of employers to employ an individual upon successful completion of the training. (E) Priority.--In the event that funds allocated to a local area for adult employment and training activities under paragraph (2)(A) or (3) of section 133(b) are limited, priority shall be given to recipients of public assistance and other low-income individuals for intensive services and training services. The appropriate local board and the Governor shall direct the one-stop operators in the local area with regard to making determinations related to such priority. (F) Consumer choice requirements.-- (i) In general.--Training services provided under this paragraph shall be provided in a manner that maximizes consumer choice in the selection of an eligible provider of such services. (ii) Eligible providers.--Each local board, through one-stop centers referred to in subsection (c), shall make available-- (I) the State list of eligible providers of training services required under section 122(e), with a description of the programs through which the providers may offer the training services, and the information identifying eligible providers of on- the-job training and customized training required under section 122(h); and (II) the performance information and performance cost information relating to eligible providers of training services described in subsections (e) and (h) of section 122. (G) Use of individual training accounts.-- (i) In general.--Except as provided in clause (ii), training services provided under this paragraph shall be provided through the use of individual training accounts in accordance with this paragraph, and shall be provided to eligible individuals through the one-stop delivery system. (ii) Exceptions.--Training services authorized under this paragraph may be provided pursuant to a contract for services in lieu of an individual training account if the requirements of subparagraph (F) are met and if-- (I) such services are on-the-job training provided by an employer or customized training; (II) the local board determines there are an insufficient number of eligible providers of training services in the local area involved (such as in [[Page 112 STAT.998]] a rural area) to accomplish the purposes of a system of individual training accounts; or (III) the local board determines that there is a training services program of demonstrated effectiveness offered in the local area by a community-based organization or another private organization to serve special participant populations that face multiple barriers to employment. (iii) Linkage to occupations in demand.-- Training services provided under this paragraph shall be directly linked to occupations that are in demand in the local area, or in another area to which an adult or dislocated worker receiving such services is willing to relocate, except that a local board may approve training services for occupations determined by the local board to be in sectors of the economy that have a high potential for sustained demand or growth in the local area. (iv) Definition.--In this subparagraph, the term ``special participant population that faces multiple barriers to employment'' means a population of low-income individuals that is included in one or more of the following categories: (I) Individuals with substantial language or cultural barriers. (II) Offenders. (III) Homeless individuals. (IV) Other hard-to-serve populations as defined by the Governor involved. (e) Permissible Local Employment and Training Activities.-- (1) Discretionary one-stop delivery activities.--Funds allocated to a local area for adults under paragraph (2)(A) or (3), as appropriate, of section 133(b), and funds allocated to the local area for dislocated workers under section 133(b)(2)(B), may be used to provide, through one-stop delivery described in subsection (c)(2)-- (A) customized screening and referral of qualified participants in training services described in subsection (d)(4) to employment; and (B) customized employment-related services to employers on a fee-for-service basis. (2) Supportive services.--Funds allocated to a local area for adults under paragraph (2)(A) or (3), as appropriate, of section 133(b), and funds allocated to the local area for dislocated workers under section 133(b)(2)(B), may be used to provide supportive services to adults and dislocated workers, respectively-- (A) who are participating in programs with activities authorized in any of paragraphs (2), (3), or (4) of subsection (d); and (B) who are unable to obtain such supportive services through other programs providing such services. (3) Needs-related payments.-- (A) In general.--Funds allocated to a local area for adults under paragraph (2)(A) or (3), as appropriate, of section 133(b), and funds allocated to the local area for [[Page 112 STAT.999]] dislocated workers under section 133(b)(2)(B), may be used to provide needs-related payments to adults and dislocated workers, respectively, who are unemployed and do not qualify for (or have ceased to qualify for) unemployment compensation for the purpose of enabling such individuals to participate in programs of training services under subsection (d)(4). (B) Additional eligibility requirements.--In addition to the requirements contained in subparagraph (A), a dislocated worker who has ceased to qualify for unemployment compensation may be eligible to receive needs-related payments under this paragraph only if such worker was enrolled in the training services-- (i) by the end of the 13th week after the most recent layoff that resulted in a determination of the worker's eligibility for employment and training activities for dislocated workers under this subtitle; or (ii) if later, by the end of the 8th week after the worker is informed that a short-term layoff will exceed 6 months. (C) Level of payments.--The level of a needs-related payment made to a dislocated worker under this paragraph shall not exceed the greater of-- (i) the applicable level of unemployment compensation; or (ii) if such worker did not qualify for unemployment compensation, an amount equal to the poverty line, for an equivalent period, which amount shall be adjusted to reflect changes in total family income. CHAPTER 6--GENERAL PROVISIONS SEC. 136. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2871.>> PERFORMANCE ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM. (a) Purpose.--The purpose of this section is to establish a comprehensive performance accountability system, comprised of the activities described in this section, to assess the effectiveness of States and local areas in achieving continuous improvement of workforce investment activities funded under this subtitle, in order to optimize the return on investment of Federal funds in statewide and local workforce investment activities. (b) State Performance Measures.-- (1) In general.--For each State, the State performance measures shall consist of-- (A)(i) the core indicators of performance described in paragraph (2)(A) and the customer satisfaction indicator of performance described in paragraph (2)(B); and (ii) additional indicators of performance (if any) identified by the State under paragraph (2)(C); and (B) a State adjusted level of performance for each indicator described in subparagraph (A). (2) Indicators of performance.-- (A) Core indicators of performance.-- (i) In general.--The core indicators of performance for employment and training activities authorized under section 134 (except for self- service and informational activities) and (for participants who are eligible [[Page 112 STAT.1000]] youth age 19 through 21) for youth activities authorized under section 129 shall consist of-- (I) entry into unsubsidized employment; (II) retention in unsubsidized employment 6 months after entry into the employment; (III) earnings received in unsubsidized employment 6 months after entry into the employment; and (IV) attainment of a recognized credential relating to achievement of educational skills, which may include attainment of a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent, or occupational skills, by participants who enter unsubsidized employment, or by participants who are eligible youth age 19 through 21 who enter postsecondary education, advanced training, or unsubsidized employment. (ii) Core indicators for eligible youth.--The core indicators of performance (for participants who are eligible youth age 14 through 18) for youth activities authorized under section 129, shall include-- (I) attainment of basic skills and, as appropriate, work readiness or occupational skills; (II) attainment of secondary school diplomas and their recognized equivalents; and (III) placement and retention in postsecondary education or advanced training, or placement and retention in military service, employment, or qualified apprenticeships. (B) Customer satisfaction indicators.--The customer satisfaction indicator of performance shall consist of customer satisfaction of employers and participants with services received from the workforce investment activities authorized under this subtitle. Customer satisfaction may be measured through surveys conducted after the conclusion of participation in the workforce investment activities. (C) Additional indicators.--A State may identify in the State plan additional indicators for workforce investment activities authorized under this subtitle. (3) Levels of performance.-- (A) State adjusted levels of performance for core indicators and customer satisfaction indicator.-- (i) In general.--For each State submitting a State plan, there shall be established, in accordance with this subparagraph, levels of performance for each of the core indicators of performance described in paragraph (2)(A) and the customer satisfaction indicator described in paragraph (2)(B) for workforce investment activities authorized under this subtitle. The levels of performance established under this subparagraph shall, at a minimum-- (I) be expressed in an objective, quantifiable, and measurable form; and (II) show the progress of the State toward continuously improving in performance. [[Page 112 STAT.1001]] (ii) Identification in state plan.--Each State shall identify, in the State plan submitted under section 112, expected levels of performance for each of the core indicators of performance and the customer satisfaction indicator of performance, for the first 3 program years covered by the State plan. (iii) Agreement on state adjusted levels of performance for first 3 years.--In order to ensure an optimal return on the investment of Federal funds in workforce investment activities authorized under this subtitle, the Secretary and each Governor shall reach agreement on levels of performance for each of the core indicators of performance and the customer satisfaction indicator of performance, for the first 3 program years covered by the State plan, taking into account the levels identified in the State plan under clause (ii) and the factors described in clause (iv). The levels agreed to under this clause shall be considered to be the State adjusted levels of performance for the State for such years and shall be incorporated into the State plan prior to the approval of such plan. (iv) Factors.--The agreement described in clause (iii) or (v) shall take into account-- (I) the extent to which the levels involved will assist the State in attaining a high level of customer satisfaction; (II) how the levels involved compare with the State adjusted levels of performance established for other States, taking into account factors including differences in economic conditions, the characteristics of participants when the participants entered the program, and the services to be provided; and (III) the extent to which such levels involved promote continuous improvement in performance on the performance measures by such State and ensure optimal return on the investment of Federal funds. (v) Agreement on state adjusted levels of performance for 4th and 5th years.--Prior to the 4th program year covered by the State plan, the Secretary and each Governor shall reach agreement on levels of performance for each of the core indicators of performance and the customer satisfaction indicator of performance, for the 4th and 5th program years covered by the State plan, taking into account the factors described in clause (iv). The levels agreed to under this clause shall be considered to be the State adjusted levels of performance for the State for such years and shall be incorporated into the State plan. (vi) Revisions.--If unanticipated circumstances arise in a State resulting in a significant change in the factors described in clause (iv)(II), the Governor may request that the State adjusted levels of performance agreed to under clause (iii) or (v) be revised. [[Page 112 STAT.1002]] The Secretary, after collaboration with the representatives described in subsection (i), shall issue objective criteria and methods for making such revisions. (B) Levels of performance for additional indicators.--The State may identify, in the State plan, State levels of performance for each of the additional indicators described in paragraph (2)(C). Such levels shall be considered to be State adjusted levels of performance for purposes of this title. (c) Local Performance Measures.-- (1) In general.--For each local area in a State, the local performance measures shall consist of-- (A)(i) the core indicators of performance described in subsection (b)(2)(A), and the customer satisfaction indicator of performance described in subsection (b)(2)(B), for activities described in such subsections, other than statewide workforce investment activities; and (ii) additional indicators of performance (if any) identified by the State under subsection (b)(2)(C) for activities described in such subsection, other than statewide workforce investment activities; and (B) a local level of performance for each indicator described in subparagraph (A). (2) Local level of performance.--The local board, the chief elected official, and the Governor shall negotiate and reach agreement on the local levels of performance based on the State adjusted levels of performance established under subsection (b). (3) Determinations.--In determining such local levels of performance, the local board, the chief elected official, and the Governor shall take into account the specific economic, demographic, and other characteristics of the populations to be served in the local area. (d) Report.-- (1) In general.--Each State that receives an allotment under section 127 or 132 shall annually prepare and submit to the Secretary a report on the progress of the State in achieving State performance measures, including information on the levels of performance achieved by the State with respect to the core indicators of performance and the customer satisfaction indicator. The annual report also shall include information regarding the progress of local areas in the State in achieving local performance measures, including information on the levels of performance achieved by the areas with respect to the core indicators of performance and the customer satisfaction indicator. The report also shall include information on the status of State evaluations of workforce investment activities described in subsection (e). (2) Additional information.--In preparing such report, the State shall include, at a minimum, information on participants in workforce investment activities authorized under this subtitle relating to-- (A) entry by participants who have completed training services provided under section 134(d)(4) into unsubsidized employment related to the training received; (B) wages at entry into employment for participants in workforce investment activities who entered [[Page 112 STAT.1003]] unsubsidized employment, including the rate of wage replacement for such participants who are dislocated workers; (C) cost of workforce investment activities relative to the effect of the activities on the performance of participants; (D) retention and earnings received in unsubsidized employment 12 months after entry into the employment; (E) performance with respect to the indicators of performance specified in subsection (b)(2)(A) of participants in workforce investment activities who received the training services compared with the performance of participants in workforce investment activities who received only services other than the training services (excluding participants who received only self-service and informational activities); and (F) performance with respect to the indicators of performance specified in subsection (b)(2)(A) of recipients of public assistance, out-of-school youth, veterans, individuals with disabilities, displaced homemakers, and older individuals. (3) <<NOTE: Publication.>> Information dissemination.--The Secretary-- (A) shall make the information contained in such reports available to the general public through publication and other appropriate methods; (B) shall disseminate State-by-State comparisons of the information; and (C) shall provide the appropriate congressional committees with copies of such reports. (e) Evaluation of State Programs.-- (1) In general.--Using funds made available under this subtitle, the State, in coordination with local boards in the State, shall conduct ongoing evaluation studies of workforce investment activities carried out in the State under this subtitle in order to promote, establish, implement, and utilize methods for continuously improving the activities in order to achieve high-level performance within, and high-level outcomes from, the statewide workforce investment system. To the maximum extent practicable, the State shall coordinate the evaluations with the evaluations provided for by the Secretary under section 172. (2) Design.--The evaluation studies conducted under this subsection shall be designed in conjunction with the State board and local boards and shall include analysis of customer feedback and outcome and process measures in the statewide workforce investment system. The studies may include use of control groups. (3) <<NOTE: Reports.>> Results.--The State shall periodically prepare and submit to the State board, and local boards in the State, reports containing the results of evaluation studies conducted under this subsection, to promote the efficiency and effectiveness of the statewide workforce investment system in improving employability for jobseekers and competitiveness for employers. (f ) Fiscal and Management Accountability Information Systems.-- (1) <<NOTE: Guidelines.>> In general.--Using funds made available under this subtitle, the Governor, in coordination with local boards and [[Page 112 STAT.1004]] chief elected officials in the State, shall establish and operate a fiscal and management accountability information system based on guidelines established by the Secretary after consultation with the Governors, local elected officials, and one-stop partners. Such guidelines shall promote efficient collection and use of fiscal and management information for reporting and monitoring the use of funds made available under this subtitle and for preparing the annual report described in subsection (d). (2) Wage records.--In measuring the progress of the State on State and local performance measures, a State shall utilize quarterly wage records, consistent with State law. The Secretary shall make arrangements, consistent with State law, to ensure that the wage records of any State are available to any other State to the extent that such wage records are required by the State in carrying out the State plan of the State or completing the annual report described in subsection (d). (3) Confidentiality.--In carrying out the requirements of this Act, the State shall comply with section 444 of the General Education Provisions Act (20 U.S.C. 1232g) (as added by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974). (g) Sanctions for State Failure To Meet State Performance Measures.-- (1) States.-- (A) Technical assistance.--If a State fails to meet State adjusted levels of performance relating to indicators described in subparagraph (A) or (B) of subsection (b)(2) for a program for any program year, the Secretary shall, upon request, provide technical assistance in accordance with section 170, including assistance in the development of a performance improvement plan. (B) Reduction in amount of grant.--If such failure continues for a second consecutive year, or if a State fails to submit a report under subsection (d) for any program year, the Secretary may reduce by not more than 5 percent, the amount of the grant that would (in the absence of this paragraph) be payable to the State under such program for the immediately succeeding program year. Such penalty shall be based on the degree of failure to meet State adjusted levels of performance. (2) Funds resulting from reduced allotments.--The Secretary shall use an amount retained, as a result of a reduction in an allotment to a State made under paragraph (1)(B), to provide incentive grants under section 503. (h) Sanctions for Local Area Failure To Meet Local Performance Measures.-- (1) Technical assistance.--If a local area fails to meet levels of performance relating to indicators described in subparagraph (A) or (B) of subsection (b)(2) for a program for any program year, the Governor, or upon request by the Governor, the Secretary, shall provide technical assistance, which may include assistance in the development of a performance improvement plan, or the development of a modified local plan. (2) Corrective actions.-- [[Page 112 STAT.1005]] (A) In general.--If such failure continues for a second consecutive year, the Governor shall take corrective actions, which may include development of a reorganization plan through which the Governor may-- (i) require the appointment and certification of a new local board (consistent with the criteria established under section 117(b)); (ii) prohibit the use of eligible providers and one-stop partners identified as achieving a poor level of performance; or (iii) take such other actions as the Governor determines are appropriate. (B) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> Appeal by local area.-- (i) Appeal to governor.--A local area that is subject to a reorganization plan under subparagraph (A) may, not later than 30 days after receiving notice of the reorganization plan, appeal to the Governor to rescind or revise such plan. In such case, the Governor shall make a final decision not later then 30 days after the receipt of the appeal. (ii) Subsequent action.--The local area may, not later than 30 days after receiving a decision from the Governor pursuant to clause (i), appeal such decision to the Secretary. In such case, the Secretary shall make a final decision not later than 30 days after the receipt of the appeal. (C) Effective date.--The decision made by the Governor under clause (i) of subparagraph (B) shall become effective at the time the Governor issues the decision pursuant to such clause. Such decision shall remain effective unless the Secretary rescinds or revises such plan pursuant to clause (ii) of subparagraph (B). (i) Other Measures and Terminology.-- (1) Responsibilities.--In order to ensure nationwide comparability of performance data, the Secretary, after collaboration with representatives of appropriate Federal agencies, and representatives of States and political subdivisions, business and industry, employees, eligible providers of employment and training activities, educators, and participants, with expertise regarding workforce investment policies and workforce investment activities, shall issue-- (A) definitions for information required to be reported under subsection (d)(2); (B) terms for a menu of additional indicators of performance described in subsection (b)(2)(C) to assist States in assessing their progress toward State workforce investment goals; and (C) objective criteria and methods described in subsection (b)(3)(A)(vi) for making revisions to levels of performance. (2) Definitions for core indicators.--The Secretary and the representatives described in paragraph (1) shall participate in the activities described in section 502 concerning the issuance of definitions for indicators of performance described in subsection (b)(2)(A). [[Page 112 STAT.1006]] (3) Assistance.--The Secretary shall make the services of staff available to the representatives to assist the representatives in participating in the collaboration described in paragraph (1) and in the activities described in section 502. SEC. 137. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2872.>> AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. (a) Youth Activities.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the activities described in section 127(a), such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 1999 through 2003. (b) Adult Employment and Training Activities.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the activities described in section 132(a)(1), such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 1999 through 2003. (c) Dislocated Worker Employment and Training Activities.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the activities described in section 132(a)(2), such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 1999 through 2003. Subtitle C--Job Corps SEC. 141. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2881.>> PURPOSES. The purposes of this subtitle are-- (1) to maintain a national Job Corps program, carried out in partnership with States and communities, to assist eligible youth who need and can benefit from an intensive program, operated in a group setting in residential and nonresidential centers, to become more responsible, employable, and productive citizens; (2) to set forth standards and procedures for selecting individuals as enrollees in the Job Corps; (3) to authorize the establishment of Job Corps centers in which enrollees will participate in intensive programs of activities described in this subtitle; and (4) to prescribe various other powers, duties, and responsibilities incident to the operation and continuing development of the Job Corps. SEC. 142. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2882.>> DEFINITIONS. In this subtitle: (1) Applicable local board.--The term ``applicable local board'' means a local board-- (A) that provides information for a Job Corps center on local employment opportunities and the job skills needed to obtain the opportunities; and (B) that serves communities in which the graduates of the Job Corps center seek employment. (2) Applicable one-stop center.--The term ``applicable one- stop center'' means a one-stop customer service center that provides services, such as referral, intake, recruitment, and placement, to a Job Corps center. (3) Enrollee.--The term ``enrollee'' means an individual who has voluntarily applied for, been selected for, and enrolled in the Job Corps program, and remains with the program, but has not yet become a graduate. (4) Former enrollee.--The term ``former enrollee'' means an individual who has voluntarily applied for, been selected for, and enrolled in the Job Corps program, but left the program [[Page 112 STAT.1007]] before completing the requirements of a vocational training program, or receiving a secondary school diploma or recognized equivalent, as a result of participation in the Job Corps program. (5) Graduate.--The term ``graduate'' means an individual who has voluntarily applied for, been selected for, and enrolled in the Job Corps program and has completed the requirements of a vocational training program, or received a secondary school diploma or recognized equivalent, as a result of participation in the Job Corps program. (6) Job corps.--The term ``Job Corps'' means the Job Corps described in section 143. (7) Job corps center.--The term ``Job Corps center'' means a center described in section 147. (8) Operator.--The term ``operator'' means an entity selected under this subtitle to operate a Job Corps center. (9) Region.--The term ``region'' means an area served by a regional office of the Employment and Training Administration. (10) Service provider.--The term ``service provider'' means an entity selected under this subtitle to provide services described in this subtitle to a Job Corps center. SEC. 143. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2883.>> ESTABLISHMENT. There shall be within the Department of Labor a ``Job Corps''. SEC. 144. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2884.>> INDIVIDUALS ELIGIBLE FOR THE JOB CORPS. To be eligible to become an enrollee, an individual shall be-- (1) not less than age 16 and not more than age 21 on the date of enrollment, except that-- (A) not more than 20 percent of the individuals enrolled in the Job Corps may be not less than age 22 and not more than age 24 on the date of enrollment; and (B) either such maximum age limitation may be waived by the Secretary, in accordance with regulations of the Secretary, in the case of an individual with a disability; (2) a low-income individual; and (3) an individual who is one or more of the following: (A) Basic skills deficient. (B) A school dropout. (C) Homeless, a runaway, or a foster child. (D) A parent. (E) An individual who requires additional education, vocational training, or intensive counseling and related assistance, in order to participate successfully in regular schoolwork or to secure and hold employment. SEC. 145. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2885.>> RECRUITMENT, SCREENING, SELECTION, AND ASSIGNMENT OF ENROLLEES. (a) Standards and Procedures.-- (1) In general.--The Secretary shall prescribe specific standards and procedures for the recruitment, screening, and selection of eligible applicants for the Job Corps, after considering recommendations from the Governors, local boards, and other interested parties. (2) Methods.--In prescribing standards and procedures under paragraph (1), the Secretary, at a minimum, shall-- [[Page 112 STAT.1008]] (A) prescribe procedures for informing enrollees that drug tests will be administered to the enrollees and the results received within 45 days after the enrollees enroll in the Job Corps; (B) establish standards for recruitment of Job Corps applicants; (C) establish standards and procedures for-- (i) determining, for each applicant, whether the educational and vocational needs of the applicant can best be met through the Job Corps program or an alternative program in the community in which the applicant resides; and (ii) obtaining from each applicant pertinent data relating to background, needs, and interests for determining eligibility and potential assignment; (D) where appropriate, take measures to improve the professional capability of the individuals conducting screening of the applicants; and (E) assure that an appropriate number of enrollees are from rural areas. (3) Implementation.--To the extent practicable, the standards and procedures shall be implemented through arrangements with-- (A) applicable one-stop centers; (B) community action agencies, business organizations, and labor organizations; and (C) agencies and individuals that have contact with youth over substantial periods of time and are able to offer reliable information about the needs and problems of youth. (4) Consultation.--The standards and procedures shall provide for necessary consultation with individuals and organizations, including court, probation, parole, law enforcement, education, welfare, and medical authorities and advisers. (5) <<NOTE: Contracts.>> Reimbursement.--The Secretary is authorized to enter into contracts with and make payments to individuals and organizations for the cost of conducting recruitment, screening, and selection of eligible applicants for the Job Corps, as provided for in this section. The Secretary shall make no payment to any individual or organization solely as compensation for referring the names of applicants for the Job Corps. (b) Special Limitations on Selection.-- (1) In general.--No individual shall be selected as an enrollee unless the individual or organization implementing the standards and procedures described in subsection (a) determines that-- (A) there is a reasonable expectation that the individual considered for selection can participate successfully in group situations and activities, and is not likely to engage in behavior that would prevent other enrollees from receiving the benefit of the Job Corps program or be incompatible with the maintenance of sound discipline and satisfactory relationships between the Job Corps center to which the individual might be assigned and communities surrounding the Job Corps center; [[Page 112 STAT.1009]] (B) the individual manifests a basic understanding of both the rules to which the individual will be subject and of the consequences of failure to observe the rules; and (C) the individual has passed a background check conducted in accordance with procedures established by the Secretary. (2) Individuals on probation, parole, or supervised release.--An individual on probation, parole, or supervised release may be selected as an enrollee only if release from the supervision of the probation or parole official involved is satisfactory to the official and the Secretary and does not violate applicable laws (including regulations). No individual shall be denied a position in the Job Corps solely on the basis of individual contact with the criminal justice system. (c) Assignment Plan.-- (1) In general.--Every 2 years, the Secretary shall develop and implement an assignment plan for assigning enrollees to Job Corps centers. In developing the plan, the Secretary shall, based on the analysis described in paragraph (2), establish targets, applicable to each Job Corps center, for-- (A) the maximum attainable percentage of enrollees at the Job Corps center that reside in the State in which the center is located; and (B) the maximum attainable percentage of enrollees at the Job Corps center that reside in the region in which the center is located, and in surrounding regions. (2) Analysis.--In order to develop the plan described in paragraph (1), the Secretary shall, every 2 years, analyze, for the Job Corps center-- (A) the size of the population of individuals eligible to participate in Job Corps in the State and region in which the Job Corps center is located, and in surrounding regions; (B) the relative demand for participation in the Job Corps in the State and region, and in surrounding regions; and (C) the capacity and utilization of the Job Corps center, including services provided through the center. (d) Assignment of Individual Enrollees.-- (1) In general.--After an individual has been selected for the Job Corps in accordance with the standards and procedures of the Secretary under subsection (a), the enrollee shall be assigned to the Job Corps center that is closest to the home of the enrollee, except that the Secretary may waive this requirement if-- (A) the enrollee chooses a vocational training program, or requires an English literacy program, that is not available at such center; (B) the enrollee would be unduly delayed in participating in the Job Corps program because the closest center is operating at full capacity; or (C) the parent or guardian of the enrollee requests assignment of the enrollee to another Job Corps center due to circumstances in the community of the enrollee that would impair prospects for successful participation in the Job Corps program. [[Page 112 STAT.1010]] (2) Enrollees who are younger than 18.--An enrollee who is younger than 18 shall not be assigned to a Job Corps center other than the center closest to the home of the enrollee pursuant to paragraph (1) if the parent or guardian of the enrollee objects to the assignment. SEC. 146. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2886.>> ENROLLMENT. (a) Relationship Between Enrollment and Military Obligations.-- Enrollment in the Job Corps shall not relieve any individual of obligations under the Military Selective Service Act (50 U.S.C. App. 451 et seq.). (b) Period of Enrollment.--No individual may be enrolled in the Job Corps for more than 2 years, except-- (1) in a case in which completion of an advanced career training program under section 148(c) would require an individual to participate in the Job Corps for not more than one additional year; or (2) as the Secretary may authorize in a special case. SEC. 147. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2887.>> JOB CORPS CENTERS. (a) Operators and Service Providers.-- (1) Eligible entities.-- (A) <<NOTE: Contracts.>> Operators.--The Secretary shall enter into an agreement with a Federal, State, or local agency, an area vocational education school or residential vocational school, or a private organization, for the operation of each Job Corps center. (B) Providers.--The Secretary may enter into an agreement with a local entity to provide activities described in this subtitle to the Job Corps center. (2) Selection process.-- (A) Competitive basis.--Except as provided in subsections (c) and (d) of section 303 of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (41 U.S.C. 253), the Secretary shall select on a competitive basis an entity to operate a Job Corps center and entities to provide activities described in this subtitle to the Job Corps center. In developing a solicitation for an operator or service provider, the Secretary shall consult with the Governor of the State in which the center is located, the industry council for the Job Corps center (if established), and the applicable local board regarding the contents of such solicitation, including elements that will promote the consistency of the activities carried out through the center with the objectives set forth in the State plan or in a local plan. (B) Recommendations and considerations.-- (i) Operators.--In selecting an entity to operate a Job Corps center, the Secretary shall consider-- (I) the ability of the entity to coordinate the activities carried out through the Job Corps center with activities carried out under the appropriate State plan and local plans; (II) the degree to which the vocational training that the entity proposes for the center reflects local employment opportunities in the local areas in which enrollees at the center intend to seek employment; [[Page 112 STAT.1011]] (III) the degree to which the entity is familiar with the surrounding communities, applicable one-stop centers, and the State and region in which the center is located; and (IV) the past performance of the entity, if any, relating to operating or providing activities described in this subtitle to a Job Corps center. (ii) Providers.--In selecting a service provider for a Job Corps center, the Secretary shall consider the factors described in subclauses (I) through (IV) of clause (i), as appropriate. (b) Character and Activities.--Job Corps centers may be residential or nonresidential in character, and shall be designed and operated so as to provide enrollees, in a well-supervised setting, with access to activities described in this subtitle. In any year, no more than 20 percent of the individuals enrolled in the Job Corps may be nonresidential participants in the Job Corps. (c) Civilian Conservation Centers.-- (1) In general.--The Job Corps centers may include Civilian Conservation Centers operated under agreements with the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary of the Interior, located primarily in rural areas, which shall provide, in addition to other vocational training and assistance, programs of work experience to conserve, develop, or manage public natural resources or public recreational areas or to develop community projects in the public interest. (2) Selection process.--The Secretary may select an entity to operate a Civilian Conservation Center on a competitive basis, as provided in subsection (a), if the center fails to meet such national performance standards as the Secretary shall establish. (d) Indian Tribes.-- (1) General authority.--The Secretary may enter into agreements with Indian tribes to operate Job Corps centers for Indians. (2) Definitions.--In this subsection, the terms ``Indian'' and ``Indian tribe'', have the meanings given such terms in subsections (d) and (e), respectively, of section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450b). SEC. 148. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2888.>> PROGRAM ACTIVITIES. (a) Activities Provided by Job Corps Centers.-- (1) In general.--Each Job Corps center shall provide enrollees with an intensive, well organized, and fully supervised program of education, vocational training, work experience, recreational activities, physical rehabilitation and development, and counseling. Each Job Corps center shall provide enrollees assigned to the center with access to core services described in section 134(d)(2) and the intensive services described in section 134(d)(3). (2) Relationship to opportunities.-- (A) In general.--The activities provided under this subsection shall provide work-based learning throughout the enrollment of the enrollees and assist the enrollees in obtaining meaningful unsubsidized employment, participating in secondary education or postsecondary education [[Page 112 STAT.1012]] programs, enrolling in other suitable vocational training programs, or satisfying Armed Forces requirements, on completion of their enrollment. (B) Link to employment opportunities.--The vocational training provided shall be linked to the employment opportunities in the local area in which the enrollee intends to seek employment after graduation. (b) Education and Vocational Training.--The Secretary may arrange for education and vocational training of enrollees through local public or private educational agencies, vocational educational institutions, or technical institutes, whenever such entities provide education and training substantially equivalent in cost and quality to that which the Secretary could provide through other means. (c) Advanced Career Training Programs.-- (1) In general.--The Secretary may arrange for programs of advanced career training for selected enrollees in which the enrollees may continue to participate for a period of not to exceed 1 year in addition to the period of participation to which the enrollees would otherwise be limited. The advanced career training may be provided through the eligible providers of training services identified under section 122. (2) Benefits.-- (A) In general.--During the period of participation in an advanced career training program, an enrollee shall be eligible for full Job Corps benefits, or a monthly stipend equal to the average value of the residential support, food, allowances, and other benefits provided to enrollees assigned to residential Job Corps centers. (B) Calculation.--The total amount for which an enrollee shall be eligible under subparagraph (A) shall be reduced by the amount of any scholarship or other educational grant assistance received by such enrollee for advanced career training. (3) Demonstration.--Each year, any operator seeking to enroll additional enrollees in an advanced career training program shall demonstrate that participants in such program have achieved a satisfactory rate of completion and placement in training-related jobs before the operator may carry out such additional enrollment. (d) Continued Services.--The Secretary shall also provide continued services to graduates, including providing counseling regarding the workplace for 12 months after the date of graduation of the graduates. In selecting a provider for such services, the Secretary shall give priority to one-stop partners. (e) Child Care.--The Secretary shall, to the extent practicable, provide child care at or near Job Corps centers, for individuals who require child care for their children in order to participate in the Job Corps. SEC. 149. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2889.>> COUNSELING AND JOB PLACEMENT. (a) Counseling and Testing.--The Secretary shall arrange for counseling and testing for each enrollee at regular intervals to measure progress in the education and vocational training programs carried out through the Job Corps. (b) Placement.--The Secretary shall arrange for counseling and testing for enrollees prior to their scheduled graduations to determine their capabilities and, based on their capabilities, shall [[Page 112 STAT.1013]] make every effort to arrange to place the enrollees in jobs in the vocations for which the enrollees are trained or to assist the enrollees in obtaining further activities described in this subtitle. In arranging for the placement of graduates in jobs, the Secretary shall utilize the one-stop delivery system to the fullest extent possible. (c) Status and Progress.--The Secretary shall determine the status and progress of enrollees scheduled for graduation and make every effort to assure that their needs for further activities described in this subtitle are met. (d) Services to Former Enrollees.--The Secretary may provide such services as the Secretary determines to be appropriate under this subtitle to former enrollees. SEC. 150. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2890.>> SUPPORT. (a) Personal Allowances.--The Secretary may provide enrollees assigned to Job Corps centers with such personal allowances as the Secretary may determine to be necessary or appropriate to meet the needs of the enrollees. (b) Readjustment Allowances.-- (1) Graduates.--The Secretary shall arrange for a readjustment allowance to be paid to graduates. The Secretary shall arrange for the allowance to be paid at the one-stop center nearest to the home of the graduate who is returning home, or at the one-stop center nearest to the location where the graduate has indicated an intent to seek employment. If the Secretary uses any organization, in lieu of a one-stop center, to provide placement services under this Act, the Secretary shall arrange for that organization to pay the readjustment allowance. (2) Former enrollees.--The Secretary may provide for a readjustment allowance to be paid to former enrollees. The provision of the readjustment allowance shall be subject to the same requirements as are applicable to the provision of the readjustment allowance paid to graduates under paragraph (1). SEC. 151. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2891.>> OPERATING PLAN. (a) In General.--The provisions of the contract between the Secretary and an entity selected to operate a Job Corps center shall, at a minimum, serve as an operating plan for the Job Corps center. (b) Additional Information.--The Secretary may require the operator, in order to remain eligible to operate the Job Corps center, to submit such additional information as the Secretary may require, which shall be considered part of the operating plan. (c) Availability.--The Secretary shall make the operating plan described in subsections (a) and (b), excluding any proprietary information, available to the public. SEC. 152. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2892.>> STANDARDS OF CONDUCT. (a) Provision and Enforcement.--The Secretary shall provide, and directors of Job Corps centers shall stringently enforce, standards of conduct within the centers. Such standards of conduct shall include provisions forbidding the actions described in subsection (b)(2)(A). (b) Disciplinary Measures.-- [[Page 112 STAT.1014]] (1) In general.--To promote the proper moral and disciplinary conditions in the Job Corps, the directors of Job Corps centers shall take appropriate disciplinary measures against enrollees. If such a director determines that an enrollee has committed a violation of the standards of conduct, the director shall dismiss the enrollee from the Job Corps if the director determines that the retention of the enrollee in the Job Corps will jeopardize the enforcement of such standards or diminish the opportunities of other enrollees. (2) Zero tolerance policy and drug testing.-- (A) Guidelines.--The Secretary shall adopt guidelines establishing a zero tolerance policy for an act of violence, for use, sale, or possession of a controlled substance, for abuse of alcohol, or for other illegal or disruptive activity. (B) Drug testing.--The Secretary shall require drug testing of all enrollees for controlled substances in accordance with procedures prescribed by the Secretary under section 145(a). (C) Definitions.--In this paragraph: (i) Controlled substance.--The term ``controlled substance'' has the meaning given the term in section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802). (ii) Zero tolerance policy.--The term ``zero tolerance policy'' means a policy under which an enrollee shall be automatically dismissed from the Job Corps after a determination by the director that the enrollee has carried out an action described in subparagraph (A). (c) Appeal.--A disciplinary measure taken by a director under this section shall be subject to expeditious appeal in accordance with procedures established by the Secretary. SEC. 153. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2893.>> COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION. (a) Business and Community Liaison.--Each Job Corps center shall have a Business and Community Liaison (referred to in this Act as a ``Liaison''), designated by the director of the center. (b) Responsibilities.--The responsibilities of the Liaison shall include-- (1) establishing and developing relationships and networks with-- (A) local and distant employers; and (B) applicable one-stop centers and applicable local boards, for the purpose of providing job opportunities for Job Corps graduates; and (2) establishing and developing relationships with members of the community in which the Job Corps center is located, informing members of the community about the projects of the Job Corps center and changes in the rules, procedures, or activities of the center that may affect the community, and planning events of mutual interest to the community and the Job Corps center. (c) New Centers.--The Liaison for a Job Corps center that is not yet operating shall establish and develop the relationships and networks described in subsection (b) at least 3 months prior to the date on which the center accepts the first enrollee at the center. [[Page 112 STAT.1015]] SEC. 154. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2894.>> INDUSTRY COUNCILS. (a) In General.--Each Job Corps center shall have an industry council, appointed by the director of the center after consultation with the Liaison, in accordance with procedures established by the Secretary. (b) Industry Council Composition.-- (1) In general.--An industry council shall be comprised of-- (A) a majority of members who shall be local and distant owners of business concerns, chief executives or chief operating officers of nongovernmental employers, or other private sector employers, who-- (i) have substantial management, hiring, or policy responsibility; and (ii) represent businesses with employment opportunities that reflect the employment opportunities of the applicable local area; (B) representatives of labor organizations (where present) and representatives of employees; and (C) enrollees and graduates of the Job Corps. (2) Local board.--The industry council may include members of the applicable local boards who meet the requirements described in paragraph (1). (c) Responsibilities.--The responsibilities of the industry council shall be-- (1) to work closely with all applicable local boards in order to determine, and recommend to the Secretary, appropriate vocational training for the center; (2) to review all the relevant labor market information to-- (A) determine the employment opportunities in the local areas in which the enrollees intend to seek employment after graduation; (B) determine the skills and education that are necessary to obtain the employment opportunities; and (C) recommend to the Secretary the type of vocational training that should be implemented at the center to enable the enrollees to obtain the employment opportunities; and (3) to meet at least once every 6 months to reevaluate the labor market information, and other relevant information, to determine, and recommend to the Secretary, any necessary changes in the vocational training provided at the center. (d) New Centers.--The industry council for a Job Corps center that is not yet operating shall carry out the responsibilities described in subsection (c) at least 3 months prior to the date on which the center accepts the first enrollee at the center. SEC. 155. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2895.>> ADVISORY COMMITTEES. The Secretary may establish and use advisory committees in connection with the operation of the Job Corps program, and the operation of Job Corps centers, whenever the Secretary determines that the availability of outside advice and counsel on a regular basis would be of substantial benefit in identifying and overcoming problems, in planning program or center development, or in strengthening relationships between the Job Corps and agencies, institutions, or groups engaged in related activities. [[Page 112 STAT.1016]] SEC. 156. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2896.>> EXPERIMENTAL, RESEARCH, AND DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS. The Secretary may carry out experimental, research, or demonstration projects relating to carrying out the Job Corps program and may waive any provisions of this subtitle that the Secretary finds would prevent the Secretary from carrying out the projects. SEC. 157. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2897.>> APPLICATION OF PROVISIONS OF FEDERAL LAW. (a) Enrollees Not Considered To Be Federal Employees.-- (1) In general.--Except as otherwise provided in this subsection and in section 8143(a) of title 5, United States Code, enrollees shall not be considered to be Federal employees and shall not be subject to the provisions of law relating to Federal employment, including such provisions regarding hours of work, rates of compensation, leave, unemployment compensation, and Federal employee benefits. (2) Provisions relating to taxes and social security benefits.--For purposes of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and title II of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 401 et seq.), enrollees shall be deemed to be employees of the United States and any service performed by an individual as an enrollee shall be deemed to be performed in the employ of the United States. (3) Provisions relating to compensation to federal employees for work injuries.--For purposes of subchapter I of chapter 81 of title 5, United States Code (relating to compensation to Federal employees for work injuries), enrollees shall be deemed to be civil employees of the Government of the United States within the meaning of the term ``employee'' as defined in section 8101 of title 5, United States Code, and the provisions of such subchapter shall apply as specified in section 8143(a) of title 5, United States Code. (4) Federal tort claims provisions.--For purposes of the Federal tort claims provisions in title 28, United States Code, enrollees shall be considered to be employees of the Government. (b) Adjustments and Settlements.--Whenever the Secretary finds a claim for damages to a person or property resulting from the operation of the Job Corps to be a proper charge against the United States, and the claim is not cognizable under section 2672 of title 28, United States Code, the Secretary may adjust and settle the claim in an amount not exceeding $1,500. (c) Personnel of the Uniformed Services.--Personnel of the uniformed services who are detailed or assigned to duty in the performance of agreements made by the Secretary for the support of the Job Corps shall not be counted in computing strength under any law limiting the strength of such services or in computing the percentage authorized by law for any grade in such services. SEC. 158. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2898.>> SPECIAL PROVISIONS. (a) Enrollment.--The Secretary shall ensure that women and men have an equal opportunity to participate in the Job Corps program, consistent with section 145. (b) Studies, Evaluations, Proposals, and Data.--The Secretary shall assure that all studies, evaluations, proposals, and data produced or developed with Federal funds in the course of [[Page 112 STAT.1017]] carrying out the Job Corps program shall become the property of the United States. (c) Transfer of Property.-- (1) In general.--Notwithstanding title II of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (40 U.S.C. 481 et seq.) and any other provision of law, the Secretary and the Secretary of Education shall receive priority by the Secretary of Defense for the direct transfer, on a nonreimbursable basis, of the property described in paragraph (2) for use in carrying out programs under this Act or under any other Act. (2) Property.--The property described in this paragraph is real and personal property under the control of the Department of Defense that is not used by such Department, including property that the Secretary of Defense determines is in excess of current and projected requirements of such Department. (d) Gross Receipts.--Transactions conducted by a private for-profit or nonprofit entity that is an operator or service provider for a Job Corps center shall not be considered to be generating gross receipts. Such an operator or service provider shall not be liable, directly or indirectly, to any State or subdivision of a State (nor to any person acting on behalf of such a State or subdivision) for any gross receipts taxes, business privilege taxes measured by gross receipts, or any similar taxes imposed on, or measured by, gross receipts in connection with any payments made to or by such entity for operating or providing services to a Job Corps center. Such an operator or service provider shall not be liable to any State or subdivision of a State to collect or pay any sales, excise, use, or similar tax imposed on the sale to or use by such operator or service provider of any property, service, or other item in connection with the operation of or provision of services to a Job Corps center. (e) Management Fee.--The Secretary shall provide each operator and (in an appropriate case, as determined by the Secretary) service provider with an equitable and negotiated management fee of not less than 1 percent of the amount of the funding provided under the appropriate agreement specified in section 147. (f ) Donations.--The Secretary may accept on behalf of the Job Corps or individual Job Corps centers charitable donations of cash or other assistance, including equipment and materials, if such donations are available for appropriate use for the purposes set forth in this subtitle. (g) Sale of Property.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, if the Administrator of General Services sells a Job Corps center facility, the Administrator shall transfer the proceeds from the sale to the Secretary, who shall use the proceeds to carry out the Job Corps program. SEC. 159. <<NOTE: Procedures. 29 USC 2899.>> MANAGEMENT INFORMATION. (a) Financial Management Information System.-- (1) In general.--The Secretary shall establish procedures to ensure that each operator, and each service provider, maintains a financial management information system that will provide-- (A) accurate, complete, and current disclosures of the costs of Job Corps operations; and [[Page 112 STAT.1018]] (B) sufficient data for the effective evaluation of activities carried out through the Job Corps program. (2) Accounts.--Each operator and service provider shall maintain funds received under this subtitle in accounts in a manner that ensures timely and accurate reporting as required by the Secretary. (3) Fiscal responsibility.--Operators shall remain fiscally responsible and control costs, regardless of whether the funds made available for Job Corps centers are incrementally increased or decreased between fiscal years. (b) Audit.-- (1) Access.--The Secretary, the Inspector General of the Department of Labor, the Comptroller General of the United States, and any of their duly authorized representatives, shall have access to any books, documents, papers, and records of the operators and service providers described in subsection (a) that are pertinent to the Job Corps program, for purposes of conducting surveys, audits, and evaluations of the operators and service providers. (2) Surveys, audits, and evaluations.--The Secretary shall survey, audit, or evaluate, or arrange for the survey, audit, or evaluation of, the operators and service providers, using Federal auditors or independent public accountants. The Secretary shall conduct such surveys, audits, or evaluations not less often than once every 3 years. (c) Information on Indicators of Performance.-- (1) Establishment.--The Secretary shall, with continuity and consistency from year to year, establish indicators of performance, and expected levels of performance for Job Corps centers and the Job Corps program, relating to-- (A) the number of graduates and the rate of such graduation, analyzed by type of vocational training received through the Job Corps program and by whether the vocational training was provided by a local or national service provider; (B) the number of graduates who entered unsubsidized employment related to the vocational training received through the Job Corps program and the number who entered unsubsidized employment not related to the vocational training received, analyzed by whether the vocational training was provided by a local or national service provider and by whether the placement in the employment was conducted by a local or national service provider; (C) the average wage received by graduates who entered unsubsidized employment related to the vocational training received through the Job Corps program and the average wage received by graduates who entered unsubsidized employment unrelated to the vocational training received; (D) the average wage received by graduates placed in unsubsidized employment after completion of the Job Corps program-- (i) on the first day of the employment; (ii) 6 months after the first day of the employment; and (iii) 12 months after the first day of the employment, [[Page 112 STAT.1019]] analyzed by type of vocational training received through the Job Corps program; (E) the number of graduates who entered unsubsidized employment and were retained in the unsubsidized employment-- (i) 6 months after the first day of the employment; and (ii) 12 months after the first day of the employment; (F) the number of graduates who entered unsubsidized employment-- (i) for 32 hours per week or more; (ii) for not less than 20 but less than 32 hours per week; and (iii) for less than 20 hours per week; (G) the number of graduates who entered post- secondary education or advanced training programs, including apprenticeship programs, as appropriate; and (H) the number of graduates who attained job readiness and employment skills. (2) Performance of recruiters.--The Secretary shall also establish performance measures, and expected performance levels on the performance measures, for local and national recruitment service providers serving the Job Corps program. The performance measures shall relate to the number of enrollees retained in the Job Corps program for 30 days and for 60 days after initial placement in the program. (3) Report.--The Secretary shall collect, and annually submit a report to the appropriate committees of Congress containing information on the performance of each Job Corps center, and the Job Corps program, on the core performance measures, as compared to the expected performance level for each performance measure. The report shall also contain information on the performance of the service providers described in paragraph (2) on the performance measures established under such paragraph, as compared to the expected performance levels for the performance measures. (d) Additional Information.--The Secretary shall also collect, and submit in the report described in subsection (c), information on the performance of each Job Corps center, and the Job Corps program, regarding-- (1) the number of enrollees served; (2) the average level of learning gains for graduates and former enrollees; (3) the number of former enrollees and graduates who entered the Armed Forces; (4) the number of former enrollees who entered post- secondary education; (5) the number of former enrollees who entered unsubsidized employment related to the vocational training received through the Job Corps program and the number who entered unsubsidized employment not related to the vocational training received; (6) the number of former enrollees and graduates who obtained a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent; [[Page 112 STAT.1020]] (7) the number and percentage of dropouts from the Job Corps program including the number dismissed under the zero tolerance policy described in section 152(b); and (8) any additional information required by the Secretary. (e) Methods.--The Secretary may collect the information described in subsections (c) and (d) using methods described in section 136(f )(2) consistent with State law. (f ) Performance Assessments and Improvements.-- (1) Assessments.--The Secretary shall conduct an annual assessment of the performance of each Job Corps center. Based on the assessment, the Secretary shall take measures to continuously improve the performance of the Job Corps program. (2) Performance improvement plans.--With respect to a Job Corps center that fails to meet the expected levels of performance relating to the core performance measures specified in subsection (c), the Secretary shall develop and implement a performance improvement plan. Such a plan shall require action including-- (A) providing technical assistance to the center; (B) changing the vocational training offered at the center; (C) changing the management staff of the center; (D) replacing the operator of the center; (E) reducing the capacity of the center; (F) relocating the center; or (G) closing the center. (3) Additional performance improvement plans.--In addition to the performance improvement plans required under paragraph (2), the Secretary may develop and implement additional performance improvement plans. Such a plan shall require improvements, including the actions described in paragraph (2), for a Job Corps center that fails to meet criteria established by the Secretary other than the expected levels of performance described in paragraph (2). (g) Closure of Job Corps Center.--Prior to the closure of any Job Corps center, the Secretary shall ensure-- (1) <<NOTE: Federal Register, publication.>> that the proposed decision to close the center is announced in advance to the general public through publication in the Federal Register or other appropriate means; (2) the establishment of a reasonable comment period, not to exceed 30 days, for interested individuals to submit written comments to the Secretary; and (3) that the Member of Congress who represents the district in which such center is located is notified within a reasonable period of time in advance of any final decision to close the center. SEC. 160. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2900.>> GENERAL PROVISIONS. The Secretary is authorized to-- (1) disseminate, with regard to the provisions of section 3204 of title 39, United States Code, data and information in such forms as the Secretary shall determine to be appropriate, to public agencies, private organizations, and the general public; (2) subject to section 157(b), collect or compromise all obligations to or held by the Secretary and exercise all legal [[Page 112 STAT.1021]] or equitable rights accruing to the Secretary in connection with the payment of obligations until such time as such obligations may be referred to the Attorney General for suit or collection; and (3) expend funds made available for purposes of this subtitle-- (A) for printing and binding, in accordance with applicable law (including regulation); and (B) without regard to any other law (including regulation), for rent of buildings and space in buildings and for repair, alteration, and improvement of buildings and space in buildings rented by the Secretary, except that the Secretary shall not expend funds under the authority of this subparagraph-- (i) except when necessary to obtain an item, service, or facility, that is required in the proper administration of this subtitle, and that otherwise could not be obtained, or could not be obtained in the quantity or quality needed, or at the time, in the form, or under the conditions in which the item, service, or facility is needed; and (ii) prior to having given written notification to the Administrator of General Services (if the expenditure would affect an activity that otherwise would be under the jurisdiction of the General Services Administration) of the intention of the Secretary to make the expenditure, and the reasons and justifications for the expenditure. SEC. 161. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2901.>> AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subtitle such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 1999 through 2003. Subtitle D--National Programs SEC. 166. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2911.>> NATIVE AMERICAN PROGRAMS. (a) Purpose.-- (1) In general.--The purpose of this section is to support employment and training activities for Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian individuals in order-- (A) to develop more fully the academic, occupational, and literacy skills of such individuals; (B) to make such individuals more competitive in the workforce; and (C) to promote the economic and social development of Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities in accordance with the goals and values of such communities. (2) Indian policy.--All programs assisted under this section shall be administered in a manner consistent with the principles of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450 et seq.) and the government-to-government relationship between the Federal Government and Indian tribal governments. (b) Definitions.--As used in this section: [[Page 112 STAT.1022]] (1) Alaska native.--The term ``Alaska Native'' means a Native as such term is defined in section 3(b) of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1602(b)). (2) Indian, indian tribe, and tribal organization.--The terms ``Indian'', ``Indian tribe'', and ``tribal organization'' have the meanings given such terms in subsections (d), (e), and (l), respectively, of section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450b). (3) Native hawaiian and native hawaiian organization.--The terms ``Native Hawaiian'' and ``Native Hawaiian organization'' have the meanings given such terms in paragraphs (1) and (3), respectively, of section 9212 of the Native Hawaiian Education Act (20 U.S.C. 7912). (c) Program Authorized.-- (1) In general.--The <<NOTE: Grants. Contracts.>> Secretary shall, on a competitive basis, make grants to, or enter into contracts or cooperative agreements with, Indian tribes, tribal organizations, Alaska Native entities, Indian-controlled organizations serving Indians, or Native Hawaiian organizations to carry out the authorized activities described in subsection (d). (2) Exception.--The competition for grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements conducted under paragraph (1) shall be conducted every 2 years, except that if a recipient of such a grant, contract, or agreement has performed satisfactorily, the Secretary may waive the requirements for such competition on receipt from the recipient of a satisfactory 2-year program plan for the succeeding 2-year period of the grant, contract, or agreement. (d) Authorized Activities.-- (1) In general.--Funds made available under subsection (c) shall be used to carry out the activities described in paragraph (2) that-- (A) are consistent with this section; and (B) are necessary to meet the needs of Indians or Native Hawaiians preparing to enter, reenter, or retain unsubsidized employment. (2) Workforce investment activities and supplemental services.-- (A) In general.--Funds made available under subsection (c) shall be used for-- (i) comprehensive workforce investment activities for Indians or Native Hawaiians; or (ii) supplemental services for Indian or Native Hawaiian youth on or near Indian reservations and in Oklahoma, Alaska, or Hawaii. (B) Special rule.--Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, individuals who were eligible to participate in programs under section 401 of the Job Training Partnership Act (29 U.S.C. 1671) (as such section was in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this Act) shall be eligible to participate in an activity assisted under this section. (e) Program Plan.--In order to receive a grant or enter into a contract or cooperative agreement under this section an entity described in subsection (c) shall submit to the Secretary a program plan that describes a 2-year strategy for meeting the needs of [[Page 112 STAT.1023]] Indian, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian individuals, as appropriate, in the area served by such entity. Such plan shall-- (1) be consistent with the purpose of this section; (2) identify the population to be served; (3) identify the education and employment needs of the population to be served and the manner in which the activities to be provided will strengthen the ability of the individuals served to obtain or retain unsubsidized employment; (4) describe the activities to be provided and the manner in which such activities are to be integrated with other appropriate activities; and (5) describe, after the entity submitting the plan consults with the Secretary, the performance measures to be used to assess the performance of entities in carrying out the activities assisted under this section. (f ) Consolidation of Funds.--Each entity receiving assistance under subsection (c) may consolidate such assistance with assistance received from related programs in accordance with the provisions of the Indian Employment, Training and Related Services Demonstration Act of 1992 (25 U.S.C. 3401 et seq.). (g) Nonduplicative and Nonexclusive Services.--Nothing in this section shall be construed-- (1) to limit the eligibility of any entity described in subsection (c) to participate in any activity offered by a State or local entity under this Act; or (2) to preclude or discourage any agreement, between any entity described in subsection (c) and any State or local entity, to facilitate the provision of services by such entity or to the population served by such entity. (h) Administrative Provisions.-- (1) Organizational unit established.--The Secretary shall designate a single organizational unit within the Department of Labor that shall have primary responsibility for the administration of the activities authorized under this section. (2) Regulations.--The Secretary shall consult with the entities described in subsection (c) in-- (A) establishing regulations to carry out this section, including performance measures for entities receiving assistance under such subsection, taking into account the economic circumstances of such entities; and (B) developing a funding distribution plan that takes into consideration previous levels of funding (prior to the date of enactment of this Act) to such entities. (3) Waivers.-- (A) In general.--With respect to an entity described in subsection (c), the Secretary, notwithstanding any other provision of law, may, pursuant to a request submitted by such entity that meets the requirements established under paragraph (2), waive any of the statutory or regulatory requirements of this title that are inconsistent with the specific needs of the entities described in such subsection, except that the Secretary may not waive requirements relating to wage and labor standards, worker rights, participation and protection of workers and participants, grievance procedures, and judicial review. (B) Request and approval.--An entity described in subsection (c) that requests a waiver under subparagraph [[Page 112 STAT.1024]] (A) shall submit a plan to the Secretary to improve the program of workforce investment activities carried out by the entity, which plan shall meet the requirements established by the Secretary and shall be generally consistent with the requirements of section 189(i)(4)(B). (4) <<NOTE: Establishment.>> Advisory council.-- (A) In general.--Using funds made available to carry out this section, the Secretary shall establish a Native American Employment and Training Council to facilitate the consultation described in paragraph (2). (B) Composition.--The Council shall be composed of individuals, appointed by the Secretary, who are representatives of the entities described in subsection (c). (C) Duties.--The Council shall advise the Secretary on all aspects of the operation and administration of the programs assisted under this section, including the selection of the individual appointed as the head of the unit established under paragraph (1). (D) Personnel matters.-- (i) Compensation of members.--Members of the Council shall serve without compensation. (ii) Travel expenses.--The members of the Council shall be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, at rates authorized for employees of agencies under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code, while away from their homes or regular places of business in the performance of services for the Council. (iii) Administrative support.--The Secretary shall provide the Council with such administrative support as may be necessary to perform the functions of the Council. (E) Chairperson.--The Council shall select a chairperson from among its members. (F) Meetings.--The Council shall meet not less than twice each year. (G) Application.--Section 14 of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.) shall not apply to the Council. (5) Technical assistance.--The Secretary, acting through the unit established under paragraph (1), is authorized to provide technical assistance to entities described in subsection (c) that receive assistance under subsection (c) to enable such entities to improve the activities authorized under this section that are provided by such entities. (6) Agreement for certain federally recognized indian tribes to transfer funds to the program.--A federally recognized Indian tribe that administers funds provided under this section and funds provided by more than one State under other sections of this title may enter into an agreement with the Secretary and the Governors of the affected States to transfer the funds provided by the States to the program administered by the tribe under this section. (i) Compliance With Single Audit Requirements; Related Requirement.--Grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements entered into under this section shall be subject to the requirements of chapter 75 of subtitle V of title 31, United States Code (enacted [[Page 112 STAT.1025]] by the Single Audit Act of 1984) and charging of costs under this section shall be subject to appropriate circulars issued by the Office of Management and Budget. ( j) Assistance to American Samoans in Hawaii.-- (1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary is authorized to provide assistance to American Samoans who reside in Hawaii for the co-location of federally funded and State-funded workforce investment activities. (2) Authorization of appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 1999 such sums as may be necessary to carry out this subsection. SEC. 167. <<NOTE: Grants. Contracts. 29 USC 2912.>> MIGRANT AND SEASONAL FARMWORKER PROGRAMS. (a) In General.--Every 2 years, the Secretary shall, on a competitive basis, make grants to, or enter into contracts with, eligible entities to carry out the activities described in subsection (d). (b) Eligible Entities.--To be eligible to receive a grant or enter into a contract under this section, an entity shall have an understanding of the problems of eligible migrant and seasonal farmworkers (including dependents), a familiarity with the area to be served, and the ability to demonstrate a capacity to administer effectively a diversified program of workforce investment activities (including youth activities) and related assistance for eligible migrant and seasonal farmworkers. (c) Program Plan.-- (1) In general.--To be eligible to receive a grant or enter into a contract under this section, an entity described in subsection (b) shall submit to the Secretary a plan that describes a 2-year strategy for meeting the needs of eligible migrant and seasonal farmworkers in the area to be served by such entity. (2) Contents.--Such plan shall-- (A) identify the education and employment needs of the population to be served and the manner in which the services to be provided will strengthen the ability of the eligible migrant and seasonal farmworkers and dependents to obtain or retain unsubsidized employment or stabilize their unsubsidized employment; (B) describe the related assistance and supportive services to be provided and the manner in which such assistance and services are to be integrated and coordinated with other appropriate services; and (C) describe the indicators of performance to be used to assess the performance of such entity in carrying out the activities assisted under this section. (3) Administration.--Grants and contracts awarded under this section shall be centrally administered by the Department of Labor and competitively awarded by the Secretary using procedures consistent with standard Federal Government competitive procurement policies. (4) Competition.-- (A) In general.--The competition for grants made and contracts entered into under this section shall be conducted every 2 years. [[Page 112 STAT.1026]] (B) Exception.--Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), if a recipient of such a grant or contract has performed satisfactorily under the terms of the grant agreement or contract, the Secretary may waive the requirement for such competition for such recipient upon receipt from the recipient of a satisfactory 2-year plan described in paragraph (1) for the succeeding 2-year grant or contract period. The Secretary may exercise the waiver authority of the preceding sentence not more than once during any 4-year period with respect to any single recipient. (d) Authorized Activities.--Funds made available under this section shall be used to carry out workforce investment activities (including youth activities) and provide related assistance for eligible migrant and seasonal farmworkers, which may include employment, training, educational assistance, literacy assistance, an English language program, worker safety training, housing, supportive services, dropout prevention activities, followup services for those individuals placed in employment, self-employment and related business enterprise development education as needed by eligible migrant and seasonal farmworkers and identified pursuant to the plan required by subsection (c), and technical assistance relating to capacity enhancement in such areas as management information technology. (e) Consultation With Governors and Local Boards.--In making grants and entering into contracts under this section, the Secretary shall consult with the Governors and local boards of the States in which the eligible entities will carry out the activities described in subsection (d). (f ) Regulations.--The Secretary shall consult with eligible migrant and seasonal farmworkers groups and States in establishing regulations to carry out this section, including performance measures for eligible entities that take into account the economic circumstances and demographics of eligible migrant and seasonal farmworkers. (g) Compliance With Single Audit Requirements; Related Requirement.--Grants and contracts entered into under this section shall be subject to the requirements of chapter 75 of subtitle V of title 31, United States Code (enacted by the Single Audit Act of 1984) and charging of costs under this section shall be subject to appropriate circulars issued by the Office of Management and Budget. (h) Definitions.--In this section: (1) Disadvantaged.--The term ``disadvantaged'', used with respect to a farmworker, means a farmworker whose income, for 12 consecutive months out of the 24 months prior to application for the program involved, does not exceed the higher of-- (A) the poverty line (as defined in section 334(a)(2)(B)) for an equivalent period; or (B) 70 percent of the lower living standard income level, for an equivalent period. (2) Eligible migrant and seasonal farmworkers.--The term ``eligible migrant and seasonal farmworkers'' means individuals who are eligible migrant farmworkers or are eligible seasonal farmworkers. (3) Eligible migrant farmworker.--The term ``eligible migrant farmworker'' means-- [[Page 112 STAT.1027]] (A) an eligible seasonal farmworker described in paragraph (4)(A) whose agricultural labor requires travel to a job site such that the farmworker is unable to return to a permanent place of residence within the same day; and (B) a dependent of the farmworker described in subparagraph (A). (4) Eligible seasonal farmworker.--The term ``eligible seasonal farmworker'' means-- (A) a disadvantaged person who, for 12 consecutive months out of the 24 months prior to application for the program involved, has been primarily employed in agricultural labor that is characterized by chronic unemployment or underemployment; and (B) a dependent of the person described in subparagraph (A). SEC. 168. <<NOTE: Grants. Contracts. 29 USC 2913.>> VETERANS' WORKFORCE INVESTMENT PROGRAMS. (a) Authorization.-- (1) In general.--The Secretary shall conduct, directly or through grants or contracts, programs to meet the needs for workforce investment activities of veterans with service- connected disabilities, veterans who have significant barriers to employment, veterans who served on active duty in the armed forces during a war or in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized, and recently separated veterans. (2) Conduct of programs.--Programs supported under this section may be conducted through grants and contracts with public agencies and private nonprofit organizations, including recipients of Federal assistance under other provisions of this title, that the Secretary determines have an understanding of the unemployment problems of veterans described in paragraph (1), familiarity with the area to be served, and the capability to administer effectively a program of workforce investment activities for such veterans. (3) Required activities.--Programs supported under this section shall include-- (A) activities to enhance services provided to veterans by other providers of workforce investment activities funded by Federal, State, or local government; (B) activities to provide workforce investment activities to such veterans that are not adequately provided by other public providers of workforce investment activities; and (C) outreach and public information activities to develop and promote maximum job and job training opportunities for such veterans and to inform such veterans about employment, job training, on-the-job training and educational opportunities under this title, under title 38, United States Code, and under other provisions of law, which activities shall be coordinated with activities provided through the one-stop centers described in section 134(c). (b) Administration of Programs.-- (1) In general.--The Secretary shall administer programs supported under this section through the Assistant Secretary for Veterans' Employment and Training. [[Page 112 STAT.1028]] (2) Additional responsibilities.--In carrying out responsibilities under this section, the Assistant Secretary for Veterans' Employment and Training shall-- (A) be responsible for the awarding of grants and contracts and the distribution of funds under this section and for the establishment of appropriate fiscal controls, accountability, and program performance measures for recipients of grants and contracts under this section; and (B) consult with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and take steps to ensure that programs supported under this section are coordinated, to the maximum extent feasible, with related programs and activities conducted under title 38, United States Code, including programs and activities conducted under subchapter II of chapter 77 of such title, chapters 30, 31, 32, and 34 of such title, and sections 1712A, 1720A, 3687, and 4103A of such title. SEC. 169. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2914.>> YOUTH OPPORTUNITY GRANTS. (a) Grants.-- (1) In general.--Using funds made available under section 127(b)(1)(A), the Secretary shall make grants to eligible local boards and eligible entities described in subsection (d) to provide activities described in subsection (b) for youth to increase the long-term employment of youth who live in empowerment zones, enterprise communities, and high poverty areas and who seek assistance. (2) Definition.--In this section, the term ``youth'' means an individual who is not less than age 14 and not more than age 21. (3) Grant period.--The Secretary may make a grant under this section for a 1-year period, and may renew the grant for each of the 4 succeeding years. (4) Grant awards.--In making grants under this section, the Secretary shall ensure that grants are distributed equitably among local boards and entities serving urban areas and local boards and entities serving rural areas, taking into consideration the poverty rate in such urban and rural areas, as described in subsection (c)(3)(B). (b) Use of Funds.-- (1) In general.--A local board or entity that receives a grant under this section shall use the funds made available through the grant to provide activities that meet the requirements of section 129, except as provided in paragraph (2), as well as youth development activities such as activities relating to leadership development, citizenship, and community service, and recreation activities. (2) Intensive placement and followup services.--In providing activities under this section, a local board or entity shall provide-- (A) intensive placement services; and (B) followup services for not less than 24 months after the completion of participation in the other activities described in this subsection, as appropriate. (c) Eligible Local Boards.--To be eligible to receive a grant under this section, a local board shall serve a community that-- [[Page 112 STAT.1029]] (1) has been designated as an empowerment zone or enterprise community under section 1391 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986; (2)(A) is a State without a zone or community described in paragraph (1); and (B) has been designated as a high poverty area by the Governor of the State; or (3) is 1 of 2 areas in a State that-- (A) have been designated by the Governor as areas for which a local board may apply for a grant under this section; and (B) meet the poverty rate criteria set forth in subsections (a)(4), (b), and (d) of section 1392 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. (d) Eligible Entities.--To be eligible to receive a grant under this section, an entity (other than a local board) shall-- (1) be a recipient of financial assistance under section 166; and (2) serve a community that-- (A) meets the poverty rate criteria set forth in subsections (a)(4), (b), and (d) of section 1392 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986; and (B) is located on an Indian reservation or serves Oklahoma Indians or Alaska Native villages or Native groups (as such terms are defined in section 3 of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1602)). (e) Application.--To be eligible to receive a grant under this section, a local board or entity shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require, including-- (1) a description of the activities that the local board or entity will provide under this section to youth in the community described in subsection (c); (2) a description of the performance measures negotiated under subsection (f ), and the manner in which the local boards or entities will carry out the activities to meet the performance measures; (3) a description of the manner in which the activities will be linked to activities described in section 129; and (4) a description of the community support, including financial support through leveraging additional public and private resources, for the activities. (f ) Performance Measures.-- (1) In general.--The Secretary shall negotiate and reach agreement with the local board or entity on performance measures for the indicators of performance referred to in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of section 136(b)(2) that will be used to evaluate the performance of the local board or entity in carrying out the activities described in subsection (b). Each local performance measure shall consist of such a indicator of performance, and a performance level referred to in paragraph (2). (2) Performance levels.--The Secretary shall negotiate and reach agreement with the local board or entity regarding the levels of performance expected to be achieved by the local board or entity on the indicators of performance. (g) Role Model Academy Project.-- [[Page 112 STAT.1030]] (1) In general.--Using the funds made available pursuant to section 127(b)(1)(A)(iv) for fiscal year 1999, the Secretary shall provide assistance to an entity to carry out a project establishing a role model academy for out-of-school youth. (2) Residential center.--The entity shall use the assistance to establish an academy that consists of a residential center located on the site of a military installation closed or realigned pursuant to a law providing for closures and realignments of such installations. (3) Services.--The academy established pursuant to this subsection shall provide services that-- (A) utilize a military style model that emphasizes leadership skills and discipline, or another model of demonstrated effectiveness; and (B) include vocational training, secondary school course work leading to a secondary school diploma or recognized equivalent, and the use of mentors who serve as role models and who provide academic training and career counseling to the youth. SEC. 170. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2915.>> TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE. (a) General Technical Assistance.-- (1) In general.--The Secretary shall provide, coordinate, and support the development of, appropriate training, technical assistance, staff development, and other activities, including assistance in replicating programs of demonstrated effectiveness, to States and localities, and, in particular, to assist States in making transitions from carrying out activities under the provisions of law repealed under section 199 to carry out activities under this title. (2) Form of assistance.--In carrying out paragraph (1) on behalf of a State, or recipient of financial assistance under any of sections 166 through 169, the Secretary, after consultation with the State or grant recipient, may award grants and enter into contracts and cooperative agreements. (3) Limitation.--Grants or contracts awarded under paragraph (1) to entities other than States or local units of government that are for amounts in excess of $100,000 shall only be awarded on a competitive basis. (b) Dislocated Worker Technical Assistance.-- (1) Authority.--Of the amounts available pursuant to section 132(a)(2), the Secretary shall reserve not more than 5 percent of such amounts to provide technical assistance to States that do not meet the State performance measures described in section 136 with respect to employment and training activities for dislocated workers. Using such reserved funds, the Secretary may provide such assistance to other States, local areas, and other entities involved in providing assistance to dislocated workers, to promote the continuous improvement of assistance provided to dislocated workers, under this title. (2) Training.--Amounts reserved under this subsection may be used to provide for the training of staff, including specialists, who provide rapid response services. Such training shall include instruction in proven methods of promoting, establishing, and assisting labor-management committees. Such projects shall be administered through the dislocated worker office described in section 174(b). [[Page 112 STAT.1031]] SEC. 171. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2916.>> DEMONSTRATION, PILOT, MULTISERVICE, RESEARCH, AND MULTISTATE PROJECTS. (a) Strategic Plan.-- (1) <<NOTE: Federal Register, publication.>> In general.-- After consultation with States, localities, and other interested parties, the Secretary shall, every 2 years, publish in the Federal Register, a plan that describes the demonstration and pilot (including dislocated worker demonstration and pilot), multiservice, research, and multistate project priorities of the Department of Labor concerning employment and training for the 5-year period following the submission of the plan. Copies of the plan shall be transmitted to the appropriate committees of Congress. (2) Factors.--The plan published under paragraph (1) shall contain strategies to address national employment and training problems and take into account factors such as-- (A) the availability of existing research (as of the date of the publication); (B) the need to ensure results that have interstate validity; (C) the benefits of economies of scale and the efficiency of proposed projects; and (D) the likelihood that the results of the projects will be useful to policymakers and stakeholders in addressing employment and training problems. (b) <<NOTE: Grants. Contracts.>> Demonstration and Pilot Projects.-- (1) In general.--Under a plan published under subsection (a), the Secretary shall, through grants or contracts, carry out demonstration and pilot projects for the purpose of developing and implementing techniques and approaches, and demonstrating the effectiveness of specialized methods, in addressing employment and training needs. Such projects shall include the provision of direct services to individuals to enhance employment opportunities and an evaluation component and may include-- (A) the establishment of advanced manufacturing technology skill centers developed through local partnerships of industry, labor, education, community- based organizations, and economic development organizations to meet unmet, high-tech skill needs of local communities; (B) projects that provide training to upgrade the skills of employed workers who reside and are employed in enterprise communities or empowerment zones; (C) programs conducted jointly with the Department of Defense to develop training programs utilizing computer-based and other innovative learning technologies; (D) projects that promote the use of distance learning, enabling students to take courses through the use of media technology such as videos, teleconferencing computers, and the Internet; (E) projects that assist in providing comprehensive services to increase the employment rates of out-of- school youth residing in targeted high poverty areas within empowerment zones and enterprise communities; (F) the establishment of partnerships with national organizations with special expertise in developing, organizing, and administering employment and training services, [[Page 112 STAT.1032]] for individuals with disabilities, at the national, State, and local levels; (G) projects to assist public housing authorities that provide, to public housing residents, job training programs that demonstrate success in upgrading the job skills and promoting employment of the residents; and (H) projects that assist local areas to develop and implement local self-sufficiency standards to evaluate the degree to which participants in programs under this title are achieving self-sufficiency. (2) Limitations.-- (A) Competitive awards.--Grants or contracts awarded for carrying out demonstration and pilot projects under this subsection shall be awarded only on a competitive basis, except that a noncompetitive award may be made in the case of a project that is funded jointly with other public or private sector entities that provide a portion of the funding for the project. (B) Eligible entities.--Grants or contracts may be awarded under this subsection only to-- (i) entities with recognized expertise in-- (I) conducting national demonstration projects; (II) utilizing state-of-the-art demonstration methods; or (III) conducting evaluations of workforce investment projects; or (ii) State and local entities with expertise in operating or overseeing workforce investment programs. (C) Time limits.--The Secretary shall establish appropriate time limits for carrying out demonstration and pilot projects under this subsection. (c) <<NOTE: Grants. Contracts.>> Multiservice Projects, Research Projects, and Multistate Projects.-- (1) Multiservice projects.--Under a plan published under subsection (a), the Secretary shall, through grants or contracts, carry out multiservice projects-- (A) that will test an array of approaches to the provision of employment and training services to a variety of targeted populations; (B) in which the entity carrying out the project, in conjunction with employers, organized labor, and other groups such as the disability community, will design, develop, and test various training approaches in order to determine effective practices; and (C) that will assist in the development and replication of effective service delivery strategies for targeted populations for the national employment and training system as a whole. (2) Research projects.-- (A) In general.--Under a plan published under subsection (a), the Secretary shall, through grants or contracts, carry out research projects that will contribute to the solution of employment and training problems in the United States. (B) Formula improvement study and report.-- [[Page 112 STAT.1033]] (i) Study.--The Secretary shall conduct a 2- year study concerning improvements in the formulas described in section 132(b)(1)(B) and paragraphs (2)(A) and (3) of section 133(b) (regarding distributing funds under subtitle B to States and local areas for adult employment and training activities). In conducting the study, the Secretary shall examine means of improving the formulas by-- (I) developing formulas based on statistically reliable data; (II) developing formulas that are consistent with the goals and objectives of this title; and (III) developing formulas based on organizational and financial stability of State boards and local boards. (ii) Report.--The Secretary shall prepare and submit to Congress a report containing the results of the study, including recommendations for improved formulas. (3) Multistate projects.-- (A) In general.-- (i) Authority.--Under a plan published under subsection (a), the Secretary may, through grants or contracts, carry out multistate projects that require demonstrated expertise that is available at the national level to effectively disseminate best practices and models for implementing employment and training services, address the specialized employment and training needs of particular service populations, or address industry-wide skill shortages. (ii) Design of grants.--Grants or contracts awarded under this subsection shall be designed to obtain information relating to the provision of services under different economic conditions or to various demographic groups in order to provide guidance at the national and State levels about how best to administer specific employment and training services. (4) Limitations.-- (A) Competitive awards.--Grants or contracts awarded for carrying out projects under this subsection in amounts that exceed $100,000 shall be awarded only on a competitive basis, except that a noncompetitive award may be made in the case of a project that is funded jointly with other public or private sector entities that provide a substantial portion of assistance under the grant or contract for the project. (B) Time limits.--A grant or contract shall not be awarded under this subsection to the same organization for more than 3 consecutive years unless such grant or contract is competitively reevaluated within such period. (C) Peer review.-- (i) In general.--The Secretary shall utilize a peer review process-- (I) to review and evaluate all applications for grants in amounts that exceed $500,000 that are submitted under this section; and [[Page 112 STAT.1034]] (II) to review and designate exemplary and promising programs under this section. (ii) Availability of funds.--The Secretary is authorized to use funds provided under this section to carry out peer review activities under this subparagraph. (D) Priority.--In awarding grants or contracts under this subsection, priority shall be provided to entities with nationally recognized expertise in the methods, techniques, and knowledge of workforce investment activities and shall include appropriate time limits, established by the Secretary, for the duration of such projects. (d) Dislocated Worker Projects.--Of the amount made available pursuant to section 132(a)(2)(A) for any program year, the Secretary shall use not more than 10 percent of such amount to carry out demonstration and pilot projects, multiservice projects, and multistate projects, relating to the employment and training needs of dislocated workers. Of the requirements of this section, such projects shall be subject only to the provisions relating to review and evaluation of applications under subsection (c)(4)(C). Such projects may include demonstration and pilot projects relating to promoting self-employment, promoting job creation, averting dislocations, assisting dislocated farmers, assisting dislocated fishermen, and promoting public works. Such projects shall be administered through the dislocated worker office described in section 173(b). SEC. 172. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2917.>> EVALUATIONS. (a) Programs and Activities Carried Out Under This Title.--For the purpose of improving the management and effectiveness of programs and activities carried out under this title, the Secretary shall provide for the continuing evaluation of the programs and activities, including those programs and activities carried out under section 171. Such evaluations shall address-- (1) the general effectiveness of such programs and activities in relation to their cost, including the extent to which the programs and activities-- (A) improve the employment competencies of participants in comparison to comparably-situated individuals who did not participate in such programs and activities; and (B) to the extent feasible, increase the level of total employment over the level that would have existed in the absence of such programs and activities; (2) the effectiveness of the performance measures relating to such programs and activities; (3) the effectiveness of the structure and mechanisms for delivery of services through such programs and activities; (4) the impact of the programs and activities on the community and participants involved; (5) the impact of such programs and activities on related programs and activities; (6) the extent to which such programs and activities meet the needs of various demographic groups; and (7) such other factors as may be appropriate. [[Page 112 STAT.1035]] (b) Other Programs and Activities.--The Secretary may conduct evaluations of other federally funded employment-related programs and activities under other provisions of law. (c) Techniques.--Evaluations conducted under this section shall utilize appropriate methodology and research designs, including the use of control groups chosen by scientific random assignment methodologies. The Secretary shall conduct as least 1 multisite control group evaluation under this section by the end of fiscal year 2005. (d) Reports.--The entity carrying out an evaluation described in subsection (a) or (b) shall prepare and submit to the Secretary a draft report and a final report containing the results of the evaluation. (e) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> Reports to Congress.--Not later than 30 days after the completion of such a draft report, the Secretary shall transmit the draft report to the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Labor and Human Resources of the Senate. Not later than 60 days after the completion of such a final report, the Secretary shall transmit the final report to such committees of the Congress. (f ) Coordination.--The Secretary shall ensure the coordination of evaluations carried out by States pursuant to section 136(e) with the evaluations carried out under this section. SEC. 173. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2918.>> NATIONAL EMERGENCY GRANTS. (a) In General.--The Secretary is authorized to award national emergency grants in a timely manner-- (1) to an entity described in subsection (c) to provide employment and training assistance to workers affected by major economic dislocations, such as plant closures, mass layoffs, or closures and realignments of military installations; (2) to provide assistance to the Governor of any State within the boundaries of which is an area that has suffered an emergency or a major disaster as defined in paragraphs (1) and (2), respectively, of section 102 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5122 (1) and (2)) (referred to in this section as the ``disaster area'') to provide disaster relief employment in the area; and (3) to provide additional assistance to a State or local board for eligible dislocated workers in a case in which the State or local board has expended the funds provided under this section to carry out activities described in paragraphs (1) and (2) and can demonstrate the need for additional funds to provide appropriate services for such workers, in accordance with requirements prescribed by the Secretary. (b) Administration.--The Secretary shall designate a dislocated worker office to coordinate the functions of the Secretary under this title relating to employment and training activities for dislocated workers, including activities carried out under the national emergency grants. (c) Employment and Training Assistance Requirements.-- (1) Grant recipient eligibility.-- (A) Application.--To be eligible to receive a grant under subsection (a)(1), an entity shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require. [[Page 112 STAT.1036]] (B) Eligible entity.--In this paragraph, the term ``entity'' means a State, a local board, an entity described in section 166(c), entities determined to be eligible by the Governor of the State involved, and other entities that demonstrate to the Secretary the capability to effectively respond to the circumstances relating to particular dislocations. (2) Participant eligibility.-- (A) In general.--In order to be eligible to receive employment and training assistance under a national emergency grant awarded pursuant to subsection (a)(1), an individual shall be-- (i) a dislocated worker; (ii) a civilian employee of the Department of Defense or the Department of Energy employed at a military installation that is being closed, or that will undergo realignment, within the next 24 months after the date of the determination of eligibility; (iii) an individual who is employed in a nonmanagerial position with a Department of Defense contractor, who is determined by the Secretary of Defense to be at-risk of termination from employment as a result of reductions in defense expenditures, and whose employer is converting operations from defense to nondefense applications in order to prevent worker layoffs; or (iv) a member of the Armed Forces who-- (I) was on active duty or full-time National Guard duty; (II)(aa) is involuntarily separated (as defined in section 1141 of title 10, United States Code) from active duty or full-time National Guard duty; or (bb) is separated from active duty or full-time National Guard duty pursuant to a special separation benefits program under section 1174a of title 10, United States Code, or the voluntary separation incentive program under section 1175 of that title; (III) is not entitled to retired or retained pay incident to the separation described in subclause (II); and (IV) applies for such employment and training assistance before the end of the 180-day period beginning on the date of that separation. (B) Retraining assistance.--The individuals described in subparagraph (A)(iii) shall be eligible for retraining assistance to upgrade skills by obtaining marketable skills needed to support the conversion described in subparagraph (A)(iii). (C) <<NOTE: Publication.>> Additional requirements.--The Secretary shall establish and publish additional requirements related to eligibility for employment and training assistance under the national emergency grants to ensure effective use of the funds available for this purpose. (D) Definitions.--In this paragraph, the terms ``military institution'' and ``realignment'' have the meanings [[Page 112 STAT.1037]] given the terms in section 2910 of the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 (Public Law 101-510; 10 U.S.C. 2687 note). (d) Disaster Relief Employment Assistance Requirements.-- (1) In general.--Funds made available under subsection (a)(2)-- (A) shall be used to provide disaster relief employment on projects that provide food, clothing, shelter, and other humanitarian assistance for disaster victims, and projects regarding demolition, cleaning, repair, renovation, and reconstruction of damaged and destroyed structures, facilities, and lands located within the disaster area; (B) may be expended through public and private agencies and organizations engaged in such projects; and (C) may be expended to provide employment and training activities. (2) Eligibility.--An individual shall be eligible to be offered disaster relief employment under subsection (a)(2) if such individual is a dislocated worker, is a long-term unemployed individual, or is temporarily or permanently laid off as a consequence of the disaster. (3) Limitations on disaster relief employment.--No individual shall be employed under subsection (a)(2) for more than 6 months for work related to recovery from a single natural disaster. SEC. 174. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2919.>> AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. (a) Native American Programs; Migrant and Seasonal Farmworker Programs; Veterans' Workforce Investment Programs.-- (1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), there are authorized to be appropriated to carry out sections 166 through 168 such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 1999 through 2003. (2) Reservations.--Of the amount appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations under paragraph (1) for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall-- (A) reserve not less than $55,000,000 for carrying out section 166; (B) reserve not less than $70,000,000 for carrying out section 167; and (C) reserve not less than $7,300,000 for carrying out section 168. (b) Technical Assistance; Demonstration and Pilot Projects; Evaluations; Incentive Grants.-- (1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), there are authorized to be appropriated to carry out sections 170 through 172 and section 503 such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 1999 through 2003. (2) Reservations.--Of the amount appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations under paragraph (1) for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall-- (A)(i) for fiscal year 1999, reserve up to 40 percent for carrying out section 170 (other than subsection (b) of such section); [[Page 112 STAT.1038]] (ii) for fiscal year 2000, reserve up to 25 percent for carrying out section 170 (other than subsection (b) of such section); and (iii) for each of the fiscal years 2001 through 2003, reserve up to 20 percent for carrying out section 170 (other than subsection (b) of such section); (B)(i) for fiscal year 1999, reserve not less than 50 percent for carrying out section 171; and (ii) for each of the fiscal years 2000 through 2003, reserve not less than 45 percent for carrying out section 171; (C)(i) for fiscal year 1999, reserve not less than 10 percent for carrying out section 172; and (ii) for each of the fiscal years 2000 through 2003, reserve not less than 10 percent for carrying out section 172; and (D)(i) for fiscal year 1999, reserve no funds for carrying out section 503; (ii) for fiscal year 2000, reserve up to 20 percent for carrying out section 503; and (iii) for each of the fiscal years 2001 through 2003, reserve up to 25 percent for carrying out section 503. Subtitle E--Administration SEC. 181. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2931.>> REQUIREMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS. (a) Benefits.-- (1) Wages.-- (A) In general.--Individuals in on-the-job training or individuals employed in activities under this title shall be compensated at the same rates, including periodic increases, as trainees or employees who are similarly situated in similar occupations by the same employer and who have similar training, experience, and skills, and such rates shall be in accordance with applicable law, but in no event less than the higher of the rate specified in section 6(a)(1) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 206(a)(1)) or the applicable State or local minimum wage law. (B) Rule of construction.--The reference in subparagraph (A) to section 6(a)(1) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 206(a)(1))-- (i) shall be deemed to be a reference to section 6(a)(3) of that Act for individuals in American Samoa; and (ii) shall not be applicable for individuals in other territorial jurisdictions in which section 6 of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 does not apply. (2) Treatment of allowances, earnings, and payments.-- Allowances, earnings, and payments to individuals participating in programs under this title shall not be considered as income for the purposes of determining eligibility for and the amount of income transfer and in-kind aid furnished under any Federal or federally assisted program based on need, other than as provided under the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 301 et seq.). [[Page 112 STAT.1039]] (b) Labor Standards.-- (1) Limitations on activities that impact wages of employees.--No funds provided under this title shall be used to pay the wages of incumbent employees during their participation in economic development activities provided through a statewide workforce investment system. (2) Displacement.-- (A) Prohibition.--A participant in a program or activity authorized under this title (referred to in this section as a ``specified activity'') shall not displace (including a partial displacement, such as a reduction in the hours of nonovertime work, wages, or employment benefits) any currently employed employee (as of the date of the participation). (B) Prohibition on impairment of contracts.--A specified activity shall not impair an existing contract for services or collective bargaining agreement, and no such activity that would be inconsistent with the terms of a collective bargaining agreement shall be undertaken without the written concurrence of the labor organization and employer concerned. (3) Other prohibitions.--A participant in a specified activity shall not be employed in a job if-- (A) any other individual is on layoff from the same or any substantially equivalent job; (B) the employer has terminated the employment of any regular employee or otherwise reduced the workforce of the employer with the intention of filling the vacancy so created with the participant; or (C) the job is created in a promotional line that will infringe in any way upon the promotional opportunities of currently employed individuals (as of the date of the participation). (4) Health and safety.--Health and safety standards established under Federal and State law otherwise applicable to working conditions of employees shall be equally applicable to working conditions of participants engaged in specified activities. To the extent that a State workers' compensation law applies, workers' compensation shall be provided to participants on the same basis as the compensation is provided to other individuals in the State in similar employment. (5) Employment conditions.--Individuals in on-the-job training or individuals employed in programs and activities under this title, shall be provided benefits and working conditions at the same level and to the same extent as other trainees or employees working a similar length of time and doing the same type of work. (6) Opportunity to submit comments.--Interested members of the public, including representatives of businesses and of labor organizations, shall be provided an opportunity to submit comments to the Secretary with respect to programs and activities proposed to be funded under subtitle B. (7) No impact on union organizing.--Each recipient of funds under this title shall provide to the Secretary assurances that none of such funds will be used to assist, promote, or deter union organizing. (c) Grievance Procedure.-- [[Page 112 STAT.1040]] (1) In general.--Each State and local area receiving an allotment under this title shall establish and maintain a procedure for grievances or complaints alleging violations of the requirements of this title from participants and other interested or affected parties. Such procedure shall include an opportunity for a hearing and be completed within 60 days after the filing of the grievance or complaint. (2) Investigation.-- (A) In general.--The Secretary shall investigate an allegation of a violation described in paragraph (1) if-- (i) a decision relating to such violation has not been reached within 60 days after the date of the filing of the grievance or complaint and either party appeals to the Secretary; or (ii) a decision relating to such violation has been reached within such 60 days and the party to which such decision is adverse appeals such decision to the Secretary. (B) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Additional requirement.-- The Secretary shall make a final determination relating to an appeal made under subparagraph (A) no later than 120 days after receiving such appeal. (3) Remedies.--Remedies that may be imposed under this section for a violation of any requirement of this title shall be limited-- (A) to suspension or termination of payments under this title; (B) to prohibition of placement of a participant with an employer that has violated any requirement under this title; (C) where applicable, to reinstatement of an employee, payment of lost wages and benefits, and reestablishment of other relevant terms, conditions, and privileges of employment; and (D) where appropriate, to other equitable relief. (4) Rule of construction.--Nothing in paragraph (3) shall be construed to prohibit a grievant or complainant from pursuing a remedy authorized under another Federal, State, or local law for a violation of this title. (d) Relocation.-- (1) Prohibition on use of funds to encourage or induce relocation.--No funds provided under this title shall be used, or proposed for use, to encourage or induce the relocation of a business or part of a business if such relocation would result in a loss of employment for any employee of such business at the original location and such original location is within the United States. (2) Prohibition on use of funds for customized or skill training and related activities after relocation.--No funds provided under this title for an employment and training activity shall be used for customized or skill training, on-the- job training, or company-specific assessments of job applicants or employees, for any business or part of a business that has relocated, until the date that is 120 days after the date on which such business commences operations at the new location, if the relocation of such business or part of a business results in a loss of employment for any employee [[Page 112 STAT.1041]] of such business at the original location and such original location is within the United States. (3) Repayment.--If the Secretary determines that a violation of paragraph (1) or (2) has occurred, the Secretary shall require the State that has violated such paragraph to repay to the United States an amount equal to the amount expended in violation of such paragraph. (e) Limitation on Use of Funds.--No funds available under this title shall be used for employment generating activities, economic development activities, investment in revolving loan funds, capitalization of businesses, investment in contract bidding resource centers, and similar activities that are not directly related to training for eligible individuals under this title. No funds available under subtitle B shall be used for foreign travel. (f ) Testing and Sanctioning for Use of Controlled Substances.-- (1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a State shall not be prohibited by the Federal Government from-- (A) testing participants in programs under subtitle B for the use of controlled substances; and (B) sanctioning such participants who test positive for the use of such controlled substances. (2) Additional requirements.-- (A) Period of sanction.--In sanctioning participants in programs under subtitle B who test positive for the use of controlled substances-- (i) with respect to the first occurrence for which a participant tests positive, a State may exclude the participant from the program for a period not to exceed 6 months; and (ii) with respect to the second occurrence and each subsequent occurrence for which a participant tests positive, a State may exclude the participant from the program for a period not to exceed 2 years. (B) Appeal.--The testing of participants and the imposition of sanctions under this subsection shall be subject to expeditious appeal in accordance with due process procedures established by the State. (C) <<NOTE: Procedures.>> Privacy.--A State shall establish procedures for testing participants for the use of controlled substances that ensure a maximum degree of privacy for the participants. (4) Funding requirement.--In testing and sanctioning of participants for the use of controlled substances in accordance with this subsection, the only Federal funds that a State may use are the amounts made available for the administration of statewide workforce investment activities under section 134(a)(3)(B). SEC. 182. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2932.>> PROMPT ALLOCATION OF FUNDS. (a) Allotments Based on Latest Available Data.--All allotments to States and grants to outlying areas under this title shall be based on the latest available data and estimates satisfactory to the Secretary. All data relating to disadvantaged adults and disadvantaged youth shall be based on the most recent satisfactory data from the Bureau of the Census. [[Page 112 STAT.1042]] (b) Publication in Federal Register Relating to Formula Funds.-- Whenever the Secretary allots funds required to be allotted under this title, the Secretary shall publish in a timely fashion in the Federal Register the proposed amount to be distributed to each recipient of the funds. (c) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Requirement for Funds Distributed by Formula.--All funds required to be allotted under section 127 or 132 shall be allotted within 45 days after the date of enactment of the Act appropriating the funds, except that, if such funds are appropriated in advance as authorized by section 189(g), such funds shall be allotted or allocated not later than the March 31 preceding the program year for which such funds are to be available for obligation. (d) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Publication in Federal Register Relating to Discretionary Funds.--Whenever the Secretary utilizes a formula to allot or allocate funds made available for distribution at the Secretary's discretion under this title, the Secretary shall, not later than 30 days prior to such allotment or allocation, publish such formula in the Federal Register for comments along with the rationale for the formula and the proposed amounts to be distributed to each State and local area. After consideration of any comments received, the Secretary shall publish final allotments and allocations in the Federal Register. (e) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Availability of Funds.--Funds shall be made available under sections 128 and 133 for a local area not later than 30 days after the date the funds are made available to the Governor involved, under section 127 or 132 (as the case may be), or 7 days after the date the local plan for the area is approved, whichever is later. SEC. 183. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2933.>> MONITORING. (a) In General.--The Secretary is authorized to monitor all recipients of financial assistance under this title to determine whether the recipients are complying with the provisions of this title, including the regulations issued under this title. (b) Investigations.--The Secretary may investigate any matter the Secretary determines to be necessary to determine the compliance of the recipients with this title, including the regulations issued under this title. The investigations authorized by this subsection may include examining records (including making certified copies of the records), questioning employees, and entering any premises or onto any site in which any part of a program or activity of such a recipient is conducted or in which any of the records of the recipient are kept. (c) Additional Requirement.--For the purpose of any investigation or hearing conducted under this title by the Secretary, the provisions of section 9 of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 49) (relating to the attendance of witnesses and the production of documents) apply to the Secretary, in the same manner and to the same extent as the provisions apply to the Federal Trade Commission. SEC. 184. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2934.>> FISCAL CONTROLS; SANCTIONS. (a) Establishment of Fiscal Controls by States.-- (1) In general.--Each State shall establish such fiscal control and fund accounting procedures as may be necessary to assure the proper disbursal of, and accounting for, Federal funds allocated to local areas under subtitle B. Such procedures shall ensure that all financial transactions carried out under [[Page 112 STAT.1043]] subtitle B are conducted and records maintained in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles applicable in each State. (2) Cost principles.-- (A) In general.--Each State (including the Governor of the State), local area (including the chief elected official for the area), and provider receiving funds under this title shall comply with the applicable uniform cost principles included in the appropriate circulars of the Office of Management and Budget for the type of entity receiving the funds. (B) Exception.--The funds made available to a State for administration of statewide workforce investment activities in accordance with section 134(a)(3)(B) shall be allocable to the overall administration of workforce investment activities, but need not be specifically allocable to-- (i) the administration of adult employment and training activities; (ii) the administration of dislocated worker employment and training activities; or (iii) the administration of youth activities. (3) Uniform administrative requirements.-- (A) In general.--Each State (including the Governor of the State), local area (including the chief elected official for the area), and provider receiving funds under this title shall comply with the appropriate uniform administrative requirements for grants and agreements applicable for the type of entity receiving the funds, as promulgated in circulars or rules of the Office of Management and Budget. (B) Additional requirement.--Procurement transactions under this title between local boards and units of State or local governments shall be conducted only on a cost-reimbursable basis. (4) Monitoring.--Each Governor of a State shall conduct on an annual basis onsite monitoring of each local area within the State to ensure compliance with the uniform administrative requirements referred to in paragraph (3). (5) Action by governor.--If the Governor determines that a local area is not in compliance with the uniform administrative requirements referred to in paragraph (3), the Governor shall-- (A) require corrective action to secure prompt compliance; and (B) impose the sanctions provided under subsection (b) in the event of failure to take the required corrective action. (6) Certification.--The Governor shall, every 2 years, certify to the Secretary that-- (A) the State has implemented the uniform administrative requirements referred to in paragraph (3); (B) the State has monitored local areas to ensure compliance with the uniform administrative requirements as required under paragraph (4); and (C) the State has taken appropriate action to secure compliance pursuant to paragraph (5). [[Page 112 STAT.1044]] (7) Action by the secretary.--If the Secretary determines that the Governor has not fulfilled the requirements of this subsection, the Secretary shall-- (A) require corrective action to secure prompt compliance; and (B) impose the sanctions provided under subsection (e) in the event of failure of the Governor to take the required appropriate action to secure compliance. (b) Substantial Violation.-- (1) Action by governor.--If, as a result of financial and compliance audits or otherwise, the Governor determines that there is a substantial violation of a specific provision of this title, and corrective action has not been taken, the Governor shall-- (A) issue a notice of intent to revoke approval of all or part of the local plan affected; or (B) impose a reorganization plan, which may include-- (i) decertifying the local board involved; (ii) prohibiting the use of eligible providers; (iii) selecting an alternative entity to administer the program for the local area involved; (iv) merging the local area into one or more other local areas; or (v) making other such changes as the Secretary or Governor determines necessary to secure compliance. (2) Appeal.-- (A) In general.--The actions taken by the Governor pursuant to subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (1) may be appealed to the Secretary and shall not become effective until-- (i) the time for appeal has expired; or (ii) the Secretary has issued a decision. (B) Additional <<NOTE: Deadline.>> requirement.--The Secretary shall make a final decision under subparagraph (A) not later than 45 days after the receipt of the appeal. (3) Action by the secretary.--If the Governor fails to promptly take the actions required under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall take such actions. (c) Repayment of Certain Amounts to the United States.-- (1) In general.--Every recipient of funds under this title shall repay to the United States amounts found not to have been expended in accordance with this title. (2) Offset of repayment.--If the Secretary determines that a State has expended funds made available under this title in a manner contrary to the requirements of this title, the Secretary may offset repayment of such expenditures against any other amount to which the State is or may be entitled, except as provided under subsection (d)(1). (3) Repayment from deduction by state.--If the Secretary requires a State to repay funds as a result of a determination that a local area of the State has expended funds contrary to the requirements of this title, the Governor of the State may use an amount deducted under paragraph (4) to repay the funds, except as provided under subsection (e)(1). (4) Deduction by state.--The Governor may deduct an amount equal to the misexpenditure described in paragraph [[Page 112 STAT.1045]] (3) from subsequent program year allocations to the local area from funds reserved for the administrative costs of the local programs involved, as appropriate. (5) Limitations.--A deduction made by a State as described in paragraph (4) shall not be made until such time as the Governor has taken appropriate corrective action to ensure full compliance within such local area with regard to appropriate expenditures of funds under this title. (d) Repayment of Amounts.-- (1) In general.--Each recipient of funds under this title shall be liable to repay the amounts described in subsection (c)(1), from funds other than funds received under this title, upon a determination by the Secretary that the misexpenditure of funds was due to willful disregard of the requirements of this title, gross negligence, failure to observe accepted standards of administration, or a pattern of misexpenditure as described in paragraphs (2) and (3) of subsection (c). No such determination shall be made under this subsection or subsection (c) until notice and opportunity for a fair hearing has been given to the recipient. (2) Factors in imposing sanctions.--In determining whether to impose any sanction authorized by this section against a recipient for violations by a subgrantee or contractor of such recipient under this title (including the regulations issued under this title), the Secretary shall first determine whether such recipient has adequately demonstrated that the recipient has-- (A) established and adhered to an appropriate system for the award and monitoring of grants and contracts with subgrantees and contractors that contains acceptable standards for ensuring accountability; (B) entered into a written grant agreement or contract with such subgrantee or contractor that established clear goals and obligations in unambiguous terms; (C) acted with due diligence to monitor the implementation of the grant agreement or contract, including the carrying out of the appropriate monitoring activities (including audits) at reasonable intervals; and (D) taken prompt and appropriate corrective action upon becoming aware of any evidence of a violation of this title, including regulations issued under this title, by such subgrantee or contractor. (3) Waiver.--If the Secretary determines that the recipient has demonstrated substantial compliance with the requirements of paragraph (2), the Secretary may waive the imposition of sanctions authorized by this section upon such recipient. The Secretary is authorized to impose any sanction consistent with the provisions of this title and any applicable Federal or State law directly against any subgrantee or contractor for violation of this title, including regulations issued under this title. (e) Immediate Termination or Suspension of Assistance in Emergency Situations.--In emergency situations, if the Secretary determines it is necessary to protect the integrity of the funds or ensure the proper operation of the program or activity involved, the Secretary may immediately terminate or suspend financial assistance, in whole or in part, to the recipient if the [[Page 112 STAT.1046]] recipient is given prompt notice and the opportunity for a subsequent hearing within 30 days after such termination or suspension. The Secretary shall not delegate any of the functions or authority specified in this subsection, other than to an officer whose appointment is required to be made by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. (f ) Discrimination Against Participants.--If the Secretary determines that any recipient under this title has discharged or in any other manner discriminated against a participant or against any individual in connection with the administration of the program involved, or against any individual because such individual has filed any complaint or instituted or caused to be instituted any proceeding under or related to this title, or has testified or is about to testify in any such proceeding or investigation under or related to this title, or otherwise unlawfully denied to any individual a benefit to which that individual is entitled under the provisions of this title or the Secretary's regulations, the Secretary shall, within 30 days, take such action or order such corrective measures, as necessary, with respect to the recipient or the aggrieved individual, or both. (g) Remedies.--The remedies described in this section shall not be construed to be the exclusive remedies available for violations described in this section. SEC. 185. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2935.>> REPORTS; RECORDKEEPING; INVESTIGATIONS. (a) Reports.-- (1) In general.--Recipients of funds under this title shall keep records that are sufficient to permit the preparation of reports required by this title and to permit the tracing of funds to a level of expenditure adequate to ensure that the funds have not been spent unlawfully. (2) Submission to the secretary.--Every such recipient shall maintain such records and submit such reports, in such form and containing such information, as the Secretary may require regarding the performance of programs and activities carried out under this title. Such records and reports shall be submitted to the Secretary but shall not be required to be submitted more than once each quarter unless specifically requested by Congress or a committee of Congress, in which case an estimate may be provided. (3) Maintenance of standardized records.--In order to allow for the preparation of the reports required under subsection (c), such recipients shall maintain standardized records for all individual participants and provide to the Secretary a sufficient number of such records to provide for an adequate analysis of the records. (4) Availability to the public.-- (A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph (B), records maintained by such recipients pursuant to this subsection shall be made available to the public upon request. (B) Exception.--Subparagraph (A) shall not apply to-- (i) information, the disclosure of which would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy; and [[Page 112 STAT.1047]] (ii) trade secrets, or commercial or financial information, that is obtained from a person and privileged or confidential. (C) Fees to recover costs.--Such recipients may charge fees sufficient to recover costs applicable to the processing of requests for records under subparagraph (A). (b) Investigations of Use of Funds.-- (1) In general.-- (A) Secretary.--In order to evaluate compliance with the provisions of this title, the Secretary shall conduct, in several States, in each fiscal year, investigations of the use of funds received by recipients under this title. (B) Comptroller general of the united states.--In order to ensure compliance with the provisions of this title, the Comptroller General of the United States may conduct investigations of the use of funds received under this title by any recipient. (2) Prohibition.--In conducting any investigation under this title, the Secretary or the Comptroller General of the United States may not request the compilation of any information that the recipient is not otherwise required to compile and that is not readily available to such recipient. (3) Audits.-- (A) In general.--In carrying out any audit under this title (other than any initial audit survey or any audit investigating possible criminal or fraudulent conduct), either directly or through grant or contract, the Secretary, the Inspector General of the Department of Labor, or the Comptroller General of the United States shall furnish to the State, recipient, or other entity to be audited, advance notification of the overall objectives and purposes of the audit, and any extensive recordkeeping or data requirements to be met, not later than 14 days (or as soon as practicable), prior to the commencement of the audit. (B) Notification requirement.--If the scope, objectives, or purposes of the audit change substantially during the course of the audit, the entity being audited shall be notified of the change as soon as practicable. (C) Additional requirement.--The reports on the results of such audits shall cite the law, regulation, policy, or other criteria applicable to any finding contained in the reports. (D) Rule of construction.--Nothing contained in this title shall be construed so as to be inconsistent with the Inspector General Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. App.) or government auditing standards issued by the Comptroller General of the United States. (c) Accessibility of Reports.--Each State, each local board, and each recipient (other than a subrecipient, subgrantee, or contractor of a recipient) receiving funds under this title-- (1) shall make readily accessible such reports concerning its operations and expenditures as shall be prescribed by the Secretary; (2) <<NOTE: Guidelines.>> shall prescribe and maintain comparable management information systems, in accordance with guidelines that shall [[Page 112 STAT.1048]] be prescribed by the Secretary, designed to facilitate the uniform compilation, cross tabulation, and analysis of programmatic, participant, and financial data, on statewide, local area, and other appropriate bases, necessary for reporting, monitoring, and evaluating purposes, including data necessary to comply with section 188; and (3) shall monitor the performance of providers in complying with the terms of grants, contracts, or other agreements made pursuant to this title. (d) Information To Be Included in Reports.-- (1) In general.--The reports required in subsection (c) shall include information regarding programs and activities carried out under this title pertaining to-- (A) the relevant demographic characteristics (including race, ethnicity, sex, and age) and other related information regarding participants; (B) the programs and activities in which participants are enrolled, and the length of time that participants are engaged in such programs and activities; (C) outcomes of the programs and activities for participants, including the occupations of participants, and placement for participants in nontraditional employment; (D) specified costs of the programs and activities; and (E) information necessary to prepare reports to comply with section 188. (2) Additional requirement.--The Secretary shall ensure that all elements of the information required for the reports described in paragraph (1) are defined and reported uniformly. (e) Quarterly Financial Reports.-- (1) In general.--Each local board in the State shall submit quarterly financial reports to the Governor with respect to programs and activities carried out under this title. Such reports shall include information identifying all program and activity costs by cost category in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and by year of the appropriation involved. (2) Additional requirement.--Each State shall submit to the Secretary, on a quarterly basis, a summary of the reports submitted to the Governor pursuant to paragraph (1). (f ) Maintenance of Additional Records.--Each State and local board shall maintain records with respect to programs and activities carried out under this title that identify-- (1) any income or profits earned, including such income or profits earned by subrecipients; and (2) any costs incurred (such as stand-in costs) that are otherwiseallowable except for funding limitations. (g) Cost Categories.--In requiring entities to maintain records of costs by category under this title, the Secretary shall require only that the costs be categorized as administrative or programmatic costs. SEC. 186. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2936.>> ADMINISTRATIVE ADJUDICATION. (a) In General.--Whenever any applicant for financial assistance under this title is dissatisfied because the Secretary has made a determination not to award financial assistance in whole or in part to such applicant, the applicant may request a hearing before an administrative law judge of the Department of Labor. A similar [[Page 112 STAT.1049]] hearing may also be requested by any recipient for whom a corrective action has been required or a sanction has been imposed by the Secretary under section 184. (b) Appeal.--The decision of the administrative law judge shall constitute final action by the Secretary unless, within 20 days after receipt of the decision of the administrative law judge, a party dissatisfied with the decision or any part of the decision has filed exceptions with the Secretary specifically identifying the procedure, fact, law, or policy to which exception is taken. Any exception not specifically urged shall be deemed to have been waived. After the 20-day period the decision of the administrative law judge shall become the final decision of the Secretary unless the Secretary, within 30 days after such filing, has notified the parties that the case involved has been accepted for review. (c) Time Limit.--Any case accepted for review by the Secretary under subsection (b) shall be decided within 180 days after such acceptance. If the case is not decided within the 180-day period, the decision of the administrative law judge shall become the final decision of the Secretary at the end of the 180-day period. (d) <<NOTE: Applicability.>> Additional Requirement.--The provisions of section 187 shall apply to any final action of the Secretary under this section. SEC. 187. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2937.>> JUDICIAL REVIEW. (a) Review.-- (1) Petition.--With respect to any final order by the Secretary under section 186 by which the Secretary awards, declines to award, or only conditionally awards, financial assistance under his title, or any final order of the Secretary under section 186 with respect to a corrective action or sanction imposed under section 184, any party to a proceeding which resulted in such final order may obtain review of such final order in the United States Court of Appeals having jurisdiction over the applicant or recipient of funds involved, by filing a review petition within 30 days after the date of issuance of such final order. (2) Action on petition.--The clerk of the court shall transmit a copy of the review petition to the Secretary who shall file the record on which the final order was entered as provided in section 2112 of title 28, United States Code. The filing of a review petition shall not stay the order of the Secretary, unless the court orders a stay. Petitions filed under this subsection shall be heard expeditiously, if possible within 10 days after the date of filing of a reply to the petition. (3) Standard and scope of review.--No objection to the order of the Secretary shall be considered by the court unless the objection was specifically urged, in a timely manner, before the Secretary. The review shall be limited to questions of law and the findings of fact of the Secretary shall be conclusive if supported by substantial evidence. (b) Judgment.--The court shall have jurisdiction to make and enter a decree affirming, modifying, or setting aside the order of the Secretary in whole or in part. The judgment of the court regarding the order shall be final, subject to certiorari review by the Supreme Court as provided in section 1254(1) of title 28, United States Code. SEC. 188. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2938.>> NONDISCRIMINATION. (a) In General.-- [[Page 112 STAT.1050]] (1) Federal financial assistance.--For the purpose of applying the prohibitions against discrimination on the basis of age under the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 (42 U.S.C. 6101 et seq.), on the basis of disability under section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794), on the basis of sex under title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. 1681 et seq.), or on the basis of race, color, or national origin under title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000d et seq.), programs and activities funded or otherwise financially assisted in whole or in part under this Act are considered to be programs and activities receiving Federal financial assistance. (2) Prohibition of discrimination regarding participation, benefits, and employment.--No individual shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, subjected to discrimination under, or denied employment in the administration of or in connection with, any such program or activity because of race, color, religion, sex (except as otherwise permitted under title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972), national origin, age, disability, or political affiliation or belief. (3) Prohibition on assistance for facilities for sectarian instruction or religious worship.--Participants shall not be employed under this title to carry out the construction, operation, or maintenance of any part of any facility that is used or to be used for sectarian instruction or as a place for religious worship (except with respect to the maintenance of a facility that is not primarily or inherently devoted to sectarian instruction or religious worship, in a case in which the organization operating the facility is part of a program or activity providing services to participants). (4) Prohibition on discrimination on basis of participant status.--No person may discriminate against an individual who is a participant in a program or activity that receives funds under this title, with respect to the terms and conditions affecting, or rights provided to, the individual, solely because of the status of the individual as a participant. (5) Prohibition on discrimination against certain noncitizens.--Participation in programs and activities or receiving funds under this title shall be available to citizens and nationals of the United States, lawfully admitted permanent resident aliens, refugees, asylees, and parolees, and other immigrants authorized by the Attorney General to work in the United States. (b) <<NOTE: Notification.>> Action of Secretary.--Whenever the Secretary finds that a State or other recipient of funds under this title has failed to comply with a provision of law referred to in subsection (a)(1), or with paragraph (2), (3), (4), or (5) of subsection (a), including an applicable regulation prescribed to carry out such provision or paragraph, the Secretary shall notify such State or recipient and shall request that the State or recipient comply. If within a reasonable period of time, not to exceed 60 days, the State or recipient fails or refuses to comply, the Secretary may-- (1) refer the matter to the Attorney General with a recommendation that an appropriate civil action be instituted; or (2) take such other action as may be provided by law. [[Page 112 STAT.1051]] (c) Action of Attorney General.--When a matter is referred to the Attorney General pursuant to subsection (b)(1), or whenever the Attorney General has reason to believe that a State or other recipient of funds under this title is engaged in a pattern or practice of discrimination in violation of a provision of law referred to in subsection (a)(1) or in violation of paragraph (2), (3), (4), or (5) of subsection (a), the Attorney General may bring a civil action in any appropriate district court of the United States for such relief as may be appropriate, including injunctive relief. (d) Job Corps.--For the purposes of this section, Job Corps members shall be considered as the ultimate beneficiaries of Federal financial assistance. (e) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Regulations.--The Secretary shall issue regulations necessary to implement this section not later than one year after the date of the enactment of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998. Such regulations shall adopt standards for determining discrimination and procedures for enforcement that are consistent with the Acts referred to in a subsection (a)(1), as well as procedures to ensure that complaints filed under this section and such Acts are processed in a manner that avoids duplication of effort. SEC. 189. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2939.>> ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS. (a) In General.--The Secretary may, in accordance with chapter 5 of title 5, United States Code, prescribe rules and regulations to carry out this title only to the extent necessary to administer and ensure compliance with the requirements of this title. Such rules and regulations may include provisions making adjustments authorized by section 204 of the Intergovernmental Cooperation Act of 1968. <<NOTE: Federal Register, publication.>> All such rules and regulations shall be published in the Federal Register at least 30 days prior to their effective dates. Copies of each such rule or regulation shall be transmitted to the appropriate committees of Congress on the date of such publication and shall contain, with respect to each material provision of such rule or regulation, a citation to the particular substantive section of law that is the basis for the provision. (b) Acquisition of Certain Property and Services.--The Secretary is authorized, in carrying out this title, to accept, purchase, or lease in the name of the Department of Labor, and employ or dispose of in furtherance of the purposes of this title, any money or property, real, personal, or mixed, tangible or intangible, received by gift, devise, bequest, or otherwise, and to accept voluntary and uncompensated services notwithstanding the provisions of section 1342 of title 31, United States Code. (c) Authority To Enter Into Certain Agreements and To Make Certain Expenditures.--The Secretary may make such grants, enter into such contracts or agreements, establish such procedures, and make such payments, in installments and in advance or by way of reimbursement, or otherwise allocate or expend such funds under this title, as may be necessary to carry out this title, including making expenditures for construction, repairs, and capital improvements, and including making necessary adjustments in payments on account of over-payments or underpayments. (d) Annual Report.--The Secretary shall prepare and submit to Congress an annual report regarding the programs and activities carried out under this title. The Secretary shall include in such report-- [[Page 112 STAT.1052]] (1) a summary of the achievements, failures, and problems of the programs and activities in meeting the objectives of this title; (2) a summary of major findings from research, evaluations, pilot projects, and experiments conducted under this title in the fiscal year prior to the submission of the report; (3) recommendations for modifications in the programs and activities based on analysis of such findings; and (4) such other recommendations for legislative or administrative action as the Secretary determines to be appropriate. (e) Utilization of Services and Facilities.--The Secretary is authorized, in carrying out this title, under the same procedures as are applicable under subsection (c) or to the extent permitted by law other than this title, to accept and use the services and facilities of departments, agencies, and establishments of the United States. The Secretary is also authorized, in carrying out this title, to accept and use the services and facilities of the agencies of any State or political subdivision of a State, with the consent of the State or political subdivision. (f ) Obligational Authority.--Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, the Secretary shall have no authority to enter into contracts, grant agreements, or other financial assistance agreements under this title except to such extent and in such amounts as are provided in advance in appropriations Acts. (g) Program Year.-- (1) In general.-- (A) Program year.--Except as provided in subparagraph (B), appropriations for any fiscal year for programs and activities carried out under this title shall be available for obligation only on the basis of a program year. The program year shall begin on July 1 in the fiscal year for which the appropriation is made. (B) Youth activities.--The Secretary may make available for obligation, beginning April 1 of any fiscal year, funds appropriated for such fiscal year to carry out youth activities under subtitle B. (2) Availability.--Funds obligated for any program year for a program or activity carried out under this title may be expended by each State receiving such funds during that program year and the 2 succeeding program years. Funds obligated for any program year for a program or activity carried out under section 171 or 172 shall remain available until expended. Funds received by local areas from States under this title during a program year may be expended during that program year and the succeeding program year. No amount of the funds described in this paragraph shall be deobligated on account of a rate of expenditure that is consistent with a State plan, an operating plan described in section 151, or a plan, grant agreement, contract, application, or other agreement described in subtitle D, as appropriate. (h) Enforcement of Military Selective Service Act.--The Secretary shall ensure that each individual participating in any program or activity established under this title, or receiving any assistance or benefit under this title, has not violated section 3 of the Military Selective Service Act (50 U.S.C. App. 453) by not presenting and submitting to registration as required pursuant to such section. The Director of the Selective Service System shall [[Page 112 STAT.1053]] cooperate with the Secretary to enable the Secretary to carry out this subsection. (i) Waivers and Special Rules.-- (1) Existing waivers.--With respect to a State that has been granted a waiver under the provisions relating to training and employment services of the Department of Labor in title I of the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1997 (Public Law 104- 208; 110 Stat. 3009-234), the authority provided under such waiver shall continue in effect and apply, and include a waiver of the related provisions of subtitle B and this subtitle, for the duration of the initial waiver. (2) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Special rule regarding designated areas.--A State that has enacted, not later than December 31, 1997, a State law providing for the designation of service delivery areas for the delivery of workforce investment activities, may use such areas as local areas under this title, notwithstanding section 116. (3) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Special rule regarding sanctions.-- A State that enacts, not later than December 31, 1997, a State law providing for the sanctioning of such service delivery areas for failure to meet performance measures for workforce investment activities, may use the State law to sanction local areas for failure to meet State performance measures under this title. (4) General waivers of statutory or regulatory requirements.-- (A) General authority.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary may waive for a State, or a local area in a State, pursuant to a request submitted by the Governor of the State (in consultation with appropriate local elected officials) that meets the requirements of subparagraph (B)-- (i) any of the statutory or regulatory requirements of subtitle B or this subtitle (except for requirements relating to wage and labor standards, including nondisplacement protections, worker rights, participation and protection of workers and participants, grievance procedures and judicial review, nondiscrimination, allocation of funds to local areas, eligibility of providers or participants, the establishment and functions of local areas and local boards, and procedures for review and approval of plans); and (ii) any of the statutory or regulatory requirements of sections 8 through 10 of the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49g through 49i) (excluding requirements relating to the provision of services to unemployment insurance claimants and veterans, and requirements relating to universal access to basic labor exchange services without cost to jobseekers). (B) Requests.--A Governor requesting a waiver under subparagraph (A) shall submit a plan to the Secretary to improve the statewide workforce investment system that-- (i) identifies the statutory or regulatory requirements that are requested to be waived and the goals that the State or local area in the State, as appropriate, intends to achieve as a result of the waiver; [[Page 112 STAT.1054]] (ii) describes the actions that the State or local area, as appropriate, has undertaken to remove State or local statutory or regulatory barriers; (iii) describes the goals of the waiver and the expected programmatic outcomes if the request is granted; (iv) describes the individuals impacted by the waiver; and (v) describes the process used to monitor the progress in implementing such a waiver, and the process by which notice and an opportunity to comment on such request has been provided to the local board. (C) Conditions.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the original submission of a request for a waiver under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall provide a waiver under this paragraph if and only to the extent that-- (i) the Secretary determines that the requirements requested to be waived impede the ability of the State or local area, as appropriate, to implement the plan described in subparagraph (B); and (ii) the State has executed a memorandum of understanding with the Secretary requiring such State to meet, or ensure that the local area meets, agreed-upon outcomes and to implement other appropriate measures to ensure accountability. SEC. 190. <<NOTE: Effective date. 29 USC 2940.>> REFERENCE. Effective on the date of the enactment of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998, all references in any other provision of law (other than section 665 of title 18, United States Code) to the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act, or to the Job Training Partnership Act, as the case may be, shall be deemed to refer to the ``Workforce Investment Act of 1998.''. SEC. 191. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2941.>> STATE LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY. (a) Authority of State Legislature.--Nothing in this title shall be interpreted to preclude the enactment of State legislation providing for the implementation, consistent with the provisions of this title, of the activities assisted under this title. Any funds received by a State under this title shall be subject to appropriation by the State legislature, consistent with the terms and conditions required under this title. (b) Interstate Compacts and Cooperative Agreements.--In the event that compliance with provisions of this title would be enhanced by compacts and cooperative agreements between States, the consent of Congress is given to States to enter into such compacts and agreements to facilitate such compliance, subject to the approval of the Secretary. SEC. 192. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2942.>> WORKFORCE FLEXIBILITY PLANS. (a) Plans.--A State may submit to the Secretary, and the Secretary may approve, a workforce flexibility plan under which the State is authorized to waive, in accordance with the plan-- (1) any of the statutory or regulatory requirements applicable under this title to local areas, pursuant to applications for such waivers from the local areas, except for requirements relating to the basic purposes of this title, wage and [[Page 112 STAT.1055]] labor standards, grievance procedures and judicial review, nondiscrimination, eligibility of participants, allocation of funds to local areas, establishment and functions of local areas and local boards, review and approval of local plans, and worker rights, participation, and protection; (2) any of the statutory or regulatory requirements applicable under sections 8 through 10 of the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49g through 49i), to the State, except for requirements relating to the provision of services to unemployment insurance claimants and veterans, and to universal access to basic labor exchange services without cost to jobseekers; and (3) any of the statutory or regulatory requirements applicable under the Older Americans Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3001 et seq.), to State agencies on aging with respect to activities carried out using funds allotted under section 506(a)(3) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 3056d(a)(3)), except for requirements relating to the basic purposes of such Act, wage and labor standards, eligibility of participants in the activities, and standards for agreements. (b) Content of Plans.--A workforce flexibility plan implemented by a State under subsection (a) shall include descriptions of-- (1)(A) the process by which local areas in the State may submit and obtain approval by the State of applications for waivers of requirements applicable under this title; and (B) the requirements described in subparagraph (A) that are likely to be waived by the State under the plan; (2) the requirements applicable under sections 8 through 10 of the Wagner-Peyser Act that are proposed to be waived, if any; (3) the requirements applicable under the Older Americans Act of 1965 that are proposed to be waived, if any; (4) the outcomes to be achieved by the waivers described in paragraphs (1) through (3); and (5) other measures to be taken to ensure appropriate accountability for Federal funds in connection with the waivers. (c) Periods.--The Secretary may approve a workforce flexibility plan for a period of not more than 5 years. (d) Opportunity for Public Comments.--Prior to submitting a workforce flexibility plan to the Secretary for approval, the State shall provide to all interested parties and to the general public adequate notice and a reasonable opportunity for comment on the waiver requests proposed to be implemented pursuant to such plan. SEC. 193. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2943.>> USE OF CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY. (a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Governor may authorize a public agency to make available, for the use of a one-stop service delivery system within the State which is carried out by a consortium of entities that includes the public agency, real property in which, as of the date of the enactment of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998, the Federal Government has acquired equity through the use of funds provided under title III of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 501 et seq.), section 903(c) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1103(c)), or the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49 et seq.). (b) Use of Funds.--Subsequent to the commencement of the use of the property described in subsection (a) for the functions [[Page 112 STAT.1056]] of a one-stop service delivery system, funds provided under the provisions of law described in subsection (a) may only be used to acquire further equity in such property, or to pay operating and maintenance expenses relating to such property in proportion to the extent of the use of such property attributable to the activities authorized under such provisions of law. SEC. 194. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2944.>> CONTINUATION OF STATE ACTIVITIES AND POLICIES. (a) In General.--Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, the Secretary may not deny approval of a State plan for a covered State, or an application of a covered State for financial assistance, under this title or find a covered State (including a State board or Governor), or a local area (including a local board or chief elected official) in a covered State, in violation of a provision of this title, on the basis that-- (1)(A) the State proposes to allocate or disburse, allocates, or disburses, within the State, funds made available to the State under section 127 or 132 in accordance with the allocation formula for the type of activities involved, or in accordance with a disbursal procedure or process, used by the State under prior consistent State laws; or (B) a local board in the State proposes to disburse, or disburses, within the local area, funds made available to a State under section 127 or 132 in accordance with a disbursal procedure or process used by a private industry council under prior consistent State law; (2) the State proposes to carry out or carries out a State procedure through which local areas use, as fiscal agents for funds made available to the State under section 127 or 132 and allocated within the State, fiscal agents selected in accordance with a process established under prior consistent State laws; (3) the State proposes to carry out or carries out a State procedure through which the local board in the State (or the local boards, the chief elected officials in the State, and the Governor) designate or select the one-stop partners and one-stop operators of the statewide system in the State under prior consistent State laws, in lieu of making the designation, or certification described in section 121 (regardless of the date the one-stop delivery systems involved have been established); (4) the State proposes to carry out or carries out a State procedure through which the persons responsible for selecting eligible providers for purposes of subtitle B are permitted to determine that a provider shall not be selected to provide both intake services under section 134(d)(2) and training services under section 134(d)(4), under prior consistent State laws; (5) the State proposes to designate or designates a State board, or proposes to assign or assigns functions and roles of the State board (including determining the time periods for development and submission of a State plan required under section 112), for purposes of subtitle B in accordance with prior consistent State laws; or (6) a local board in the State proposes to use or carry out, uses, or carries out a local plan (including assigning functions and roles of the local board) for purposes of subtitle B in accordance with the authorities and requirements [[Page 112 STAT.1057]] applicable to local plans and private industry councils under prior consistent State laws. (b) Definition.--In this section: (1) Covered state.--The term ``covered State'' means a State that enacted State laws described in paragraph (2). (2) Prior consistent state laws.--The term ``prior consistent State laws'' means State laws, not inconsistent with the Job Training Partnership Act or any other applicable Federal law, that took effect on September 1, 1993, September 1, 1995, and September 1, 1997. SEC. 195. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2945.>> GENERAL PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS. Except as otherwise provided in this title, the following conditions are applicable to all programs under this title: (1) Each program under this title shall provide employment and training opportunities to those who can benefit from, and who are most in need of, such opportunities. In addition, efforts shall be made to develop programs which contribute to occupational development, upward mobility, development of new careers, and opportunities for nontraditional employment. (2) Funds provided under this title shall only be used for activities that are in addition to those that would otherwise be available in the local area in the absence of such funds. (3)(A) Any local area may enter into an agreement with another local area (including a local area that is a city or county within the same labor market) to pay or share the cost of educating, training, or placing individuals participating in programs assisted under this title, including the provision of supportive services. (B) Such agreement shall be approved by each local board providing guidance to the local area and shall be described in the local plan under section 118. (4) On-the-job training contracts under this title shall not be entered into with employers who have received payments under previous contracts and have exhibited a pattern of failing to provide on-the-job training participants with continued long- term employment as regular employees with wages and employment benefits (including health benefits) and working conditions at the same level and to the same extent as other employees working a similar length of time and doing the same type of work. (5) No person or organization may charge an individual a fee for the placement or referral of the individual in or to a workforce investment activity under this title. (6) The Secretary shall not provide financial assistance for any program under this title that involves political activities. (7)(A) Income under any program administered by a public or private nonprofit entity may be retained by such entity only if such income is used to continue to carry out the program. (B) Income subject to the requirements of subparagraph (A) shall include-- (i) receipts from goods or services (including conferences) provided as a result of activities funded under this title; (ii) funds provided to a service provider under this title that are in excess of the costs associated with the services provided; and [[Page 112 STAT.1058]] (iii) interest income earned on funds received under this title. (C) For purposes of this paragraph, each entity receiving financial assistance under this title shall maintain records sufficient to determine the amount of such income received and the purposes for which such income is expended. (8)(A) <<NOTE: Notification.>> The Secretary shall notify the Governor and the appropriate local board and chief elected official of, and consult with the Governor and such board and official concerning, any activity to be funded by the Secretary under this title within the corresponding State or local area. (B) The Governor shall notify the appropriate local board and chief elected official of, and consult with such board and official concerning, any activity to be funded by the Governor under this title within the corresponding local area. (9)(A) All education programs for youth supported with funds provided under chapter 4 of subtitle B shall be consistent with applicable State and local educational standards. (B) Standards and procedures with respect to awarding academic credit and certifying educational attainment in programs conducted under such chapter shall be consistent with the requirements of applicable State and local law, including regulation. (10) No funds available under this title may be used for public service employment except as specifically authorized under this title. (11) The Federal requirements governing the title, use, and disposition of real property, equipment, and supplies purchased with funds provided under this title shall be the Federal requirements generally applicable to Federal grants to States and local governments. (12) Nothing in this title shall be construed to provide an individual with an entitlement to a service under this title. (13) Services, facilities, or equipment funded under this title may be used, as appropriate, on a fee-for-service basis, by employers in a local area in order to provide employment and training activities to incumbent workers-- (A) when such services, facilities, or equipment are not in use for the provision of services for eligible participants under this title; (B) if such use for incumbent workers would not have an adverse affect on the provision of services to eligible participants under this title; and (C) if the income derived from such fees is used to carry out the programs authorized under this title. Subtitle F--Repeals and Conforming Amendments SEC. 199. REPEALS. (a) General Immediate Repeals.--The following provisions are repealed: (1) Section 204 of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 (8 U.S.C. 1255a note). (2) Title II of Public Law 95-250 (92 Stat. 172). [[Page 112 STAT.1059]] (3) The Displaced Homemakers Self-Sufficiency Assistance Act (29 U.S.C. 2301 et seq.). (4) Section 211 of the Appalachian Regional Development Act of 1965 (40 U.S.C. App. 211). (5) Subtitle C of title VII of the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11441 et seq.), except section 738 of such title (42 U.S.C. 11448). (6) <<NOTE: 49 USC 42101 et seq.>> Subchapter I of chapter 421 of title 49, United States Code. (b) Subsequent Repeals.--The following provisions are repealed: (1) Title VII of the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11421 et seq.), except subtitle B and section 738 of such title (42 U.S.C. 11431 et seq. and 11448). (2) The Job Training Partnership Act (29 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.). (c) Effective Dates.-- (1) <<NOTE: 29 USC 2301 note.>> Immediate repeals.--The repeals made by subsection (a) shall take effect on the date of enactment of this Act. (2) Subsequent repeals.-- (A) <<NOTE: 42 USC 11421 note.>> Stewart b. mckinney homeless assistance act.--The repeal made by subsection (b)(1) shall take effect on July 1, 1999. (B) <<NOTE: 29 USC 1501 note.>> Job training partnership act.--The repeal made by subsection (b)(2) shall take effect on July 1, 2000. SEC. 199A. <<NOTE: 29 USC 2940 note.>> CONFORMING AMENDMENTS. (a) Preparation.--After consultation with the appropriate committees of Congress and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, the Secretary shall prepare recommended legislation containing technical and conforming amendments to reflect the changes made by this subtitle. (b) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Submission to Congress.--Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress the recommended legislation referred to under subsection (a). (c) References.--All references in any other provision of law to a provision of the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act, or of the Job Training Partnership Act, as the case may be, shall be deemed to refer to the corresponding provision of this title. TITLE II-- <<NOTE: Adult Education and Family Literacy Act. Inter- governmental relations.>> ADULT EDUCATION AND LITERACY SEC. 201. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9201 note.>> SHORT TITLE. This title may be cited as the ``Adult Education and Family Literacy Act''. SEC. 202. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9201.>> PURPOSE. It is the purpose of this title to create a partnership among the Federal Government, States, and localities to provide, on a voluntary basis, adult education and literacy services, in order to-- (1) assist adults to become literate and obtain the knowledge and skills necessary for employment and self- sufficiency; [[Page 112 STAT.1060]] (2) assist adults who are parents to obtain the educational skills necessary to become full partners in the educational development of their children; and (3) assist adults in the completion of a secondary school education. SEC. 203. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9202.>> DEFINITIONS. In this subtitle: (1) Adult education.--The term ``adult education'' means services or instruction below the postsecondary level for individuals-- (A) who have attained 16 years of age; (B) who are not enrolled or required to be enrolled in secondary school under State law; and (C) who-- (i) lack sufficient mastery of basic educational skills to enable the individuals to function effectively in society; (ii) do not have a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent, and have not achieved an equivalent level of education; or (iii) are unable to speak, read, or write the English language. (2) Adult education and literacy activities.--The term ``adult education and literacy activities'' means activities described in section 231(b). (3) Educational service agency.--The term ``educational service agency'' means a regional public multiservice agency authorized by State statute to develop and manage a service or program, and to provide the service or program to a local educational agency. (4) Eligible agency.--The term ``eligible agency'' means the sole entity or agency in a State or an outlying area responsible for administering or supervising policy for adult education and literacy in the State or outlying area, respectively, consistent with the law of the State or outlying area, respectively. (5) Eligible provider.--The term ``eligible provider'' means-- (A) a local educational agency; (B) a community-based organization of demonstrated effectiveness; (C) a volunteer literacy organization of demonstrated effectiveness; (D) an institution of higher education; (E) a public or private nonprofit agency; (F) a library; (G) a public housing authority; (H) a nonprofit institution that is not described in any of subparagraphs (A) through (G) and has the ability to provide literacy services to adults and families; and (I) a consortium of the agencies, organizations, institutions, libraries, or authorities described in any of subparagraphs (A) through (H). (6) English literacy program.--The term ``English literacy program'' means a program of instruction designed to help individuals of limited English proficiency achieve competence in the English language. [[Page 112 STAT.1061]] (7) Family literacy services.--The term ``family literacy services'' means services that are of sufficient intensity in terms of hours, and of sufficient duration, to make sustainable changes in a family, and that integrate all of the following activities: (A) Interactive literacy activities between parents and their children. (B) Training for parents regarding how to be the primary teacher for their children and full partners in the education of their children. (C) Parent literacy training that leads to economic self-sufficiency. (D) An age-appropriate education to prepare children for success in school and life experiences. (8) Governor.--The term ``Governor'' means the chief executive officer of a State or outlying area. (9) Individual with a disability.-- (A) In general.--The term ``individual with a disability'' means an individual with any disability (as defined in section 3 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12102)). (B) Individuals with disabilities.--The term ``individuals with disabilities'' means more than one individual with a disability. (10) Individual of limited english proficiency.--The term ``individual of limited English proficiency'' means an adult or out-of-school youth who has limited ability in speaking, reading, writing, or understanding the English language, and-- (A) whose native language is a language other than English; or (B) who lives in a family or community environment where a language other than English is the dominant language. (11) Institution of higher education.--The term ``institution of higher education'' has the meaning given the term in section 1201 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1141). (12) Literacy.--The term ``literacy'' means an individual's ability to read, write, and speak in English, compute, and solve problems, at levels of proficiency necessary to function on the job, in the family of the individual, and in society. (13) Local educational agency.--The term ``local educational agency'' has the meaning given the term in section 14101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 8801). (14) Outlying area.--The term ``outlying area'' has the meaning given the term in section 101. (15) Postsecondary educational institution.--The term ``postsecondary educational institution'' means-- (A) an institution of higher education that provides not less than a 2-year program of instruction that is acceptable for credit toward a bachelor's degree; (B) a tribally controlled community college; or (C) a nonprofit educational institution offering certificate or apprenticeship programs at the postsecondary level. (16) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Education. [[Page 112 STAT.1062]] (17) State.--The term ``State'' means each of the several States of the United States, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. (18) Workplace literacy services.--The term ``workplace literacy services'' means literacy services that are offered for the purpose of improving the productivity of the workforce through the improvement of literacy skills. SEC. 204. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9203.>> HOME SCHOOLS. Nothing in this subtitle shall be construed to affect home schools, or to compel a parent engaged in home schooling to participate in an English literacy program, family literacy services, or adult education. SEC. 205. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9204.>> AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subtitle such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 1999 through 2003. Subtitle A--Adult Education and Literacy Programs CHAPTER 1--FEDERAL PROVISIONS SEC. 211. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9211.>> RESERVATION OF FUNDS; GRANTS TO ELIGIBLE AGENCIES; ALLOTMENTS. (a) Reservation of Funds.--From the sum appropriated under section 205 for a fiscal year, the Secretary-- (1) shall reserve 1.5 percent to carry out section 242, except that the amount so reserved shall not exceed $8,000,000; (2) shall reserve 1.5 percent to carry out section 243, except that the amount so reserved shall not exceed $8,000,000; and (3) shall make available, to the Secretary of Labor, 1.72 percent for incentive grants under section 503. (b) Grants to Eligible Agencies.-- (1) In general.--From the sum appropriated under section 205 and not reserved under subsection (a) for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall award a grant to each eligible agency having a State plan approved under section 224 in an amount equal to the sum of the initial allotment under subsection (c)(1) and the additional allotment under subsection (c)(2) for the eligible agency for the fiscal year, subject to subsections (f ) and (g), to enable the eligible agency to carry out the activities assisted under this subtitle. (2) Purpose of grants.--The Secretary may award a grant under paragraph (1) only if the eligible entity involved agrees to expend the grant for adult education and literacy activities in accordance with the provisions of this subtitle. (c) Allotments.-- (1) Initial allotments.--From the sum appropriated under section 205 and not reserved under subsection (a) for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall allot to each eligible agency having a State plan approved under section 224(f )-- (A) $100,000, in the case of an eligible agency serving an outlying area; and (B) $250,000, in the case of any other eligible agency. [[Page 112 STAT.1063]] (2) Additional allotments.--From the sum appropriated under section 205, not reserved under subsection (a), and not allotted under paragraph (1), for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall allot to each eligible agency that receives an initial allotment under paragraph (1) an additional amount that bears the same relationship to such sum as the number of qualifying adults in the State or outlying area served by the eligible agency bears to the number of such adults in all States and outlying areas. (d) Qualifying Adult.--For the purpose of subsection (c)(2), the term ``qualifying adult'' means an adult who-- (1) is at least 16 years of age, but less than 61 years of age; (2) is beyond the age of compulsory school attendance under the law of the State or outlying area; (3) does not have a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent; and (4) is not enrolled in secondary school. (e) Special Rule.-- (1) In general.--From amounts made available under subsection (c) for the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau, the Secretary shall award grants to Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, or the Republic of Palau to carry out activities described in this subtitle in accordance with the provisions of this subtitle that the Secretary determines are not inconsistent with this subsection. (2) Award basis.--The Secretary shall award grants pursuant to paragraph (1) on a competitive basis and pursuant to recommendations from the Pacific Region Educational Laboratory in Honolulu, Hawaii. (3) Termination of eligibility.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau shall not receive any funds under this subtitle for any fiscal year that begins after September 30, 2001. (4) Administrative costs.--The Secretary may provide not more than 5 percent of the funds made available for grants under this subsection to pay the administrative costs of the Pacific Region Educational Laboratory regarding activities assisted under this subsection. (f ) Hold-Harmless.-- (1) In general.--Notwithstanding subsection (c)-- (A) for fiscal year 1999, no eligible agency shall receive an allotment under this subtitle that is less than 90 percent of the payments made to the State or outlying area of the eligible agency for fiscal year 1998 for programs for which funds were authorized to be appropriated under section 313 of the Adult Education Act (as such Act was in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998); and (B) for fiscal year 2000 and each succeeding fiscal year, no eligible agency shall receive an allotment under this subtitle that is less than 90 percent of the allotment [[Page 112 STAT.1064]] the eligible agency received for the preceding fiscal year under this subtitle. (2) Ratable reduction.--If for any fiscal year the amount available for allotment under this subtitle is insufficient to satisfy the provisions of paragraph (1), the Secretary shall ratably reduce the payments to all eligible agencies, as necessary. (g) Reallotment.--The portion of any eligible agency's allotment under this subtitle for a fiscal year that the Secretary determines will not be required for the period such allotment is available for carrying out activities under this subtitle, shall be available for reallotment from time to time, on such dates during such period as the Secretary shall fix, to other eligible agencies in proportion to the original allotments to such agencies under this subtitle for such year. SEC. 212. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9212.>> PERFORMANCE ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM. (a) Purpose.--The purpose of this section is to establish a comprehensive performance accountability system, comprised of the activities described in this section, to assess the effectiveness of eligible agencies in achieving continuous improvement of adult education and literacy activities funded under this subtitle, in order to optimize the return on investment of Federal funds in adult education and literacy activities. (b) Eligible Agency Performance Measures.-- (1) In general.--For each eligible agency, the eligible agency performance measures shall consist of-- (A)(i) the core indicators of performance described in paragraph (2)(A); and (ii) additional indicators of performance (if any) identified by the eligible agency under paragraph (2)(B); and (B) an eligible agency adjusted level of performance for each indicator described in subparagraph (A). (2) Indicators of performance.-- (A) Core indicators of performance.--The core indicators of performance shall include the following: (i) Demonstrated improvements in literacy skill levels in reading, writing, and speaking the English language, numeracy, problem solving, English language acquisition, and other literacy skills. (ii) Placement in, retention in, or completion of, postsecondary education, training, unsubsidized employment or career advancement. (iii) Receipt of a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent. (B) Additional indicators.--An eligible agency may identify in the State plan additional indicators for adult education and literacy activities authorized under this subtitle. (3) Levels of performance.-- (A) Eligible agency adjusted levels of performance for core indicators.-- (i) In general.--For each eligible agency submitting a State plan, there shall be established, in accordance with this subparagraph, levels of performance for each of the core indicators of performance described in paragraph (2)(A) for adult education and literacy [[Page 112 STAT.1065]] activities authorized under this subtitle. The levels of performance established under this subparagraph shall, at a minimum-- (I) be expressed in an objective, quantifiable, and measurable form; and (II) show the progress of the eligible agency toward continuously improving in performance. (ii) Identification in state plan.--Each eligible agency shall identify, in the State plan submitted under section 224, expected levels of performance for each of the core indicators of performance for the first 3 program years covered by the State plan. (iii) Agreement on eligible agency adjusted levels of performance for first 3 years.--In order to ensure an optimal return on the investment of Federal funds in adult education and literacy activities authorized under this subtitle, the Secretary and each eligible agency shall reach agreement on levels of performance for each of the core indicators of performance, for the first 3 program years covered by the State plan, taking into account the levels identified in the State plan under clause (ii) and the factors described in clause (iv). The levels agreed to under this clause shall be considered to be the eligible agency adjusted levels of performance for the eligible agency for such years and shall be incorporated into the State plan prior to the approval of such plan. (iv) Factors.--The agreement described in clause (iii) or (v) shall take into account-- (I) how the levels involved compare with the eligible agency adjusted levels of performance established for other eligible agencies, taking into account factors including the characteristics of participants when the participants entered the program, and the services or instruction to be provided; and (II) the extent to which such levels involved promote continuous improvement in performance on the performance measures by such eligible agency and ensure optimal return on the investment of Federal funds. (v) Agreement on eligible agency adjusted levels of performance for 4th and 5th years.-- Prior to the fourth program year covered by the State plan, the Secretary and each eligible agency shall reach agreement on levels of performance for each of the core indicators of performance for the fourth and fifth program years covered by the State plan, taking into account the factors described in clause (iv). The levels agreed to under this clause shall be considered to be the eligible agency adjusted levels of performance for the eligible agency for such years and shall be incorporated into the State plan. (vi) Revisions.--If unanticipated circumstances arise in a State resulting in a significant change in the factors described in clause (iv)(II), the eligible agency may request that the eligible agency adjusted [[Page 112 STAT.1066]] levels of performance agreed to under clause (iii) or (v) be revised. The Secretary, after collaboration with the representatives described in section 136( j), shall issue objective criteria and methods for making such revisions. (B) Levels of performance for additional indicators.--The eligible agency may identify, in the State plan, eligible agency levels of performance for each of the additional indicators described in paragraph (2)(B). Such levels shall be considered to be eligible agency adjusted levels of performance for purposes of this subtitle. (c) Report.-- (1) In general.--Each eligible agency that receives a grant under section 211(b) shall annually prepare and submit to the Secretary a report on the progress of the eligible agency in achieving eligible agency performance measures, including information on the levels of performance achieved by the eligible agency with respect to the core indicators of performance. (2) Information dissemination.--The Secretary-- (A) <<NOTE: Publication.>> shall make the information contained in such reports available to the general public through publication and other appropriate methods; (B) shall disseminate State-by-State comparisons of the information; and (C) shall provide the appropriate committees of Congress with copies of such reports. CHAPTER 2--STATE PROVISIONS SEC. 221. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9221.>> STATE ADMINISTRATION. Each eligible agency shall be responsible for the State or outlying area administration of activities under this subtitle, including-- (1) the development, submission, and implementation of the State plan; (2) consultation with other appropriate agencies, groups, and individuals that are involved in, or interested in, the development and implementation of activities assisted under this subtitle; and (3) coordination and nonduplication with other Federal and State education, training, corrections, public housing, and social service programs. SEC. 222. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9222.>> STATE DISTRIBUTION OF FUNDS; MATCHING REQUIREMENT. (a) State Distribution of Funds.--Each eligible agency receiving a grant under this subtitle for a fiscal year-- (1) shall use not less than 82.5 percent of the grant funds to award grants and contracts under section 231 and to carry out section 225, of which not more than 10 percent of the 82.5 percent shall be available to carry out section 225; (2) shall use not more than 12.5 percent of the grant funds to carry out State leadership activities under section 223; and (3) shall use not more than 5 percent of the grant funds, or $65,000, whichever is greater, for the administrative expenses of the eligible agency. (b) Matching Requirement.-- [[Page 112 STAT.1067]] (1) In general.--In order to receive a grant from the Secretary under section 211(b) each eligible agency shall provide, for the costs to be incurred by the eligible agency in carrying out the adult education and literacy activities for which the grant is awarded, a non-Federal contribution in an amount equal to-- (A) in the case of an eligible agency serving an outlying area, 12 percent of the total amount of funds expended for adult education and literacy activities in the outlying area, except that the Secretary may decrease the amount of funds required under this subparagraph for an eligible agency; and (B) in the case of an eligible agency serving a State, 25 percent of the total amount of funds expended for adult education and literacy activities in the State. (2) Non-Federal contribution.--An eligible agency's non- Federal contribution required under paragraph (1) may be provided in cash or in kind, fairly evaluated, and shall include only non-Federal funds that are used for adult education and literacy activities in a manner that is consistent with the purpose of this subtitle. SEC. 223. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9223.>> STATE LEADERSHIP ACTIVITIES. (a) In General.--Each eligible agency shall use funds made available under section 222(a)(2) for one or more of the following adult education and literacy activities: (1) The establishment or operation of professional development programs to improve the quality of instruction provided pursuant to local activities required under section 231(b), including instruction incorporating phonemic awareness, systematic phonics, fluency, and reading comprehension, and instruction provided by volunteers or by personnel of a State or outlying area. (2) The provision of technical assistance to eligible providers of adult education and literacy activities. (3) The provision of technology assistance, including staff training, to eligible providers of adult education and literacy activities to enable the eligible providers to improve the quality of such activities. (4) The support of State or regional networks of literacy resource centers. (5) The monitoring and evaluation of the quality of, and the improvement in, adult education and literacy activities. (6) Incentives for-- (A) program coordination and integration; and (B) performance awards. (7) Developing and disseminating curricula, including curricula incorporating phonemic awareness, systematic phonics, fluency, and reading comprehension. (8) Other activities of statewide significance that promote the purpose of this title. (9) Coordination with existing support services, such as transportation, child care, and other assistance designed to increase rates of enrollment in, and successful completion of, adult education and literacy activities, to adults enrolled in such activities. [[Page 112 STAT.1068]] (10) Integration of literacy instruction and occupational skill training, and promoting linkages with employers. (11) Linkages with postsecondary educational institutions. (b) Collaboration.--In carrying out this section, eligible agencies shall collaborate where possible, and avoid duplicating efforts, in order to maximize the impact of the activities described in subsection (a). (c) State-Imposed Requirements.--Whenever a State or outlying area implements any rule or policy relating to the administration or operation of a program authorized under this subtitle that has the effect of imposing a requirement that is not imposed under Federal law (including any rule or policy based on a State or outlying area interpretation of a Federal statute, regulation, or guideline), the State or outlying area shall identify, to eligible providers, the rule or policy as being State- or outlying area-imposed. SEC. 224. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9224.>> STATE PLAN. (a) 5-Year Plans.-- (1) In general.--Each eligible agency desiring a grant under this subtitle for any fiscal year shall submit to, or have on file with, the Secretary a 5-year State plan. (2) Comprehensive plan or application.--The eligible agency may submit the State plan as part of a comprehensive plan or application for Federal education assistance. (b) Plan Contents.--In developing the State plan, and any revisions to the State plan, the eligible agency shall include in the State plan or revisions-- (1) an objective assessment of the needs of individuals in the State or outlying area for adult education and literacy activities, including individuals most in need or hardest to serve; (2) a description of the adult education and literacy activities that will be carried out with any funds received under this subtitle; (3) a description of how the eligible agency will evaluate annually the effectiveness of the adult education and literacy activities based on the performance measures described in section 212; (4) a description of the performance measures described in section 212 and how such performance measures will ensure the improvement of adult education and literacy activities in the State or outlying area; (5) an assurance that the eligible agency will award not less than one grant under this subtitle to an eligible provider who offers flexible schedules and necessary support services (such as child care and transportation) to enable individuals, including individuals with disabilities, or individuals with other special needs, to participate in adult education and literacy activities, which eligible provider shall attempt to coordinate with support services that are not provided under this subtitle prior to using funds for adult education and literacy activities provided under this subtitle for support services; (6) an assurance that the funds received under this subtitle will not be expended for any purpose other than for activities under this subtitle; [[Page 112 STAT.1069]] (7) a description of how the eligible agency will fund local activities in accordance with the considerations described in section 231(e); (8) an assurance that the eligible agency will expend the funds under this subtitle only in a manner consistent with fiscal requirements in section 241; (9) a description of the process that will be used for public participation and comment with respect to the State plan; (10) a description of how the eligible agency will develop program strategies for populations that include, at a minimum-- (A) low-income students; (B) individuals with disabilities; (C) single parents and displaced homemakers; and (D) individuals with multiple barriers to educational enhancement, including individuals with limited English proficiency; (11) a description of how the adult education and literacy activities that will be carried out with any funds received under this subtitle will be integrated with other adult education, career development, and employment and training activities in the State or outlying area served by the eligible agency; and (12) a description of the steps the eligible agency will take to ensure direct and equitable access, as required in section 231(c)(1). (c) Plan Revisions.--When changes in conditions or other factors require substantial revisions to an approved State plan, the eligible agency shall submit the revisions to the State plan to the Secretary. (d) Consultation.--The eligible agency shall-- (1) submit the State plan, and any revisions to the State plan, to the Governor of the State or outlying area for review and comment; and (2) ensure that any comments by the Governor regarding the State plan, and any revision to the State plan, are submitted to the Secretary. (e) Peer Review.--The Secretary shall establish a peer review process to make recommendations regarding the approval of State plans. (f ) Plan Approval.--A State plan submitted to the Secretary shall be approved by the Secretary unless the Secretary makes a written determination, within 90 days after receiving the plan, that the plan is inconsistent with the specific provisions of this subtitle. SEC. 225. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9225.>> PROGRAMS FOR CORRECTIONS EDUCATION AND OTHER INSTITUTIONALIZED INDIVIDUALS. (a) Program Authorized.--From funds made available under section 222(a)(1) for a fiscal year, each eligible agency shall carry out corrections education or education for other institutionalized individuals. (b) Uses of Funds.--The funds described in subsection (a) shall be used for the cost of educational programs for criminal offenders in correctional institutions and for other institutionalized individuals, including academic programs for-- (1) basic education; [[Page 112 STAT.1070]] (2) special education programs as determined by the eligible agency; (3) English literacy programs; and (4) secondary school credit programs. (c) Priority.--Each eligible agency that is using assistance provided under this section to carry out a program for criminal offenders in a correctional institution shall give priority to serving individuals who are likely to leave the correctional institution with 5 years of participation in the program. (d) Definition of Criminal Offender.-- (1) Criminal offender.--The term ``criminal offender'' means any individual who is charged with or convicted of any criminal offense. (2) Correctional institution.--The term ``correctional institution'' means any-- (A) prison; (B) jail; (C) reformatory; (D) work farm; (E) detention center; or (F) halfway house, community-based rehabilitation center, or any other similar institution designed for the confinement or rehabilitation of criminal offenders. CHAPTER 3--LOCAL PROVISIONS SEC. 231. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9241.>> GRANTS AND CONTRACTS FOR ELIGIBLE PROVIDERS. (a) Grants and Contracts.--From grant funds made available under section 211(b), each eligible agency shall award multiyear grants or contracts, on a competitive basis, to eligible providers within the State or outlying area to enable the eligible providers to develop, implement, and improve adult education and literacy activities within the State. (b) Required Local Activities.--The eligible agency shall require that each eligible provider receiving a grant or contract under subsection (a) use the grant or contract to establish or operate one or more programs that provide services or instruction in one or more of the following categories: (1) Adult education and literacy services, including workplace literacy services. (2) Family literacy services. (3) English literacy programs. (c) Direct and Equitable Access; Same Process.--Each eligible agency receiving funds under this subtitle shall ensure that-- (1) all eligible providers have direct and equitable access to apply for grants or contracts under this section; and (2) the same grant or contract announcement process and application process is used for all eligible providers in the State or outlying area. (d) Special Rule.--Each eligible agency awarding a grant or contract under this section shall not use any funds made available under this subtitle for adult education and literacy activities for the purpose of supporting or providing programs, services, or activities for individuals who are not individuals described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of section 203(1), except that such agency may use such funds for such purpose if such programs, services, or [[Page 112 STAT.1071]] activities are related to family literacy services. In providing family literacy services under this subtitle, an eligible provider shall attempt to coordinate with programs and services that are not assisted under this subtitle prior to using funds for adult education and literacy activities under this subtitle for activities other than adult education activities. (e) Considerations.--In awarding grants or contracts under this section, the eligible agency shall consider-- (1) the degree to which the eligible provider will establish measurable goals for participant outcomes; (2) the past effectiveness of an eligible provider in improving the literacy skills of adults and families, and, after the 1-year period beginning with the adoption of an eligible agency's performance measures under section 212, the success of an eligible provider receiving funding under this subtitle in meeting or exceeding such performance measures, especially with respect to those adults with the lowest levels of literacy; (3) the commitment of the eligible provider to serve individuals in the community who are most in need of literacy services, including individuals who are low-income or have minimal literacy skills; (4) whether or not the program-- (A) is of sufficient intensity and duration for participants to achieve substantial learning gains; and (B) uses instructional practices, such as phonemic awareness, systematic phonics, fluency, and reading comprehension that research has proven to be effective in teaching individuals to read; (5) whether the activities are built on a strong foundation of research and effective educational practice; (6) whether the activities effectively employ advances in technology, as appropriate, including the use of computers; (7) whether the activities provide learning in real life contexts to ensure that an individual has the skills needed to compete in the workplace and exercise the rights and responsibilities of citizenship; (8) whether the activities are staffed by well-trained instructors, counselors, and administrators; (9) whether the activities coordinate with other available resources in the community, such as by establishing strong links with elementary schools and secondary schools, postsecondary educational institutions, one-stop centers, job training programs, and social service agencies; (10) whether the activities offer flexible schedules and support services (such as child care and transportation) that are necessary to enable individuals, including individuals with disabilities or other special needs, to attend and complete programs; (11) whether the activities maintain a high-quality information management system that has the capacity to report participant outcomes and to monitor program performance against the eligible agency performance measures; and (12) whether the local communities have a demonstrated need for additional English literacy programs. [[Page 112 STAT.1072]] SEC. 232. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9242.>> LOCAL APPLICATION. Each eligible provider desiring a grant or contract under this subtitle shall submit an application to the eligible agency containing such information and assurances as the eligible agency may require, including-- (1) a description of how funds awarded under this subtitle will be spent; and (2) a description of any cooperative arrangements the eligible provider has with other agencies, institutions, or organizations for the delivery of adult education and literacy activities. SEC. 233. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9243.>> LOCAL ADMINISTRATIVE COST LIMITS. (a) In General.--Subject to subsection (b), of the amount that is made available under this subtitle to an eligible provider-- (1) not less than 95 percent shall be expended for carrying out adult education and literacy activities; and (2) the remaining amount, not to exceed 5 percent, shall be used for planning, administration, personnel development, and interagency coordination. (b) Special Rule.--In cases where the cost limits described in subsection (a) are too restrictive to allow for adequate planning, administration, personnel development, and interagency coordination, the eligible provider shall negotiate with the eligible agency in order to determine an adequate level of funds to be used for noninstructional purposes. CHAPTER 4--GENERAL PROVISIONS SEC. 241. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9251.>> ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS. (a) Supplement Not Supplant.--Funds made available for adult education and literacy activities under this subtitle shall supplement and not supplant other State or local public funds expended for adult education and literacy activities. (b) Maintenance of Effort.-- (1) In general.-- (A) Determination.--An eligible agency may receive funds under this subtitle for any fiscal year if the Secretary finds that the fiscal effort per student or the aggregate expenditures of such eligible agency for adult education and literacy activities, in the second preceding fiscal year, was not less than 90 percent of the fiscal effort per student or the aggregate expenditures of such eligible agency for adult education and literacy activities, in the third preceding fiscal year. (B) Proportionate reduction.--Subject to paragraphs (2), (3), and (4), for any fiscal year with respect to which the Secretary determines under subparagraph (A) that the fiscal effort or the aggregate expenditures of an eligible agency for the preceding program year were less than such effort or expenditures for the second preceding program year, the Secretary-- (i) shall determine the percentage decreases in such effort or in such expenditures; and (ii) shall decrease the payment made under this subtitle for such program year to the agency for adult [[Page 112 STAT.1073]] education and literacy activities by the lesser of such percentages. (2) Computation.--In computing the fiscal effort and aggregate expenditures under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall exclude capital expenditures and special one-time project costs. (3) Decrease in federal support.--If the amount made available for adult education and literacy activities under this subtitle for a fiscal year is less than the amount made available for adult education and literacy activities under this subtitle for the preceding fiscal year, then the fiscal effort per student and the aggregate expenditures of an eligible agency required in order to avoid a reduction under paragraph (1)(B) shall be decreased by the same percentage as the percentage decrease in the amount so made available. (4) Waiver.--The Secretary may waive the requirements of this subsection for 1 fiscal year only, if the Secretary determines that a waiver would be equitable due to exceptional or uncontrollable circumstances, such as a natural disaster or an unforeseen and precipitous decline in the financial resources of the State or outlying area of the eligible agency. If the Secretary grants a waiver under the preceding sentence for a fiscal year, the level of effort required under paragraph (1) shall not be reduced in the subsequent fiscal year because of the waiver. SEC. 242. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9252.>> NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR LITERACY. (a) Purpose.--The purpose of this section is to establish a National Institute for Literacy that-- (1) provides national leadership regarding literacy; (2) coordinates literacy services and policy; and (3) serves as a national resource for adult education and literacy programs by-- (A) providing the best and most current information available, including the work of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development in the area of phonemic awareness, systematic phonics, fluency, and reading comprehension, to all recipients of Federal assistance that focuses on reading, including programs under titles I and VII of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq. and 7401 et seq.), the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9831 et seq.), the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1400 et seq.), and this Act; and (B) supporting the creation of new ways to offer services of proven effectiveness. (b) Establishment.-- (1) In general.--There is established the National Institute for Literacy (in this section referred to as the ``Institute''). The Institute shall be administered under the terms of an interagency agreement entered into by the Secretary of Education with the Secretary of Labor and the Secretary of Health and Human Services (in this section referred to as the ``Interagency Group''). The Interagency Group may include in the Institute any research and development center, institute, or clearinghouse established within the Department of Education, the Department of Labor, or the Department [[Page 112 STAT.1074]] of Health and Human Services the purpose of which is determined by the Interagency Group to be related to the purpose of the Institute. (2) Offices.--The Institute shall have offices separate from the offices of the Department of Education, the Department of Labor, and the Department of Health and Human Services. (3) Recommendations.--The Interagency Group shall consider the recommendations of the National Institute for Literacy Advisory Board (in this section referred to as the ``Board'') established under subsection (e) in planning the goals of the Institute and in the implementation of any programs to achieve the goals. If the Board's recommendations are not followed, the Interagency Group shall provide a written explanation to the Board concerning actions the Interagency Group takes that are inconsistent with the Board's recommendations, including the reasons for not following the Board's recommendations with respect to the actions. The Board may also request a meeting of the Interagency Group to discuss the Board's recommendations. (4) Daily operations.--The daily operations of the Institute shall be administered by the Director of the Institute. (c) Duties.-- (1) In general.--In order to provide leadership for theimprovement and expansion of the system for delivery of literacy services, the Institute is authorized-- (A) to establish a national electronic data base of information that disseminates information to the broadest possible audience within the literacy and basic skills field, and that includes-- (i) effective practices in the provision of literacy and basic skills instruction, including instruction in phonemic awareness, systematic phonics, fluency, and reading comprehension, and the integration of literacy and basic skills instruction with occupational skills training; (ii) public and private literacy and basic skills programs, and Federal, State, and local policies, affecting the provision of literacy services at the national, State, and local levels; (iii) opportunities for technical assistance, meetings, conferences, and other opportunities that lead to the improvement of literacy and basic skills services; and (iv) a communication network for literacy programs, providers, social service agencies, and students; (B) to coordinate support for the provision of literacy and basic skills services across Federal agencies and at the State and local levels; (C) to coordinate the support of reliable and replicable research and development on literacy and basic skills in families and adults across Federal agencies, especially with the Office of Educational Research and Improvement in the Department of Education, and to carry out basic and applied research and development on topics that are not being investigated by other organizations or agencies, such as the special literacy needs of individuals with learning disabilities; [[Page 112 STAT.1075]] (D) to collect and disseminate information on methods of advancing literacy that show great promise, including phonemic awareness, systematic phonics, fluency, and reading comprehension based on the work of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; (E) to provide policy and technical assistance to Federal, State, and local entities for the improvement of policy and programs relating to literacy; (F) to fund a network of State or regional adult literacy resource centers to assist State and local public and private nonprofit efforts to improve literacy by-- (i) encouraging the coordination of literacy services; (ii) enhancing the capacity of State and local organizations to provide literacy services; and (iii) serving as a link between the Institute and providers of adult education and literacy activities for the purpose of sharing information, data, research, expertise, and literacy resources; (G) to coordinate and share information with national organizations and associations that are interested in literacy and workforce investment activities; (H) to advise Congress and Federal departments and agencies regarding the development of policy with respect to literacy and basic skills; and (I) to undertake other activities that lead to the improvement of the Nation's literacy delivery system and that complement other such efforts being undertaken by public and private agencies and organizations. (2) Grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements.--The Institute may award grants to, or enter into contracts or cooperative agreements with, individuals, public or private institutions, agencies, organizations, or consortia of such institutions, agencies, or organizations to carry out the activities of the Institute. (d) Literacy Leadership.-- (1) In general.--The Institute, in consultation with the Board, may award fellowships, with such stipends and allowances that the Director considers necessary, to outstanding individuals pursuing careers in adult education or literacy in the areas of instruction, management, research, or innovation. (2) Fellowships.--Fellowships awarded under this subsection shall be used, under the auspices of the Institute, to engage in research, education, training, technical assistance, or other activities to advance the field of adult education or literacy, including the training of volunteer literacy providers at the national, State, or local level. (3) Interns and volunteers.--The Institute, in consultation with the Board, may award paid and unpaid internships to individuals seeking to assist the Institute in carrying out its mission. Notwithstanding section 1342 of title 31, United States Code, the Institute may accept and use voluntary and uncompensated services as the Institute determines necessary. (e) National Institute for Literacy Advisory Board.-- (1) Establishment.-- (A) <<NOTE: President.>> In general.--There shall be a National Institute for Literacy Advisory Board (in this section referred to [[Page 112 STAT.1076]] as the ``Board''), which shall consist of 10 individuals appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. (B) Composition.--The Board shall be comprised of individuals who are not otherwise officers or employees of the Federal Government and who are representative of entities such as-- (i) literacy organizations and providers of literacy services, including nonprofit providers, providers of English literacy programs and services, social service organizations, and eligible providers receiving assistance under this subtitle; (ii) businesses that have demonstrated interest in literacy programs; (iii) literacy students, including literacy students with disabilities; (iv) experts in the area of literacy research; (v) State and local governments; (vi) State Directors of adult education; and (vii) representatives of employees, including representatives of labor organizations. (2) Duties.--The Board shall-- (A) make recommendations concerning the appointment of the Director and staff of the Institute; (B) provide independent advice on the operation of the Institute; and (C) receive reports from the Interagency Group and the Director. (3) Federal advisory committee act.--Except as otherwise provided, the Board established by this subsection shall be subject to the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.). (4) Appointments.-- (A) In general.--Each member of the Board shall be appointed for a term of 3 years, except that the initial terms for members may be 1, 2, or 3 years in order to establish a rotation in which one-third of the members are selected each year. Any such member may be appointed for not more than 2 consecutive terms. (B) Vacancies.--Any member appointed to fill a vacancy occurring before the expiration of the term for which the member's predecessor was appointed shall be appointed only for the remainder of that term. A member may serve after the expiration of that member's term until a successor has taken office. (5) Quorum.--A majority of the members of the Board shall constitute a quorum but a lesser number may hold hearings. Any recommendation of the Board may be passed only by a majority of the Board's members present. (6) Election of officers.--The Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the Board shall be elected by the members of the Board. The term of office of the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson shall be 2 years. (7) Meetings.--The Board shall meet at the call of the Chairperson or a majority of the members of the Board. (f ) Gifts, Bequests, and Devises.-- [[Page 112 STAT.1077]] (1) In general.--The Institute may accept, administer, and use gifts or donations of services, money, or property, whether real or personal, tangible or intangible. (2) Rules.--The Board shall establish written rules setting forth the criteria to be used by the Institute in determining whether the acceptance of contributions of services, money, or property whether real or personal, tangible or intangible, would reflect unfavorably upon the ability of the Institute or any employee to carry out the responsibilities of the Institute or employee, or official duties, in a fair and objective manner, or would compromise the integrity or the appearance of the integrity of the Institute's programs or any official involved in those programs. (g) Mails.--The Board and the Institute may use the United States mails in the same manner and under the same conditions as other departments and agencies of the United States. (h) Staff.--The Interagency Group, after considering recommendations made by the Board, shall appoint and fix the pay of a Director. (i) Applicability of Certain Civil Service Laws.--The Director and staff of the Institute may be appointed without regard to the provisions of title 5, United States Code, governing appointments in the competitive service, and may be paid without regard to the provisions of chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of that title relating to classification and General Schedule pay rates, except that an individual so appointed may not receive pay in excess of the annual rate of basic pay payable for level IV of the Executive Schedule. ( j) Experts and Consultants.--The Institute may procure temporary and intermittent services under section 3109(b) of title 5, United States Code. (k) Report.--The Institute shall submit a report biennially to the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Labor and Human Resources of the Senate. Each report submitted under this subsection shall include-- (1) a comprehensive and detailed description of the Institute's operations, activities, financial condition, and accomplishments in the field of literacy for the period covered by the report; (2) a description of how plans for the operation of the Institute for the succeeding 2 fiscal years will facilitate achievement of the goals of the Institute and the goals of the literacy programs within the Department of Education, the Department of Labor, and the Department of Health and Human Services; and (3) any additional minority, or dissenting views submitted by members of the Board. (l) Funding.--Any amounts appropriated to the Secretary, the Secretary of Labor, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, or any other department that participates in the Institute for purposes that the Institute is authorized to perform under this section may be provided to the Institute for such purposes. [[Page 112 STAT.1078]] SEC. 243. <<NOTE: 20 USC 9253.>> NATIONAL LEADERSHIP ACTIVITIES. The Secretary shall establish and carry out a program of national leadership activities to enhance the quality of adult education and literacy programs nationwide. Such activities may include the following: (1) Technical assistance, including-- (A) assistance provided to eligible providers in developing and using performance measures for the improvement of adult education and literacy activities, including family literacy services; (B) assistance related to professional development activities, and assistance for the purposes of developing, improving, identifying, and disseminating the most successful methods and techniques for providing adult education and literacy activities, including family literacy services, based on scientific evidence where available; and (C) assistance in distance learning and promoting and improving the use of technology in the classroom. (2) Funding national leadership activities that are not described in paragraph (1), either directly or through grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements awarded on a competitive basis to or with postsecondary educational institutions, public or private organizations or agencies, or consortia of such institutions, organizations, or agencies, such as-- (A) developing, improving, and identifying the most successful methods and techniques for addressing the education needs of adults, including instructional practices using phonemic awareness, systematic phonics, fluency, and reading comprehension, based on the work of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; (B) increasing the effectiveness of, and improving the qualify of, adult education and literacy activities, including family literacy services; (C) carrying out research, such as estimating the number of adults functioning at the lowest levels of literacy proficiency; (D)(i) carrying out demonstration programs; (ii) developing and replicating model and innovative programs, such as the development of models for basic skill certificates, identification of effective strategies for working with adults with learning disabilities and with individuals with limited English proficiency who are adults, and workplace literacy programs; and (iii) disseminating best practices information, including information regarding promising practices resulting from federally funded demonstration programs; (E) providing for the conduct of an independent evaluation and assessment of adult education and literacy activities through studies and analyses conducted independently through grants and contracts awarded on a competitive basis, which evaluation and assessment shall include descriptions of-- (i) the effect of performance measures and other measures of accountability on the delivery of adult education and literacy activities, including family literacy services; [[Page 112 STAT.1079]] (ii) the extent to which the adult education and literacy activities, including family literacy services, increase the literacy skills of adults (and of children, in the case of family literacy services), lead the participants in such activities to involvement in further education and training, enhance the employment and earnings of such participants, and, if applicable, lead to other positive outcomes, such as reductions in recidivism in the case of prison-based adult education and literacy activities; (iii) the extent to which the provision of support services to adults enrolled in adult education and family literacy programs increase the rate of enrollment in, and successful completion of, such programs; and (iv) the extent to which eligible agencies have distributed funds under section 231 to meet the needs of adults through community-based organizations; (F) supporting efforts aimed at capacity building at the State and local levels, such as technical assistance in program planning, assessment, evaluation, and monitoring of activities carried out under this subtitle; (G) collecting data, such as data regarding the improvement of both local and State data systems, through technical assistance and development of model performance data collection systems; and (H) other activities designed to enhance the quality of adult education and literacy activities nationwide. Subtitle B--Repeals SEC. 251. REPEALS. (a) Repeals.-- (1) Adult education act.--The Adult Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1201 et seq.) is repealed. (2) National literacy act of 1991.--The National Literacy Act of 1991 (20 U.S.C. 1201 note) is repealed. (b) Conforming Amendments.-- (1) Refugee education assistance act.--Subsection (b) of section 402 of the Refugee Education Assistance Act of 1980 (8 U.S.C. 1522 note) is repealed. (2) Elementary and secondary education act of 1965.-- (A) Section 1202 of esea.--Section 1202(c)(1) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6362(c)(1)) is amended by striking ``Adult Education Act'' and inserting ``Adult Education and Family Literacy Act''. (B) Section 1205 of esea.--Section 1205(8)(B) of such Act (20 U.S.C. 6365(8)(B)) is amended by striking ``Adult Education Act'' and inserting ``Adult Education and Family Literacy Act''. (C) Section 1206 of esea.--Section 1206(a)(1)(A) of such Act (20 U.S.C. 6366(a)(1)(A)) is amended by striking ``an adult basic education program under the Adult Education Act'' and inserting ``adult education and literacy activities under the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act''. [[Page 112 STAT.1080]] (D) Section 3113 of esea.--Section 3113(1) of such Act (20 U.S.C. 6813(1)) is amended by striking ``section 312 of the Adult Education Act'' and inserting ``section 203 of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act''. (E) Section 9161 of esea.--Section 9161(2) of such Act (20 U.S.C. 7881(2)) is amended by striking ``section 312(2) of the Adult Education Act'' and inserting ``section 203 of the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act''. (3) Older americans act of 1965.--Section 203(b)(8) of the Older Americans Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3013(b)(8)) is amended by striking ``Adult Education Act'' and inserting ``Adult Education and Family Literacy Act''. TITLE III--WORKFORCE INVESTMENT-RELATED ACTIVITIES Subtitle A--Wagner-Peyser Act SEC. 301. DEFINITIONS. Section 2 of the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49a) is amended-- (1) in paragraph (1)-- (A) by striking ``or officials''; and (B) by striking ``Job Training Partnership Act'' and inserting ``Workforce Investment Act of 1998''; (2) by striking paragraphs (2) and (4); (3) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (4); (4) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following: ``(2) the term `local workforce investment board' means a local workforce investment board established under section 117 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998; ``(3) the term `one-stop delivery system' means a one-stop delivery system described in section 134(c) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998;''; and (5) in paragraph (4) (as redesignated in paragraph (3)), by striking the semicolon and inserting ``; and''. SEC. 302. FUNCTIONS. (a) In General.--Section 3 of the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49b) is amended-- (1) in subsection (a), by striking ``United States Employment Service'' and inserting ``Secretary''; and (2) by adding at the end the following: ``(c) The Secretary shall-- ``(1) assist in the coordination and development of a nationwide system of public labor exchange services, provided as part of the one-stop customer service systems of the States; ``(2) assist in the development of continuous improvement models for such nationwide system that ensure private sector satisfaction with the system and meet the demands of jobseekers relating to the system; and ``(3) ensure, for individuals otherwise eligible to receive unemployment compensation, the provision of reemployment services and other activities in which the individuals are required to participate to receive the compensation.''. [[Page 112 STAT.1081]] (b) Conforming Amendments.--Section 508(b)(1) of the Unemployment Compensation Amendments of 1976 (42 U.S.C. 603a(b)(1)) <<NOTE: 42 USC 655a.>> is amended-- (1) by striking ``the third sentence of section 3(a)'' and inserting ``section 3(b)''; and (2) by striking ``49b(a)'' and inserting ``49b(b)''. SEC. 303. DESIGNATION OF STATE AGENCIES. Section 4 of the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49c) is amended-- (1) by striking ``, through its legislature,'' and inserting ``, pursuant to State statute,''; (2) by inserting after ``the provisions of this Act and'' the following: ``, in accordance with such State statute, the Governor shall''; and (3) by striking ``United States Employment Service'' and inserting ``Secretary''. SEC. 304. APPROPRIATIONS. Section 5(c) of the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49d(c)) is amended by striking paragraph (3). SEC. 305. DISPOSITION OF ALLOTTED FUNDS. Section 7 of the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49f) is amended-- (1) in subsection (b)(2), by striking ``private industry council'' and inserting ``local workforce investment board''; (2) in subsection (c)(2), by striking ``any program under'' and all that follows and inserting ``any workforce investment activity carried out under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998.''; (3) in subsection (d)-- (A) by striking ``United States Employment Service'' and inserting ``Secretary''; and (B) by striking ``Job Training Partnership Act'' and inserting ``Workforce Investment Act of 1998''; and (4) by adding at the end the following: ``(e) All job search, placement, recruitment, labor employment statistics, and other labor exchange services authorized under subsection (a) shall be provided, consistent with the other requirements of this Act, as part of the one-stop delivery system established by the State.''. SEC. 306. STATE PLANS. Section 8 of the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49g) is amended-- (1) in subsection (a) to read as follows: ``(a) Any State desiring to receive assistance under this Act shall submit to the Secretary, as part of the State plan submitted under section 112 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998, detailed plans for carrying out the provisions of this Act within such State.''; (2) by striking subsections (b) and (c); (3) by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (b); (4) by inserting after subsection (b) (as redesignated by paragraph (3)) the following: ``(c) The part of the State plan described in subsection (a) shall include the information described in paragraphs (8) and (14) of section 112(b) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998.''; [[Page 112 STAT.1082]] (5) by redesignating subsection (e) as subsection (d); and (6) in subsection (d) (as redesignated in paragraph (5)), by striking ``such plans'' and inserting ``such detailed plans''. SEC. 307. REPEAL OF FEDERAL ADVISORY COUNCIL. Section 11 of the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49j) is amended-- (1) by striking ``11.'' and all that follows through ``(b) In'' and inserting ``11. In''; and (2) by striking ``Director'' and inserting ``Secretary''. SEC. 308. REGULATIONS. Section 12 of the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49k) is amended by striking ``The Director, with the approval of the Secretary of Labor,'' and inserting ``The Secretary''. SEC. 309. EMPLOYMENT STATISTICS. The Wagner-Peyser Act is amended-- (1) by redesignating section 15 (29 U.S.C. 49 note) as section 16; and (2) by inserting after section 14 (29 U.S.C. 49l-1) the following: ``SEC. 15. <<NOTE: 29 USC 49l-2.>> EMPLOYMENT STATISTICS. ``(a) System Content.-- ``(1) In general.--The Secretary, in accordance with the provisions of this section, shall oversee the development, maintenance, and continuous improvement of a nationwide employment statistics system of employment statistics that includes-- ``(A) statistical data from cooperative statistical survey and projection programs and data from administrative reporting systems that, taken together, enumerate, estimate, and project employment opportunities and conditions at national, State, and local levels in a timely manner, including statistics on-- ``(i) employment and unemployment status of national, State, and local populations, including self-employed, part-time, and seasonal workers; ``(ii) industrial distribution of occupations, as well as current and projected employment opportunities, wages, benefits (where data is available), and skill trends by occupation and industry, with particular attention paid to State and local conditions; ``(iii) the incidence of, industrial and geographical location of, and number of workers displaced by, permanent layoffs and plant closings; and ``(iv) employment and earnings information maintained in a longitudinal manner to be used for research and program evaluation; ``(B) information on State and local employment opportunities, and other appropriate statistical data related to labor market dynamics, which-- ``(i) shall be current and comprehensive; ``(ii) shall meet the needs identified through the consultations described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of subsection (e)(2); and [[Page 112 STAT.1083]] ``(iii) shall meet the needs for the information identified in section 134(d); ``(C) technical standards (which the Secretary shall publish annually) for data and information described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) that, at a minimum, meet the criteria of chapter 35 of title 44, United States Code; ``(D) procedures to ensure compatibility and additivity of the data and information described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) from national, State, and local levels; ``(E) procedures to support standardization and aggregation of data from administrative reporting systems described in subparagraph (A) of employment- related programs; ``(F) analysis of data and information described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) for uses such as-- ``(i) national, State, and local policymaking; ``(ii) implementation of Federal policies (including allocation formulas); ``(iii) program planning and evaluation; and ``(iv) researching labor market dynamics; ``(G) wide dissemination of such data, information, and analysis in a user-friendly manner and voluntary technical standards for dissemination mechanisms; and ``(H) programs of-- ``(i) training for effective data dissemination; ``(ii) research and demonstration; and ``(iii) programs and technical assistance. ``(2) Information to be confidential.-- ``(A) In general.--No officer or employee of the Federal Government or agent of the Federal Government may-- ``(i) use any submission that is furnished for exclusively statistical purposes under the provisions of this section for any purpose other than the statistical purposes of this section for which the submission is furnished; ``(ii) make any publication or media transmittal of the data contained in the submission described in clause (i) that permits information concerning individual subjects to be reasonably inferred by either direct or indirect means; or ``(iii) permit anyone other than a sworn officer, employee, or agent of any Federal department or agency, or a contractor (including an employee of a contractor) of such department or agency, to examine an individual submission described in clause (i); without the consent of the individual, agency, or other person who is the subject of the submission or provides that submission. ``(B) Immunity from legal process.--Any submission (including any data derived from the submission) that is collected and retained by a Federal department or agency, or an officer, employee, agent, or contractor of such a department or agency, for exclusively statistical purposes under this section shall be immune from the legal process and shall not, without the consent of the individual, agency, or other person who is the subject of the submission or provides that submission, be admitted as evidence or used [[Page 112 STAT.1084]] for any purpose in any action, suit, or other judicial or administrative proceeding. ``(C) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to provide immunity from the legal process for such submission (including any data derived from the submission) if the submission is in the possession of any person, agency, or entity other than the Federal Government or an officer, employee, agent, or contractor of the Federal Government, or if the submission is independently collected, retained, or produced for purposes other than the purposes of this Act. ``(b) System Responsibilities.-- ``(1) In general.--The employment statistics system described in subsection (a) shall be planned, administered, overseen, and evaluated through a cooperative governance structure involving the Federal Government and States. ``(2) Duties.--The Secretary, with respect to data collection, analysis, and dissemination of labor employment statistics for the system, shall carry out the following duties: ``(A) Assign responsibilities within the Department of Labor for elements of the employment statistics system described in subsection (a) to ensure that all statistical and administrative data collected is consistent with appropriate Bureau of Labor Statistics standards and definitions. ``(B) Actively seek the cooperation of other Federal agencies to establish and maintain mechanisms for ensuring complementarity and nonduplication in the development and operation of statistical and administrative data collection activities. ``(C) Eliminate gaps and duplication in statistical undertakings, with the systemization of wage surveys as an early priority. ``(D) In collaboration with the Bureau of Labor Statistics and States, develop and maintain the elements of the employment statistics system described in subsection (a), including the development of consistent procedures and definitions for use by the States in collecting the data and information described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of subsection (a)(1). ``(E) <<NOTE: Procedures.>> Establish procedures for the system to ensure that-- ``(i) such data and information are timely; ``(ii) paperwork and reporting for the system are reduced to a minimum; and ``(iii) States and localities are fully involved in the development and continuous improvement of the system at all levels, including ensuring the provision, to such States and localities, of budget information necessary for carrying out their responsibilities under subsection (e). ``(c) Annual Plan.--The Secretary, working through the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and in cooperation with the States, and with the assistance of other appropriate Federal agencies, shall prepare an annual plan which shall be the mechanism for achieving cooperative management of the nationwide employment statistics system described in subsection (a) and the statewide [[Page 112 STAT.1085]] employment statistics systems that comprise the nationwide system. The plan shall-- ``(1) describe the steps the Secretary has taken in the preceding year and will take in the following 5 years to carry out the duties described in subsection (b)(2); ``(2) <<NOTE: Reports.>> include a report on the results of an annual consumer satisfaction review concerning the performance of the system, including the performance of the system in addressing the needs of Congress, States, localities, employers, jobseekers, and other consumers; ``(3) evaluate the performance of the system and recommend needed improvements, taking into consideration the results of the consumer satisfaction review, with particular attention to the improvements needed at the State and local levels; ``(4) justify the budget request for annual appropriations by describing priorities for the fiscal year succeeding the fiscal year in which the plan is developed and priorities for the 5 subsequent fiscal years for the system; ``(5) describe current (as of the date of the submission of the plan) spending and spending needs to carry out activities under this section, including the costs to States and localities of meeting the requirements of subsection (e)(2); and ``(6) describe the involvement of States in the development of the plan, through formal consultations conducted by the Secretary in cooperation with representatives of the Governors of every State, and with representatives of local workforce investment boards, pursuant to a process established by the Secretary in cooperation with the States. ``(d) Coordination With the States.--The Secretary, working through the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and in cooperation with the States, shall-- ``(1) develop the annual plan described in subsection (c) and address other employment statistics issues by holding formal consultations, at least once each quarter (beginning with the calendar quarter in which the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 is enacted) on the products and administration of the nationwide employment statistics system; and ``(2) hold the consultations with representatives from each of the 10 Federal regions of the Department of Labor, elected (pursuant to a process established by the Secretary) by and from the State employment statistics directors affiliated with the State agencies that perform the duties described in subsection (e)(2). ``(e) State Responsibilities.-- ``(1) Designation of state agency.--In order to receive Federal financial assistance under this section, the Governor of a State shall-- ``(A) designate a single State agency to be responsible for the management of the portions of the employment statistics system described in subsection (a) that comprise a statewide employment statistics system and for the State's participation in the development of the annual plan; and ``(B) establish a process for the oversight of such system. ``(2) Duties.--In order to receive Federal financial assistance under this section, the State agency shall-- [[Page 112 STAT.1086]] ``(A) consult with State and local employers, participants, and local workforce investment boards about the labor market relevance of the data to be collected and disseminated through the statewide employment statistics system; ``(B) consult with State educational agencies and local educational agencies concerning the provision of employment statistics in order to meet the needs of secondary school and postsecondary school students who seek such information; ``(C) collect and disseminate for the system, on behalf of the State and localities in the State, the information and data described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of subsection (a)(1); ``(D) maintain and continuously improve the statewide employment statistics system in accordance with this section; ``(E) perform contract and grant responsibilities for data collection, analysis, and dissemination for such system; ``(F) conduct such other data collection, analysis, and dissemination activities as will ensure an effective statewide employment statistics system; ``(G) actively seek the participation of other State and local agencies in data collection, analysis, and dissemination activities in order to ensure complementary, compatibility, and usefulness of data; ``(H) participate in the development of the annual plan described in subsection (c); and ``(I) utilize the quarterly records described in section 136(f )(2) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 to assist the State and other States in measuring State progress on State performance measures. ``(3) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this section shall be construed as limiting the ability of a State agency to conduct additional data collection, analysis, and dissemination activities with State funds or with Federal funds from sources other than this section. ``(f ) Nonduplication Requirement.--None of the functions and activities carried out pursuant to this section shall duplicate the functions and activities carried out under the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Education Act (20 U.S.C. 2301 et seq.). ``(g) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 1999 through 2004. ``(h) Definition.--In this section, the term `local area' means the smallest geographical area for which data can be produced with statistical reliability.''. SEC. 310. TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS. Sections 3(b), 6(b)(1), and 7(d) of the Wagner-Peyser Act (29 U.S.C. 49b(b), 49e(b)(1), and 49f(d)) are amended by striking ``Secretary of Labor'' and inserting ``Secretary''. SEC. 311. <<NOTE: 29 USC 49a note.>> EFFECTIVE DATE. The amendments made by this subtitle shall take effect on July 1, 1999. [[Page 112 STAT.1087]] Subtitle B--Linkages With Other Programs SEC. 321. TRADE ACT OF 1974. Section 239 of the Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2311) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``(g) In order to promote the coordination of workforce investment activities in each State with activities carried out under this chapter, any agreement entered into under this section shall provide that the State shall submit to the Secretary, in such form as the Secretary may require, the description and information described in paragraphs (8) and (14) of section 112(b) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998.''. SEC. 322. VETERANS' EMPLOYMENT PROGRAMS. Chapter 41 of title 38, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: ``Sec. 4110B. Coordination and nonduplication ``In carrying out this chapter, the Secretary shall require that an appropriate administrative entity in each State enter into an agreement with the Secretary regarding the implementation of this Act that includes the description and information described in paragraphs (8) and (14) of section 112(b) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998.''. SEC. 323. OLDER AMERICANS ACT OF 1965. Section 502(b)(1) of the Older Americans Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3056(b)(1)) is amended-- (1) in subparagraph (O), by striking ``; and'' and inserting a semicolon; (2) in subparagraph (P), by striking the period and inserting ``; and''; and (3) by adding at the end the following subparagraph: ``(Q) will provide to the Secretary the description and information described in paragraphs (8) and (14) of section 112(b) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998.''. Subtitle C-- <<NOTE: Twenty-First Century Workforce Commission Act. 29 USC 2701 note.>> Twenty-First Century Workforce Commission SEC. 331. SHORT TITLE. This subtitle may be cited as the ``Twenty-First Century Workforce Commission Act''. SEC. 332. FINDINGS. Congress finds that-- (1) information technology is one of the fastest growing areas in the United States economy; (2) the United States is a world leader in the information technology industry; (3) the continued growth and prosperity of the information technology industry is important to the continued prosperity of the United States economy; [[Page 112 STAT.1088]] (4) highly skilled employees are essential for the success of business entities in the information technology industry and other business entities that use information technology; (5) employees in information technology jobs are highly paid; (6) as of the date of enactment of this Act, these employees are in high demand in all industries and all regions of the United States; and (7) through a concerted effort by business entities, the Federal Government, the governments of States and political subdivisions of States, and educational institutions, more individuals will gain the skills necessary to enter into a technology-based job market, ensuring that the United States remains the world leader in the information technology industry. SEC. 333. DEFINITIONS. In this subtitle: (1) Business entity.--The term ``business entity'' means a firm, corporation, association, partnership, consortium, joint venture, or other form of enterprise. (2) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the Twenty- First Century Workforce Commission established under section 334. (3) Information technology.--The term ``information technology'' has the meaning given that term in section 5002 of the Information Technology Management Reform Act of 1996 (110 Stat. 679). (4) State.--The term ``State'' means each of the several States of the United States and the District of Columbia. SEC. 334. ESTABLISHMENT OF TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY WORKFORCE COMMISSION. (a) Establishment.--There is established a commission to be known as the Twenty-First Century Workforce Commission. (b) Membership.-- (1) <<NOTE: President. Congress.>> Composition.-- (A) In general.--The Commission shall be composed of 15 voting members, of which-- (i) five members shall be appointed by the President; (ii) five members shall be appointed by the Majority Leader of the Senate; and (iii) five members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives. (B) Governmental representatives.--Of the members appointed under this subsection, three members shall be representatives of the governments of States and political subdivisions of States, one of whom shall be appointed by the President, one of whom shall be appointed by the Majority Leader of the Senate, and one of whom shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives. (C) Educators.--Of the members appointed under this subsection, three shall be educators who are selected from among elementary, secondary, vocational, and postsecondary educators-- [[Page 112 STAT.1089]] (i) one of whom shall be appointed by the President; (ii) one of whom shall be appointed by the Majority Leader of the Senate; and (iii) one of whom shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives. (D) Business representatives.-- (i) In general.--Of the members appointed under this subsection, eight shall be representatives of business entities (at least three of which shall be individuals who are employed by noninformation technology business entities), two of whom shall be appointed by the President, three of whom shall be appointed by the Majority Leader of the Senate, and three of whom shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives. (ii) Size.--Members appointed under this subsection in accordance with clause (i) shall, to the extent practicable, include individuals from business entities of a size that is small or average. (E) Labor representative.--Of the members appointed under this subsection, one shall be a representative of a labor organization who has been nominated by a national labor federation and who shall be appointed by the President. (F) Ex officio members.--The Commission shall include two nonvoting members, of which-- (i) one member shall be an officer or employee of the Department of Labor, who shall be appointed by the President; and (ii) one member shall be an officer or employee of the Department of Education, who shall be appointed by the President. (2) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Date.--The appointments of the members of the Commission shall be made by the later of-- (A) October 31, 1998; or (B) the date that is 45 days after the date of enactment of this Act. (c) Period of Appointment; Vacancies.--Members shall be appointed for the life of the Commission. Any vacancy in the Commission shall not affect its powers, but shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment. (d) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Initial Meeting.--No later than 30 days after the date on which all members of the Commission have been appointed, the Commission shall hold its first meeting. (e) Meetings.--The Commission shall meet at the call of the Chairperson. (f ) Quorum.--A majority of the members of theCommission shall constitute a quorum, but a lesser number of members may hold hearings. (g) Chairperson and Vice Chairperson.--The Commission shall select by vote a chairperson and vice chairperson from among its voting members. SEC. 335. DUTIES OF THE COMMISSION. (a) Study.-- [[Page 112 STAT.1090]] (1) In general.--The Commission shall conduct a thorough study of all matters relating to the information technology workforce in the United States. (2) Matters studied.--The matters studied by the Commission shall include an examination of-- (A) the skills necessary to enter the information technology workforce; (B) ways to expand the number of skilled information technology workers; and (C) the relative efficacy of programs in the United States and foreign countries to train information technology workers, with special emphasis on programs that provide for secondary education or postsecondary education in a program other than a 4-year baccalaureate program (including associate degree programs and graduate degree programs). (3) Public hearings.--As part of the study conducted under this subsection, the Commission shall hold public hearings in each region of the United States concerning the issues referred to in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (2). (4) Existing information.--To the extent practicable, in carrying out the study under this subsection, the Commission shall identify and use existing information related to the issues referred to in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (2). (5) Consultation with chief information officers council.-- In carrying out the study under this subsection, the Commission shall consult with the Chief Information Officers Council established under Executive Order No. 13011. (b) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Report.--Not later than 6 months after the first meeting of the Commission, the Commission shall submit a report to the President and the Congress that shall contain a detailed statement of the findings and conclusions of the Commission resulting from the study, together with its recommendations for such legislation and administrative actions as the Commission considers to be appropriate. (c) Facilitation of Exchange of Information.--In carrying out the study under subsection (a), the Commission shall, to the extent practicable, facilitate the exchange of information concerning the issues that are the subject of the study among-- (1) officials of the Federal Government and the governments of States and political subdivisions of States; and (2) educators from Federal, State, and local institutions of higher education and secondary schools. SEC. 336. POWERS OF THE COMMISSION. (a) Hearings.--The Commission may hold such hearings, sit and act at such times and places, take such testimony, and receive such evidence as the Commission considers advisable to carry out the purposes of this subtitle. (b) Information From Federal Agencies.--The Commission may secure directly from any Federal department or agency such information as the Commission considers necessary to carry out the provisions of this subtitle. Upon request of the Chairperson of the Commission, the head of such department or agency shall furnish such information to the Commission. [[Page 112 STAT.1091]] (c) Postal Services.--The Commission may use the United States mails in the same manner and under the same conditions as other departments and agencies of the Federal Government. (d) Gifts.--The Commission may accept, use, and dispose of gifts or donations of services or property. SEC. 337. COMMISSION PERSONNEL MATTERS. (a) Compensation of Members.--Except as provided in subsection (b), each member of the Commission who is not an officer or employee of the Federal Government shall serve without compensation. All members of the Commission who are officers or employees of the United States shall serve without compensation in addition to that received for their services as officers or employees of the United States. (b) Travel Expenses.--The members of the Commission shall be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, at rates authorized for employees of agencies under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code, while away from their homes or regular places of business in the performance of services for the Commission. (c) Staff.-- (1) In general.--The Chairperson of the Commission may, without regard to the civil service laws and regulations, appoint and terminate an executive director and such other additional personnel as may be necessary to enable the Commission to perform its duties. The employment of an executive director shall be subject to confirmation by the Commission. (2) Compensation.--The Chairperson of the Commission may fix the compensation of the executive director and other personnel without regard to the provisions of chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of title 5, United States Code, relating to classification of positions and General Schedule pay rates, except that the rate of pay for the executive director and other personnel may not exceed the rate payable for level V of the Executive Schedule under section 5316 of such title. (d) Detail of Government Employees.--Any Federal Government employee may be detailed to the Commission without reimbursement, and such detail shall be without interruption or loss of civil service status or privilege. (e) Procurement of Temporary and Intermittent Services.--The Chairperson of the Commission may procure temporary and intermittent services under section 3109(b) of title 5, United States Code, at rates for individuals that do not exceed the daily equivalent of the annual rate of basic pay prescribed for level V of the Executive Schedule under section 5316 of such title. SEC. 338. TERMINATION OF THE COMMISSION. The Commission shall terminate on the date that is 90 days after the date on which the Commission submits its report under section 335(b). SEC. 339. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. (a) In General.--There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for fiscal year 1999 to the Commission to carry out the purposes of this subtitle. (b) Availability.--Any sums appropriated under the authorization contained in this section shall remain available, without fiscal year limitation, until expended. [[Page 112 STAT.1092]] Subtitle D--Application of Civil Rights and Labor-Management Laws to the Smithsonian Institution SEC. 341. APPLICATION OF CIVIL RIGHTS AND LABOR-MANAGEMENT LAWS TO THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION. (a) Prohibition on Employment Discrimination on Basis of Race, Color, Religion, Sex, and National Origin.--Section 717(a) of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000e-16(a)) is amended by inserting ``in the Smithsonian Institution,'' before ``and in the Government Printing Office,''. (b) Prohibition on Employment Discrimination on Basis of Age.-- Section 15(a) of the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (29 U.S.C. 633a(a)) is amended by inserting ``in the Smithsonian Institution,'' before ``and in the Government Printing Office,''. (c) Prohibition on Employment Discrimination on Basis of Disability.--Section 501 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 791) is amended-- (1) in the fourth sentence of subsection (a), in paragraph (1), by inserting ``and the Smithsonian Institution'' after ``Government''; (2) in the first sentence of subsection (b)-- (A) by inserting ``and the Smithsonian Institution'' after ``in the executive branch''; and (B) by striking ``such department, agency, or instrumentality'' and inserting ``such department, agency, instrumentality, or Institution''; and (3) in subsection (d), by inserting ``and the Smithsonian Institution'' after ``instrumentality''. (d) <<NOTE: Effective date. 29 USC 633a note.>> Application.--The amendments made by subsections (a), (b), and (c) shall take effect on the date of enactment of this Act and shall apply to and may be raised in any administrative or judicial claim or action brought before such date of enactment but pending on such date, and any administrative or judicial claim or action brought after such date regardless of whether the claim or action arose prior to such date, if the claim or action was brought within the applicable statute of limitations. (e) Labor-Management Laws.--Section 7103(a)(3) of title 5, United States Code, is amended-- (1) by striking ``and'' after ``Library of Congress,''; and (2) by inserting ``and the Smithsonian Institution'' after ``Government Printing Office,''. TITLE IV-- <<NOTE: Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998.>> REHABILITATION ACT AMENDMENTS OF 1998 SEC. 401. <<NOTE: 29 USC 701 note.>> SHORT TITLE. This title may be cited as the ``Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998''. SEC. 402. TITLE. The title of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 <<NOTE: 29 USC 701 note prec.>> is amended by striking ``to establish special responsibilities'' and all that follows [[Page 112 STAT.1093]] and inserting the following: ``to create linkage between State vocational rehabilitation programs and workforce investment activities carried out under title I of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998, to establish special responsibilities for the Secretary of Education for coordination of all activities with respect to individuals with disabilities within and across programs administered by the Federal Government, and for other purposes.''. SEC. 403. GENERAL PROVISIONS. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 <<NOTE: 29 USC 701 and note, 702-707, 709-718, 718a, 718b.>> is amended by striking the matter preceding title I and inserting the following: ``short title; table of contents ``Sec. 1. <<NOTE: 29 USC 701 note.>> (a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the `Rehabilitation Act of 1973'. ``(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as follows: ``Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. ``Sec. 2. Findings; purpose; policy. ``Sec. 3. Rehabilitation Services Administration. ``Sec. 4. Advance funding. ``Sec. 5. Joint funding. ``Sec. 6. Definitions. ``Sec. 7. Allotment percentage. ``Sec. 8. Nonduplication. ``Sec. 9. Application of other laws. ``Sec. 10. Administration of the Act. ``Sec. 11. Reports. ``Sec. 12. Evaluation. ``Sec. 13. Information clearinghouse. ``Sec. 14. Transfer of funds. ``Sec. 15. State administration. ``Sec. 16. Review of applications. ``Sec. 17. Carryover. ``Sec. 18. Client assistance information. ``Sec. 19. Traditionally underserved populations. ``TITLE I--VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES ``Part A--General Provisions ``Sec. 100. Declaration of policy; authorization of appropriations. ``Sec. 101. State plans. ``Sec. 102. Eligibility and individualized plan for employment. ``Sec. 103. Vocational rehabilitation services. ``Sec. 104. Non-Federal share for establishment of program. ``Sec. 105. State Rehabilitation Council. ``Sec. 106. Evaluation standards and performance indicators. ``Sec. 107. Monitoring and review. ``Sec. 108. Expenditure of certain amounts. ``Sec. 109. Training of employers with respect to Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. ``Part B--Basic Vocational Rehabilitation Services ``Sec. 110. State allotments. ``Sec. 111. Payments to States. ``Sec. 112. Client assistance program. ``Part C--American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services ``Sec. 121. Vocational rehabilitation services grants. ``Part D--Vocational Rehabilitation Services Client Information ``Sec. 131. Data sharing. ``TITLE II--RESEARCH AND TRAINING ``Sec. 200. Declaration of purpose. [[Page 112 STAT.1094]] ``Sec. 201. Authorization of appropriations. ``Sec. 202. National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research. ``Sec. 203. Interagency Committee. ``Sec. 204. Research and other covered activities. ``Sec. 205. Rehabilitation Research Advisory Council. ``TITLE III--PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND SPECIAL PROJECTS AND DEMONSTRATIONS ``Sec. 301. Declaration of purpose and competitive basis of grants and contracts. ``Sec. 302. Training. ``Sec. 303. Demonstration and training programs. ``Sec. 304. Migrant and seasonal farmworkers. ``Sec. 305. Recreational programs. ``Sec. 306. Measuring of project outcomes and performance. ``TITLE IV--NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY ``Sec. 400. Establishment of National Council on Disability. ``Sec. 401. Duties of National Council. ``Sec. 402. Compensation of National Council members. ``Sec. 403. Staff of National Council. ``Sec. 404. Administrative powers of National Council. ``Sec. 405. Authorization of Appropriations. ``TITLE V--RIGHTS AND ADVOCACY ``Sec. 501. Employment of individuals with disabilities. ``Sec. 502. Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board. ``Sec. 503. Employment under Federal contracts. ``Sec. 504. Nondiscrimination under Federal grants and programs. ``Sec. 505. Remedies and attorneys' fees. ``Sec. 506. Secretarial responsibilities. ``Sec. 507. Interagency Disability Coordinating Council. ``Sec. 508. Electronic and information technology regulations. ``Sec. 509. Protection and advocacy of individual rights. ``TITLE VI--EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES ``Sec. 601. Short title. ``Part A--Projects With Industry ``Sec. 611. Projects with industry. ``Sec. 612. Authorization of appropriations. ``Part B--Supported Employment Services for Individuals With the Most Significant Disabilities ``Sec. 621. Purpose. ``Sec. 622. Allotments. ``Sec. 623. Availability of services. ``Sec. 624. Eligibility. ``Sec. 625. State plan. ``Sec. 626. Restriction. ``Sec. 627. Savings provision. ``Sec. 628. Authorization of appropriations. ``TITLE VII--INDEPENDENT LIVING SERVICES AND CENTERS FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING ``Chapter 1--Individuals With Significant Disabilities ``Part A--General Provisions ``Sec. 701. Purpose. ``Sec. 702. Definitions. ``Sec. 703. Eligibility for receipt of services. ``Sec. 704. State plan. ``Sec. 705. Statewide Independent Living Council. ``Sec. 706. Responsibilities of the Commissioner. ``Part B--Independent Living Services ``Sec. 711. Allotments. ``Sec. 712. Payments to States from allotments. [[Page 112 STAT.1095]] ``Sec. 713. Authorized uses of funds. ``Sec. 714. Authorization of appropriations. ``Part C--Centers for Independent Living ``Sec. 721. Program authorization. ``Sec. 722. Grants to centers for independent living in States in which Federal funding exceeds State funding. ``Sec. 723. Grants to centers for independent living in States in which State funding equals or exceeds Federal funding. ``Sec. 724. Centers operated by State agencies. ``Sec. 725. Standards and assurances for centers for independent living. ``Sec. 726. Definitions. ``Sec. 727. Authorization of appropriations. ``Chapter 2--Independent Living Services for Older Individuals Who Are Blind ``Sec. 751. Definition. ``Sec. 752. Program of grants. ``Sec. 753. Authorization of appropriations. ``findings; purpose; policy ``Sec. 2. <<NOTE: 29 USC 701.>> (a) Findings.--Congress finds that-- ``(1) millions of Americans have one or more physical or mental disabilities and the number of Americans with such disabilities is increasing; ``(2) individuals with disabilities constitute one of the most disadvantaged groups in society; ``(3) disability is a natural part of the human experience and in no way diminishes the right of individuals to-- ``(A) live independently; ``(B) enjoy self-determination; ``(C) make choices; ``(D) contribute to society; ``(E) pursue meaningful careers; and ``(F) enjoy full inclusion and integration in the economic, political, social, cultural, and educational mainstream of American society; ``(4) increased employment of individuals with disabilities can be achieved through implementation of statewide workforce investment systems under title I of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 that provide meaningful and effective participation for individuals with disabilities in workforce investment activities and activities carried out under the vocational rehabilitation program established under title I, and through the provision of independent living services, support services, and meaningful opportunities for employment in integrated work settings through the provision of reasonable accommodations; ``(5) individuals with disabilities continually encounter various forms of discrimination in such critical areas as employment, housing, public accommodations, education, transportation, communication, recreation, institutionalization, health services, voting, and public services; and ``(6) the goals of the Nation properly include the goal of providing individuals with disabilities with the tools necessary to-- ``(A) make informed choices and decisions; and ``(B) achieve equality of opportunity, full inclusion and integration in society, employment, independent living, and economic and social self- sufficiency, for such individuals. ``(b) Purpose.--The purposes of this Act are-- [[Page 112 STAT.1096]] ``(1) to empower individuals with disabilities to maximize employment, economic self-sufficiency, independence, and inclusion and integration into society, through-- ``(A) statewide workforce investment systems implemented in accordance with title I of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 that include, as integral components, comprehensive and coordinated state-of-the- art programs of vocational rehabilitation; ``(B) independent living centers and services; ``(C) research; ``(D) training; ``(E) demonstration projects; and ``(F) the guarantee of equal opportunity; and ``(2) to ensure that the Federal Government plays a leadership role in promoting the employment of individuals with disabilities, especially individuals with significant disabilities, and in assisting States and providers of services in fulfilling the aspirations of such individuals with disabilities for meaningful and gainful employment and independent living. ``(c) Policy.--It is the policy of the United States that all programs, projects, and activities receiving assistance under this Act shall be carried out in a manner consistent with the principles of-- ``(1) respect for individual dignity, personal responsibility, self-determination, and pursuit of meaningful careers, based on informed choice, of individuals with disabilities; ``(2) respect for the privacy, rights, and equal access (including the use of accessible formats), of the individuals; ``(3) inclusion, integration, and full participation of the individuals; ``(4) support for the involvement of an individual's representative if an individual with a disability requests, desires, or needs such support; and ``(5) support for individual and systemic advocacy and community involvement. ``rehabilitation services administration ``Sec. 3. <<NOTE: Establishment. President. 29 USC 702.>> (a) There is established in the Office of the Secretary a Rehabilitation Services Administration which shall be headed by a Commissioner (hereinafter in this Act referred to as the `Commissioner') appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Except for titles IV and V and as otherwise specifically provided in this Act, such Administration shall be the principal agency, and the Commissioner shall be the principal officer, of such Department for carrying out this Act. The Commissioner shall be an individual with substantial experience in rehabilitation and in rehabilitation program management. In the performance of the functions of the office, the Commissioner shall be directly responsible to the Secretary or to the Under Secretary or an appropriate Assistant Secretary of such Department, as designated by the Secretary. The functions of the Commissioner shall not be delegated to any officer not directly responsible, both with respect to program operation and administration, to the Commissioner. Any reference in this Act to duties to be carried out by the Commissioner shall be considered to be a reference to duties to be carried out by the Secretary acting through the Commissioner. In carrying out any of the functions of the office [[Page 112 STAT.1097]] under this Act, the Commissioner shall be guided by general policies of the National Council on Disability established under title IV of this Act. ``(b) The Secretary shall take whatever action is necessary to ensure that funds appropriated pursuant to this Act are expended only for the programs, personnel, and administration of programs carried out under this Act. ``advance funding ``Sec. 4. <<NOTE: 29 USC 703.>> (a) For the purpose of affording adequate notice of funding available under this Act, appropriations under this Act are authorized to be included in the appropriation Act for the fiscal year preceding the fiscal year for which they are available for obligation. ``(b) In order to effect a transition to the advance funding method of timing appropriation action, the authority provided by subsection (a) of this section shall apply notwithstanding that its initial application will result in the enactment in the same year (whether in the same appropriation Act or otherwise) of two separate appropriations, one for the then current fiscal year and one for the succeeding fiscal year. ``joint funding ``Sec. 5. <<NOTE: Regulations. 29 USC 704.>> Pursuant to regulations prescribed by the President, and to the extent consistent with the other provisions of this Act, where funds are provided for a single project by more than one Federal agency to an agency or organization assisted under this Act, the Federal agency principally involved may be designated to act for all in administering the funds provided, and, in such cases, a single non-Federal share requirement may be established according to the proportion of funds advanced by each agency. When the principal agency involved is the Rehabilitation Services Administration, it may waive any grant or contract requirement (as defined by such regulations) under or pursuant to any law other than this Act, which requirement is inconsistent with the similar requirements of the administering agency under or pursuant to this Act. ``definitions ``Sec. 6. <<NOTE: 29 USC 705.>> For the purposes of this Act: ``(1) The term `administrative costs' means expenditures incurred in the performance of administrative functions under the vocational rehabilitation program carried out under title I, including expenses related to program planning, development, monitoring, and evaluation, including expenses for-- ``(A) quality assurance; ``(B) budgeting, accounting, financial management, information systems, and related data processing; ``(C) providing information about the program to the public; ``(D) technical assistance and support services to other State agencies, private nonprofit organizations, and businesses and industries, except for technical assistance and support services described in section 103(b)(5); [[Page 112 STAT.1098]] ``(E) the State Rehabilitation Council and other advisory committees; ``(F) professional organization membership dues for designated State unit employees; ``(G) the removal of architectural barriers in State vocational rehabilitation agency offices and State operated rehabilitation facilities; ``(H) operating and maintaining designated State unit facilities, equipment, and grounds; ``(I) supplies; ``(J) administration of the comprehensive system of personnel development described in section 101(a)(7), including personnel administration, administration of affirmative action plans, and training and staff development; ``(K) administrative salaries, including clerical and other support staff salaries, in support of these administrative functions; ``(L) travel costs related to carrying out the program, other than travel costs related to the provision of services; ``(M) costs incurred in conducting reviews of rehabilitation counselor or coordinator determinations under section 102(c); and ``(N) legal expenses required in the administration of the program. ``(2) Assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs.--The term `assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs' means, as appropriate in each case-- ``(A)(i) a review of existing data-- ``(I) to determine whether an individual is eligible for vocational rehabilitation services; and ``(II) to assign priority for an order of selection described in section 101(a)(5)(A) in the States that use an order of selection pursuant to section 101(a)(5)(A); and ``(ii) to the extent necessary, the provision of appropriate assessment activities to obtain necessary additional data to make such determination and assignment; ``(B) to the extent additional data is necessary to make a determination of the employment outcomes, and the objectives, nature, and scope of vocational rehabilitation services, to be included in the individualized plan for employment of an eligible individual, a comprehensive assessment to determine the unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice, including the need for supported employment, of the eligible individual, which comprehensive assessment-- ``(i) is limited to information that is necessary to identify the rehabilitation needs of the individual and to develop the individualized plan for employment of the eligible individual; ``(ii) uses, as a primary source of such information, to the maximum extent possible and appropriate and in accordance with confidentiality requirements-- [[Page 112 STAT.1099]] ``(I) existing information obtained for the purposes of determining the eligibility of the individual and assigning priority for an order of selection described in section 101(a)(5)(A) for the individual; and ``(II) such information as can be provided by the individual and, where appropriate, by the family of the individual; ``(iii) may include, to the degree needed to make such a determination, an assessment of the personality, interests, interpersonal skills, intelligence and related functional capacities, educational achievements, work experience, vocational aptitudes, personal and social adjustments, and employment opportunities of the individual, and the medical, psychiatric, psychological, and other pertinent vocational, educational, cultural, social, recreational, and environmental factors, that affect the employment and rehabilitation needs of the individual; and ``(iv) may include, to the degree needed, an appraisal of the patterns of work behavior of the individual and services needed for the individual to acquire occupational skills, and to develop work attitudes, work habits, work tolerance, and social and behavior patterns necessary for successful job performance, including the utilization of work in real job situations to assess and develop the capacities of the individual to perform adequately in a work environment; ``(C) referral, for the provision of rehabilitation technology services to the individual, to assess and develop the capacities of the individual to perform in a work environment; and ``(D) an exploration of the individual's abilities, capabilities, and capacity to perform in work situations, which shall be assessed periodically during trial work experiences, including experiences in which the individual is provided appropriate supports and training. ``(3) Assistive technology device.--The term `assistive technology device' has the meaning given such term in section 3(2) of the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals With Disabilities Act of 1988 (29 U.S.C. 2202(2)), except that the reference in such section to the term `individuals with disabilities' shall be deemed to mean more than one individual with a disability as defined in paragraph (20)(A). ``(4) Assistive technology service.--The term `assistive technology service' has the meaning given such term in section 3(3) of the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals With Disabilities Act of 1988 (29 U.S.C. 2202(3)), except that the reference in such section-- ``(A) to the term `individual with a disability' shall be deemed to mean an individual with a disability, as defined in paragraph (20)(A); and ``(B) to the term `individuals with disabilities' shall be deemed to mean more than one such individual. ``(5) Community rehabilitation program.--The term `community rehabilitation program' means a program that provides directly or facilitates the provision of vocational [[Page 112 STAT.1100]] rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities, and that provides, singly or in combination, for an individual with a disability to enable the individual to maximize opportunities for employment, including career advancement-- ``(A) medical, psychiatric, psychological, social, and vocational services that are provided under one management; ``(B) testing, fitting, or training in the use of prosthetic and orthotic devices; ``(C) recreational therapy; ``(D) physical and occupational therapy; ``(E) speech, language, and hearing therapy; ``(F) psychiatric, psychological, and social services, including positive behavior management; ``(G) assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs; ``(H) rehabilitation technology; ``(I) job development, placement, and retention services; ``(J) evaluation or control of specific disabilities; ``(K) orientation and mobility services for individuals who are blind; ``(L) extended employment; ``(M) psychosocial rehabilitation services; ``(N) supported employment services and extended services; ``(O) services to family members when necessary to the vocational rehabilitation of the individual; ``(P) personal assistance services; or ``(Q) services similar to the services described in one of subparagraphs (A) through (P). ``(6) Construction; cost of construction.-- ``(A) Construction.--The term `construction' means-- ``(i) the construction of new buildings; ``(ii) the acquisition, expansion, remodeling, alteration, and renovation of existing buildings; and ``(iii) initial equipment of buildings described in clauses (i) and (ii). ``(B) Cost of construction.--The term `cost of construction' includes architects' fees and the cost of acquisition of land in connection with construction but does not include the cost of offsite improvements. ``(7) Criminal act.--The term `criminal act' means any crime, including an act, omission, or possession under the laws of the United States or a State or unit of general local government, which poses a substantial threat of personal injury, notwithstanding that by reason of age, insanity, or intoxication or otherwise the person engaging in the act, omission, or possession was legally incapable of committing a crime. ``(8) Designated state agency; designated state unit.-- ``(A) Designated state agency.--The term `designated State agency' means an agency designated under section 101(a)(2)(A). ``(B) Designated state unit.--The term `designated State unit' means-- ``(i) any State agency unit required under section 101(a)(2)(B)(ii); or [[Page 112 STAT.1101]] ``(ii) in cases in which no such unit is so required, the State agency described in section 101(a)(2)(B)(i). ``(9) Disability.--The term `disability' means-- ``(A) except as otherwise provided in subparagraph (B), a physical or mental impairment that constitutes or results in a substantial impediment to employment; or ``(B) for purposes of sections 2, 14, and 15, and titles II, IV, V, and VII, a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. ``(10) Drug and illegal use of drugs.-- ``(A) Drug.--The term `drug' means a controlled substance, as defined in schedules I through V of section 202 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 812). ``(B) Illegal use of drugs.--The term `illegal use of drugs' means the use of drugs, the possession or distribution of which is unlawful under the Controlled Substances Act. Such term does not include the use of a drug taken under supervision by a licensed health care professional, or other uses authorized by the Controlled Substances Act or other provisions of Federal law. ``(11) Employment outcome.--The term `employment outcome' means, with respect to an individual-- ``(A) entering or retaining full-time or, if appropriate, part-time competitive employment in the integrated labor market; ``(B) satisfying the vocational outcome of supported employment; or ``(C) satisfying any other vocational outcome the Secretary may determine to be appropriate (including satisfying the vocational outcome of self-employment, telecommuting, or business ownership), in a manner consistent with this Act. ``(12) <<NOTE: Regulations.>> Establishment of a community rehabilitation program.--The term `establishment of a community rehabilitation program' includes the acquisition, expansion, remodeling, or alteration of existing buildings necessary to adapt them to community rehabilitation program purposes or to increase their effectiveness for such purposes (subject, however, to such limitations as the Secretary may determine, in accordance with regulations the Secretary shall prescribe, in order to prevent impairment of the objectives of, or duplication of, other Federal laws providing Federal assistance in the construction of facilities for community rehabilitation programs), and may include such additional equipment and staffing as the Commissioner considers appropriate. ``(13) Extended services.--The term `extended services' means ongoing support services and other appropriate services, needed to support and maintain an individual with a most significant disability in supported employment, that-- ``(A) are provided singly or in combination and are organized and made available in such a way as to assist an eligible individual in maintaining supported employment; ``(B) are based on a determination of the needs of an eligible individual, as specified in an individualized plan for employment; and [[Page 112 STAT.1102]] ``(C) are provided by a State agency, a nonprofit private organization, employer, or any other appropriate resource, after an individual has made the transition from support provided by the designated State unit. ``(14) Federal share.-- ``(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), the term `Federal share' means 78.7 percent. ``(B) Exception.--The term `Federal share' means the share specifically set forth in section 111(a)(3), except that with respect to payments pursuant to part B of title I to any State that are used to meet the costs of construction of those rehabilitation facilities identified in section 103(b)(2) in such State, the Federal share shall be the percentages determined in accordance with the provisions of section 111(a)(3) applicable with respect to the State. ``(C) <<NOTE: Regulations.>> Relationship to expenditures by a political subdivision.--For the purpose of determining the non-Federal share with respect to a State, expenditures by a political subdivision thereof or by a local agency shall be regarded as expenditures by such State, subject to such limitations and conditions as the Secretary shall by regulation prescribe. ``(15) Governor.--The term `Governor' means a chief executive officer of a State. ``(16) Impartial hearing officer.-- ``(A) In general.--The term `impartial hearing officer' means an individual-- ``(i) who is not an employee of a public agency (other than an administrative law judge, hearing examiner, or employee of an institution of higher education); ``(ii) who is not a member of the State Rehabilitation Council described in section 105; ``(iii) who has not been involved previously in the vocational rehabilitation of the applicant or client; ``(iv) who has knowledge of the delivery of vocational rehabilitation services, the State plan under section 101, and the Federal and State rules governing the provision of such services and training with respect to the performance of official duties; and ``(v) who has no personal or financial interest that would be in conflict with the objectivity of the individual. ``(B) Construction.--An individual shall not be considered to be an employee of a public agency for purposes of subparagraph (A)(i) solely because the individual is paid by the agency to serve as a hearing officer. ``(17) Independent living core services.--The term `independent living core services' means-- ``(A) information and referral services; ``(B) independent living skills training; ``(C) peer counseling (including cross-disability peer counseling); and ``(D) individual and systems advocacy. ``(18) Independent living services.--The term `inde- pendent living services' includes-- ``(A) independent living core services; and [[Page 112 STAT.1103]] ``(B)(i) counseling services, including psychological, psychotherapeutic, and related services; ``(ii) services related to securing housing or shelter, including services related to community group living, and supportive of the purposes of this Act and of the titles of this Act, and adaptive housing services (including appropriate accommodations to and modifications of any space used to serve, or occupied by, individuals with disabilities); ``(iii) rehabilitation technology; ``(iv) mobility training; ``(v) services and training for individuals with cognitive and sensory disabilities, including life skills training, and interpreter and reader services; ``(vi) personal assistance services, including attendant care and the training of personnel providing such services; ``(vii) surveys, directories, and other activities to identify appropriate housing, recreation opportunities, and accessible transportation, and other support services; ``(viii) consumer information programs on rehabilitation and independent living services available under this Act, especially for minorities and other individuals with disabilities who have traditionally been unserved or underserved by programs under this Act; ``(ix) education and training necessary for living in a community and participating in community activities; ``(x) supported living; ``(xi) transportation, including referral and assistance for such transportation and training in the use of public transportation vehicles and systems; ``(xii) physical rehabilitation; ``(xiii) therapeutic treatment; ``(xiv) provision of needed prostheses and other appliances and devices; ``(xv) individual and group social and recreational services; ``(xvi) training to develop skills specifically designed for youths who are individuals with disabilities to promote self-awareness and esteem, develop advocacy and self-empowerment skills, and explore career options; ``(xvii) services for children; ``(xviii) services under other Federal, State, or local programs designed to provide resources, training, counseling, or other assistance, of substantial benefit in enhancing the independence, productivity, and quality of life of individuals with disabilities; ``(xix) appropriate preventive services to decrease the need of individuals assisted under this Act for similar services in the future; ``(xx) community awareness programs to enhance the understanding and integration into society of individuals with disabilities; and ``(xxi) such other services as may be necessary and not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act. ``(19) Indian; american indian; indian american; indian tribe.-- [[Page 112 STAT.1104]] ``(A) In general.--The terms `Indian', `American Indian', and `Indian American' mean an individual who is a member of an Indian tribe. ``(B) Indian tribe.--The term `Indian tribe' means any Federal or State Indian tribe, band, rancheria, pueblo, colony, or community, including any Alaskan native village or regional village corporation (as defined in or established pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act). ``(20) Individual with a disability.-- ``(A) In general.--Except as otherwise provided in subparagraph (B), the term `individual with a disability' means any individual who-- ``(i) has a physical or mental impairment which for such individual constitutes or results in a substantial impediment to employment; and ``(ii) can benefit in terms of an employment outcome from vocational rehabilitation services provided pursuant to title I, III, or VI. ``(B) Certain programs; limitations on major life activities.--Subject to subparagraphs (C), (D), (E), and (F), the term `individual with a disability' means, for purposes of sections 2, 14, and 15, and titles II, IV, V, and VII of this Act, any person who-- ``(i) has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more of such person's major life activities; ``(ii) has a record of such an impairment; or ``(iii) is regarded as having such an impairment. ``(C) Rights and advocacy provisions.-- ``(i) In general; exclusion of individuals engaging in drug use.--For purposes of title V, the term `individual with a disability' does not include an individual who is currently engaging in the illegal use of drugs, when a covered entity acts on the basis of such use. ``(ii) Exception for individuals no longer engaging in drug use.--Nothing in clause (i) shall be construed to exclude as an individual with a disability an individual who-- ``(I) has successfully completed a supervised drug rehabilitation program and is no longer engaging in the illegal use of drugs, or has otherwise been rehabilitated successfully and is no longer engaging in such use; ``(II) is participating in a supervised rehabilitation program and is no longer engaging in such use; or ``(III) is erroneously regarded as engaging in such use, but is not engaging in such use; except that it shall not be a violation of this Act for a covered entity to adopt or administer reasonable policies or procedures, including but not limited to drug testing, designed to ensure that an individual described in subclause (I) or (II) is no longer engaging in the illegal use of drugs. [[Page 112 STAT.1105]] ``(iii) Exclusion for certain services.-- Notwithstanding clause (i), for purposes of programs and activities providing health services and services provided under titles I, II, and III, an individual shall not be excluded from the benefits of such programs or activities on the basis of his or her current illegal use of drugs if he or she is otherwise entitled to such services. ``(iv) Disciplinary action.--For purposes of programs and activities providing educational services, local educational agencies may take disciplinary action pertaining to the use or possession of illegal drugs or alcohol against any student who is an individual with a disability and who currently is engaging in the illegal use of drugs or in the use of alcohol to the same extent that such disciplinary action is taken against students who are not individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, the due process procedures at section 104.36 of title 34, Code of Federal Regulations (or any corresponding similar regulation or ruling) shall not apply to such disciplinary actions. ``(v) Employment; exclusion of alcoholics.-- For purposes of sections 503 and 504 as such sections relate to employment, the term `individual with a disability' does not include any individual who is an alcoholic whose current use of alcohol prevents such individual from performing the duties of the job in question or whose employment, by reason of such current alcohol abuse, would constitute a direct threat to property or the safety of others. ``(D) Employment; exclusion of individuals with certain diseases or infections.--For the purposes of sections 503 and 504, as such sections relate to employment, such term does not include an individual who has a currently contagious disease or infection and who, by reason of such disease or infection, would constitute a direct threat to the health or safety of other individuals or who, by reason of the currently contagious disease or infection, is unable to perform the duties of the job. ``(E) Rights provisions; exclusion of individuals on basis of homosexuality or bisexuality.--For the purposes of sections 501, 503, and 504-- ``(i) for purposes of the application of subparagraph (B) to such sections, the term `impairment' does not include homosexuality or bisexuality; and ``(ii) therefore the term `individual with a disability' does not include an individual on the basis of homosexuality or bisexuality. ``(F) Rights provisions; exclusion of individuals on basis of certain disorders.--For the purposes of sections 501, 503, and 504, the term `individual with a disability' does not include an individual on the basis of-- ``(i) transvestism, transsexualism, pedophilia, exhibitionism, voyeurism, gender identity disorders not resulting from physical impairments, or other sexual behavior disorders; [[Page 112 STAT.1106]] ``(ii) compulsive gambling, kleptomania, or pyromania; or ``(iii) psychoactive substance use disorders resulting from current illegal use of drugs. ``(G) Individuals with disabilities.--The term `individuals with disabilities' means more than one individual with a disability. ``(21) Individual with a significant disability.-- ``(A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph (B) or (C), the term `individual with a significant disability' means an individual with a disability-- ``(i) who has a severe physical or mental impairment which seriously limits one or more functional capacities (such as mobility, communication, self-care, self-direction, interpersonal skills, work tolerance, or work skills) in terms of an employment outcome; ``(ii) whose vocational rehabilitation can be expected to require multiple vocational rehabilitation services over an extended period of time; and ``(iii) who has one or more physical or mental disabilities resulting from amputation, arthritis, autism, blindness, burn injury, cancer, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, deafness, head injury, heart disease, hemiplegia, hemophilia, respiratory or pulmonary dysfunction, mental retardation, mental illness, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, musculo-skeletal disorders, neurological disorders (including stroke and epilepsy), paraplegia, quadriplegia, and other spinal cord conditions, sickle cell anemia, specific learning disability, end-stage renal disease, or another disability or combination of disabilities determined on the basis of an assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (2) to cause comparable substantial functional limitation. ``(B) Independent living services and centers for independent living.--For purposes of title VII, the term `individual with a significant disability' means an individual with a severe physical or mental impairment whose ability to function independently in the family or community or whose ability to obtain, maintain, or advance in employment is substantially limited and for whom the delivery of independent living services will improve the ability to function, continue functioning, or move toward functioning independently in the family or community or to continue in employment, respectively. ``(C) Research and training.--For purposes of title II, the term `individual with a significant disability' includes an individual described in subparagraph (A) or (B). ``(D) Individuals with significant disabilities.-- The term `individuals with significant disabilities' means more than one individual with a significant disability. ``(E) Individual with a most significant disability.-- [[Page 112 STAT.1107]] ``(i) In general.--The term `individual with a most significant disability', used with respect to an individual in a State, means an individual with a significant disability who meets criteria established by the State under section 101(a)(5)(C). ``(ii) Individuals with the most significant disabilities.--The term `individuals with the most significant disabilities' means more than one individual with a most significant disability. ``(22) Individual's representative; applicant's representative.--The terms `individual's representative' and `applicant's representative' mean a parent, a family member, a guardian, an advocate, or an authorized representative of an individual or applicant, respectively. ``(23) Institution of higher education.--The term `institution of higher education' has the meaning given the term in section 1201(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1141(a)). ``(24) Local agency.--The term `local agency' means an agency of a unit of general local government or of an Indian tribe (or combination of such units or tribes) which has an agreement with the designated State agency to conduct a vocational rehabilitation program under the supervision of such State agency in accordance with the State plan approved under section 101. Nothing in the preceding sentence of this paragraph or in section 101 shall be construed to prevent the local agency from arranging to utilize another local public or nonprofit agency to provide vocational rehabilitation services if such an arrangement is made part of the agreement specified in this paragraph. ``(25) Local workforce investment board.--The term `local workforce investment board' means a local workforce investment board established under section 117 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998. ``(26) Nonprofit.--The term `nonprofit', when used with respect to a community rehabilitation program, means a community rehabilitation program carried out by a corporation or association, no part of the net earnings of which inures, or may lawfully inure, to the benefit of any private shareholder or individual and the income of which is exempt from taxation under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. ``(27) Ongoing support services.--The term `ongoing support services' means services-- ``(A) provided to individuals with the most significant disabilities; ``(B) provided, at a minimum, twice monthly-- ``(i) to make an assessment, regarding the employment situation, at the worksite of each such individual in supported employment, or, under special circumstances, especially at the request of the client, off site; and ``(ii) based on the assessment, to provide for the coordination or provision of specific intensive services, at or away from the worksite, that are needed to maintain employment stability; and ``(C) consisting of-- [[Page 112 STAT.1108]] ``(i) a particularized assessment supplementary to the comprehensive assessment described in paragraph (2)(B); ``(ii) the provision of skilled job trainers who accompany the individual for intensive job skill training at the worksite; ``(iii) job development, job retention, and placement services; ``(iv) social skills training; ``(v) regular observation or supervision of the individual; ``(vi) followup services such as regular contact with the employers, the individuals, the individuals' representatives, and other appropriate individuals, in order to reinforce and stabilize the job placement; ``(vii) facilitation of natural supports at the worksite; ``(viii) any other service identified in section 103; or ``(ix) a service similar to another service described in this subparagraph. ``(28) Personal assistance services.--The term `personal assistance services' means a range of services, provided by one or more persons, designed to assist an individual with a disability to perform daily living activities on or off the job that the individual would typically perform if the individual did not have a disability. Such services shall be designed to increase the individual's control in life and ability to perform everyday activities on or off the job. ``(29) Public or nonprofit.--The term `public or nonprofit', used with respect to an agency or organization, includes an Indian tribe. ``(30) Rehabilitation technology.--The term `rehabilitation technology' means the systematic application of technologies, engineering methodologies, or scientific principles to meet the needs of and address the barriers confronted by individuals with disabilities in areas which include education, rehabilitation, employment, transportation, independent living, and recreation. The term includes rehabilitation engineering, assistive technology devices, and assistive technology services. ``(31) Secretary.--The term `Secretary', except when the context otherwise requires, means the Secretary of Education. ``(32) State.--The term `State' includes, in addition to each of the several States of the United States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. ``(33) State workforce investment board.--The term `State workforce investment board' means a State workforce investment board established under section 111 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998. ``(34) Statewide workforce investment system.--The term `statewide workforce investment system' means a system described in section 111(d)(2) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998. ``(35) Supported employment.-- [[Page 112 STAT.1109]] ``(A) In general.--The term `supported employment' means competitive work in integrated work settings, or employment in integrated work settings in which individuals are working toward competitive work, consistent with the strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice of the individuals, for individuals with the most significant disabilities-- ``(i)(I) for whom competitive employment has not traditionally occurred; or ``(II) for whom competitive employment has been interrupted or intermittent as a result of a significant disability; and ``(ii) who, because of the nature and severity of their disability, need intensive supported employment services for the period, and any extension, described in paragraph (36)(C) and extended services after the transition described in paragraph (13)(C) in order to perform such work. ``(B) Certain transitional employment.--Such term includes transitional employment for persons who are individuals with the most significant disabilities due to mental illness. ``(36) Supported employment services.--The term `supported employment services' means ongoing support services and other appropriate services needed to support and maintain an individual with a most significant disability in supported employment, that-- ``(A) are provided singly or in combination and are organized and made available in such a way as to assist an eligible individual to achieve competitive employment; ``(B) are based on a determination of the needs of an eligible individual, as specified in an individualized plan for employment; and ``(C) are provided by the designated State unit for a period of time not to extend beyond 18 months, unless under special circumstances the eligible individual and the rehabilitation counselor or coordinator involved jointly agree to extend the time in order to achieve the rehabilitation objectives identified in the individualized plan for employment. ``(37) Transition services.--The term `transition services' means a coordinated set of activities for a student, designed within an outcome-oriented process, that promotes movement from school to post school activities, including postsecondary education, vocational training, integrated employment (including supported employment), continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living, or community participation. The coordinated set of activities shall be based upon the individual student's needs, taking into account the student's preferences and interests, and shall include instruction, community experiences, the development of employment and other post school adult living objectives, and, when appropriate, acquisition of daily living skills and functional vocational evaluation. ``(38) Vocational rehabilitation services.--The term `vocational rehabilitation services' means those services identified in section 103 which are provided to individuals with disabilities under this Act. [[Page 112 STAT.1110]] ``(39) Workforce investment activities.--The term `workforce investment activities' means workforce investment activities, as defined in section 101 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998, that are carried out under that Act. ``allotment percentage ``Sec. 7. <<NOTE: 29 USC 706.>> (a)(1) For purposes of section 110, the allotment percentage for any State shall be 100 per centum less that percentage which bears the same ratio to 50 per centum as the per capita income of such State bears to the per capita income of the United States, except that-- ``(A) the allotment percentage shall in no case be more than 75 per centum or less than 33\1/3\ per centum; and ``(B) the allotment percentage for the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands shall be 75 per centum. ``(2) The allotment percentages shall be promulgated by the Secretary between October 1 and December 31 of each even-numbered year, on the basis of the average of the per capita incomes of the States and of the United States for the three most recent consecutive years for which satisfactory data are available from the Department of Commerce. Such promulgation shall be conclusive for each of the 2 fiscal years in the period beginning on the October 1 next succeeding such promulgation. ``(3) The term `United States' means (but only for purposes of this subsection) the 50 States and the District of Columbia. ``(b) The population of the several States and of the United States shall be determined on the basis of the most recent data available, to be furnished by the Department of Commerce by October 1 of the year preceding the fiscal year for which funds are appropriated pursuant to statutory authorizations. ``nonduplication ``Sec. 8. <<NOTE: 29 USC 707.>> In determining the amount of any State's Federal share of expenditures for planning, administration, and services incurred by it under a State plan approved in accordance with section 101, there shall be disregarded: (1) any portion of such expenditures which are financed by Federal funds provided under any other provision of law; and (2) the amount of any non-Federal funds required to be expended as a condition of receipt of such Federal funds. No payment may be made from funds provided under one provision of this Act relating to any cost with respect to which any payment is made under any other provision of this Act, except that this section shall not be construed to limit or reduce fees for services rendered by community rehabilitation programs. ``application of other laws ``Sec. 9. <<NOTE: 29 USC 708.>> The provisions of the Act of December 5, 1974 (Public Law 93-510) and of title V of the Act of October 15, 1977 (Public Law 95-134) shall not apply to the administration of the provisions of this Act or to the administration of any program or activity under this Act. [[Page 112 STAT.1111]] ``administration of the act ``Sec. 10. <<NOTE: 29 USC 709.>> (a) In carrying out the purposes of this Act, the Commissioner may-- ``(1) provide consultative services and technical assistance to public or nonprofit private agencies and organizations, including assistance to enable such agencies and organizations to facilitate meaningful and effective participation by individuals with disabilities in workforce investment activities; ``(2) provide short-term training and technical instruction, including training for the personnel of community rehabilitation programs, centers for independent living, and other providers of services (including job coaches); ``(3) conduct special projects and demonstrations; ``(4) collect, prepare, publish, and disseminate special educational or informational materials, including reports of the projects for which funds are provided under this Act; and ``(5) provide monitoring and conduct evaluations. ``(b)(1) In carrying out the duties under this Act, the Commissioner may utilize the services and facilities of any agency of the Federal Government and of any other public or nonprofit agency or organization, in accordance with agreements between the Commissioner and the head thereof, and may pay therefor, in advance or by way of reimbursement, as may be provided in the agreement. ``(2) In carrying out the provisions of this Act, the Commissioner shall appoint such task forces as may be necessary to collect and disseminate information in order to improve the ability of the Commissioner to carry out the provisions of this Act. ``(c) The Commissioner may promulgate such regulations as are considered appropriate to carry out the Commissioner's duties under this Act. ``(d) <<NOTE: Regulations.>> The Secretary shall promulgate regulations regarding the requirements for the implementation of an order of selection for vocational rehabilitation services under section 101(a)(5)(A) if such services cannot be provided to all eligible individuals with disabilities who apply for such services. ``(e) <<NOTE: Deadline. Regulations.>> Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998, the Secretary shall receive public comment and promulgate regulations to implement the amendments made by the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998. ``(f ) In promulgating regulations to carry out this Act, the Secretary shall promulgate only regulations that are necessary to administer and ensure compliance with the specific requirements of this Act. ``(g) <<NOTE: Appropriation authorization.>> There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section such sums as may be necessary. ``reports ``Sec. 11. <<NOTE: Deadline. 29 USC 710.>> (a) Not later than one hundred and eighty days after the close of each fiscal year, the Commissioner shall prepare and submit to the President and to the Congress a full and complete report on the activities carried out under this Act, including the activities and staffing of the information clearinghouse under section 15. [[Page 112 STAT.1112]] ``(b) The Commissioner shall collect information to determine whether the purposes of this Act are being met and to assess the performance of programs carried out under this Act. The Commissioner shall take whatever action is necessary to assure that the identity of each individual for which information is supplied under this section is kept confidential, except as otherwise required by law (including regulation). ``(c) In preparing the report, the Commissioner shall annually collect and include in the report information based on the information submitted by States in accordance with section 101(a)(10), including information on administrative costs as required by section 101(a)(10)(D). The Commissioner shall, to the maximum extent appropriate, include in the report all information that is required to be submitted in the reports described in section 136(d) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 and that pertains to the employment of individuals with disabilities. ``evaluation ``Sec. 12. <<NOTE: 29 USC 711.>> (a) For the purpose of improving program management and effectiveness, the Secretary, in consultation with the Commissioner, shall evaluate all the programs authorized by this Act, their general effectiveness in relation to their cost, their impact on related programs, and their structure and mechanisms for delivery of services, using appropriate methodology and evaluative research designs. <<NOTE: Standards.>> The Secretary shall establish and use standards for the evaluations required by this subsection. Such an evaluation shall be conducted by a person not immediately involved in the administration of the program evaluated. ``(b) In carrying out evaluations under this section, the Secretary shall obtain the opinions of program and project participants about the strengths and weaknesses of the programs and projects. ``(c) The Secretary shall take the necessary action to assure that all studies, evaluations, proposals, and data produced or developed with Federal funds under this Act shall become the property of the United States. ``(d) Such information as the Secretary may determine to be necessary for purposes of the evaluations conducted under this section shall be made available upon request of the Secretary, by the departments and agencies of the executive branch. ``(e)(1) To assess the linkages between vocational rehabilitation services and economic and noneconomic outcomes, the Secretary shall continue to conduct a longitudinal study of a national sample of applicants for the services. ``(2) The study shall address factors related to attrition and completion of the program through which the services are provided and factors within and outside the program affecting results. Appropriate comparisons shall be used to contrast the experiences of similar persons who do not obtain the services. ``(3) The study shall be planned to cover the period beginning on the application of individuals with disabilities for the services, through the eligibility determination and provision of services for the individuals, and a further period of not less than 2 years after the termination of services. ``(f )(1) The Commissioner shall identify and disseminate information on exemplary practices concerning vocational rehabilitation. [[Page 112 STAT.1113]] ``(2) To facilitate compliance with paragraph (1), the Commissioner shall conduct studies and analyses that identify exemplary practices concerning vocational rehabilitation, including studies in areas relating to providing informed choice in the rehabilitation process, promoting consumer satisfaction, promoting job placement and retention, providing supported employment, providing services to particular disability populations, financing personal assistance services, providing assistive technology devices and assistive technology services, entering into cooperative agreements, establishing standards and certification for community rehabilitation programs, converting from nonintegrated to integrated employment, and providing caseload management. ``(g) <<NOTE: Appropriation authorization.>> There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section such sums as may be necessary. ``information clearinghouse ``Sec. 13. <<NOTE: Establishment. 29 USC 712.>> (a) The Secretary shall establish a central clearinghouse for information and resource availability for individuals with disabilities which shall provide information and data regarding-- ``(1) the location, provision, and availability of services and programs for individuals with disabilities, including such information and data provided by State workforce investment boards regarding such services and programs authorized under title I of such Act; ``(2) research and recent medical and scientific developments bearing on disabilities (and their prevention, amelioration, causes, and cures); and ``(3) the current numbers of individuals with disabilities and their needs. The clearinghouse shall also provide any other relevant information and data which the Secretary considers appropriate. ``(b) The Commissioner may assist the Secretary to develop within the Department of Education a coordinated system of information and data retrieval, which will have the capacity and responsibility to provide information regarding the information and data referred to in subsection (a) of this section to the Congress, public and private agencies and organizations, individuals with disabilities and their families, professionals in fields serving such individuals, and the general public. ``(c) The office established to carry out the provisions of this section shall be known as the `Office of Information and Resources for Individuals with Disabilities'. ``(d) There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section such sums as may be necessary. ``transfer of funds ``Sec. 14. <<NOTE: 29 USC 713.>> (a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, no funds appropriated under this Act for any program or activity may be used for any purpose other than that for which the funds were specifically authorized. ``(b) No more than 1 percent of funds appropriated for discretionary grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements authorized by this Act may be used for the purpose of providing non-Federal panels of experts to review applications for such grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements. [[Page 112 STAT.1114]] ``state administration ``Sec. 15. <<NOTE: 29 USC 714.>> The application of any State rule or policy relating to the administration or operation of programs funded by this Act (including any rule or policy based on State interpretation of any Federal law, regulation, or guideline) shall be identified as a State imposed requirement. ``review of applications ``Sec. 16. <<NOTE: 29 USC 715.>> Applications for grants in excess of $100,000 in the aggregate authorized to be funded under this Act, other than grants primarily for the purpose of conducting dissemination or conferences, shall be reviewed by panels of experts which shall include a majority of non-Federal members. Non-Federal members may be provided travel, per diem, and consultant fees not to exceed the daily equivalent of the rate of pay for level 4 of the Senior Executive Service Schedule under section 5382 of title 5, United States Code. ``carryover ``Sec. 17. <<NOTE: 29 USC 716.>> (a) In General.--Except as provided in subsection (b), and notwithstanding any other provision of law-- ``(1) any funds appropriated for a fiscal year to carry out any grant program under part B of title I, section 509 (except as provided in section 509(b)), part B of title VI, part B or C of chapter 1 of title VII, or chapter 2 of title VII (except as provided in section 752(b)), including any funds reallotted under any such grant program, that are not obligated and expended by recipients prior to the beginning of the succeeding fiscal year; or ``(2) any amounts of program income, including reimbursement payments under the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 301 et seq.), received by recipients under any grant program specified in paragraph (1) that are not obligated and expended by recipients prior to the beginning of the fiscal year succeeding the fiscal year in which such amounts were received, shall remain available for obligation and expenditure by such recipients during such succeeding fiscal year. ``(b) Non-Federal Share.--Such funds shall remain available for obligation and expenditure by a recipient as provided in subsection (a) only to the extent that the recipient complied with any Federal share requirementsapplicable to the program for the fiscal year for which the funds were appropriated. ``client assistance information ``Sec. 18. <<NOTE: 29 USC 717.>> All programs, including community rehabilitation programs, and projects, that provide services to individuals with disabilities under this Act shall advise such individuals who are applicants for or recipients of the services, or the applicants' representatives or individuals' representatives, of the availability and purposes of the client assistance program under section 112, including information on means of seeking assistance under such program. [[Page 112 STAT.1115]] ``traditionally underserved populations ``Sec. 19. <<NOTE: 29 USC 718.>> (a) Findings.--With respect to the programs authorized in titles II through VII, the Congress finds as follows: ``(1) Racial profile.--The racial profile of America is rapidly changing. While the rate of increase for white Americans is 3.2 percent, the rate of increase for racial and ethnic minorities is much higher: 38.6 percent for Latinos, 14.6 percent for African-Americans, and 40.1 percent for Asian- Americans and other ethnic groups. By the year 2000, the Nation will have 260,000,000 people, one of every three of whom will be either African-American, Latino, or Asian-American. ``(2) Rate of disability.--Ethnic and racial minorities tend to have disabling conditions at a disproportionately high rate. The rate of work-related disability for American Indians is about one and one-half times that of the general population. African-Americans are also one and one-half times more likely to be disabled than whites and twice as likely to be significantly disabled. ``(3) Inequitable treatment.--Patterns of inequitable treatment of minorities have been documented in all major junctures of the vocational rehabilitation process. As compared to white Americans, a larger percentage of African-American applicants to the vocational rehabilitation system are denied acceptance. Of applicants accepted for service, a larger percentage of African-American cases are closed without being rehabilitated. Minorities are provided less training than their white counterparts. Consistently, less money is spent on minorities than on their white counterparts. ``(4) Recruitment.--Recruitment efforts within vocational rehabilitation at the level of preservice training, continuing education, and in-service training must focus on bringing larger numbers of minorities into the profession in order to provide appropriate practitioner knowledge, role models, and sufficient manpower to address the clearly changing demography of vocational rehabilitation. ``(b) Outreach to Minorities.-- ``(1) In general.--For each fiscal year, the Commissioner and the Director of the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (referred to in this subsection as the `Director') shall reserve 1 percent of the funds appropriated for the fiscal year for programs authorized under titles II, III, VI, and VII to carry out this subsection. The Commissioner and the Director shall use the reserved funds to carry out one or more of the activities described in paragraph (2) through a grant, contract, or cooperative agreement. ``(2) Activities.--The activities carried out by the Commissioner and the Director shall include one or more of the following: ``(A) Making awards to minority entities and Indian tribes to carry out activities under the programs authorized under titles II, III, VI, and VII. ``(B) Making awards to minority entities and Indian tribes to conduct research, training, technical assistance, or a related activity, to improve services provided under this Act, especially services provided to individuals from minority backgrounds. [[Page 112 STAT.1116]] ``(C) Making awards to entities described in paragraph (3) to provide outreach and technical assistance to minority entities and Indian tribes to promote their participation in activities funded under this Act, including assistance to enhance their capacity to carry out such activities. ``(3) Eligibility.--To be eligible to receive an award under paragraph (2)(C), an entity shall be a State or a public or private nonprofit agency or organization, such as an institution of higher education or an Indian tribe. ``(4) Report.--In each fiscal year, the Commissioner and the Director shall prepare and submit to Congress a report that describes the activities funded under this subsection for the preceding fiscal year. ``(5) Definitions.--In this subsection: ``(A) Historically black college or university.--The term `historically Black college or university' means a part B institution, as defined in section 322(2) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1061(2)). ``(B) Minority entity.--The term `minority entity' means an entity that is a historically Black college or university, a Hispanic-serving institution of higher education, an American Indian tribal college or university, or another institution of higher education whose minority student enrollment is at least 50 percent. ``(c) Demonstration.--In awarding grants, or entering into contracts or cooperative agreements under titles I, II, III, VI, and VII, and section 509, the Commissioner and the Director, in appropriate cases, shall require applicants to demonstrate how the applicants will address, in whole or in part, the needs of individuals with disabilities from minority backgrounds.''. SEC. 404. VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES. Title I of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 720 et seq.) is amended to read as follows: ``TITLE I--VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES ``PART A--GENERAL PROVISIONS ``SEC. 100. <<NOTE: 29 USC 720.>> DECLARATION OF POLICY; AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. ``(a) Findings; Purpose; Policy.-- ``(1) Findings.--Congress finds that-- ``(A) work-- ``(i) is a valued activity, both for individuals and society; and ``(ii) fulfills the need of an individual to be productive, promotes independence, enhances self-esteem, and allows for participation in the mainstream of life in the United States; ``(B) as a group, individuals with disabilities experience staggering levels of unemployment and poverty; ``(C) individuals with disabilities, including individuals with the most significant disabilities, have demonstrated [[Page 112 STAT.1117]] their ability to achieve gainful employment in integrated settings if appropriate services and supports are provided; ``(D) reasons for significant numbers of individuals with disabilities not working, or working at levels not commensurate with their abilities and capabilities, include-- ``(i) discrimination; ``(ii) lack of accessible and available transportation; ``(iii) fear of losing health coverage under the medicare and medicaid programs carried out under titles XVIII and XIX of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395 et seq. and 1396 et seq.) or fear of losing private health insurance; and ``(iv) lack of education, training, and supports to meet job qualification standards necessary to secure, retain, regain, or advance in employment; ``(E) enforcement of title V and of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.) holds the promise of ending discrimination for individuals with disabilities; ``(F) the provision of workforce investment activities and vocational rehabilitation services can enable individuals with disabilities, including individuals with the most significant disabilities, to pursue meaningful careers by securing gainful employment commensurate with their abilities and capabilities; and ``(G) linkages between the vocational rehabilitation programs established under this title and other components of the statewide workforce investment systems are critical to ensure effective and meaningful participation by individuals with disabilities in workforce investment activities. ``(2) Purpose.--The purpose of this title is to assist States in operating statewide comprehensive, coordinated, effective, efficient, and accountable programs of vocational rehabilitation, each of which is-- ``(A) an integral part of a statewide workforce investment system; and ``(B) designed to assess, plan, develop, and provide vocational rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities, consistent with their strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice, so that such individuals may prepare for and engage in gainful employment. ``(3) Policy.--It is the policy of the United States that such a program shall be carried out in a manner consistent with the following principles: ``(A) Individuals with disabilities, including individuals with the most significant disabilities, are generally presumed to be capable of engaging in gainful employment and the provision of individualized vocational rehabilitation services can improve their ability to become gainfully employed. ``(B) Individuals with disabilities must be provided the opportunities to obtain gainful employment in integrated settings. ``(C) Individuals who are applicants for such programs or eligible to participate in such programs must be active [[Page 112 STAT.1118]] and full partners in the vocational rehabilitation process, making meaningful and informed choices-- ``(i) during assessments for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs; and ``(ii) in the selection of employment outcomes for the individuals, services needed to achieve the outcomes, entities providing such services, and the methods used to secure such services. ``(D) Families and other natural supports can play important roles in the success of a vocational rehabilitation program, if the individual with a disability involved requests, desires, or needs such supports. ``(E) Vocational rehabilitation counselors that are trained and prepared in accordance with State policies and procedures as described in section 101(a)(7)(B) (referred to individually in this title as a `qualified vocational rehabilitation counselor'), other qualified rehabilitation personnel, and other qualified personnel facilitate the accomplishment of the employment outcomes and objectives of an individual. ``(F) Individuals with disabilities and the individuals' representatives are full partners in a vocational rehabilitation program and must be involved on a regular basis and in a meaningful manner with respect to policy development and implementation. ``(G) Accountability measures must facilitate the accomplishment of the goals and objectives of the program, including providing vocational rehabilitation services to, among others, individuals with the most significant disabilities. ``(b) Authorization of Appropriations.-- ``(1) In general.--For the purpose of making grants to States under part B to assist States in meeting the costs of vocational rehabilitation services provided in accordance with State plans under section 101, there are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for fiscal years 1999 through 2003, except that the amount to be appropriated for a fiscal year shall not be less than the amount of the appropriation under this paragraph for the immediately preceding fiscal year, increased by the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index determined under subsection (c) for the immediately preceding fiscal year. ``(2) Reference.--The reference in paragraph (1) to grants to States under part B shall not be considered to refer to grants under section 112. ``(c) Consumer Price Index.-- ``(1) <<NOTE: Deadline. Federal Register, publication.>> Percentage change.--No later than November 15 of each fiscal year (beginning with fiscal year 1979), the Secretary of Labor shall publish in the Federal Register the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index published for October of the preceding fiscal year and October of the fiscal year in which such publication is made. ``(2) Application.-- ``(A) Increase.--If in any fiscal year the percentage change published under paragraph (1) indicates an increase in the Consumer Price Index, then the amount to be appropriated under subsection (b)(1) for the subsequent fiscal [[Page 112 STAT.1119]] year shall be at least the amount appropriated under subsection (b)(1) for the fiscal year in which the publication is made under paragraph (1) increased by such percentage change. ``(B) No increase or decrease.--If in any fiscal year the percentage change published under paragraph (1) does not indicate an increase in the Consumer Price Index, then the amount to be appropriated under subsection (b)(1) for the subsequent fiscal year shall be at least the amount appropriated under subsection (b)(1) for the fiscal year in which the publication is made under paragraph (1). ``(3) Definition.--For purposes of this section, the term `Consumer Price Index' means the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, published monthly by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. ``(d) Extension.-- ``(1) In general.-- ``(A) Authorization or duration of program.--Unless the Congress in the regular session which ends prior to the beginning of the terminal fiscal year-- ``(i) of the authorization of appropriations for the program authorized by the State grant program under part B of this title; or ``(ii) of the duration of the program authorized by the State grant program under part B of this title; has passed legislation which would have the effect of extending the authorization or duration (as the case may be) of such program, such authorization or duration is automatically extended for 1 additional year for the program authorized by this title. ``(B) Calculation.--The amount authorized to be appropriated for the additional fiscal year described in subparagraph (A) shall be an amount equal to the amount appropriated for such program for fiscal year 2003, increased by the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index determined under subsection (c) for the immediately preceding fiscal year, if the percentage change indicates an increase. ``(2) Construction.-- ``(A) Passage of legislation.--For the purposes of paragraph (1)(A), Congress shall not be deemed to have passed legislation unless such legislation becomes law. ``(B) Acts or determinations of commissioner.--In any case where the Commissioner is required under an applicable statute to carry out certain acts or make certain determinations which are necessary for the continuation of the program authorized by this title, if such acts or determinations are required during the terminal year of such program, such acts and determinations shall be required during any fiscal year in which the extension described in that part of paragraph (1) that follows clause (ii) of paragraph (1)(A) is in effect. ``SEC. 101. <<NOTE: 29 USC 721.>> STATE PLANS. ``(a) Plan Requirements.-- ``(1) In general.-- [[Page 112 STAT.1120]] ``(A) Submission.--To be eligible to participate in programs under this title, a State shall submit to the Commissioner a State plan for vocational rehabilitation services that meets the requirements of this section, on the same date that the State submits a State plan under section 112 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998. ``(B) Nonduplication.--The State shall not be required to submit, in the State plan for vocational rehabilitation services, policies, procedures, or descriptions required under this title that have been previously submitted to the Commissioner and that demonstrate that such State meets the requirements of this title, including any policies, procedures, or descriptions submitted under this title as in effect on the day before the effective date of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998. ``(C) Duration.--The State plan shall remain in effect subject to the submission of such modifications as the State determines to be necessary or as the Commissioner may require based on a change in State policy, a change in Federal law (including regulations), an interpretation of this Act by a Federal court or the highest court of the State, or a finding by the Commissioner of State noncompliance with the requirements of this Act, until the State submits and receives approval of a new State plan. ``(2) Designated state agency; designated state unit.-- ``(A) Designated state agency.--The State plan shall designate a State agency as the sole State agency to administer the plan, or to supervise the administration of the plan by a local agency, except that-- ``(i) where, under State law, the State agency for individuals who are blind or another agency that provides assistance or services to adults who are blind is authorized to provide vocational rehabilitation services to individuals who are blind, that agency may be designated as the sole State agency to administer the part of the plan under which vocational rehabilitation services are provided for individuals who are blind (or to supervise the administration of such part by a local agency) and a separate State agency may be designated as the sole State agency to administer or supervise the administration of the rest of the State plan; ``(ii) the Commissioner, on the request of a State, may authorize the designated State agency to share funding and administrative responsibility with another agency of the State or with a local agency in order to permit the agencies to carry out a joint program to provide services to individuals with disabilities, and may waive compliance, with respect to vocational rehabilitation services furnished under the joint program, with the requirement of paragraph (4) that the plan be in effect in all political subdivisions of the State; and ``(iii) in the case of American Samoa, the appropriate State agency shall be the Governor of American Samoa. [[Page 112 STAT.1121]] ``(B) Designated state unit.--The State agency designated under subparagraph (A) shall be-- ``(i) a State agency primarily concerned with vocational rehabilitation, or vocational and other rehabilitation, of individuals with disabilities; or ``(ii) if not such an agency, the State agency (or each State agency if 2 are so designated) shall include a vocational rehabilitation bureau, division, or other organizational unit that-- ``(I) is primarily concerned with vocational rehabilitation, or vocational and other rehabilitation, of individuals with disabilities, and is responsible for the vocational rehabilitation program of the designated State agency; ``(II) has a full-time director; ``(III) has a staff employed on the rehabilitation work of the organizational unit all or substantially all of whom are employed full time on such work; and ``(IV) is located at an organizational level and has an organizational status within the designated State agency comparable to that of other major organizational units of the designated State agency. ``(C) Responsibility for services for the blind.--If the State has designated only 1 State agency pursuant to subparagraph (A), the State may assign responsibility for the part of the plan under which vocational rehabilitation services are provided for individuals who are blind to an organizational unit of the designated State agency and assign responsibility for the rest of the plan to another organizational unit of the designated State agency, with the provisions of subparagraph (B) applying separately to each of the designated State units. ``(3) Non-federal share.--The State plan shall provide for financial participation by the State, or if the State so elects, by the State and local agencies, to provide the amount of the non-Federal share of the cost of carrying out part B. ``(4) Statewideness.--The State plan shall provide that the plan shall be in effect in all political subdivisions of the State, except that-- ``(A) in the case of any activity that, in the judgment of the Commissioner, is likely to assist in promoting the vocational rehabilitation of substantially larger numbers of individuals with disabilities or groups of individuals with disabilities, the Commissioner may waive compliance with the requirement that the plan be in effect in all political subdivisions of the State to the extent and for such period as may be provided in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Commissioner, but only if the non-Federal share of the cost of the vocational rehabilitation services involved is met from funds made available by a local agency (including funds contributed to such agency by a private agency, organization, or individual); and ``(B) in a case in which earmarked funds are used toward the non-Federal share and such funds are earmarked for particular geographic areas within the State, [[Page 112 STAT.1122]] the earmarked funds may be used in such areas if the State notifies the Commissioner that the State cannot provide the full non-Federal share without such funds. ``(5) Order of selection for vocational rehabilitation services.--In the event that vocational rehabilitation services cannot be provided to all eligible individuals with disabilities in the State who apply for the services, the State plan shall-- ``(A) show the order to be followed in selecting eligible individuals to be provided vocational rehabilitation services; ``(B) provide the justification for the order of selection; ``(C) include an assurance that, in accordance with criteria established by the State for the order of selection, individuals with the most significant disabilities will be selected first for the provision of vocational rehabilitation services; and ``(D) provide that eligible individuals, who do not meet the order of selection criteria, shall have access to services provided through the information and referral system implemented under paragraph (20). ``(6) Methods for administration.-- ``(A) In general.--The State plan shall provide for such methods of administration as are found by the Commissioner to be necessary for the proper and efficient administration of the plan. ``(B) Employment of individuals with disabilities.-- The State plan shall provide that the designated State agency, and entities carrying out community rehabilitation programs in the State, who are in receipt of assistance under this title shall take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities covered under, and on the same terms and conditions as set forth in, section 503. ``(C) Facilities.--The State plan shall provide that facilities used in connection with the delivery of services assisted under the State plan shall comply with the Act entitled `An Act to insure that certain buildings financed with Federal funds are so designed and constructed as to be accessible to the physically handicapped', approved on August 12, 1968 (commonly known as the `Architectural Barriers Act of 1968'), with section 504, and with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. ``(7) Comprehensive system of personnel development.--The State plan shall-- ``(A) include a description (consistent with the purposes of this Act) of a comprehensive system of personnel development, which shall include-- ``(i) a description of the procedures and activities the designated State agency will undertake to ensure an adequate supply of qualified State rehabilitation professionals and paraprofessionals for the designated State unit, including the development and maintenance of a system for determining, on an annual basis-- ``(I) the number and type of personnel that are employed by the designated State unit in the provision of vocational rehabilitation services, [[Page 112 STAT.1123]] including ratios of qualified vocational rehabilitation counselors to clients; and ``(II) the number and type of personnel needed by the State, and a projection of the numbers of such personnel that will be needed in 5 years, based on projections of the number of individuals to be served, the number of such personnel who are expected to retire or leave the vocational rehabilitation field, and other relevant factors; ``(ii) where appropriate, a description of the manner in which activities will be undertaken under this section to coordinate the system of personnel development with personnel development activities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1400 et seq.); ``(iii) a description of the development and maintenance of a system of determining, on an annual basis, information on the programs of institutions of higher education within the State that are preparing rehabilitation professionals, including-- ``(I) the numbers of students enrolled in such programs; and ``(II) the number of such students who graduated with certification or licensure, or with credentials to qualify for certification or licensure, as a rehabilitation professional during the past year; ``(iv) a description of the development, updating, and implementation of a plan that-- ``(I) will address the current and projected vocational rehabilitation services personnel training needs for the designated State unit; and ``(II) provides for the coordination and facilitation of efforts between the designated State unit, institutions of higher education, and professional associations to recruit, prepare, and retain qualified personnel, including personnel from minority backgrounds, and personnel who are individuals with disabilities; and ``(v) a description of the procedures and activities the designated State agency will undertake to ensure that all personnel employed by the designated State unit are appropriately and adequately trained and prepared, including-- ``(I) a system for the continuing education of rehabilitation professionals and paraprofessionals within the designated State unit, particularly with respect to rehabilitation technology; and ``(II) procedures for acquiring and disseminating to rehabilitation professionals and paraprofessionals within the designated State unit significant knowledge from research and other sources, including procedures for providing training regarding the amendments to this Act made by the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998; ``(B) set forth policies and procedures relating to the establishment and maintenance of standards to ensure that [[Page 112 STAT.1124]] personnel, including rehabilitation professionals and paraprofessionals, needed within the designated State unit to carry out this part are appropriately and adequately prepared and trained, including-- ``(i) the establishment and maintenance of standards that are consistent with any national or State approved or recognized certification, licensing, registration, or other comparable requirements that apply to the area in which such personnel are providing vocational rehabilitation services; and ``(ii) to the extent that such standards are not based on the highest requirements in the State applicable to a specific profession or discipline, the steps the State is taking to require the retraining or hiring of personnel within the designated State unit that meet appropriate professional requirements in the State; and ``(C) contain provisions relating to the establishment and maintenance of minimum standards to ensure the availability of personnel within the designated State unit, to the maximum extent feasible, trained to communicate in the native language or mode of communication of an applicant or eligible individual. ``(8) Comparable services and benefits.-- ``(A) Determination of availability.-- ``(i) In general.--The State plan shall include an assurance that, prior to providing any vocational rehabilitation service to an eligible individual, except those services specified in paragraph (5)(D) and in paragraphs (1) through (4) and (14) of section 103(a), the designated State unit will determine whether comparable services and benefits are available under any other program (other than a program carried out under this title) unless such a determination would interrupt or delay-- ``(I) the progress of the individual toward achieving the employment outcome identified in the individualized plan for employment of the individual in accordance with section 102(b); ``(II) an immediate job placement; or ``(III) the provision of such service to any individual at extreme medical risk. ``(ii) Awards and scholarships.--For purposes of clause (i), comparable benefits do not include awards and scholarships based on merit. ``(B) Interagency agreement.--The State plan shall include an assurance that the Governor of the State, in consultation with the entity in the State responsible for the vocational rehabilitation program and other appropriate agencies, will ensure that an interagency agreement or other mechanism for interagency coordination takes effect between any appropriate public entity, including the State entity responsible for administering the State medicaid program, a public institution of higher education, and a component of the statewide workforce investment system, and the designated State unit, in order to ensure the provision of vocational rehabilitation services described in [[Page 112 STAT.1125]] subparagraph (A) (other than those services specified in paragraph (5)(D), and in paragraphs (1) through (4) and (14) of section 103(a)), that are included in the individualized plan for employment of an eligible individual, including the provision of such vocational rehabilitation services during the pendency of any dispute described in clause (iii). Such agreement or mechanism shall include the following: ``(i) Agency financial responsibility.--An identification of, or a description of a method for defining, the financial responsibility of such public entity for providing such services, and a provision stating the financial responsibility of such public entity for providing such services. ``(ii) Conditions, terms, and procedures of reimbursement.--Information specifying the conditions, terms, and procedures under which a designated State unit shall be reimbursed by other public entities for providing such services, based on the provisions of such agreement or mechanism. ``(iii) Interagency disputes.--Information specifying procedures for resolving interagency disputes under the agreement or other mechanism (including procedures under which the designated State unit may initiate proceedings to secure reimbursement from other public entities or otherwise implement the provisions of the agreement or mechanism). ``(iv) Coordination of services procedures.-- Information specifying policies and procedures for public entities to determine and identify the interagency coordination responsibilities of each public entity to promote the coordination and timely delivery of vocational rehabilitation services (except those services specified in paragraph (5)(D) and in paragraphs (1) through (4) and (14) of section 103(a)). ``(C) Responsibilities of other public entities.-- ``(i) Responsibilities under other law.-- Notwithstanding subparagraph (B), if any public entity other than a designated State unit is obligated under Federal or State law, or assigned responsibility under State policy or under this paragraph, to provide or pay for any services that are also considered to be vocational rehabilitation services (other than those specified in paragraph (5)(D) and in paragraphs (1) through (4) and (14) of section 103(a)), such public entity shall fulfill that obligation or responsibility, either directly or by contract or other arrangement. ``(ii) Reimbursement.--If a public entity other than the designated State unit fails to provide or pay for the services described in clause (i) for an eligible individual, the designated State unit shall provide or pay for such services to the individual. Such designated State unit may claim reimbursement for the services from the public entity that failed to provide or pay for such services. Such public entity shall reimburse the designated State unit pursuant to the terms of the interagency agreement or other mechanism described in this paragraph according to the procedures [[Page 112 STAT.1126]] established in such agreement or mechanism pursuant to subparagraph (B)(ii). ``(D) Methods.--The Governor of a State may meet the requirements of subparagraph (B) through-- ``(i) a State statute or regulation; ``(ii) a signed agreement between the respective officials of the public entities that clearly identifies the responsibilities of each public entity relating to the provision of services; or ``(iii) another appropriate method, as determined by the designated State unit. ``(9) Individualized plan for employment.-- ``(A) Development and implementation.--The State plan shall include an assurance that an individualized plan for employment meeting the requirements of section 102(b) will be developed and implemented in a timely manner for an individual subsequent to the determination of the eligibility of the individual for services under this title, except that in a State operating under an order of selection described in paragraph (5), the plan will be developed and implemented only for individuals meeting the order of selection criteria of the State. ``(B) Provision of services.--The State plan shall include an assurance that such services will be provided in accordance with the provisions of the individualized plan for employment. ``(10) Reporting requirements.-- ``(A) In general.--The State plan shall include an assurance that the designated State agency will submit reports in the form and level of detail and at the time required by the Commissioner regarding applicants for, and eligible individuals receiving, services under this title. ``(B) Annual reporting.--In specifying the information to be submitted in the reports, the Commissioner shall require annual reporting on the eligible individuals receiving the services, on those specific data elements described in section 136(d)(2) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 that are determined by the Secretary to be relevant in assessing the performance of designated State units in carrying out the vocational rehabilitation program established under this title. ``(C) Additional data.--In specifying the information required to be submitted in the reports, the Commissioner shall require additional data with regard to applicants and eligible individuals related to-- ``(i) the number of applicants and the number of individuals determined to be eligible or ineligible for the program carried out under this title, including-- ``(I) the number of individuals determined to be ineligible because they did not require vocational rehabilitation services, as provided in section 102(a); and ``(II) the number of individuals determined, on the basis of clear and convincing evidence, to be too severely disabled to benefit in terms of an employment outcome from vocational rehabilitation services; [[Page 112 STAT.1127]] ``(ii) the number of individuals who received vocational rehabilitation services through the program, including-- ``(I) the number who received services under paragraph (5)(D), but not assistance under an individualized plan for employment; ``(II) of those recipients who are individuals with significant disabilities, the number who received assistance under an individualized plan for employment consistent with section 102(b); and ``(III) of those recipients who are not individuals with significant disabilities, the number who received assistance under an individualized plan for employment consistent with section 102(b); ``(iii) of those applicants and eligible recipients who are individuals with significant disabilities-- ``(I) the number who ended their participation in the program carried out under this title and the number who achieved employment outcomes after receiving vocational rehabilitation services; and ``(II) the number who ended their participation in the program and who were employed 6 months and 12 months after securing or regaining employment, or, in the case of individuals whose employment outcome was to retain or advance in employment, who were employed 6 months and 12 months after achieving their employment outcome, including-- ``(aa) the number who earned the minimum wage rate specified in section 6(a)(1) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 206(a)(1)) or another wage level set by the Commissioner, during such employment; and ``(bb) the number who received employment benefits from an employer during such employment; and ``(iv) of those applicants and eligible recipients who are not individuals with significant disabilities-- ``(I) the number who ended their participation in the program carried out under this title and the number who achieved employment outcomes after receiving vocational rehabilitation services; and ``(II) the number who ended their participation in the program and who were employed 6 months and 12 months after securing or regaining employment, or, in the case of individuals whose employment outcome was to retain or advance in employment, who were employed 6 months and 12 months after achieving their employment outcome, including-- ``(aa) the number who earned the minimum wage rate specified in section 6(a)(1) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 206(a)(1)) or another wage level set [[Page 112 STAT.1128]] by the Commissioner, during such employment; and ``(bb) the number who received employment benefits from an employer during such employment. ``(D) Costs and results.--The Commissioner shall also require that the designated State agency include in the reports information on-- ``(i) the costs under this title of conducting administration, providing assessment services, counseling and guidance, and other direct services provided by designated State agency staff, providing services purchased under individualized plans for employment, supporting small business enterprises, establishing, developing, and improving community rehabilitation programs, providing other services to groups, and facilitating use of other programs under this Act and title I of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 by eligible individuals; and ``(ii) the results of annual evaluation by the State of program effectiveness under paragraph (15)(E). ``(E) Additional information.--The Commissioner shall require that each designated State unit include in the reports additional information related to the applicants and eligible individuals, obtained either through a complete count or sampling, including-- ``(i) information on-- ``(I) age, gender, race, ethnicity, education, category of impairment, severity of disability, and whether the individuals are students with disabilities; ``(II) dates of application, determination of eligibility or ineligibility, initiation of the individualized plan for employment, and termination of participation in the program; ``(III) earnings at the time of application for the program and termination of participation in the program; ``(IV) work status and occupation; ``(V) types of services, including assistive technology services and assistive technology devices, provided under the program; ``(VI) types of public or private programs or agencies that furnished services under the program; and ``(VII) the reasons for individuals terminating participation in the program without achieving an employment outcome; and ``(ii) information necessary to determine the success of the State in meeting-- ``(I) the State performance measures established under section 136(b) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998, to the extent the measures are applicable to individuals with disabilities; and ``(II) the standards and indicators established pursuant to section 106. [[Page 112 STAT.1129]] ``(F) Completeness and confidentiality.--The State plan shall include an assurance that the information submitted in the reports will include a complete count, except as provided in subparagraph (E), of the applicants and eligible individuals, in a manner permitting the greatest possible cross-classification of data and that the identity of each individual for which information is supplied under this paragraph will be kept confidential. ``(11) Cooperation, collaboration, and coordination.-- ``(A) Cooperative agreements with other components of statewide workforce investment systems.--The State plan shall provide that the designated State unit or designated State agency shall enter into a cooperative agreement with other entities that are components of the statewide workforce investment system of the State, regarding the system, which agreement may provide for-- ``(i) provision of intercomponent staff training and technical assistance with regard to-- ``(I) the availability and benefits of, and information on eligibility standards for, vocational rehabilitation services; and ``(II) the promotion of equal, effective, and meaningful participation by individuals with disabilities in workforce investment activities in the State through the promotion of program accessibility, the use of nondiscriminatory policies and procedures, and the provision of reasonable accommodations, auxiliary aids and services, and rehabilitation technology, for individuals with disabilities; ``(ii) use of information and financial management systems that link all components of the statewide workforce investment system, that link the components to other electronic networks, including nonvisual electronic networks, and that relate to such subjects as employment statistics, and information on job vacancies, career planning, and workforce investment activities; ``(iii) use of customer service features such as common intake and referral procedures, customer databases, resource information, and human services hotlines; ``(iv) establishment of cooperative efforts with employers to-- ``(I) facilitate job placement; and ``(II) carry out any other activities that the designated State unit and the employers determine to be appropriate; ``(v) identification of staff roles, responsibilities, and available resources, and specification of the financial responsibility of each component of the statewide workforce investment system with regard to paying for necessary services (consistent with State law and Federal requirements); and ``(vi) specification of procedures for resolving disputes among such components. [[Page 112 STAT.1130]] ``(B) Replication of cooperative agreements.--The State plan shall provide for the replication of such cooperative agreements at the local level between individual offices of the designated State unit and local entities carrying out activities through the statewide workforce investment system. ``(C) Interagency cooperation with other agencies.-- The State plan shall include descriptions of interagency cooperation with, and utilization of the services and facilities of, Federal, State, and local agencies and programs, including programs carried out by the Under Secretary for Rural Development of the Department of Agriculture and State use contracting programs, to the extent that such agencies and programs are not carrying out activities through the statewide workforce investment system. ``(D) Coordination with education officials.--The State plan shall contain plans, policies, and procedures for coordination between the designated State agency and education officials responsible for the public education of students with disabilities, that are designed to facilitate the transition of the students with disabilities from the receipt of educational services in school to the receipt of vocational rehabilitation services under this title, including information on a formal interagency agreement with the State educational agency that, at a minimum, provides for-- ``(i) consultation and technical assistance to assist educational agencies in planning for the transition of students with disabilities from school to post-school activities, including vocational rehabilitation services; ``(ii) transition planning by personnel of the designated State agency and educational agency personnel for students with disabilities that facilitates the development and completion of their individualized education programs under section 614(d) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (as added by section 101 of Public Law 105-17); ``(iii) the roles and responsibilities, including financial responsibilities, of each agency, including provisions for determining State lead agencies and qualified personnel responsible for transition services; and ``(iv) procedures for outreach to and identification of students with disabilities who need the transition services. ``(E) Coordination with statewide independent living councils and independent living centers.--The State plan shall include an assurance that the designated State unit, the Statewide Independent Living Council established under section 705, and the independent living centers described in part C of title VII within the State have developed working relationships and coordinate their activities. ``(F) Cooperative agreement with recipients of grants for services to american indians.--In applicable cases, the State plan shall include an assurance that the State has entered into a formal cooperative agreement [[Page 112 STAT.1131]] with each grant recipient in the State that receives funds under part C. The agreement shall describe strategies for collaboration and coordination in providing vocational rehabilitation services to American Indians who are individuals with disabilities, including-- ``(i) strategies for interagency referral and information sharing that will assist in eligibility determinations and the development of individualized plans for employment; ``(ii) procedures for ensuring that American Indians who are individuals with disabilities and are living near a reservation or tribal service area are provided vocational rehabilitation services; and ``(iii) provisions for sharing resources in cooperative studies and assessments, joint training activities, and other collaborative activities designed to improve the provision of services to American Indians who are individuals with disabilities. ``(12) Residency.--The State plan shall include an assurance that the State will not impose a residence requirement that excludes from services provided under the plan any individual who is present in the State. ``(13) Services to american indians.--The State plan shall include an assurance that, except as otherwise provided in part C, the designated State agency will provide vocational rehabilitation services to American Indians who are individuals with disabilities residing in the State to the same extent as the designated State agency provides such services to other significant populations of individuals with disabilities residing in the State. ``(14) Annual review of individuals in extended employment or other employment under special certificate provisions of the fair labor standards act of 1938.--The State plan shall provide for-- ``(A) an annual review and reevaluation of the status of each individual with a disability served under this title who has achieved an employment outcome either in an extended employment setting in a community rehabilitation program or any other employment under section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act (29 U.S.C. 214(c)) for 2 years after the achievement of the outcome (and thereafter if requested by the individual or, if appropriate, the individual's representative), to determine the interests, priorities, and needs of the individual with respect to competitive employment or training for competitive employment; ``(B) input into the review and reevaluation, and a signed acknowledgment that such review and reevaluation have been conducted, by the individual with a disability, or, if appropriate, the individual's representative; and ``(C) maximum efforts, including the identification and provision of vocational rehabilitation services, reasonable accommodations, and other necessary support services, to assist the individuals described in subparagraph (A) in engaging in competitive employment. ``(15) Annual state goals and reports of progress.-- ``(A) Assessments and estimates.--The State plan shall-- [[Page 112 STAT.1132]] ``(i) include the results of a comprehensive, statewide assessment, jointly conducted by the designated State unit and the State Rehabilitation Council (if the State has such a Council) every 3 years, describing the rehabilitation needs of individuals with disabilities residing within the State, particularly the vocational rehabilitation services needs of-- ``(I) individuals with the most significant disabilities, including their need for supported employment services; ``(II) individuals with disabilities who are minorities and individuals with disabilities who have been unserved or underserved by the vocational rehabilitation program carried out under this title; and ``(III) individuals with disabilities served through other components of the statewide workforce investment system (other than the vocational rehabilitation program), as identified by such individuals and personnel assisting such individuals through the components; ``(ii) include an assessment of the need to establish, develop, or improve community rehabilitation programs within the State; and ``(iii) <<NOTE: Reports.>> provide that the State shall submit to the Commissioner a report containing information regarding updates to the assessments, for any year in which the State updates the assessments. ``(B) <<NOTE: Reports.>> Annual estimates.--The State plan shall include, and shall provide that the State shall annually submit a report to the Commissioner that includes, State estimates of-- ``(i) the number of individuals in the State who are eligible for services under this title; ``(ii) the number of such individuals who will receive services provided with funds provided under part B and under part B of title VI, including, if the designated State agency uses an order of selection in accordance with paragraph (5), estimates of the number of individuals to be served under each priority category within the order; and ``(iii) the costs of the services described in clause (i), including, if the designated State agency uses an order of selection in accordance with paragraph (5), the service costs for each priority category within the order. ``(C) Goals and priorities.-- ``(i) In general.--The State plan shall identify the goals and priorities of the State in carrying out the program. The goals and priorities shall be jointly developed, agreed to, and reviewed annually by the designated State unit and the State Rehabilitation Council, if the State has such a Council. Any revisions to the goals and priorities shall be jointly agreed to by the designated State unit and the State Rehabilitation Council, if the State has such a Council. <<NOTE: Reports.>> The State plan shall provide that the State shall submit [[Page 112 STAT.1133]] to the Commissioner a report containing information regarding revisions in the goals and priorities, for any year in which the State revises the goals and priorities. ``(ii) Basis.--The State goals and priorities shall be based on an analysis of-- ``(I) the comprehensive assessment described in subparagraph (A), including any updates to the assessment; ``(II) the performance of the State on the standards and indicators established under section 106; and ``(III) other available information on the operation and the effectiveness of the vocational rehabilitation program carried out in the State, including any reports received from the State Rehabilitation Council, under section 105(c) and the findings and recommendations from monitoring activities conducted under section 107. ``(iii) Service and outcome goals for categories in order of selection.--If the designated State agency uses an order of selection in accordance with paragraph (5), the State shall also identify in the State plan service and outcome goals and the time within which these goals may be achieved for individuals in each priority category within the order. ``(D) Strategies.--The State plan shall contain a description of the strategies the State will use to address the needs identified in the assessment conducted under subparagraph (A) and achieve the goals and priorities identified in subparagraph (C), including-- ``(i) the methods to be used to expand and improve services to individuals with disabilities, including how a broad range of assistive technology services and assistive technology devices will be provided to such individuals at each stage of the rehabilitation process and how such services and devices will be provided to such individuals on a statewide basis; ``(ii) outreach procedures to identify and serve individuals with disabilities who are minorities and individuals with disabilities who have been unserved or underserved by the vocational rehabilitation program; ``(iii) where necessary, the plan of the State for establishing, developing, or improving community rehabilitation programs; ``(iv) strategies to improve the performance of the State with respect to the evaluation standards and performance indicators established pursuant to section 106; and ``(v) strategies for assisting entities carrying out other components of the statewide workforce investment system (other than the vocational rehabilitation program) in assisting individuals with disabilities. ``(E) Evaluation and reports of progress.--The State plan shall-- ``(i) include the results of an evaluation of the effectiveness of the vocational rehabilitation program, [[Page 112 STAT.1134]] and a joint report by the designated State unit and the State Rehabilitation Council, if the State has such a Council, to the Commissioner on the progress made in improving the effectiveness from the previous year, which evaluation and report shall include-- ``(I) an evaluation of the extent to which the goals identified in subparagraph (C) were achieved; ``(II) a description of strategies that contributed to achieving the goals; ``(III) to the extent to which the goals were not achieved, a description of the factors that impeded that achievement; and ``(IV) an assessment of the performance of the State on the standards and indicators established pursuant to section 106; and ``(ii) provide that the designated State unit and the State Rehabilitation Council, if the State has such a Council, shall jointly submit to the Commissioner an annual report that contains the information described in clause (i). ``(16) Public comment.--The State plan shall-- ``(A) provide that the designated State agency, prior to the adoption of any policies or procedures governing the provision of vocational rehabilitation services under the State plan (including making any amendment to such policies and procedures), shall conduct public meetings throughout the State, after providing adequate notice of the meetings, to provide the public, including individuals with disabilities, an opportunity to comment on the policies or procedures, and actively consult with the Director of the client assistance program carried out under section 112, and, as appropriate, Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations on the policies or procedures; and ``(B) provide that the designated State agency (or each designated State agency if two agencies are designated) and any sole agency administering the plan in a political subdivision of the State, shall take into account, in connection with matters of general policy arising in the administration of the plan, the views of-- ``(i) individuals and groups of individuals who are recipients of vocational rehabilitation services, or in appropriate cases, the individuals' representatives; ``(ii) personnel working in programs that provide vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities; ``(iii) providers of vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities; ``(iv) the director of the client assistance program; and ``(v) the State Rehabilitation Council, if the State has such a Council. ``(17) Use of funds for construction of facilities.--The State plan shall provide that if, under special circumstances, the State plan includes provisions for the construction of facilities for community rehabilitation programs-- [[Page 112 STAT.1135]] ``(A) the Federal share of the cost of construction for the facilities for a fiscal year will not exceed an amount equal to 10 percent of the State's allotment under section 110 for such year; ``(B) the provisions of section 306 (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998) shall be applicable to such construction and such provisions shall be deemed to apply to such construction; and ``(C) <<NOTE: Regulations.>> there shall be compliance with regulations the Commissioner shall prescribe designed to assure that no State will reduce its efforts in providing other vocational rehabilitation services (other than for the establishment of facilities for community rehabilitation programs) because the plan includes such provisions for construction. ``(18) Innovation and expansion activities.--The State plan shall-- ``(A) include an assurance that the State will reserve and use a portion of the funds allotted to the State under section 110-- ``(i) for the development and implementation of innovative approaches to expand and improve the provision of vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities under this title, particularly individuals with the most significant disabilities, consistent with the findings of the statewide assessment and goals and priorities of the State as described in paragraph (15); and ``(ii) to support the funding of-- ``(I) the State Rehabilitation Council, if the State has such a Council, consistent with the plan prepared under section 105(d)(1); and ``(II) the Statewide Independent Living Council, consistent with the plan prepared under section 705(e)(1); ``(B) include a description of how the reserved funds will be utilized; and ``(C) <<NOTE: Reports.>> provide that the State shall submit to the Commissioner an annual report containing a description of how the reserved funds will be utilized. ``(19) Choice.--The State plan shall include an assurance that applicants and eligible individuals or, as appropriate, the applicants' representatives or individuals' representatives, will be provided information and support services to assist the applicants and individuals in exercising informed choice throughout the rehabilitation process, consistent with the provisions of section 102(d). ``(20) Information and referral services.-- ``(A) In general.--The State plan shall include an assurance that the designated State agency will implement an information and referral system adequate to ensure that individuals with disabilities will be provided accurate vocational rehabilitation information and guidance, using appropriate modes of communication, to assist such individuals in preparing for, securing, retaining, or regaining employment, and will be appropriately referred to Federal [[Page 112 STAT.1136]] and State programs (other than the vocational rehabilitation program carried out under this title), including other components of the statewide workforce investment system in the State. ``(B) Referrals.--An appropriate referral made through the system shall-- ``(i) be to the Federal or State programs, including programs carried out by other components of the statewide workforce investment system in the State, best suited to address the specific employment needs of an individual with a disability; and ``(ii) include, for each of these programs, provision to the individual of-- ``(I) a notice of the referral by the designated State agency to the agency carrying out the program; ``(II) information identifying a specific point of contact within the agency carrying out the program; and ``(III) information and advice regarding the most suitable services to assist the individual to prepare for, secure, retain, or regain employment. ``(21) State independent consumer-controlled commission; state rehabilitation council.-- ``(A) Commission or council.--The State plan shall provide that either-- ``(i) the designated State agency is an independent commission that-- ``(I) is responsible under State law for operating, or overseeing the operation of, the vocational rehabilitation program in the State; ``(II) is consumer-controlled by persons who-- ``(aa) are individuals with physical or mental impairments that substantially limit major life activities; and ``(bb) represent individuals with a broad range of disabilities, unless the designated State unit under the direction of the Commission is the State agency for individuals who are blind; ``(III) includes family members, advocates, or other representatives, of individuals with mental impairments; and ``(IV) undertakes the functions set forth in section 105(c)(4); or ``(ii) the State has established a State Rehabilitation Council that meets the criteria set forth in section 105 and the designated State unit-- ``(I) in accordance with paragraph (15), jointly develops, agrees to, and reviews annually State goals and priorities, and jointly submits annual reports of progress with the Council; ``(II) regularly consults with the Council regarding the development, implementation, and revision of State policies and procedures of general applicability pertaining to the provision of vocational rehabilitation services; [[Page 112 STAT.1137]] ``(III) includes in the State plan and in any revision to the State plan, a summary of input provided by the Council, including recommendations from the annual report of the Council described in section 105(c)(5), the review and analysis of consumer satisfaction described in section 105(c)(4), and other reports prepared by the Council, and the response of the designated State unit to such input and recommendations, including explanations for rejecting any input or recommendation; and ``(IV) <<NOTE: Reports.>> transmits to the Council-- ``(aa) all plans, reports, and other information required under this title to be submitted to the Secretary; ``(bb) all policies, and information on all practices and procedures, of general applicability provided to or used by rehabilitation personnel in carrying out this title; and ``(cc) copies of due process hearing decisions issued under this title, which shall be transmitted in such a manner as to ensure that the identity of the participants in the hearings is kept confidential. ``(B) More than one designated state agency.--In the case of a State that, under section 101(a)(2), designates a State agency to administer the part of the State plan under which vocational rehabilitation services are provided for individuals who are blind (or to supervise the administration of such part by a local agency) and designates a separate State agency to administer the rest of the State plan, the State shall either establish a State Rehabilitation Council for each of the two agencies that does not meet the requirements in subparagraph (A)(i), or establish one State Rehabilitation Council for both agencies if neither agency meets the requirements of subparagraph (A)(i). ``(22) Supported employment state plan supplement.--The State plan shall include an assurance that the State has an acceptable plan for carrying out part B of title VI, including the use of funds under that part to supplement funds made available under part B of this title to pay for the cost of services leading to supported employment. ``(23) <<NOTE: Reports.>> Annual updates.--The plan shall include an assurance that the State will submit to the Commissioner reports containing annual updates of the information required under paragraph (7) (relating to a comprehensive system of personnel development) and any other updates of the information required under this section that are requested by the Commissioner, and annual reports as provided in paragraphs (15) (relating to assessments, estimates, goals and priorities, and reports of progress) and (18) (relating to innovation and expansion), at such time and in such manner as the Secretary may determine to be appropriate. ``(24) Certain contracts and cooperative agreements.-- [[Page 112 STAT.1138]] ``(A) Contracts with for-profit organizations.--The State plan shall provide that the designated State agency has the authority to enter into contracts with for-profit organizations for the purpose of providing, as vocational rehabilitation services, on-the-job training and related programs for individuals with disabilities under part A of title VI, upon a determination by such agency that such for-profit organizations are better qualified to provide such rehabilitation services than nonprofit agencies and organizations. ``(B) Cooperative agreements with private nonprofit organizations.--The State plan shall describe the manner in which cooperative agreements with private nonprofit vocational rehabilitation service providers will be established. ``(b) Approval; Disapproval of the State Plan.-- ``(1) Approval.--The Commissioner shall approve any plan that the Commissioner finds fulfills the conditions specified in this section, and shall disapprove any plan that does not fulfill such conditions. ``(2) <<NOTE: Notification.>> Disapproval.--Prior to disapproval of the State plan, the Commissioner shall notify the State of the intention to disapprove the plan and shall afford the State reasonable notice and opportunity for a hearing. ``SEC. 102. <<NOTE: 29 USC 722.>> ELIGIBILITY AND INDIVIDUALIZED PLAN FOR EMPLOYMENT. ``(a) Eligibility.-- ``(1) Criterion for eligibility.--An individual is eligible for assistance under this title if the individual-- ``(A) is an individual with a disability under section 7(20)(A); and ``(B) requires vocational rehabilitation services to prepare for, secure, retain, or regain employment. ``(2) Presumption of benefit.-- ``(A) Demonstration.--For purposes of this section, an individual shall be presumed to be an individual that can benefit in terms of an employment outcome from vocational rehabilitation services under section 7(20)(A), unless the designated State unit involved can demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that such individual is incapable of benefiting in terms of an employment outcome from vocational rehabilitation services due to the severity of the disability of the individual. ``(B) Methods.--In making the demonstration required under subparagraph (A), the designated State unit shall explore the individual's abilities, capabilities, and capacity to perform in work situations, through the use of trial work experiences, as described in section 7(2)(D), with appropriate supports provided through the designated State unit, except under limited circumstances when an individual cannot take advantage of such experiences. Such experiences shall be of sufficient variety and over a sufficient period of time to determine the eligibility of the individual or to determine the existence of clear and convincing evidence that the individual is incapable of benefiting in terms of an employment outcome from vocational rehabilitation [[Page 112 STAT.1139]] services due to the severity of the disability of the individual. ``(3) Presumption of eligibility.-- ``(A) In general.--For purposes of this section, an individual who has a disability or is blind as determined pursuant to title II or title XVI of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 401 et seq. and 1381 et seq.) shall be-- ``(i) considered to be an individual with a significant disability under section 7(21)(A); and ``(ii) presumed to be eligible for vocational rehabilitation services under this title (provided that the individual intends to achieve an employment outcome consistent with the unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice of the individual) unless the designated State unit involved can demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that such individual is incapable of benefiting in terms of an employment outcome from vocational rehabilitation services due to the severity of the disability of the individual in accordance with paragraph (2). ``(B) Construction.--Nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to create an entitlement to any vocational rehabilitation service. ``(4) Use of existing information.-- ``(A) In general.--To the maximum extent appropriate and consistent with the requirements of this part, for purposes of determining the eligibility of an individual for vocational rehabilitation services under this title and developing the individualized plan for employment described in subsection (b) for the individual, the designated State unit shall use information that is existing and current (as of the date of the determination of eligibility or of the development of the individualized plan for employment), including information available from other programs and providers, particularly information used by education officials and the Social Security Administration, information provided by the individual and the family of the individual, and information obtained under the assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs. ``(B) Determinations by officials of other agencies.--Determinations made by officials of other agencies, particularly education officials described in section 101(a)(11)(D), regarding whether an individual satisfies one or more factors relating to whether an individual is an individual with a disability under section 7(20)(A) or an individual with a significant disability under section 7(21)(A) shall be used, to the extent appropriate and consistent with the requirements of this part, in assisting the designated State unit in making such determinations. ``(C) Basis.--The determination of eligibility for vocational rehabilitation services shall be based on-- ``(i) the review of existing data described in section 7(2)(A)(i); and [[Page 112 STAT.1140]] ``(ii) to the extent that such data is unavailable or insufficient for determining eligibility, the provision of assessment activities described in section 7(2)(A)(ii). ``(5) Determination of ineligibility.--If an individual who applies for services under this title is determined, based on the review of existing data and, to the extent necessary, the assessment activities described in section 7(2)(A)(ii), not to be eligible for the services, or if an eligible individual receiving services under an individualized plan for employment is determined to be no longer eligible for the services-- ``(A) the ineligibility determination involved shall be made only after providing an opportunity for full consultation with the individual or, as appropriate, the individual's representative; ``(B) the individual or, as appropriate, the individual's representative, shall be informed in writing (supplemented as necessary by other appropriate modes of communication consistent with the informed choice of the individual) of the ineligibility determination, including-- ``(i) the reasons for the determination; and ``(ii) a description of the means by which the individual may express, and seek a remedy for, any dissatisfaction with the determination, including the procedures for review by an impartial hearing officer under subsection (c); ``(C) the individual shall be provided with a description of services available from the client assistance program under section 112 and information on how to contact that program; and ``(D) any ineligibility determination that is based on a finding that the individual is incapable of benefiting in terms of an employment outcome shall be reviewed-- ``(i) within 12 months; and ``(ii) thereafter, if such a review is requested by the individual or, if appropriate, by the individual's representative. ``(6) Timeframe for making an eligibility determination.-- The designated State unit shall determine whether an individual is eligible for vocational rehabilitation services under this title within a reasonable period of time, not to exceed 60 days, after the individual has submitted an application for the services unless-- ``(A) exceptional and unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of the designated State unit preclude making an eligibility determination within 60 days and the designated State unit and the individual agree to a specific extension of time; or ``(B) the designated State unit is exploring an individual's abilities, capabilities, and capacity to perform in work situations under paragraph (2)(B). ``(b) Development of an Individualized Plan for Employment.-- ``(1) Options for developing an individualized plan for employment.--If an individual is determined to be eligible for vocational rehabilitation services as described in subsection (a), the designated State unit shall complete the assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs, [[Page 112 STAT.1141]] as appropriate, and shall provide the eligible individual or the individual's representative, in writing and in an appropriate mode of communication, with information on the individual's options for developing an individualized plan for employment, including-- ``(A) information on the availability of assistance, to the extent determined to be appropriate by the eligible individual, from a qualified vocational rehabilitation counselor in developing all or part of the individualized plan for employment for the individual, and the availability of technical assistance in developing all or part of the individualized plan for employment for the individual; ``(B) a description of the full range of components that shall be included in an individualized plan for employment; ``(C) as appropriate-- ``(i) an explanation of agency guidelines and criteria associated with financial commitments concerning an individualized plan for employment; ``(ii) additional information the eligible individual requests or the designated State unit determines to be necessary; and ``(iii) information on the availability of assistance in completing designated State agency forms required in developing an individualized plan for employment; and ``(D)(i) a description of the rights and remedies available to such an individual including, if appropriate, recourse to the processes set forth in subsection (c); and ``(ii) a description of the availability of a client assistance program established pursuant to section 112 and information about how to contact the client assistance program. ``(2) Mandatory procedures.-- ``(A) Written document.--An individualized plan for employment shall be a written document prepared on forms provided by the designated State unit. ``(B) Informed choice.--An individualized plan for employment shall be developed and implemented in a manner that affords eligible individuals the opportunity to exercise informed choice in selecting an employment outcome, the specific vocational rehabilitation services to be provided under the plan, the entity that will provide the vocational rehabilitation services, and the methods used to procure the services, consistent with subsection (d). ``(C) Signatories.--An individualized plan for employment shall be-- ``(i) agreed to, and signed by, such eligible individual or, as appropriate, the individual's representative; and ``(ii) approved and signed by a qualified vocational rehabilitation counselor employed by the designated State unit. ``(D) Copy.--A copy of the individualized plan for employment for an eligible individual shall be provided to the individual or, as appropriate, to the individual's representative, in writing and, if appropriate, in the native [[Page 112 STAT.1142]] language or mode of communication of the individual or, as appropriate, of the individual's representative. ``(E) Review and amendment.--The individualized plan for employment shall be-- ``(i) reviewed at least annually by-- ``(I) a qualified vocational rehabilitation counselor; and ``(II) the eligible individual or, as appropriate, the individual's representative; and ``(ii) amended, as necessary, by the individual or, as appropriate, the individual's representative, in collaboration with a representative of the designated State agency or a qualified vocational rehabilitation counselor (to the extent determined to be appropriate by the individual), if there are substantive changes in the employment outcome, the vocational rehabilitation services to be provided, or the service providers of the services (which amendments shall not take effect until agreed to and signed by the eligible individual or, as appropriate, the individual's representative, and by a qualified vocational rehabilitation counselor employed by the designated State unit). ``(3) Mandatory components of an individualized plan for employment.--Regardless of the approach selected by an eligible individual to develop an individualized plan for employment, an individualized plan for employment shall, at a minimum, contain mandatory components consisting of-- ``(A) a description of the specific employment outcome that is chosen by the eligible individual, consistent with the unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice of the eligible individual, and, to the maximum extent appropriate, results in employment in an integrated setting; ``(B)(i) a description of the specific vocational rehabilitation services that are-- ``(I) needed to achieve the employment outcome, including, as appropriate, the provision of assistive technology devices and assistive technology services, and personal assistance services, including training in the management of such services; and ``(II) provided in the most integrated setting that is appropriate for the service involved and is consistent with the informed choice of the eligible individual; and ``(ii) timelines for the achievement of the employment outcome and for the initiation of the services; ``(C) a description of the entity chosen by the eligible individual or, as appropriate, the individual's representative, that will provide the vocational rehabilitation services, and the methods used to procure such services; ``(D) a description of criteria to evaluate progress toward achievement of the employment outcome; ``(E) the terms and conditions of the individualized plan for employment, including, as appropriate, information describing-- ``(i) the responsibilities of the designated State unit; [[Page 112 STAT.1143]] ``(ii) the responsibilities of the eligible individual, including-- ``(I) the responsibilities the eligible individual will assume in relation to the employment outcome of the individual; ``(II) if applicable, the participation of the eligible individual in paying for the costs of the plan; and ``(III) the responsibility of the eligible individual with regard to applying for and securing comparable benefits as described in section 101(a)(8); and ``(iii) the responsibilities of other entities as the result of arrangements made pursuant to comparable services or benefits requirements as described in section 101(a)(8); ``(F) for an eligible individual with the most significant disabilities for whom an employment outcome in a supported employment setting has been determined to be appropriate, information identifying-- ``(i) the extended services needed by the eligible individual; and ``(ii) the source of extended services or, to the extent that the source of the extended services cannot be identified at the time of the development of the individualized plan for employment, a description of the basis for concluding that there is a reasonable expectation that such source will become available; and ``(G) as determined to be necessary, a statement of projected need for post-employment services. ``(c) Procedures.-- ``(1) In general.--Each State shall establish procedures for mediation of, and procedures for review through an impartial due process hearing of, determinations made by personnel of the designated State unit that affect the provision of vocational rehabilitation services to applicants or eligible individuals. ``(2) Notification.-- ``(A) Rights and assistance.--The procedures shall provide that an applicant or an eligible individual or, as appropriate, the applicant's representative or individual's representative shall be notified of-- ``(i) the right to obtain review of determinations described in paragraph (1) in an impartial due process hearing under paragraph (5); ``(ii) the right to pursue mediation with respect to the determinations under paragraph (4); and ``(iii) the availability of assistance from the client assistance program under section 112. ``(B) Timing.--Such notification shall be provided in writing-- ``(i) at the time an individual applies for vocational rehabilitation services provided under this title; ``(ii) at the time the individualized plan for employment for the individual is developed; and [[Page 112 STAT.1144]] ``(iii) upon reduction, suspension, or cessation of vocational rehabilitation services for the individual. ``(3) Evidence and representation.--The procedures required under this subsection shall, at a minimum-- ``(A) provide an opportunity for an applicant or an eligible individual, or, as appropriate, the applicant's representative or individual's representative, to submit at the mediation session or hearing evidence and information to support the position of the applicant or eligible individual; and ``(B) include provisions to allow an applicant or an eligible individual to be represented in the mediation session or hearing by a person selected by the applicant or eligible individual. ``(4) Mediation.-- ``(A) Procedures.--Each State shall ensure that procedures are established and implemented under this subsection to allow parties described in paragraph (1) to disputes involving any determination described in paragraph (1) to resolve such disputes through a mediation process that, at a minimum, shall be available whenever a hearing is requested under this subsection. ``(B) Requirements.--Such procedures shall ensure that the mediation process-- ``(i) is voluntary on the part of the parties; ``(ii) is not used to deny or delay the right of an individual to a hearing under this subsection, or to deny any other right afforded under this title; and ``(iii) is conducted by a qualified and impartial mediator who is trained in effective mediation techniques. ``(C) List of mediators.--The State shall maintain a list of individuals who are qualified mediators and knowledgeable in laws (including regulations) relating to the provision of vocational rehabilitation services under this title, from which the mediators described in subparagraph (B) shall be selected. ``(D) Cost.--The State shall bear the cost of the mediation process. ``(E) Scheduling.--Each session in the mediation process shall be scheduled in a timely manner and shall be held in a location that is convenient to the parties to the dispute. ``(F) Agreement.--An agreement reached by the parties to the dispute in the mediation process shall be set forth in a written mediation agreement. ``(G) Confidentiality.--Discussions that occur during the mediation process shall be confidential and may not be used as evidence in any subsequent due process hearing or civil proceeding. The parties to the mediation process may be required to sign a confidentiality pledge prior to the commencement of such process. ``(H) Construction.--Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to preclude the parties to such a dispute from informally resolving the dispute prior to proceedings under this paragraph or paragraph (5), if the informal process used is not used to deny or delay the right of [[Page 112 STAT.1145]] the applicant or eligible individual to a hearing under this subsection or to deny any other right afforded under this title. ``(5) Hearings.-- ``(A) Officer.--A due process hearing described in paragraph (2) shall be conducted by an impartial hearing officer who shall issue a decision based on the provisions of the approved State plan, this Act (including regulations implementing this Act), and State regulations and policies that are consistent with the Federal requirements specified in this title. The officer shall provide the decision in writing to the applicant or eligible individual, or, as appropriate, the applicant's representative or individual's representative, and to the designated State unit. ``(B) List.--The designated State unit shall maintain a list of qualified impartial hearing officers who are knowledgeable in laws (including regulations) relating to the provision of vocational rehabilitation services under this title from which the officer described in subparagraph (A) shall be selected. For the purposes of maintaining such list, impartial hearing officers shall be identified jointly by-- ``(i) the designated State unit; and ``(ii) members of the Council or commission, as appropriate, described in section 101(a)(21). ``(C) Selection.--Such an impartial hearing officer shall be selected to hear a particular case relating to a determination-- ``(i) on a random basis; or ``(ii) by agreement between-- ``(I) the Director of the designated State unit and the individual with a disability; or ``(II) in appropriate cases, the Director and the individual's representative. ``(D) Procedures for seeking review.--A State may establish procedures to enable a party involved in a hearing under this paragraph to seek an impartial review of the decision of the hearing officer under subparagraph (A) by-- ``(i) the chief official of the designated State agency if the State has established both a designated State agency and a designated State unit under section 101(a)(2); or ``(ii) an official from the office of the Governor. ``(E) Review request.--If the State establishes impartial review procedures under subparagraph (D), either party may request the review of the decision of the hearing officer within 20 days after the decision. ``(F) Reviewing official.--The reviewing official described in subparagraph (D) shall-- ``(i) in conducting the review, provide an opportunity for the submission of additional evidence and information relevant to a final decision concerning the matter under review; ``(ii) not overturn or modify the decision of the hearing officer, or part of the decision, that supports the position of the applicant or eligible individual unless the reviewing official concludes, based on clear [[Page 112 STAT.1146]] and convincing evidence, that the decision of the impartial hearing officer is clearly erroneous on the basis of being contrary to the approved State plan, this Act (including regulations implementing this Act) or any State regulation or policy that is consistent with the Federal requirements specified in this title; and ``(iii) make a final decision with respect to the matter in a timely manner and provide such decision in writing to the applicant or eligible individual, or, as appropriate, the applicant's representative or individual's representative, and to the designated State unit, including a full report of the findings and the grounds for such decision. ``(G) Finality of hearing decision.--A decision made after a hearing under subparagraph (A) shall be final, except that a party may request an impartial review if the State has established procedures for such review under subparagraph (D) and a party involved in a hearing may bring a civil action under subparagraph (J). ``(H) Finality of review.--A decision made under subparagraph (F) shall be final unless such a party brings a civil action under subparagraph (J). ``(I) Implementation.--If a party brings a civil action under subparagraph (J) to challenge a final decision of a hearing officer under subparagraph (A) or to challenge a final decision of a State reviewing official under subparagraph (F), the final decision involved shall be implemented pending review by the court. ``(J) Civil action.-- ``(i) In general.--Any party aggrieved by a final decision described in subparagraph (I), may bring a civil action for review of such decision. The action may be brought in any State court of competent jurisdiction or in a district court of the United States of competent jurisdiction without regard to the amount in controversy. ``(ii) <<NOTE: Courts.>> Procedure.--In any action brought under this subparagraph, the court-- ``(I) <<NOTE: Records.>> shall receive the records relating to the hearing under subparagraph (A) and the records relating to the State review under subparagraphs (D) through (F), if applicable; ``(II) shall hear additional evidence at the request of a party to the action; and ``(III) basing the decision of the court on the preponderance of the evidence, shall grant such relief as the court determines to be appropriate. ``(6) Hearing board.-- ``(A) In general.--A fair hearing board, established by a State before January 1, 1985, and authorized under State law to review determinations or decisions under this Act, is authorized to carry out the responsibilities of the impartial hearing officer under this subsection. ``(B) Application.--The provisions of paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) that relate to due process hearings do not apply, and paragraph (5) (other than subparagraph (J)) [[Page 112 STAT.1147]] does not apply, to any State to which subparagraph (A) applies. ``(7) Impact on provision of services.--Unless the individual with a disability so requests, or, in an appropriate case, the individual's representative, so requests, pending a decision by a mediator, hearing officer, or reviewing officer under this subsection, the designated State unit shall not institute a suspension, reduction, or termination of services being provided for the individual, including evaluation and assessment services and plan development, unless such services have been obtained through misrepresentation, fraud, collusion, or criminal conduct on the part of the individual, or the individual's representative. ``(8) Information collection and report.-- ``(A) In general.--The Director of the designated State unit shall collect information described in subparagraph (B) and prepare and submit to the Commissioner a report containing such information. The Commissioner shall prepare a summary of the information furnished under this paragraph and include the summary in the annual report submitted under section 13. The Commissioner shall also collect copies of the final decisions of impartial hearing officers conducting hearings under this subsection and State officials conducting reviews under this subsection. ``(B) Information.--The information required to be collected under this subsection includes-- ``(i) a copy of the standards used by State reviewing officials for reviewing decisions made by impartial hearing officers under this subsection; ``(ii) information on the number of hearings and reviews sought from the impartial hearing officers and the State reviewing officials, including the type of complaints and the issues involved; ``(iii) information on the number of hearing decisions made under this subsection that were not reviewed by the State reviewing officials; and ``(iv) information on the number of the hearing decisions that were reviewed by the State reviewing officials, and, based on such reviews, the number of hearing decisions that were-- ``(I) sustained in favor of an applicant or eligible individual; ``(II) sustained in favor of the designated State unit; ``(III) reversed in whole or in part in favor of the applicant or eligible individual; and ``(IV) reversed in whole or in part in favor of the designated State unit. ``(C) Confidentiality.--The confidentiality of records of applicants and eligible individuals maintained by the designated State unit shall not preclude the access of the Commissioner to those records for the purposes described in subparagraph (A). ``(d) Policies and Procedures.--Each designated State agency, in consultation with the State Rehabilitation Council, if the State has such a council, shall, consistent with section 100(a)(3)(C), develop and implement written policies and procedures that enable [[Page 112 STAT.1148]] each individual who is an applicant for or eligible to receive vocational rehabilitation services under this title to exercise informed choice throughout the vocational rehabilitation process carried out under this title, including policies and procedures that require the designated State agency-- ``(1) to inform each such applicant and eligible individual (including students with disabilities who are making the transition from programs under the responsibility of an educational agency to programs under the responsibility of the designated State unit), through appropriate modes of communication, about the availability of, and opportunities to exercise, informed choice, including the availability of support services for individuals with cognitive or other disabilities who require assistance in exercising informed choice, throughout the vocational rehabilitation process; ``(2) to assist applicants and eligible individuals in exercising informed choice in decisions related to the provision of assessment services under this title; ``(3) to develop and implement flexible procurement policies and methods that facilitate the provision of services, and that afford eligible individuals meaningful choices among the methods used to procure services, under this title; ``(4) to provide or assist eligible individuals in acquiring information that enables those individuals to exercise informed choice under this title in the selection of-- ``(A) the employment outcome; ``(B) the specific vocational rehabilitation services needed to achieve the employment outcome; ``(C) the entity that will provide the services; ``(D) the employment setting and the settings in which the services will be provided; and ``(E) the methods available for procuring the services; and ``(5) to ensure that the availability and scope of informed choice provided under this section is consistent with the obligations of the designated State agency under this title. ``SEC. 103. <<NOTE: 29 USC 723.>> VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES. ``(a) Vocational Rehabilitation Services for Individuals.-- Vocational rehabilitation services provided under this title are any services described in an individualized plan for employment necessary to assist an individual with a disability in preparing for, securing, retaining, or regaining an employment outcome that is consistent with the strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice of the individual, including-- ``(1) an assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs by qualified personnel, including, if appropriate, an assessment by personnel skilled in rehabilitation technology; ``(2) counseling and guidance, including information and support services to assist an individual in exercising informed choice consistent with the provisions of section 102(d); ``(3) referral and other services to secure needed services from other agencies through agreements developed under section 101(a)(11), if such services are not available under this title; [[Page 112 STAT.1149]] ``(4) job-related services, including job search and placement assistance, job retention services, followup services, and follow-along services; ``(5) vocational and other training services, including the provision of personal and vocational adjustment services, books, tools, and other training materials, except that no training services provided at an institution of higher education shall be paid for with funds under this title unless maximum efforts have been made by the designated State unit and the individual to secure grant assistance, in whole or in part, from other sources to pay for such training; ``(6) to the extent that financial support is not readily available from a source (such as through health insurance of the individual or through comparable services and benefits consistent with section 101(a)(8)(A)), other than the designated State unit, diagnosis and treatment of physical and mental impairments, including-- ``(A) corrective surgery or therapeutic treatment necessary to correct or substantially modify a physical or mental condition that constitutes a substantial impediment to employment, but is of such a nature that such correction or modification may reasonably be expected to eliminate or reduce such impediment to employment within a reasonable length of time; ``(B) necessary hospitalization in connection with surgery or treatment; ``(C) prosthetic and orthotic devices; ``(D) eyeglasses and visual services as prescribed by qualified personnel who meet State licensure laws and who are selected by the individual; ``(E) special services (including transplantation and dialysis), artificial kidneys, and supplies necessary for the treatment of individuals with end- stage renal disease; and ``(F) diagnosis and treatment for mental and emotional disorders by qualified personnel who meet State licensure laws; ``(7) maintenance for additional costs incurred while participating in an assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs or while receiving services under an individualized plan for employment; ``(8) transportation, including adequate training in the use of public transportation vehicles and systems, that is provided in connection with the provision of any other service described in this section and needed by the individual to achieve an employment outcome; ``(9) on-the-job or other related personal assistance services provided while an individual is receiving other services described in this section; ``(10) interpreter services provided by qualified personnel for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, and reader services for individuals who are determined to be blind, after an examination by qualified personnel who meet State licensure laws; ``(11) rehabilitation teaching services, and orientation and mobility services, for individuals who are blind; ``(12) occupational licenses, tools, equipment, and initial stocks and supplies; [[Page 112 STAT.1150]] ``(13) technical assistance and other consultation services to conduct market analyses, develop business plans, and otherwise provide resources, to the extent such resources are authorized to be provided through the statewide workforce investment system, to eligible individuals who are pursuing self-employment or telecommuting or establishing a small business operation as an employment outcome; ``(14) rehabilitation technology, including telecommunications, sensory, and other technological aids and devices; ``(15) transition services for students with disabilities, that facilitate the achievement of the employment outcome identified in the individualized plan for employment; ``(16) supported employment services; ``(17) services to the family of an individual with a disability necessary to assist the individual to achieve an employment outcome; and ``(18) specific post-employment services necessary to assist an individual with a disability to, retain, regain, or advance in employment. ``(b) Vocational Rehabilitation Services for Groups of Individuals.--Vocational rehabilitation services provided for the benefit of groups of individuals with disabilities may also include the following: ``(1) In the case of any type of small business operated by individuals with significant disabilities the operation of which can be improved by management services and supervision provided by the designated State agency, the provision of such services and supervision, along or together with the acquisition by the designated State agency of vending facilities or other equipment and initial stocks and supplies. ``(2)(A) The establishment, development, or improvement of community rehabilitation programs, including, under special circumstances, the construction of a facility. Such programs shall be used to provide services that promote integration and competitive employment. ``(B) The provision of other services, that promise to contribute substantially to the rehabilitation of a group of individuals but that are not related directly to the individualized plan for employment of any 1 individual with a disability. ``(3) The use of telecommunications systems (including telephone, television, satellite, radio, and other similar systems) that have the potential for substantially improving delivery methods of activities described in this section and developing appropriate programming to meet the particular needs of individuals with disabilities. ``(4)(A) Special services to provide nonvisual access to information for individuals who are blind, including the use of telecommunications, Braille, sound recordings, or other appropriate media. ``(B) Captioned television, films, or video cassettes for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. ``(C) Tactile materials for individuals who are deaf-blind. ``(D) Other special services that provide information through tactile, vibratory, auditory, and visual media. ``(5) Technical assistance and support services to businesses that are not subject to title I of the Americans with Disabilities [[Page 112 STAT.1151]] Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12111 et seq.) and that are seeking to employ individuals with disabilities. ``(6) Consultative and technical assistance services to assist educational agencies in planning for the transition of students with disabilities from school to post-school activities, including employment. ``SEC. 104. <<NOTE: 29 USC 724.>> NON-FEDERAL SHARE FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF PROGRAM OR CONSTRUCTION. ``For the purpose of determining the amount of payments to States for carrying out part B (or to an Indian tribe under part C), the non- Federal share, subject to such limitations and conditions as may be prescribed in regulations by the Commissioner, shall include contributions of funds made by any private agency, organization, or individual to a State or local agency to assist in meeting the costs of establishment of a community rehabilitation program or construction, under special circumstances, of a facility for such a program, which would be regarded as State or local funds except for the condition, imposed by the contributor, limiting use of such funds to establishment of such a program or construction of such a facility. ``SEC. 105. <<NOTE: 29 USC 725.>> STATE REHABILITATION COUNCIL. ``(a) Establishment.-- ``(1) In general.--Except as provided in section 101(a)(21)(A)(i), to be eligible to receive financial assistance under this title a State shall establish a State Rehabilitation Council (referred to in this section as the `Council') in accordance with this section. ``(2) Separate agency for individuals who are blind.--A State that designates a State agency to administer the part of the State plan under which vocational rehabilitation services are provided for individuals who are blind under section 101(a)(2)(A)(i) may establish a separate Council in accordance with this section to perform the duties of such a Council with respect to such State agency. ``(b) Composition and Appointment.-- ``(1) Composition.-- ``(A) In general.--Except in the case of a separate Council established under subsection (a)(2), the Council shall be composed of-- ``(i) at least one representative of the Statewide Independent Living Council established under section 705, which representative may be the chairperson or other designee of the Council; ``(ii) at least one representative of a parent training and information center established pursuant to section 682(a) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (as added by section 101 of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997; Public Law 105-17); ``(iii) at least one representative of the client assistance program established under section 112; ``(iv) at least one qualified vocational rehabilitation counselor, with knowledge of and experience with vocational rehabilitation programs, who shall serve as an ex officio, nonvoting member of the Council if the counselor is an employee of the designated State agency; [[Page 112 STAT.1152]] ``(v) at least one representative of community rehabilitation program service providers; ``(vi) four representatives of business, industry, and labor; ``(vii) representatives of disability advocacy groups representing a cross section of-- ``(I) individuals with physical, cognitive, sensory, and mental disabilities; and ``(II) individuals' representatives of individuals with disabilities who have difficulty in representing themselves or are unable due to their disabilities to represent themselves; ``(viii) current or former applicants for, or recipients of, vocational rehabilitation services; ``(ix) in a State in which one or more projects are carried out under section 121, at least one representative of the directors of the projects; ``(x) at least one representative of the State educational agency responsible for the public education of students with disabilities who are eligible to receive services under this title and part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act; and ``(xi) at least one representative of the State workforce investment board. ``(B) Separate council.--In the case of a separate Council established under subsection (a)(2), the Council shall be composed of-- ``(i) at least one representative described in subparagraph (A)(i); ``(ii) at least one representative described in subparagraph (A)(ii); ``(iii) at least one representative described in subparagraph (A)(iii); ``(iv) at least one vocational rehabilitation counselor described in subparagraph (A)(iv), who shall serve as described in such subparagraph; ``(v) at least one representative described in subparagraph (A)(v); ``(vi) four representatives described in subparagraph (A)(vi); ``(vii) at least one representative of a disability advocacy group representing individuals who are blind; ``(viii) at least one individual's representative, of an individual who-- ``(I) is an individual who is blind and has multiple disabilities; and ``(II) has difficulty in representing himself or herself or is unable due to disabilities to represent himself or herself; ``(ix) applicants or recipients described in subparagraph (A)(viii); ``(x) in a State described in subparagraph (A)(ix), at least one representative described in such subparagraph; ``(xi) at least one representative described in subparagraph (A)(x); and [[Page 112 STAT.1153]] ``(xii) at least one representative described in subparagraph (A)(xi). ``(C) Exception.--In the case of a separate Council established under subsection (a)(2), any Council that is required by State law, as in effect on the date of enactment of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1992, to have fewer than 15 members shall be deemed to be in compliance with subparagraph (B) if the Council-- ``(i) meets the requirements of subparagraph (B), other than the requirements of clauses (vi) and (ix) of such subparagraph; and ``(ii) includes at least-- ``(I) one representative described in subparagraph (B)(vi); and ``(II) one applicant or recipient described in subparagraph (B)(ix). ``(2) Ex officio member.--The Director of the designated State unit shall be an ex officio, nonvoting member of the Council. ``(3) Appointment.--Members of the Council shall be appointed by the Governor. The Governor shall select members after soliciting recommendations from representatives of organizations representing a broad range of individuals with disabilities and organizations interested in individuals with disabilities. In selecting members, the Governor shall consider, to the greatest extent practicable, the extent to which minority populations are represented on the Council. ``(4) Qualifications.-- ``(A) In general.--A majority of Council members shall be persons who are-- ``(i) individuals with disabilities described in section 7(20)(A); and ``(ii) not employed by the designated State unit. ``(B) Separate council.--In the case of a separate Council established under subsection (a)(2), a majority of Council members shall be persons who are-- ``(i) blind; and ``(ii) not employed by the designated State unit. ``(5) Chairperson.-- ``(A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the Council shall select a chairperson from among the membership of the Council. ``(B) Designation by governor.--In States in which the chief executive officer does not have veto power pursuant to State law, the Governor shall designate a member of the Council to serve as the chairperson of the Council or shall require the Council to so designate such a member. ``(6) Terms of appointment.-- ``(A) Length of term.--Each member of the Council shall serve for a term of not more than 3 years, except that-- ``(i) a member appointed to fill a vacancy occurring prior to the expiration of the term for which a predecessor was appointed, shall be appointed for the remainder of such term; and ``(ii) the terms of service of the members initially appointed shall be (as specified by the Governor) for [[Page 112 STAT.1154]] such fewer number of years as will provide for the expiration of terms on a staggered basis. ``(B) Number of terms.--No member of the Council, other than a representative described in clause (iii) or (ix) of paragraph (1)(A), or clause (iii) or (x) of paragraph (1)(B), may serve more than two consecutive full terms. ``(7) Vacancies.-- ``(A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph (B), any vacancy occurring in the membership of the Council shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment. The vacancy shall not affect the power of the remaining members to execute the duties of the Council. ``(B) Delegation.--The Governor may delegate the authority to fill such a vacancy to the remaining members of the Council after making the original appointment. ``(c) Functions of Council.--The Council shall, after consulting with the State workforce investment board-- ``(1) review, analyze, and advise the designated State unit regarding the performance of the responsibilities of the unit under this title, particularly responsibilities relating to-- ``(A) eligibility (including order of selection); ``(B) the extent, scope, and effectiveness of services provided; and ``(C) functions performed by State agencies that affect or that potentially affect the ability of individuals with disabilities in achieving employment outcomes under this title; ``(2) in partnership with the designated State unit-- ``(A) develop, agree to, and review State goals and priorities in accordance with section 101(a)(15)(C); and ``(B) evaluate the effectiveness of the vocational rehabilitation program and submit reports of progress to the Commissioner in accordance with section 101(a)(15)(E); ``(3) advise the designated State agency and the designated State unit regarding activities authorized to be carried out under this title, and assist in the preparation of the State plan and amendments to the plan, applications, reports, needs assessments, and evaluations required by this title; ``(4) to the extent feasible, conduct a review and analysis of the effectiveness of, and consumer satisfaction with-- ``(A) the functions performed by the designated State agency; ``(B) vocational rehabilitation services provided by State agencies and other public and private entities responsible for providing vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities under this Act; and ``(C) employment outcomes achieved by eligible individuals receiving services under this title, including the availability of health and other employment benefits in connection with such employment outcomes; ``(5) <<NOTE: Reports.>> prepare and submit an annual report to the Governor and the Commissioner on the status of vocational rehabilitation programs operated within the State, and make the report available to the public; ``(6) to avoid duplication of efforts and enhance the number of individuals served, coordinate activities with the activities [[Page 112 STAT.1155]] of other councils within the State, including the Statewide Independent Living Council established under section 705, the advisory panel established under section 612(a)(21) of the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (as amended by section 101 of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997; Public Law 105-17), the State Developmental Disabilities Council described in section 124 of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (42 U.S.C. 6024), the State mental health planning council established under section 1914(a) of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 300x-4(a)), and the State workforce investment board; ``(7) provide for coordination and the establishment of working relationships between the designated State agency and the Statewide Independent Living Council and centers for independent living within the State; and ``(8) perform such other functions, consistent with the purpose of this title, as the State Rehabilitation Council determines to be appropriate, that are comparable to the other functions performed by the Council. ``(d) Resources.-- ``(1) Plan.--The Council shall prepare, in conjunction with the designated State unit, a plan for the provision of such resources, including such staff and other personnel, as may be necessary and sufficient to carry out the functions of the Council under this section. The resource plan shall, to the maximum extent possible, rely on the use of resources in existence during the period of implementation of the plan. ``(2) Resolution of disagreements.--To the extent that there is a disagreement between the Council and the designated State unit in regard to the resources necessary to carry out the functions of the Council as set forth in this section, the disagreement shall be resolved by the Governor consistent with paragraph (1). ``(3) Supervision and evaluation.--Each Council shall, consistent with State law, supervise and evaluate such staff and other personnel as may be necessary to carry out its functions under this section. ``(4) Personnel conflict of interest.--While assisting the Council in carrying out its duties, staff and other personnel shall not be assigned duties by the designated State unit or any other agency or office of the State, that would create a conflict of interest. ``(e) Conflict of Interest.--No member of the Council shall cast a vote on any matter that would provide direct financial benefit to the member or otherwise give the appearance of a conflict of interest under State law. ``(f ) Meetings.--The Council shall convene at least four meetings a year in such places as it determines to be necessary to conduct Council business and conduct such forums or hearings as the Council considers appropriate. The meetings, hearings, and forums shall be publicly announced. The meetings shall be open and accessible to the general public unless there is a valid reason for an executive session. ``(g) Compensation and Expenses.--The Council may use funds allocated to the Council by the designated State unit under this title (except for funds appropriated to carry out the client [[Page 112 STAT.1156]] assistance program under section 112 and funds reserved pursuant to section 110(c) to carry out part C) to reimburse members of the Council for reasonable and necessary expenses of attending Council meetings and performing Council duties (including child care and personal assistance services), and to pay compensation to a member of the Council, if such member is not employed or must forfeit wages from other employment, for each day the member is engaged in performing the duties of the Council. ``(h) Hearings and Forums.--The Council is authorized to hold such hearings and forums as the Council may determine to be necessary to carry out the duties of the Council. ``SEC. 106. <<NOTE: 29 USC 726.>> EVALUATION STANDARDS AND PERFORMANCE INDICATORS. ``(a) Establishment.-- ``(1) In general.-- ``(A) <<NOTE: Deadline. Publication.>> Establishment of standards and indicators.--The Commissioner shall, not later than July 1, 1999, establish and publish evaluation standards and performance indicators for the vocational rehabilitation program carried out under this title. ``(B) <<NOTE: Effective date.>> Review and revision.--Effective July 1, 1999, the Commissioner shall review and, if necessary, revise the evaluation standards and performance indicators every 3 years. Any revisions of the standards and indicators shall be developed with input from State vocational rehabilitation agencies, related professional and consumer organizations, recipients of vocational rehabilitation services, and other interested parties. Any revisions of the standards and indicators shall be subject to the publication, review, and comment provisions of paragraph (3). ``(C) <<NOTE: Effective date.>> Bases.--Effective July 1, 1999, to the maximum extent practicable, the standards and indicators shall be consistent with the core indicators of performance established under section 136(b) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998. ``(2) Measures.--The standards and indicators shall include outcome and related measures of program performance that facilitate the accomplishment of the purpose and policy of this title. ``(3) <<NOTE: Federal Register, publications.>> Comment.-- The standards and indicators shall be developed with input from State vocational rehabilitation agencies, related professional and consumer organizations, recipients of vocational rehabilitation services, and other interested parties. The Commissioner shall publish in the Federal Register a notice of intent to regulate regarding the development of proposed standards and indicators. Proposed standards and indicators shall be published in the Federal Register for review and comment. Final standards and indicators shall be published in the Federal Register. ``(b) Compliance.-- ``(1) <<NOTE: Regulations.>> State reports.--In accordance with regulations established by the Secretary, each State shall report to the Commissioner after the end of each fiscal year the extent to which the State is in compliance with the standards and indicators. ``(2) Program improvement.-- ``(A) Plan.--If the Commissioner determines that the performance of any State is below established standards, [[Page 112 STAT.1157]] the Commissioner shall provide technical assistance to the State, and the State and the Commissioner shall jointly develop a program improvement plan outlining the specific actions to be taken by the State to improve program performance. ``(B) Review.--The Commissioner shall-- ``(i) review the program improvement efforts of the State on a biannual basis and, if necessary, request the State to make further revisions to the plan to improve performance; and ``(ii) continue to conduct such reviews and request such revisions until the State sustains satisfactory performance over a period of more than 1 year. ``(c) Withholding.--If the Commissioner determines that a State whose performance falls below the established standards has failed to enter into a program improvement plan, or is not complying substantially with the terms and conditions of such a program improvement plan, the Commissioner shall, consistent with subsections (c) and (d) of section 107, reduce or make no further payments to the State under this program, until the State has entered into an approved program improvement plan, or satisfies the Commissioner that the State is complying substantially with the terms and conditions of such a program improvement plan, as appropriate. ``(d) <<NOTE: Effective date.>> Report to Congress.--Beginning in fiscal year 1999, the Commissioner shall include in each annual report to the Congress under section 13 an analysis of program performance, including relative State performance, based on the standards and indicators. ``SEC. 107. <<NOTE: 29 USC 727.>> MONITORING AND REVIEW. ``(a) In General.-- ``(1) Duties.--In carrying out the duties of the Commissioner under this title, the Commissioner shall-- ``(A) provide for the annual review and periodic onsite monitoring of programs under this title; and ``(B) determine whether, in the administration of the State plan, a State is complying substantially with the provisions of such plan and with evaluation standards and performance indicators established under section 106. ``(2) Procedures for reviews.--In conducting reviews under this section the Commissioner shall consider, at a minimum-- ``(A) State policies and procedures; ``(B) guidance materials; ``(C) decisions resulting from hearings conducted in accordance with due process; ``(D) State goals established under section 101(a)(15) and the extent to which the State has achieved such goals; ``(E) plans and reports prepared under section 106(b); ``(F) consumer satisfaction reviews and analyses described in section 105(c)(4); ``(G) information provided by the State Rehabilitation Council established under section 105, if the State has such a Council, or by the commission described in section 101(a)(21)(A)(i), if the State has such a commission; ``(H) reports; and ``(I) budget and financial management data. [[Page 112 STAT.1158]] ``(3) Procedures for monitoring.--In conducting monitoring under this section the Commissioner shall conduct-- ``(A) onsite visits, including onsite reviews of records to verify that the State is following requirements regarding the order of selection set forth in section 101(a)(5)(A); ``(B) public hearings and other strategies for collecting information from the public; ``(C) meetings with the State Rehabilitation Council, if the State has such a Council or with the commission described in section 101(a)(21)(A)(i), if the State has such a commission; ``(D) reviews of individual case files, including individualized plans for employment and ineligibility determinations; and ``(E) meetings with qualified vocational rehabilitation counselors and other personnel. ``(4) Areas of inquiry.--In conducting the review and monitoring, the Commissioner shall examine-- ``(A) the eligibility process; ``(B) the provision of services, including, if applicable, the order of selection; ``(C) such other areas as may be identified by the public or through meetings with the State Rehabilitation Council, if the State has such a Council or with the commission described in section 101(a)(21)(A)(i), if the State has such a commission; and ``(D) such other areas of inquiry as the Commissioner may consider appropriate. ``(5) Reports.--If the Commissioner issues a report detailing the findings of an annual review or onsite monitoring conducted under this section, the report shall be made available to the State Rehabilitation Council, if the State has such a Council, for use in the development and modification of the State plan described in section 101. ``(b) Technical Assistance.--The Commissioner shall-- ``(1) provide technical assistance to programs under this title regarding improving the quality of vocational rehabilitation services provided; and ``(2) provide technical assistance and establish a corrective action plan for a program under this title if the Commissioner finds that the program fails to comply substantially with the provisions of the State plan, or with evaluation standards or performance indicators established under section 106, in order to ensure that such failure is corrected as soon as practicable. ``(c) Failure To Comply With Plan.-- ``(1) Withholding payments.--Whenever the Commissioner, after providing reasonable notice and an opportunity for a hearing to the State agency administering or supervising the administration of the State plan approved under section 101, finds that-- ``(A) the plan has been so changed that it no longer complies with the requirements of section 101(a); or ``(B) <<NOTE: Notification.>> in the administration of the plan there is a failure to comply substantially with any provision of such plan or with an evaluation standard or performance indicator established under section 106, [[Page 112 STAT.1159]] the Commissioner shall notify such State agency that no further payments will be made to the State under this title (or, in the discretion of the Commissioner, that such further payments will be reduced, in accordance with regulations the Commissioner shall prescribe, or that further payments will not be made to the State only for the projects under the parts of the State plan affected by such failure), until the Commissioner is satisfied there is no longer any such failure. ``(2) Period.--Until the Commissioner is so satisfied, the Commissioner shall make no further payments to such State under this title (or shall reduce payments or limit payments to projects under those parts of the State plan in which there is no such failure). ``(3) <<NOTE: Regulations.>> Disbursal of withheld funds.-- The Commissioner may, in accordance with regulations the Secretary shall prescribe, disburse any funds withheld from a State under paragraph (1) to any public or nonprofit private organization or agency within such State or to any political subdivision of such State submitting a plan meeting the requirements of section 101(a). The Commissioner may not make any payment under this paragraph unless the entity to which such payment is made has provided assurances to the Commissioner that such entity will contribute, for purposes of carrying out such plan, the same amount as the State would have been obligated to contribute if the State received such payment. ``(d) <<NOTE: Courts.>> Review.-- ``(1) Petition.--Any State that is dissatisfied with a final determination of the Commissioner under section 101(b) or subsection (c) may file a petition for judicial review of such determination in the United States Court of Appeals for the circuit in which the State is located. Such a petition may be filed only within the 30-day period beginning on the date that notice of such final determination was received by the State. The clerk of the court shall transmit a copy of the petition to the Commissioner or to any officer designated by the Commissioner for that purpose. <<NOTE: Records.>> In accordance with section 2112 of title 28, United States Code, the Commissioner shall file with the court a record of the proceeding on which the Commissioner based the determination being appealed by the State. Until a record is so filed, the Commissioner may modify or set aside any determination made under such proceedings. ``(2) Submissions and determinations.--If, in an action under this subsection to review a final determination of the Commissioner under section 101(b) or subsection (c), the petitioner or the Commissioner applies to the court for leave to have additional oral submissions or written presentations made respecting such determination, the court may, for good cause shown, order the Commissioner to provide within 30 days an additional opportunity to make such submissions and presentations. Within such period, the Commissioner may revise any findings of fact, modify or set aside the determination being reviewed, or make a new determination by reason of the additional submissions and presentations, and shall file such modified or new determination, and any revised findings of fact, with the return of such submissions and presentations. The court shall thereafter review such new or modified determination. [[Page 112 STAT.1160]] ``(3) Standards of review.-- ``(A) In general.--Upon the filing of a petition under paragraph (1) for judicial review of a determination, the court shall have jurisdiction-- ``(i) to grant appropriate relief as provided in chapter 7 of title 5, United States Code, except for interim relief with respect to a determination under subsection (c); and ``(ii) except as otherwise provided in subparagraph (B), to review such determination in accordance with chapter 7 of title 5, United States Code. ``(B) Substantial evidence.--Section 706 of title 5, United States Code, shall apply to the review of any determination under this subsection, except that the standard for review prescribed by paragraph (2)(E) of such section 706 shall not apply and the court shall hold unlawful and set aside such determination if the court finds that the determination is not supported by substantial evidence in the record of the proceeding submitted pursuant to paragraph (1), as supplemented by any additional submissions and presentations filed under paragraph (2). ``SEC. 108. <<NOTE: 29 USC 728.>> EXPENDITURE OF CERTAIN AMOUNTS. ``(a) Expenditure.--Amounts described in subsection (b) may not be expended by a State for any purpose other than carrying out programs for which the State receives financial assistance under this title, under part B of title VI, or under title VII. ``(b) Amounts.--The amounts referred to in subsection (a) are amounts provided to a State under the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 301 et seq.) as reimbursement for the expenditure of payments received by the State from allotments under section 110 of this Act. ``SEC. 109. <<NOTE: 29 USC 728a.>> TRAINING OF EMPLOYERS WITH RESPECT TO AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990. ``A State may expend payments received under section 111-- ``(1) to carry out a program to train employers with respect to compliance with the requirements of title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12111 et seq.); and ``(2) to inform employers of the existence of the program and the availability of the services of the program. ``Part B--Basic Vocational Rehabilitation Services ``SEC. 110. <<NOTE: 29 USC 730.>> STATE ALLOTMENTS. ``(a)(1) Subject to the provisions of subsection (c), for each fiscal year beginning before October 1, 1978, each State shall be entitled to an allotment of an amount bearing the same ratio to the amount authorized to be appropriated under section 100(b)(1) for allotment under this section as the product of-- ``(A) the population of the State; and ``(B) the square of its allotment percentage, bears to the sum of the corresponding products for all the States. ``(2)(A) For each fiscal year beginning on or after October 1, 1978, each State shall be entitled to an allotment in an amount equal to the amount such State received under paragraph (1) for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1978, and an additional amount determined pursuant to subparagraph (B) of this paragraph. [[Page 112 STAT.1161]] ``(B) For each fiscal year beginning on or after October 1, 1978, each State shall be entitled to an allotment, from any amount authorized to be appropriated for such fiscal year under section 100(b)(1) for allotment under this section in excess of the amount appropriated under section 100(b)(1)(A) for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1978, in an amount equal to the sum of-- ``(i) an amount bearing the same ratio to 50 percent of such excess amount as the product of the population of the State and the square of its allotment percentage bears to the sum of the corresponding products for all the States; and ``(ii) an amount bearing the same ratio to 50 percent of such excess amount as the product of the population of the State and its allotment percentage bears to the sum of the corresponding products for all the States. ``(3) The sum of the payment to any State (other than Guam, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands) under this subsection for any fiscal year which is less than \1/3\ of 1 percent of the amount appropriated under section 100(b)(1), or $3,000,000, whichever is greater, shall be increased to that amount, the total of the increases thereby required being derived by proportionately reducing the allotment to each of the remaining such States under this subsection, but with such adjustments as may be necessary to prevent the sum of the allotments made under this subsection to any such remaining State from being thereby reduced to less than that amount. ``(b)(1) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> Not later than 45 days prior to the end of the fiscal year, the Commissioner shall determine, after reasonable opportunity for the submission to the Commissioner of comments by the State agency administering or supervising the program established under this title, that any payment of an allotment to a State under section 111(a) for any fiscal year will not be utilized by such State in carrying out the purposes of this title. ``(2) As soon as practicable but not later than the end of the fiscal year, the Commissioner shall make such amount available for carrying out the purposes of this title to one or more other States to the extent the Commissioner determines such other State will be able to use such additional amount during that fiscal year or the subsequent fiscal year for carrying out such purposes. The Commissioner shall make such amount available only if such other State will be able to make sufficient payments from non-Federal sources to pay for the non-Federal share of the cost of vocational rehabilitation services under the State plan for the fiscal year for which the amount was appropriated. ``(3) For the purposes of this part, any amount made available to a State for any fiscal year pursuant to this subsection shall be regarded as an increase of such State's allotment (as determined under the preceding provisions of this section) for such year. ``(c)(1) For fiscal year 1987 and for each subsequent fiscal year, the Commissioner shall reserve from the amount appropriated under section 100(b)(1) for allotment under this section a sum, determined under paragraph (2), to carry out the purposes of part C. ``(2) The sum referred to in paragraph (1) shall be, as determined by the Secretary-- ``(A) not less than three-quarters of 1 percent and not more than 1.5 percent of the amount referred to in paragraph (1), for fiscal year 1999; and [[Page 112 STAT.1162]] ``(B) not less than 1 percent and not more than 1.5 percent of the amount referred to in paragraph (1), for each of fiscal years 2000 through 2003. ``SEC. 111. <<NOTE: 29 USC 731.>> PAYMENTS TO STATES. ``(a)(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), from each State's allotment under this part for any fiscal year, the Commissioner shall pay to a State an amount equal to the Federal share of the cost of vocational rehabilitation services under the plan for that State approved under section 101, including expenditures for the administration of the State plan. ``(2)(A) The total of payments under paragraph (1) to a State for a fiscal year may not exceed its allotment under subsection (a) of section 110 for such year. ``(B) For fiscal year 1994 and each fiscal year thereafter, the amount otherwise payable to a State for a fiscal year under this section shall be reduced by the amount by which expenditures from non-Federal sources under the State plan under this title for the previous fiscal year are less than the total of such expenditures for the second fiscal year preceding the previous fiscal year. ``(C) The Commissioner may waive or modify any requirement or limitation under subparagraph (B) or section 101(a)(17) if the Commissioner determines that a waiver or modification is an equitable response to exceptional or uncontrollable circumstances affecting the State. ``(3)(A) Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the amount of a payment under this section with respect to any construction project in any State shall be equal to the same percentage of the cost of such project as the Federal share that is applicable in the case of rehabilitation facilities (as defined in section 645(g) of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 291o(a))), in such State. ``(B) If the Federal share with respect to rehabilitation facilities in such State is determined pursuant to section 645(b)(2) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 291o(b)(2)), the percentage of the cost for purposes of this section shall be determined in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Commissioner designed to achieve as nearly as practicable results comparable to the results obtained under such section. ``(b) The method of computing and paying amounts pursuant to subsection (a) shall be as follows: ``(1) The Commissioner shall, prior to the beginning of each calendar quarter or other period prescribed by the Commissioner, estimate the amount to be paid to each State under the provisions of such subsection for such period, such estimate to be based on such records of the State and information furnished by it, and such other investigation as the Commissioner may find necessary. ``(2) The Commissioner shall pay, from the allotment available therefor, the amount so estimated by the Commissioner for such period, reduced or increased, as the case may be, by any sum (not previously adjusted under this paragraph) by which the Commissioner finds that the estimate of the amount to be paid the State for any prior period under such subsection was greater or less than the amount which should have been paid to the State for such prior period under such subsection. Such payment shall be made prior to audit or [[Page 112 STAT.1163]] settlement by the General Accounting Office, shall be made through the disbursing facilities of the Treasury Department, and shall be made in such installments as the Commissioner may determine. ``SEC. 112. <<NOTE: 29 USC 732.>> CLIENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. ``(a) <<NOTE: Grants.>> From funds appropriated under subsection (h), the Secretary shall, in accordance with this section, make grants to States to establish and carry out client assistance programs to provide assistance in informing and advising all clients and client applicants of all available benefits under this Act, and, upon request of such clients or client applicants, to assist and advocate for such clients or applicants in their relationships with projects, programs, and services provided under this Act, including assistance and advocacy in pursuing legal, administrative, or other appropriate remedies to ensure the protection of the rights of such individuals under this Act and to facilitate access to the services funded under this Act through individual and systemic advocacy. The client assistance program shall provide information on the available services and benefits under this Act and title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12111 et seq.) to individuals with disabilities in the State, especially with regard to individuals with disabilities who have traditionally been unserved or underserved by vocational rehabilitation programs. In providing assistance and advocacy under this subsection with respect to services under this title, a client assistance program may provide the assistance and advocacy with respect to services that are directly related to facilitating the employment of the individual. ``(b) No State may receive payments from its allotment under this Act in any fiscal year unless the State has in effect not later than October 1, 1984, a client assistance program which-- ``(1) has the authority to pursue legal, administrative, and other appropriate remedies to ensure the protection of rights of individuals with disabilities who are receiving treatments, services, or rehabilitation under this Act within the State; and ``(2) meets the requirements of designation under subsection (c). ``(c)(1)(A) The Governor shall designate a public or private agency to conduct the client assistance program under this section. Except as provided in the last sentence of this subparagraph, the Governor shall designate an agency which is independent of any agency which provides treatment, services, or rehabilitation to individuals under this Act. If there is an agency in the State which has, or had, prior to the date of enactment of the Rehabilitation Amendments of 1984, served as a client assistance agency under this section and which received Federal financial assistance under this Act, the Governor may, in the initial designation, designate an agency which provides treatment, services, or rehabilitation to individuals with disabilities under this Act. ``(B)(i) The Governor may not redesignate the agency designated under subparagraph (A) without good cause and unless-- ``(I) the Governor has given the agency 30 days notice of the intention to make such redesignation, including specification of the good cause for such redesignation and an opportunity to respond to the assertion that good cause has been shown; [[Page 112 STAT.1164]] ``(II) individuals with disabilities or the individuals' representatives have timely notice of the redesignation and opportunity for public comment; and ``(III) the agency has the opportunity to appeal to the Commissioner on the basis that the redesignation was not for good cause. ``(ii) If, after the date of enactment of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998-- ``(I) a designated State agency undergoes any change in the organizational structure of the agency that results in the creation of one or more new State agencies or departments or results in the merger of the designated State agency with one or more other State agencies or departments; and ``(II) an agency (including an office or other unit) within the designated State agency was conducting a client assistance program before the change under the last sentence of subparagraph (A), the Governor shall redesignate the agency conducting the program. In conducting the redesignation, the Governor shall designate to conduct the program an agency that is independent of any agency that provides treatment, services, or rehabilitation to individuals with disabilities under this Act. ``(2) In carrying out the provisions of this section, the Governor shall consult with the director of the State vocational rehabilitation agency, the head of the developmental disability protection and advocacy agency, and with representatives of professional and consumer organizations serving individuals with disabilities in the State. ``(3) The agency designated under this subsection shall be accountable for the proper use of funds made available to the agency. ``(d) The agency designated under subsection (c) of this section may not bring any class action in carrying out its responsibilities under this section. ``(e)(1)(A) The Secretary shall allot the sums appropriated for each fiscal year under this section among the States on the basis of relative population of each State, except that no State shall receive less than $50,000. ``(B) The Secretary shall allot $30,000 each to American Samoa, Guam, the Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. ``(C) For the purpose of this paragraph, the term `State' does not include American Samoa, Guam, the Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. ``(D)(i) In any fiscal year that the funds appropriated for such fiscal year exceed $7,500,000, the minimum allotment shall be $100,000 for States and $45,000 for territories. ``(ii) For any fiscal year in which the total amount appropriated under subsection (h) exceeds the total amount appropriated under such subsection for the preceding fiscal year, the Secretary shall increase each of the minimum allotments under clause (i) by a percentage that shall not exceed the percentage increase in the total amount appropriated under such subsection between the preceding fiscal year and the fiscal year involved. ``(2) The amount of an allotment to a State for a fiscal year which the Secretary determines will not be required by the State during the period for which it is available for the purpose for [[Page 112 STAT.1165]] which allotted shall be available for reallotment by the Secretary at appropriate times to other States with respect to which such a determination has not been made, in proportion to the original allotments of such States for such fiscal year, but with such proportionate amount for any of such other States being reduced to the extent it exceeds the sum the Secretary estimates such State needs and will be able to use during such period, and the total of such reduction shall be similarly reallotted among the States whose proportionate amounts were not so reduced. Any such amount so reallotted to a State for a fiscal year shall be deemed to be a part of its allotment for such fiscal year. ``(3) Except as specifically prohibited by or as otherwise provided in State law, the Secretary shall pay to the agency designated under subsection (c) the amount specified in the application approved under subsection (f ). ``(f ) No grant may be made under this section unless the State submits an application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing or accompanied by such information as the Secretary deems necessary to meet the requirements of this section. ``(g) <<NOTE: Regulations.>> The Secretary shall prescribe regulations applicable to the client assistance program which shall include the following requirements: ``(1) No employees of such programs shall, while so employed, serve as staff or consultants of any rehabilitation project, program, or facility receiving assistance under this Act in the State. ``(2) Each program shall be afforded reasonable access to policymaking and administrative personnel in the State and local rehabilitation programs, projects, or facilities. ``(3)(A) Each program shall contain provisions designed to assure that to the maximum extent possible alternative means of dispute resolution are available for use at the discretion of an applicant or client of the program prior to resorting to litigation or formal adjudication to resolve a dispute arising under this section. ``(B) In subparagraph (A), the term `alternative means of dispute resolution' means any procedure, including good faith negotiation, conciliation, facilitation, mediation, factfinding, and arbitration, and any combination of procedures, that is used in lieu of litigation in a court or formal adjudication in an administrative forum, to resolve a dispute arising under this section. ``(4) For purposes of any periodic audit, report, or evaluation of the performance of a client assistance program under this section, the Secretary shall not require such a program to disclose the identity of, or any other personally identifiable information related to, any individual requesting assistance under such program. ``(h) <<NOTE: Appropriation authorization.>> There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for fiscal years 1999 through 2003 to carry out the provisions of this section. [[Page 112 STAT.1166]] ``Part C--American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services ``SEC. 121. <<NOTE: 29 USC 741.>> VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES GRANTS. ``(a) The Commissioner, in accordance with the provisions of this part, may make grants to the governing bodies of Indian tribes located on Federal and State reservations (and consortia of such governing bodies) to pay 90 percent of the costs of vocational rehabilitation services for American Indians who are individuals with disabilities residing on or near such reservations. The non-Federal share of such costs may be in cash or in kind, fairly valued, and the Commissioner may waive such non-Federal share requirement in order to carry out the purposes of this Act. ``(b)(1) No grant may be made under this part for any fiscal year unless an application therefor has been submitted to and approved by the Commissioner. The Commissioner may not approve an application unless the application-- ``(A) is made at such time, in such manner, and contains such information as the Commissioner may require; ``(B) contains assurances that the rehabilitation services provided under this part to American Indians who are individuals with disabilities residing on or near a reservation in a State shall be, to the maximum extent feasible, comparable to rehabilitation services provided under this title to other individuals with disabilities residing in the State and that, where appropriate, may include services traditionally used by Indian tribes; and ``(C) contains assurances that the application was developed in consultation with the designated State unit of the State. ``(2) The provisions of sections 5, 6, 7, and 102(a) of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act shall be applicable to any application submitted under this part. For purposes of this paragraph, any reference in any such provision to the Secretary of Education or to the Secretary of the Interior shall be considered to be a reference to the Commissioner. ``(3) Any application approved under this part shall be effective for not more than 60 months, except as determined otherwise by the Commissioner pursuant to prescribed regulations. The State shall continue to provide vocational rehabilitation services under its State plan to American Indians residing on or near a reservation whenever such State includes any such American Indians in its State population under section 110(a)(1). ``(4) In making grants under this part, the Secretary shall give priority consideration to applications for the continuation of programs which have been funded under this part. ``(5) Nothing in this section may be construed to authorize a separate service delivery system for Indian residents of a State who reside in non-reservation areas. ``(c) The term `reservation' includes Indian reservations, public domain Indian allotments, former Indian reservations in Oklahoma, and land held by incorporated Native groups, regional corporations, and village corporations under the provisions of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act. [[Page 112 STAT.1167]] ``Part D--Vocational Rehabilitation Services Client Information ``SEC. 131. <<NOTE: 29 USC 751.>> DATA SHARING. ``(a) In General.-- ``(1) Memorandum of understanding.--The Secretary of Education and the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall enter into a memorandum of understanding for the purposes of exchanging data of mutual importance-- ``(A) that concern clients of designated State agencies; and ``(B) that are data maintained either by-- ``(i) the Rehabilitation Services Administration, as required by section 13; or ``(ii) the Social Security Administration, from its Summary Earnings and Records and Master Beneficiary Records. ``(2) Employment statistics.--The Secretary of Labor shall provide the Commissioner with employment statistics specified in section 15 of the Wagner-Peyser Act, that facilitate evaluation by the Commissioner of the program carried out under part B, and allow the Commissioner to compare the progress of individuals with disabilities who are assisted under the program in securing, retaining, regaining, and advancing in employment with the progress made by individuals who are assisted under title I of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998. ``(b) Treatment of Information.--For purposes of the exchange described in subsection (a)(1), the data described in subsection (a)(1)(B)(ii) shall not be considered return information (as defined in section 6103(b)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986) and, as appropriate, the confidentiality of all client information shall be maintained by the Rehabilitation Services Administration and the Social Security Administration.''. SEC. 405. RESEARCH AND TRAINING. Title II of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 760 et seq.), is amended to read as follows: ``TITLE II--RESEARCH AND TRAINING ``declaration of purpose ``Sec. 200. <<NOTE: 29 USC 760.>> The purpose of this title is to-- ``(1) provide for research, demonstration projects, training, and related activities to maximize the full inclusion and integration into society, employment, independent living, family support, and economic and social self-sufficiency of individuals with disabilities of all ages, with particular emphasis on improving the effectiveness of services authorized under this Act; ``(2) provide for a comprehensive and coordinated approach to the support and conduct of such research, demonstration projects, training, and related activities and to ensure that the approach is in accordance with the 5-year plan developed under section 202(h); ``(3) promote the transfer of rehabilitation technology to individuals with disabilities through research and demonstration projects relating to-- [[Page 112 STAT.1168]] ``(A) the procurement process for the purchase of rehabilitation technology; ``(B) the utilization of rehabilitation technology on a national basis; ``(C) specific adaptations or customizations of products to enable individuals with disabilities to live more independently; and ``(D) the development or transfer of assistive technology; ``(4) ensure the widespread distribution, in usable formats, of practical scientific and technological information-- ``(A) generated by research, demonstration projects, training, and related activities; and ``(B) regarding state-of-the-art practices, improvements in the services authorized under this Act, rehabilitation technology, and new knowledge regarding disabilities, to rehabilitation professionals, individuals with disabilities, and other interested parties, including the general public; ``(5) identify effective strategies that enhance the opportunities of individuals with disabilities to engage in employment, including employment involving telecommuting and self-employment; and ``(6) increase opportunities for researchers who are members of traditionally underserved populations, including researchers who are members of minority groups and researchers who are individuals with disabilities. ``authorization of appropriations ``Sec. 201. <<NOTE: 29 USC 761.>> (a) There are authorized to be appropriated-- ``(1) for the purpose of providing for the expenses of the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research under section 202, which shall include the expenses of the Rehabilitation Research Advisory Council under section 205, and shall not include the expenses of such Institute to carry out section 204, such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 1999 through 2003; and ``(2) to carry out section 204, such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 1999 through 2003. ``(b) Funds appropriated under this title shall remain available until expended. ``national institute on disability and rehabilitation research ``Sec. 202. <<NOTE: Establishment. 29 USC 762.>> (a)(1) There is established within the Department of Education a National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (hereinafter in this title referred to as the `Institute'), which shall be headed by a Director (hereinafter in this title referred to as the `Director'), in order to-- ``(A) promote, coordinate, and provide for-- ``(i) research; ``(ii) demonstration projects and training; and ``(iii) related activities, with respect to individuals with disabilities; ``(B) more effectively carry out activities through the programs under section 204 and activities under this section; ``(C) widely disseminate information from the activities described in subparagraphs (A) and (B); and [[Page 112 STAT.1169]] ``(D) provide leadership in advancing the quality of life of individuals with disabilities. ``(2) In the performance of the functions of the office, the Director shall be directly responsible to the Secretary or to the same Under Secretary or Assistant Secretary of the Department of Education to whom the Commissioner is responsible under section 3(a). ``(b) The Director, through the Institute, shall be responsible for-- ``(1) administering the programs described in section 204 and activities under this section; ``(2) widely disseminating findings, conclusions, and recommendations, resulting from research, demonstration projects, training, and related activities (referred to in this title as `covered activities') funded by the Institute, to-- ``(A) other Federal, State, tribal, and local public agencies; ``(B) private organizations engaged in research relating to rehabilitation or providing rehabilitation services; ``(C) rehabilitation practitioners; and ``(D) individuals with disabilities and the individuals' representatives; ``(3) coordinating, through the Interagency Committee established by section 203 of this Act, all Federal programs and policies relating to research in rehabilitation; ``(4) widely disseminating educational materials and research results, concerning ways to maximize the full inclusion and integration into society, employment, independent living, family support, and economic and social self-sufficiency of individuals with disabilities, to-- ``(A) public and private entities, including-- ``(i) elementary and secondary schools (as defined in section 14101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965; and ``(ii) institutions of higher education; ``(B) rehabilitation practitioners; ``(C) individuals with disabilities (especially such individuals who are members of minority groups or of populations that are unserved or underserved by programs under this Act); and ``(D) the individuals' representatives for the individuals described in subparagraph (C); ``(5)(A) conducting an education program to inform the public about ways of providing for the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities, including information relating to-- ``(i) family care; ``(ii) self-care; and ``(iii) assistive technology devices and assistive technology services; and ``(B) as part of the program, disseminating engineering information about assistive technology devices; ``(6) conducting conferences, seminars, and workshops (including in-service training programs and programs for individuals with disabilities) concerning advances in rehabilitation research and rehabilitation technology (including advances concerning the selection and use of assistive technology devices and assistive technology services), pertinent to the full inclusion [[Page 112 STAT.1170]] and integration into society, employment, independent living, family support, and economic and social self-sufficiency of individuals with disabilities; ``(7) taking whatever action is necessary to keep the Congress fully and currently informed with respect to the implementation and conduct of programs and activities carried out under this title, including dissemination activities; ``(8) producing, in conjunction with the Department of Labor, the National Center for Health Statistics, the Bureau of the Census, the Health Care Financing Administration, the Social Security Administration, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Indian Health Service, and other Federal departments and agencies, as may be appropriate, statistical reports and studies on the employment, self-employment, telecommuting, health, income, and other demographic characteristics of individuals with disabilities, including information on individuals with disabilities who live in rural or inner-city settings, with particular attention given to underserved populations, and widely disseminating such reports and studies to rehabilitation professionals, individuals with disabilities, the individuals' representatives, and others to assist in the planning, assessment, and evaluation of vocational and other rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities; ``(9) conducting research on consumer satisfaction with vocational rehabilitation services for the purpose of identifying effective rehabilitation programs and policies that promote the independence of individuals with disabilities and achievement of long-term vocational goals; ``(10) conducting research to examine the relationship between the provision of specific services and successful, sustained employment outcomes, including employment outcomes involving self-employment and telecommuting; and ``(11) coordinating activities with the Attorney General regarding the provision of information, training, or technical assistance regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.) to ensure consistency with the plan for technical assistance required under section 506 of such Act (42 U.S.C. 12206). ``(c)(1) The Director, acting through the Institute or one or more entities funded by the Institute, shall provide for the development and dissemination of models to address consumer-driven information needs related to assistive technology devices and assistive technology services. ``(2) The development and dissemination of models may include-- ``(A) convening groups of individuals with disabilities, family members and advocates of such individuals, commercial producers of assistive technology, and entities funded by the Institute to develop, assess, and disseminate knowledge about information needs related to assistive technology; ``(B) identifying the types of information regarding assistive technology devices and assistive technology services that individuals with disabilities find especially useful; ``(C) evaluating current models, and developing new models, for transmitting the information described in subparagraph (B) to consumers and to commercial producers of assistive technology; and [[Page 112 STAT.1171]] ``(D) disseminating through one or more entities funded by the Institute, the models described in subparagraph (C) and findings regarding the information described in subparagraph (B) to consumers and commercial producers of assistive technology. ``(d)(1) The Director of the Institute shall be appointed by the Secretary. The Director shall be an individual with substantial experience in rehabilitation and in research administration. ``(2) The Director, subject to the approval of the President, may appoint, for terms not to exceed three years, without regard to the provisions of title 5, United States Code, governing appointment in the competitive service, and may compensate, without regard to the provisions of chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of such title relating to classification and General Schedule pay rates, such technical and professional employees of the Institute as the Director determines to be necessary to accomplish the functions of the Institute and also appoint and compensate without regard to such provisions, in a number not to exceed one-fifth of the number of full-time, regular technical and professional employees of the Institute. ``(3) The Director may obtain the services of consultants, without regard to the provisions of title 5, United States Code, governing appointments in the competitive service. ``(e) <<NOTE: Regulations.>> The Director, pursuant to regulations which the Secretary shall prescribe, may establish and maintain fellowships with such stipends and allowances, including travel and subsistence expenses provided for under title 5, United States Code, as the Director considers necessary to procure the assistance of highly qualified research fellows, including individuals with disabilities, from the United States and foreign countries. ``(f )(1) The Director shall provide for scientific peer review of all applications for financial assistance for research, training, and demonstration projects over which the Director has authority. The scientific peer review shall be conducted by individuals who are not Federal employees, who are scientists or other experts in the rehabilitation field (including the independent living field), including knowledgeable individuals with disabilities, and the individuals' representatives, and who are competent to review applications for the financial assistance. ``(2) In providing for such scientific peer review, the Secretary shall provide for training, as necessary and appropriate, to facilitate the effective participation of those individuals selected to participate in such review. ``(g) Not less than 90 percent of the funds appropriated under this title for any fiscal year shall be expended by the Director to carry out activities under this title through grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements. Up to 10 percent of the funds appropriated under this title for any fiscal year may be expended directly for the purpose of carrying out the functions of the Director under this section. ``(h)(1) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> The Director shall-- ``(A) <<NOTE: Federal Register, publication.>> by October 1, 1998, and every fifth October 1 thereafter, prepare and publish in the Federal Register for public comment a draft of a 5-year plan that outlines priorities for rehabilitation research, demonstration projects, training, and related activities and explains the basis for such priorities; [[Page 112 STAT.1172]] ``(B) by June 1, 1999, and every fifth June 1 thereafter, after considering public comments, submit the plan in final form to the appropriate committees of Congress; ``(C) at appropriate intervals, prepare and submit revisions in the plan to the appropriate committees of Congress; and ``(D) <<NOTE: Reports.>> annually prepare and submit progress reports on the plan to the appropriate committees of Congress. ``(2) Such plan shall-- ``(A) identify any covered activity that should be conducted under this section and section 204 respecting the full inclusion and integration into society of individuals with disabilities, especially in the area of employment; ``(B) determine the funding priorities for covered activities to be conducted under this section and section 204; ``(C) specify appropriate goals and timetables for covered activities to be conducted under this section and section 204; ``(D) be developed by the Director-- ``(i) after consultation with the Rehabilitation Research Advisory Council established under section 205; ``(ii) in coordination with the Commissioner; ``(iii) after consultation with the National Council on Disability established under title IV, the Secretary of Education, officials responsible for the administration of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (42 U.S.C. 6000 et seq.), and the Interagency Committee on Disability Research established under section 203; and ``(iv) after full consideration of the input of individuals with disabilities and the individuals' representatives, organizations representing individuals with disabilities, providers of services furnished under this Act, researchers in the rehabilitation field, and any other persons or entities the Director considers to be appropriate; ``(E) specify plans for widespread dissemination of the results of covered activities, in accessible formats, to rehabilitation practitioners, individuals with disabilities, and the individuals' representatives; and ``(F) specify plans for widespread dissemination of the results of covered activities that concern individuals with disabilities who are members of minority groups or of populations that are unserved or underserved by programs carried out under this Act. ``(i) In order to promote cooperation among Federal departments and agencies conducting research programs, the Director shall consult with the administrators of such programs, and with the Interagency Committee established by section 203, regarding the design of research projects conducted by such entities and the results and applications of such research. ``( j)(1) The Director shall take appropriate actions to provide for a comprehensive and coordinated research program under this title. In providing such a program, the Director may undertake joint activities with other Federal entities engaged in research and with appropriate private entities. Any Federal entity proposing to establish any research project related to the purposes of this Act shall consult, through the Interagency Committee established by section 203, with the Director as Chairperson of such Committee [[Page 112 STAT.1173]] and provide the Director with sufficient prior opportunity to comment on such project. ``(2) Any person responsible for administering any program of the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the National Science Foundation, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, or of any other Federal entity, shall, through the Interagency Committee established by section 203, consult and cooperate with the Director in carrying out such program if the program is related to the purposes of this title. ``(3) <<NOTE: Grants. Contracts.>> The Director shall support, directly or by grant or contract, a center associated with an institution of higher education, for research and training concerning the delivery of vocational rehabilitation services to rural areas. ``(k) <<NOTE: Grants.>> The Director shall make grants to institutions of higher education for the training of rehabilitation researchers, including individuals with disabilities, with particular attention to research areas that support the implementation and objectives of this Act and that improve the effectiveness of services authorized under this Act. ``interagency committee ``Sec. 203. <<NOTE: Establishment. 29 USC 763.>> (a)(1) In order to promote coordination and cooperation among Federal departments and agencies conducting rehabilitation research programs, there is established within the Federal Government an Interagency Committee on Disability Research (hereinafter in this section referred to as the `Committee'), chaired by the Director and comprised of such members as the President may designate, including the following (or their designees): the Director, the Commissioner of the Rehabilitation Services Administration, the Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, the Secretary of Education, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Director of the National Institutes of Health, the Director of the National Institute of Mental Health, the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the Secretary of Transportation, the Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Indian Affairs, the Director of the Indian Health Service, and the Director of the National Science Foundation. ``(2) The Committee shall meet not less than four times each year. ``(b) After receiving input from individuals with disabilities and the individuals' representatives, the Committee shall identify, assess, and seek to coordinate all Federal programs, activities, and projects, and plans for such programs, activities, and projects with respect to the conduct of research related to rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities. ``(c) <<NOTE: Reports.>> The Committee shall annually submit to the President and to the appropriate committees of the Congress a report making such recommendations as the Committee deems appropriate with respect to coordination of policy and development of objectives and priorities for all Federal programs relating to the conduct of research related to rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities. ``research and other covered activities ``Sec. 204. <<NOTE: 29 USC 764.>> (a)(1) To the extent consistent with priorities established in the 5-year plan described in section 202(h), the Director [[Page 112 STAT.1174]] may make grants to and contracts with States and public or private agencies and organizations, including institutions of higher education, Indian tribes, and tribal organizations, to pay part of the cost of projects for the purpose of planning and conducting research, demonstration projects, training, and related activities, the purposes of which are 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 significant disabilities, and improve the effectiveness of services authorized under this Act. ``(2)(A) In carrying out this section, the Director shall emphasize projects that support the implementation of titles I, III, V, VI, and VII, including projects addressing the needs described in the State plans submitted under section 101 or 704 by State agencies. ``(B) Such projects, as described in the State plans submitted by State agencies, may include-- ``(i) medical and other scientific, technical, methodological, and other investigations into the nature of disability, methods of analyzing it, and restorative techniques, including basic research where related to rehabilitation techniques or services; ``(ii) studies and analysis of industrial, vocational, social, recreational, psychiatric, psychological, economic, and other factors affecting rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities; ``(iii) studies and analysis of special problems of individuals who are homebound and individuals who are institutionalized; ``(iv) studies, analyses, and demonstrations of architectural and engineering design adapted to meet the special needs of individuals with disabilities; ``(v) studies, analyses, and other activities related to supported employment; ``(vi) related activities which hold promise of increasing knowledge and improving methods in the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities and individuals with the most significant disabilities, particularly individuals with disabilities, and individuals with the most significant disabilities, who are members of populations that are unserved or underserved by programs under this Act; and ``(vii) studies, analyses, and other activities related to job accommodations, including the use of rehabilitation engineering and assistive technology. ``(b)(1) In addition to carrying out projects under subsection (a), the Director may make grants under this subsection (referred to in this subsection as `research grants') to pay part or all of the cost of the research or other specialized covered activities described in paragraphs (2) through (18). A research grant made under any of paragraphs (2) through (18) may only be used in a manner consistent with priorities established in the 5-year plan described in section 202(h). ``(2)(A) Research grants may be used for the establishment and support of Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers, for the purpose of providing an integrated program of research, which Centers shall-- ``(i) be operated in collaboration with institutions of higher education or providers of rehabilitation services or other appropriate services; and [[Page 112 STAT.1175]] ``(ii) serve as centers of national excellence and national or regional resources for providers and individuals with disabilities and the individuals' representatives. ``(B) The Centers shall conduct research and training activities by-- ``(i) conducting coordinated and advanced programs of research in rehabilitation targeted toward the production of new knowledge that will improve rehabilitation methodology and service delivery systems, alleviate or stabilize disabling conditions, and promote maximum social and economic independence of individuals with disabilities, especially promoting the ability of the individuals to prepare for, secure, retain, regain, or advance in employment; ``(ii) providing training (including graduate, pre-service, and in-service training) to assist individuals to more effectively provide rehabilitation services; ``(iii) providing training (including graduate, pre-service, and in-service training) for rehabilitation research personnel and other rehabilitation personnel; and ``(iv) serving as an informational and technical assistance resource to providers, individuals with disabilities, and the individuals' representatives, through conferences, workshops, public education programs, in-service training programs, and similar activities. ``(C) The research to be carried out at each such Center may include-- ``(i) basic or applied medical rehabilitation research; ``(ii) research regarding the psychological and social aspects of rehabilitation, including disability policy; ``(iii) research related to vocational rehabilitation; ``(iv) continuation of research that promotes the emotional, social, educational, and functional growth of children who are individuals with disabilities; ``(v) continuation of research to develop and evaluate interventions, policies, and services that support families of those children and adults who are individuals with disabilities; and ``(vi) continuation of research that will improve services and policies that foster the productivity, independence, and social integration of individuals with disabilities, and enable individuals with disabilities, including individuals with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities, to live in their communities. ``(D) Training of students preparing to be rehabilitation personnel shall be an important priority for such a Center. ``(E) <<NOTE: Grants.>> The Director shall make grants under this paragraph to establish and support both comprehensive centers dealing with multiple disabilities and centers primarily focused on particular disabilities. ``(F) Grants made under this paragraph may be used to provide funds for services rendered by such a Center to individuals with disabilities in connection with the research and training activities. ``(G) Grants made under this paragraph may be used to provide faculty support for teaching-- ``(i) rehabilitation-related courses of study for credit; and ``(ii) other courses offered by the Centers, either directly or through another entity. [[Page 112 STAT.1176]] ``(H) The research and training activities conducted by such a Center shall be conducted in a manner that is accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities. ``(I) The Director shall encourage the Centers to develop practicalapplications for the findings of the research of the Centers. ``(J) In awarding grants under this paragraph, the Director shall take into consideration the location of any proposed Center and the appropriate geographic and regional allocation of such Centers. ``(K) To be eligible to receive a grant under this paragraph, each such institution or provider described in subparagraph (A) shall-- ``(i) be of sufficient size, scope, and quality to effectively carry out the activities in an efficient manner consistent with appropriate Federal and State law; and ``(ii) demonstrate the ability to carry out the training activities either directly or through another entity that can provide such training. ``(L) <<NOTE: Grants.>> The Director shall make grants under this paragraph for periods of 5 years, except that the Director may make a grant for a period of less than 5 years if-- ``(i) the grant is made to a new recipient; or ``(ii) the grant supports new or innovative research. ``(M) Grants made under this paragraph shall be made on a competitive basis. To be eligible to receive a grant under this paragraph, a prospective grant recipient shall submit an application to the Director at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Director may require. ``(N) In conducting scientific peer review under section 202(f ) of an application for the renewal of a grant made under this paragraph, the peer review panel shall take into account the past performance of the applicant in carrying out the grant and input from individuals with disabilities and the individuals' representatives. ``(O) An institution or provider that receives a grant under this paragraph to establish such a Center may not collect more than 15 percent of the amount of the grant received by the Center in indirect cost charges. ``(3)(A) Research grants may be used for the establishment and support of Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers, operated by or in collaboration with institutions of higher education or nonprofit organizations, to conduct research or demonstration activities, and training activities, regarding rehabilitation technology, including rehabilitation engineering, assistive technology devices, and assistive technology services, for the purposes of enhancing opportunities for better meeting the needs of, and addressing the barriers confronted by, individuals with disabilities in all aspects of their lives. ``(B) In order to carry out the purposes set forth in subparagraph (A), such a Center shall carry out the research or demonstration activities by-- ``(i) developing and disseminating innovative methods of applying advanced technology, scientific achievement, and psychological and social knowledge to-- ``(I) solve rehabilitation problems and remove environmental barriers through planning and conducting research, [[Page 112 STAT.1177]] including cooperative research with public or private agencies and organizations, designed to produce new scientific knowledge, and new or improved methods, equipment, and devices; and ``(II) study new or emerging technologies, products, or environments, and the effectiveness and benefits of such technologies, products, or environments; ``(ii) demonstrating and disseminating-- ``(I) innovative models for the delivery, to rural and urban areas, of cost-effective rehabilitation technology services that promote utilization of assistive technology devices; and ``(II) other scientific research to assist in meeting the employment and independent living needs of individuals with significant disabilities; or ``(iii) conducting research or demonstration activities that facilitate service delivery systems change by demonstrating, evaluating, documenting, and disseminating-- ``(I) consumer responsive and individual and family- centered innovative models for the delivery to both rural and urban areas, of innovative cost-effective rehabilitation technology services that promote utilization of rehabilitation technology; and ``(II) other scientific research to assist in meeting the employment and independent living needs of, and addressing the barriers confronted by, individuals with disabilities, including individuals with significant disabilities. ``(C) To the extent consistent with the nature and type of research or demonstration activities described in subparagraph (B), each Center established or supported through a grant made available under this paragraph shall-- ``(i) cooperate with programs established under the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals With Disabilities Act of 1988 (29 U.S.C. 2201 et seq.) and other regional and local programs to provide information to individuals with disabilities and the individuals' representatives to-- ``(I) increase awareness and understanding of how rehabilitation technology can address their needs; and ``(II) increase awareness and understanding of the range of options, programs, services, and resources available, including financing options for the technology and services covered by the area of focus of the Center; ``(ii) provide training opportunities to individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to become researchers of rehabilitation technology and practitioners of rehabilitation technology in conjunction with institutions of higher education and nonprofit organizations; and ``(iii) respond, through research or demonstration activities, to the needs of individuals with all types of disabilities who may benefit from the application of technology within the area of focus of the Center. ``(D)(i) In establishing Centers to conduct the research or demonstration activities described in subparagraph (B)(iii), the Director may establish one Center in each of the following areas of focus: ``(I) Early childhood services, including early intervention and family support. [[Page 112 STAT.1178]] ``(II) Education at the elementary and secondary levels, including transition from school to postschool activities. ``(III) Employment, including supported employment, and reasonable accommodations and the reduction of environmental barriers as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.) and title V. ``(IV) Independent living, including transition from institutional to community living, maintenance of community living on leaving the workforce, self-help skills, and activities of daily living. ``(ii) Each Center conducting the research or demonstration activities described in subparagraph (B)(iii) shall have an advisory committee, of which the majority of members are individuals with disabilities who are users of rehabilitation technology, and the individuals' representatives. ``(E) Grants made under this paragraph shall be made on a competitive basis and shall be for a period of 5 years, except that the Director may make a grant for a period of less than 5 years if-- ``(i) the grant is made to a new recipient; or ``(ii) the grant supports new or innovative research. ``(F) To be eligible to receive a grant under this paragraph, a prospective grant recipient shall submit an application to the Director at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Director may require. ``(G) Each Center established or supported through a grant made available under this paragraph shall-- ``(i) cooperate with State agencies and other local, State, regional, and national programs and organizations developing or delivering rehabilitation technology, including State programs funded under the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals With Disabilities Act of 1988 (29 U.S.C. 2201 et seq.); and ``(ii) <<NOTE: Reports.>> prepare and submit to the Director as part of an application for continuation of a grant, or as a final report, a report that documents the outcomes of the program of the Center in terms of both short- and long-term impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities, and such other information as may be requested by the Director. ``(4)(A) Research grants may be used to conduct a program for spinal cord injury research, including conducting such a program by making grants to public or private agencies and organizations to pay part or all of the costs of special projects and demonstration projects for spinal cord injuries, that will-- ``(i) ensure widespread dissemination of research findings among all Spinal Cord Injury Centers, to rehabilitation practitioners, individuals with spinal cord injury, the individuals' representatives, and organizations receiving financial assistance under this paragraph; ``(ii) provide encouragement and support for initiatives and new approaches by individual and institutional investigators; and ``(iii) establish and maintain close working relationships with other governmental and voluntary institutions and organizations engaged in similar efforts in order to unify and [[Page 112 STAT.1179]] coordinate scientific efforts, encourage joint planning, and promote the interchange of data and reports among spinal cord injury investigations. ``(B) Any agency or organization carrying out a project or demonstration project assisted by a grant under this paragraph that provides services to individuals with spinal cord injuries shall-- ``(i) establish, on an appropriate regional basis, a multidisciplinary system of providing vocational and other rehabilitation services, specifically designed to meet the special needs of individuals with spinal cord injuries, including acute care as well as periodic inpatient or outpatient followup and services; ``(ii) demonstrate and evaluate the benefits to individuals with spinal cord injuries served in, and the degree of cost- effectiveness of, such a regional system; ``(iii) demonstrate and evaluate existing, new, and improved methods and rehabilitation technology essential to the care, management, and rehabilitation of individuals with spinal cord injuries; and ``(iv) demonstrate and evaluate methods of community outreach for individuals with spinal cord injuries and community education in connection with the problems of such individuals in areas such as housing, transportation, recreation, employment, and community activities. ``(C) In awarding grants under this paragraph, the Director shall take into account the location of any proposed Spinal Cord Injury Center and the appropriate geographic and regional allocation of such Centers. ``(5) Research grants may be used to conduct a program for end-stage renal disease research, to include support of projects and demonstrations for providing special services (including transplantation and dialysis), artificial kidneys, and supplies necessary for the rehabilitation of individuals with such disease and which will-- ``(A) ensure dissemination of research findings; ``(B) provide encouragement and support for initiatives and new approaches by individuals and institutional investigators; and ``(C) establish and maintain close working relationships with other governmental and voluntary institutions and organizations engaged in similar efforts, in order to unify and coordinate scientific efforts, encourage joint planning, and promote the interchange of data and reports among investigators in the field of end-stage renal disease. No person shall be selected to participate in such program who is eligible for services for such disease under any other provision of law. ``(6) Research grants may be used to conduct a program for international rehabilitation research, demonstration, and training for the purpose of developing new knowledge and methods in the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities in the United States, cooperating with and assisting in developing and sharing information found useful in other nations in the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities, and initiating a program to exchange experts and technical assistance in the field of rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities with other nations as a means of increasing the levels of skill of rehabilitation personnel. [[Page 112 STAT.1180]] ``(7) Research grants may be used to conduct a research program concerning the use of existing telecommunications systems (including telephone, television, satellite, radio, and other similar systems) which have the potential for substantially improving service delivery methods, and the development of appropriate programming to meet the particular needs of individuals with disabilities. ``(8) Research grants may be used to conduct a program of joint projects with the National Institutes of Health, the National Institute of Mental Health, the Health Services Administration, the Administration on Aging, the National Science Foundation, the Veterans' Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, other Federal agencies, and private industry in areas of joint interest involving rehabilitation. ``(9) Research grants may be used to conduct a program of research related to the rehabilitation of children, or older individuals, who are individuals with disabilities, including older American Indians who are individuals with disabilities. Such research program may include projects designed to assist the adjustment of, or maintain as residents in the community, older workers who are individuals with disabilities on leaving the workforce. ``(10) Research grants may be used to conduct a research program to develop and demonstrate innovative methods to attract and retain professionals to serve in rural areas in the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities, including individuals with significant disabilities. ``(11) Research grants may be used to conduct a model research and demonstration project designed to assess the feasibility of establishing a center for producing and distributing to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing captioned video cassettes providing a broad range of educational, cultural, scientific, and vocational programming. ``(12) Research grants may be used to conduct a model research and demonstration program to develop innovative methods of providing services for preschool age children who are individuals with disabilities, including-- ``(A) early intervention, assessment, parent counseling, infant stimulation, early identification, diagnosis, and evaluation of children who are individuals with significant disabilities up to the age of five, with a special emphasis on children who are individuals with significant disabilities up to the age of three; ``(B) such physical therapy, language development, pediatric, nursing, psychological, and psychiatric services as are necessary for such children; and ``(C) appropriate services for the parents of such children, including psychological and psychiatric services, parent counseling, and training. ``(13) Research grants may be used to conduct a model research and training program under which model training centers shall be established to develop and use more advanced and effective methods of evaluating and addressing the employment needs of individuals with disabilities, including programs that-- ``(A) provide training and continuing education for personnel involved with the employment of individuals with disabilities; [[Page 112 STAT.1181]] ``(B) develop model procedures for testing and evaluating the employment needs of individuals with disabilities; ``(C) develop model training programs to teach individuals with disabilities skills which will lead to appropriate employment; ``(D) develop new approaches for job placement of individuals with disabilities, including new followup procedures relating to such placement; ``(E) provide information services regarding education, training, employment, and job placement for individuals with disabilities; and ``(F) develop new approaches and provide information regarding job accommodations, including the use of rehabilitation engineering and assistive technology. ``(14) Research grants may be used to conduct a rehabilitation research program under which financial assistance is provided in order to-- ``(A) test new concepts and innovative ideas; ``(B) demonstrate research results of high potential benefits; ``(C) purchase prototype aids and devices for evaluation; ``(D) develop unique rehabilitation training curricula; and ``(E) be responsive to special initiatives of the Director. No single grant under this paragraph may exceed $50,000 in any fiscal year and all payments made under this paragraph in any fiscal year may not exceed 5 percent of the amount available for this section to the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research in any fiscal year. Regulations and administrative procedures with respect to financial assistance under this paragraph shall, to the maximum extent possible, be expedited. ``(15) Research grants may be used to conduct studies of the rehabilitation needs of American Indian populations and of effective mechanisms for the delivery of rehabilitation services to Indians residing on and off reservations. ``(16) Research grants may be used to conduct a demonstration program under which one or more projects national in scope shall be established to develop procedures to provide incentives for the development, manufacturing, and marketing of orphan technological devices, including technology transfer concerning such devices, designed to enable individuals with disabilities to achieve independence and access to gainful employment. ``(17)(A) Research grants may be used to conduct a research program related to quality assurance in the area of rehabilitation technology. ``(B) Activities carried out under the research program may include-- ``(i) the development of methodologies to evaluate rehabilitation technology products and services and the dissemination of the methodologies to consumers and other interested parties; ``(ii) identification of models for service provider training and evaluation and certification of the effectiveness of the models; ``(iii) identification and dissemination of outcome measurement models for the assessment of rehabilitation technology products and services; and [[Page 112 STAT.1182]] ``(iv) development and testing of research-based tools to enhance consumer decisionmaking about rehabilitation technology products and services. ``(18) Research grants may be used to provide for research and demonstration projects and related activities that explore the use and effectiveness of specific alternative or complementary medical practices for individuals with disabilities. Such projects and activities may include projects and activities designed to-- ``(A) determine the use of specific alternative or complementary medical practices among individuals with disabilities and the perceived effectiveness of the practices; ``(B) determine the specific information sources, decisionmaking methods, and methods of payment used by individuals with disabilities who access alternative or complementary medical services; ``(C) develop criteria to screen and assess the validity of research studies of such practices for individuals with disabilities; and ``(D) determine the effectiveness of specific alternative or complementary medical practices that show promise for promoting increased functioning, prevention of secondary disabilities, or other positive outcomes for individuals with certain types of disabilities, by conducting controlled research studies. ``(c)(1) In carrying out evaluations of covered activities under this section, the Director is authorized to make arrangements for site visits to obtain information on the accomplishments of the projects. ``(2) The Director shall not make a grant under this section that exceeds $500,000 unless the peer review of the grant application has included a site visit. ``rehabilitation research advisory council ``Sec. 205. <<NOTE: 29 USC 765.>> (a) Establishment.--Subject to the availability of appropriations, the Secretary shall establish in the Department of Education a Rehabilitation Research Advisory Council (referred to in this section as the `Council') composed of 12 members appointed by the Secretary. ``(b) Duties.--The Council shall advise the Director with respect to research priorities and the development and revision of the 5-year plan required by section 202(h). ``(c) Qualifications.--Members of the Council shall be generally representative of the community of rehabilitation professionals, the community of rehabilitation researchers, the community of individuals with disabilities, and the individuals' representatives. At least one- half of the members shall be individuals with disabilities or the individuals' representatives. ``(d) Terms of Appointment.-- ``(1) Length of term.--Each member of the Council shall serve for a term of up to 3 years, determined by the Secretary, except that-- ``(A) a member appointed to fill a vacancy occurring prior to the expiration of the term for which a predecessor was appointed, shall be appointed for the remainder of such term; and ``(B) the terms of service of the members initially appointed shall be (as specified by the Secretary) for such [[Page 112 STAT.1183]] fewer number of years as will provide for the expiration of terms on a staggered basis. ``(2) Number of terms.--No member of the Council may serve more than two consecutive full terms. Members may serve after the expiration of their terms until their successors have taken office. ``(e) Vacancies.--Any vacancy occurring in the membership of the Council shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment for the position being vacated. The vacancy shall not affect the power of the remaining members to execute the duties of the Council. ``(f ) Payment and Expenses.-- ``(1) Payment.--Each member of the Council who is not an officer or full-time employee of the Federal Government shall receive a payment of $150 for each day (including travel time) during which the member is engaged in the performance of duties for the Council. All members of the Council who are officers or full-time employees of the United States shall serve without compensation in addition to compensation received for their services as officers or employees of the United States. ``(2) Travel expenses.--Each member of the Council may receive travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, as authorized by section 5703 of title 5, United States Code, for employees serving intermittently in the Government service, for each day the member is engaged in the performance of duties away from the home or regular place of business of the member. ``(g) Detail of Federal Employees.--On the request of the Council, the Secretary may detail, with or without reimbursement, any of the personnel of the Department of Education to the Council to assist the Council in carrying out its duties. Any detail shall not interrupt or otherwise affect the civil service status or privileges of the Federal employee. ``(h) Technical Assistance.--On the request of the Council, the Secretary shall provide such technical assistance to the Council as the Council determines to be necessary to carry out its duties. ``(i) Termination.--Section 14 of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.) shall not apply with respect to the Council.''. SEC. 406. <<NOTE: Grants. Contracts.>> PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND SPECIAL PROJECTS AND DEMONSTRATIONS. Title III of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 770 et seq.) is amended to read as follows: ``TITLE III--PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND SPECIAL PROJECTS AND DEMONSTRATIONS ``SEC. 301. <<NOTE: 29 USC 771.>> DECLARATION OF PURPOSE AND COMPETITIVE BASIS OF GRANTS AND CONTRACTS. ``(a) Purpose.--It is the purpose of this title to authorize grants and contracts to-- ``(1)(A) provide academic training to ensure that skilled personnel are available to provide rehabilitation services to [[Page 112 STAT.1184]] individuals with disabilities through vocational, medical, social, and psychological rehabilitation programs (including supported employment programs), through economic and business development programs, through independent living services programs, and through client assistance programs; and ``(B) provide training to maintain and upgrade basic skills and knowledge of personnel (including personnel specifically trained to deliver services to individuals with disabilities whose employment outcome is self-employment or telecommuting) employed to provide state-of-the-art service delivery and rehabilitation technology services; ``(2) conduct special projects and demonstrations that expand and improve the provision of rehabilitation and other services (including those services provided through community rehabilitation programs) authorized under this Act, or that otherwise further the purposes of this Act, including related research and evaluation; ``(3) provide vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities who are migrant or seasonal farmworkers; ``(4) initiate recreational programs to provide recreational activities and related experiences for individuals with disabilities to aid such individuals in employment, mobility, socialization, independence, and community integration; and ``(5) provide training and information to individuals with disabilities and the individuals' representatives, and other appropriate parties to develop the skills necessary for individuals with disabilities to gain access to the rehabilitation system and statewide workforce investment systems and to become active decisionmakers in the rehabilitation process. ``(b) Competitive Basis of Grants and Contracts.--The Secretary shall ensure that all grants and contracts are awarded under this title on a competitive basis. ``SEC. 302. <<NOTE: 29 USC 772.>> TRAINING. ``(a) Grants and Contracts for Personnel Training.-- ``(1) Authority.--The Commissioner shall make grants to, and enter into contracts with, States and public or nonprofit agencies and organizations (including institutions of higher education) to pay part of the cost of projects to provide training, traineeships, and related activities, including the provision of technical assistance, that are designed to assist in increasing the numbers of, and upgrading the skills of, qualified personnel (especially rehabilitation counselors) who are trained in providing vocational, medical, social, and psychological rehabilitation services, who are trained to assist individuals with communication and related disorders, who are trained to provide other services provided under this Act, to individuals with disabilities, and who may include-- ``(A) personnel specifically trained in providing employment assistance to individuals with disabilities through job development and job placement services; ``(B) personnel specifically trained to identify, assess, and meet the individual rehabilitation needs of individuals with disabilities, including needs for rehabilitation technology; [[Page 112 STAT.1185]] ``(C) personnel specifically trained to deliver services to individuals who may benefit from receiving independent living services; ``(D) personnel specifically trained to deliver services in the client assistance programs; ``(E) personnel specifically trained to deliver services, through supported employment programs, to individuals with a most significant disability; and ``(F) personnel specifically trained to deliver services to individuals with disabilities pursuing self- employment, business ownership, and telecommuting; and ``(G) personnel trained in performing other functions necessary to the provision of vocational, medical, social, and psychological rehabilitation services, and other services provided under this Act. ``(2) Authority to provide scholarships.--Grants and contracts under paragraph (1) may be expended for scholarships and may include necessary stipends and allowances. ``(3) Related federal statutes.--In carrying out this subsection, the Commissioner may make grants to and enter into contracts with States and public or nonprofit agencies and organizations, including institutions of higher education, to furnish training regarding provisions of Federal statutes, including section 504, title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12111 et seq.), and the provisions of titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 401 et seq. and 1381 et seq.), that are related to work incentives for individuals with disabilities. ``(4) Training for statewide workforce systems personnel.-- The Commissioner may make grants to and enter into contracts under this subsection with States and public or nonprofit agencies and organizations, including institutions of higher education, to furnish training to personnel providing services to individuals with disabilities under title I of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998. Under this paragraph, personnel may be trained-- ``(A) in evaluative skills to determine whether an individual with a disability may be served by the State vocational rehabilitation program or another component of a statewide workforce investment system; or ``(B) to assist individuals with disabilities seeking assistance through one-stop delivery systems described in section 134(c) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998. ``(5) Joint funding.--Training and other activities provided under paragraph (4) for personnel may be jointly funded with the Department of Labor, using funds made available under title I of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998. ``(b) Grants and Contracts for Academic Degrees and Academic Certificate Granting Training Projects.-- ``(1) Authority.-- ``(A) In general.--The Commissioner may make grants to, and enter into contracts with, States and public or nonprofit agencies and organizations (including institutions of higher education) to pay part of the costs of academic training projects to provide training that leads to an academic degree or academic certificate. In making such grants or entering into such contracts, the Commissioner [[Page 112 STAT.1186]] shall target funds to areas determined under subsection (e) to have shortages of qualified personnel. ``(B) Types of projects.--Academic training projects described in this subsection may include-- ``(i) projects to train personnel in the areas of assisting and supporting individuals with disabilities pursuing self-employment, business ownership, and telecommuting, and of vocational rehabilitation counseling, rehabilitation technology, rehabilitation medicine, rehabilitation nursing, rehabilitation social work, rehabilitation psychiatry, rehabilitation psychology, rehabilitation dentistry, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology and audiology, physical education, therapeutic recreation, community rehabilitation programs, or prosthetics and orthotics; ``(ii) projects to train personnel to provide-- ``(I) services to individuals with specific disabilities or individuals with disabilities who have specific impediments to rehabilitation, including individuals who are members of populations that are unserved or underserved by programs under this Act; ``(II) job development and job placement services to individuals with disabilities; ``(III) supported employment services, including services of employment specialists for individuals with disabilities; ``(IV) specialized services for individuals with significant disabilities; or ``(V) recreation for individuals with disabilities; ``(iii) projects to train personnel in other fields contributing to the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities; and ``(iv) projects to train personnel in the use, applications, and benefits of rehabilitation technology. ``(2) Application.--No grant shall be awarded or contract entered into under this subsection unless the applicant has submitted to the Commissioner an application at such time, in such form, in accordance with such procedures, and including such information as the Secretary may require, including-- ``(A) a description of how the designated State unit or units will participate in the project to be funded under the grant or contract, including, as appropriate, participation on advisory committees, as practicum sites, in curriculum development, and in other ways so as to build closer relationships between the applicant and the designated State unit and to encourage students to pursue careers in public vocational rehabilitation programs; ``(B) the identification of potential employers that provide employment that meets the requirements of paragraph (5)(A)(i); and ``(C) an assurance that data on the employment of graduates or trainees who participate in the project is accurate. ``(3) Limitation.-- ``(A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph (B), no grant or contract under this subsection may be [[Page 112 STAT.1187]] used to provide any one course of study to an individual for a period of more than 4 years. ``(B) Exception.--If a grant or contract recipient under this subsection determines that an individual has a disability which seriously affects the completion of training under this subsection, the grant or contract recipient may extend the period referred to in subparagraph (A). ``(4) Authority to provide scholarships.--Grants and contracts under paragraph (1) may be expanded to provide services that include the provision of scholarships and necessary stipends and allowances. ``(5) Agreements.-- ``(A) Contents.--A recipient of a grant or contract under this subsection shall provide assurances to the Commissioner that each individual who receives a scholarship, for any academic year beginning after June 1, 1992, utilizing funds provided under such grant or contract shall enter into an agreement with the recipient under which the individual shall-- ``(i) maintain employment-- ``(I) in a nonprofit rehabilitation agency or related agency or in a State rehabilitation agency or related agency, including a professional corporation or professional practice group through which the individual has a service arrangement with the designated State agency; ``(II) on a full- or part-time basis; and ``(III) for a period of not less than the full-time equivalent of 2 years for each year for which assistance under this section was received by the individual, within a period, beginning after the recipient completes the training for which the scholarship was awarded, of not more than the sum of the number of years in the period described in subclause (III) and 2 additional years; and ``(ii) repay all or part of any scholarship received, plus interest, if the individual does not fulfill the requirements of clause (i), except as the Commissioner by regulation may provide for repayment exceptions and deferrals. ``(B) Enforcement.--The Commissioner shall be responsible for the enforcement of each agreement entered into under subparagraph (A) upon completion of the training involved under such subparagraph. ``(c) Grants to Historically Black Colleges and Universities.--The Commissioner, in carrying out this section, shall make grants to historically Black colleges and universities and other institutions of higher education whose minority student enrollment is at least 50 percent of the total enrollment of the institution. ``(d) Application.--A grant may not be awarded to a State or other organization under this section unless the State or organization has submitted an application to the Commissioner at such time, in such form, in accordance with such procedures, and containing such information as the Commissioner may require. Any such application shall include a detailed description of strategies that will be utilized to recruit and train individuals so as [[Page 112 STAT.1188]] to reflect the diverse populations of the United States as part of the effort to increase the number of individuals with disabilities, and individuals who are from linguistically and culturally diverse backgrounds, who are available to provide rehabilitation services. ``(e) Evaluation and Collection of Data.--The Commissioner shall evaluate the impact of the training programs conducted under this section, and collect information on the training needs of, and data on shortages of qualified personnel necessary to provide services to individuals with disabilities. <<NOTE: Reports.>> The Commissioner shall prepare and submit to Congress, by September 30 of each fiscal year, a report setting forth and justifying in detail how the funds made available for training under this section for the fiscal year prior to such submission are allocated by professional discipline and other program areas. The report shall also contain findings on such personnel shortages, how funds proposed for the succeeding fiscal year will be allocated under the President's budget proposal, and how the findings on personnel shortages justify the allocations. ``(f ) Grants for the Training of Interpreters.-- ``(1) Authority.-- ``(A) In general.--For the purpose of training a sufficient number of qualified interpreters to meet the communications needs of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, and individuals who are deaf-blind, the Commissioner, acting through a Federal office responsible for deafness and communicative disorders, may award grants to public or private nonprofit agencies or organizations to pay part of the costs-- ``(i) for the establishment of interpreter training programs; or ``(ii) to enable such agencies or organizations to provide financial assistance for ongoing interpreter training programs. ``(B) Geographic areas.--The Commissioner shall award grants under this subsection for programs in geographic areas throughout the United States that the Commissioner considers appropriate to best carry out the objectives of this section. ``(C) Priority.--In awarding grants under this subsection, the Commissioner shall give priority to public or private nonprofit agencies or organizations with existing programs that have a demonstrated capacity for providing interpreter training services. ``(D) Funding.--The Commissioner may award grants under this subsection through the use of-- ``(i) amounts appropriated to carry out this section; or ``(ii) pursuant to an agreement with the Director of the Office of the Special Education Program (established under section 603 of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (as amended by section 101 of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997 (Public Law 105-17))), amounts appropriated under section 686 of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. ``(2) Application.--A grant may not be awarded to an agency or organization under paragraph (1) unless the agency [[Page 112 STAT.1189]] or organization has submitted an application to the Commissioner at such time, in such form, in accordance with such procedures, and containing such information as the Commissioner may require, including-- ``(A) a description of the manner in which an interpreter training program will be developed and operated during the 5-year period following the date on which a grant is received by the applicant under this subsection; ``(B) a demonstration of the applicant's capacity or potential for providing training for interpreters for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, and individuals who are deaf-blind; ``(C) assurances that any interpreter trained or retrained under a program funded under the grant will meet such minimum standards of competency as the Commissioner may establish for purposes of this subsection; and ``(D) such other information as the Commissioner may require. ``(g) Technical Assistance and In-Service Training.-- ``(1) Technical assistance.--The Commissioner is authorized to provide technical assistance to State designated agencies and community rehabilitation programs, directly or through contracts with State designated agencies or nonprofit organizations. ``(2) Compensation.--An expert or consultant appointed or serving under contract pursuant to this section shall be compensated at a rate, subject to approval of the Commissioner, that shall not exceed the daily equivalent of the rate of pay for level 4 of the Senior Executive Service Schedule under section 5382 of title 5, United States Code. Such an expert or consultant may be allowed travel and transportation expenses in accordance with section 5703 of title 5, United States Code. ``(3) In-service training of rehabilitation personnel.-- ``(A) Projects.--Subject to subparagraph (B), at least 15 percent of the sums appropriated to carry out this section shall be allocated to designated State agencies to be used, directly or indirectly, for projects for in-service training for rehabilitation personnel, consistent with the needs identified through the comprehensive system for personnel development required by section 101(a)(7), including projects designed-- ``(i) to address recruitment and retention of qualified rehabilitation professionals; ``(ii) to provide for succession planning; ``(iii) to provide for leadership development and capacity building; and ``(iv) for fiscal years 1999 and 2000, to provide training regarding the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 and the amendments to this Act made by the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998. ``(B) Limitation.--If the allocation to designated State agencies required by subparagraph (A) would result in a lower level of funding for projects being carried out on the date of enactment of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998 by other recipients of funds under this [[Page 112 STAT.1190]] section, the Commissioner may allocate less than 15 percent of the sums described in subparagraph (A) to designated State agencies for such in-service training. ``(h) Provision of Information.--The Commissioner, subject to the provisions of section 306, may require that recipients of grants or contracts under this section provide information, including data, with regard to the impact of activities funded under this section. ``(i) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 1999 through 2003. ``SEC. 303. <<NOTE: 29 USC 773.>> DEMONSTRATION AND TRAINING PROGRAMS. ``(a) Demonstration Projects To Increase Client Choice.-- ``(1) Grants.--The Commissioner may make grants to States and public or nonprofit agencies and organizations to pay all or part of the costs of projects to demonstrate ways to increase client choice in the rehabilitation process, including the selection of providers of vocational rehabilitation services. ``(2) Use of funds.--An entity that receives a grant under this subsection shall use the grant only-- ``(A) for activities that are directly related to planning, operating, and evaluating the demonstration projects; and ``(B) to supplement, and not supplant, funds made available from Federal and non-Federal sources for such projects. ``(3) Application.--Any eligible entity that desires to receive a grant under this subsection shall submit an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information and assurances as the Commissioner may require, including-- ``(A) a description of-- ``(i) how the entity intends to promote increased client choice in the rehabilitation process, including a description, if appropriate, of how an applicant will determine the cost of any service or product offered to an eligible client; ``(ii) how the entity intends to ensure that any vocational rehabilitation service or related service is provided by a qualified provider who is accredited or meets such other quality assurance and cost-control criteria as the State may establish; and ``(iii) the outreach activities to be conducted by the applicant to obtain eligible clients; and ``(B) assurances that a written plan will be established with the full participation of the client, which plan shall, at a minimum, include-- ``(i) a statement of the vocational rehabilitation goals to be achieved; ``(ii) a statement of the specific vocational rehabilitation services to be provided, the projected dates for their initiation, and the anticipated duration of each such service; and ``(iii) objective criteria, an evaluation procedure, and a schedule, for determining whether such goals are being achieved. [[Page 112 STAT.1191]] ``(4) Award of grants.--In selecting entities to receive grants under paragraph (1), the Commissioner shall take into consideration-- ``(A) the diversity of strategies used to increase client choice, including selection among qualified service providers; ``(B) the geographic distribution of projects; and ``(C) the diversity of clients to be served. ``(5) Records.--Entities that receive grants under paragraph (1) shall maintain such records as the Commissioner may require and comply with any request from the Commissioner for such records. ``(6) Direct services.--At least 80 percent of the funds awarded for any project under this subsection shall be used for direct services, as specifically chosen by eligible clients. ``(7) Evaluation.--The Commissioner may conduct an evaluation of the demonstration projects with respect to the services provided, clients served, client outcomes obtained, implementation issues addressed, the cost-effectiveness of the project, and the effects of increased choice on clients and service providers. The Commissioner may reserve funds for the evaluation for a fiscal year from the amounts appropriated to carry out projects under this section for the fiscal year. ``(8) Definitions.--For the purposes of this subsection: ``(A) Direct services.--The term `direct services' means vocational rehabilitation services, as described in section 103(a). ``(B) Eligible client.--The term `eligible client' means an individual with a disability, as defined in section 7(20)(A), who is not currently receiving services under an individualized plan for employment established through a designated State unit. ``(b) Special Demonstration Programs.-- ``(1) Grants; contracts.--The Commissioner, subject to the provisions of section 306, may provide grants to, or enter into contracts with, eligible entities to pay all or part of the cost of programs that expand and improve the provision of rehabilitation and other services authorized under this Act or that further the purposes of the Act, including related research and evaluation activities. ``(2) Eligible entities; terms and conditions.-- ``(A) Eligible entities.--To be eligible to receive a grant, or enter into a contract, under paragraph (1), an entity shall be a State vocational rehabilitation agency, community rehabilitation program, Indian tribe or tribal organization, or other public or nonprofit agency or organization, or as the Commissioner determines appropriate, a for-profit organization. The Commissioner may limit competitions to one or more types of organizations described in this subparagraph. ``(B) Terms and conditions.--A grant or contract under paragraph (1) shall contain such terms and conditions as the Commissioner may require. ``(3) Application.--An eligible entity that desires to receive a grant, or enter into a contract, under paragraph (1) shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time, in such form, and containing such information and assurances as the [[Page 112 STAT.1192]] Commissioner may require, including, if the Commissioner determines appropriate, a description of how the proposed project or demonstration program-- ``(A) is based on current research findings, which may include research conducted by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, the National Institutes of Health, and other public or private organizations; and ``(B) is of national significance. ``(4) Types of projects.--The programs that may be funded under this subsection may include-- ``(A) special projects and demonstrations of service delivery; ``(B) model demonstration projects; ``(C) technical assistance projects; ``(D) systems change projects; ``(E) special studies and evaluations; and ``(F) dissemination and utilization activities. ``(5) Priority for competitions.-- ``(A) In general.--In announcing competitions for grants and contracts under this subsection, the Commissioner shall give priority consideration to-- ``(i) special projects and demonstration programs of service delivery for adults who are either low-functioning and deaf or low-functioning and hard of hearing; ``(ii) supported employment, including community-based supported employment programs to meet the needs of individuals with the most significant disabilities or to provide technical assistance to States and community organizations to improve and expand the provision of supported employment services; and ``(iii) model transitional planning services for youths with disabilities. ``(B) Additional competitions.--In announcing competitions for grants and contracts under this subsection, the Commissioner may require that applicants address one or more of the following: ``(i) Age ranges. ``(ii) Types of disabilities. ``(iii) Types of services. ``(iv) Models of service delivery. ``(v) Stage of the rehabilitation process. ``(vi) The needs of underserved populations, unserved and underserved areas, individuals with significant disabilities, low-incidence disability population or individuals residing in federally designated empowerment zones and enterprise communities. ``(vii) Expansion of employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. ``(viii) Systems change projects to promote meaningful access of individuals with disabilities to employment-related services under title I of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 and under other Federal laws. ``(ix) Innovative methods of promoting achievement of high-quality employment outcomes. [[Page 112 STAT.1193]] ``(x) The demonstration of the effectiveness of early intervention activities in improving employment outcomes. ``(xi) Alternative methods of providing affordable transportation services to individuals with disabilities who are employed, seeking employment, or receiving vocational rehabilitation services from public or private organizations and who reside in geographic areas in which public transportation or paratransit service is not available. ``(6) Use of funds for continuation awards.--The Commissioner may use funds made available to carry out this section for continuation awards for projects that were funded under sections 12 and 311 (as such sections were in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998). ``(c) Parent Information and Training Program.-- ``(1) Grants.--The Commissioner is authorized to make grants to private nonprofit organizations for the purpose of establishing programs to provide training and information to enable individuals with disabilities, and the parents, family members, guardians, advocates, or other authorized representatives of the individuals to participate more effectively with professionals in meeting the vocational, independent living, and rehabilitation needs of individuals with disabilities. Such grants shall be designed to meet the unique training and information needs of the individuals described in the preceding sentence, who live in the area to be served, particularly those who are members of populations that have been unserved or underserved by programs under this Act. ``(2) Use of grants.--An organization that receives a grant to establish training and information programs under this subsection shall use the grant to assist individuals with disabilities, and the parents, family members, guardians, advocates, or authorized representatives of the individuals-- ``(A) to better understand vocational rehabilitation and independent living programs and services; ``(B) to provide followup support for transition and employment programs; ``(C) to communicate more effectively with transition and rehabilitation personnel and other relevant professionals; ``(D) to provide support in the development of the individualized plan for employment; ``(E) to provide support and expertise in obtaining information about rehabilitation and independent living programs, services, and resources that are appropriate; and ``(F) to understand the provisions of this Act, particularly provisions relating to employment, supported employment, and independent living. ``(3) Award of grants.--The Commissioner shall ensure that grants under this subsection-- ``(A) shall be distributed geographically to the greatest extent possible throughout all States; and ``(B) shall be targeted to individuals with disabilities, and the parents, family members, guardians, advocates, [[Page 112 STAT.1194]] or authorized representatives of the individuals, in both urban and rural areas or on a State or regional basis. ``(4) Eligible organizations.--In order to receive a grant under this subsection, an organization-- ``(A) shall submit an application to the Commissioner at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Commissioner may require, including information demonstrating the capacity and expertise of the organization-- ``(i) to coordinate training and information activities with Centers for Independent Living; ``(ii) to coordinate and work closely with parent training and information centers established pursuant to section 682(a) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (as added by section 101 of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997; Public Law 105-17); and ``(iii) to effectively conduct the training and information activities authorized under this subsection; ``(B)(i) shall be governed by a board of directors-- ``(I) that includes professionals in the field of vocational rehabilitation; and ``(II) on which a majority of the members are individuals with disabilities or the parents, family members, guardians, advocates, or authorized representatives of the individuals; or ``(ii)(I) shall have a membership that represents the interests of individuals with disabilities; and ``(II) shall establish a special governing committee that meets the requirements specified in subclauses (I) and (II) of clause (i) to operate a training and information program under this subsection; and ``(C) shall serve individuals with a full range of disabilities, and the parents, family members, guardians, advocates, or authorized representatives of the individuals. ``(5) Consultation.--Each organization carrying out a program receiving assistance under this subsection shall consult with appropriate agencies that serve or assist individuals with disabilities, and the parents, family members, guardians, advocates, or authorized representatives of the individuals, located in the jurisdiction served by the program. ``(6) Coordination.--The Commissioner shall provide coordination and technical assistance by grant or cooperative agreement for establishing, developing, and coordinating the training and information programs. To the extent practicable, such assistance shall be provided by the parent training and information centers established pursuant to section 682(a) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (as added by section 101 of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997; Public Law 105-17). ``(7) Review.-- ``(A) Quarterly review.--The board of directors or special governing committee of an organization receiving a grant under this subsection shall meet at least once in each calendar quarter to review the training and information program, and each such committee shall [[Page 112 STAT.1195]] directly advise the governing board regarding the views and recommendations of the committee. ``(B) Review for grant renewal.--If a nonprofit private organization requests the renewal of a grant under this subsection, the board of directors or the special governing committee shall prepare and submit to the Commissioner a written review of the training and information program conducted by the organization during the preceding fiscal year. ``(d) Braille Training Programs.-- ``(1) Establishment.--The Commissioner shall make grants to, and enter into contracts with, States and public or nonprofit agencies and organizations, including institutions of higher education, to pay all or part of the cost of training in the use of braille for personnel providing vocational rehabilitation services or educational services to youth and adults who are blind. ``(2) Projects.--Such grants shall be used for the establishment or continuation of projects that may provide-- ``(A) development of braille training materials; ``(B) in-service or pre-service training in the use of braille, the importance of braille literacy, and methods of teaching braille to youth and adults who are blind; and ``(C) activities to promote knowledge and use of braille and nonvisual access technology for blind youth and adults through a program of training, demonstration, and evaluation conducted with leadership of experienced blind individuals, including the use of comprehensive, state-of-the-art technology. ``(3) Application.--To be eligible to receive a grant, or enter into a contract, under paragraph (1), an agency or organization shall submit an application to the Commissioner at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Commissioner may require. ``(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 1999 through 2003. ``SEC. 304. <<NOTE: 29 USC 774.>> MIGRANT AND SEASONAL FARMWORKERS. ``(a) Grants.-- ``(1) Authority.--The Commissioner, subject to the provisions of section 306, may make grants to eligible entities to pay up to 90 percent of the cost of projects or demonstration programs for the provision of vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities who are migrant or seasonal farmworkers, as determined in accordance with rules prescribed by the Secretary of Labor, and to the family members who are residing with such individuals (whether or not such family members are individuals with disabilities). ``(2) Eligible entities.--To be eligible to receive a grant under paragraph (1), an entity shall be-- ``(A) a State designated agency; ``(B) a nonprofit agency working in collaboration with a State agency described in subparagraph (A); or ``(C) a local agency working in collaboration with a State agency described in subparagraph (A). [[Page 112 STAT.1196]] ``(3) Maintenance and transportation.-- ``(A) In general.--Amounts provided under a grant under this section may be used to provide for the maintenance of and transportation for individuals and family members described in paragraph (1) as necessary for the rehabilitation of such individuals. ``(B) Requirement.--Maintenance payments under this paragraph shall be provided in a manner consistent with any maintenance payments provided to other individuals with disabilities in the State under this Act. ``(4) Assurance of cooperation.--To be eligible to receive a grant under this section an entity shall provide assurances (satisfactory to the Commissioner) that in the provision of services under the grant there will be appropriate cooperation between the grantee and other public or nonprofit agencies and organizations having special skills and experience in the provision of services to migrant or seasonal farmworkers or their families. ``(5) Coordination with other programs.--The Commissioner shall administer this section in coordination with other programs serving migrant and seasonal farmworkers, including programs under title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.), section 330 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 254b), the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act (29 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.), and the Workforce Investment Act of 1998. ``(b) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out this section, for each of the fiscal years 1999 through 2003. ``SEC. 305. <<NOTE: 29 USC 775.>> RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS. ``(a) Grants.-- ``(1) Authority.-- ``(A) In general.--The Commissioner, subject to the provisions of section 306, shall make grants to States, public agencies, and nonprofit private organizations to pay the Federal share of the cost of the establishment and operation of recreation programs to provide individuals with disabilities with recreational activities and related experiences to aid in the employment, mobility, socialization, independence, and community integration of such individuals. ``(B) Recreation programs.--The recreation programs that may be funded using assistance provided under a grant under this section may include vocational skills development, leisure education, leisure networking, leisure resource development, physical education and sports, scouting and camping, 4-H activities, construction of facilities for aquatic rehabilitation therapy, music, dancing, handicrafts, art, and homemaking. When possible and appropriate, such programs and activities should be provided in settings with peers who are not individuals with disabilities. ``(C) Design of program.--Programs and activities carried out under this section shall be designed to demonstrate ways in which such programs assist in maximizing [[Page 112 STAT.1197]] the independence and integration of individuals with disabilities. ``(2) Maximum term of grant.--A grant under this section shall be made for a period of not more than 3 years. ``(3) Availability of nongrant resources.-- ``(A) In general.--A grant may not be made to an applicant under this section unless the applicant provides assurances that, with respect to costs of the recreation program to be carried out under the grant, the applicant, to the maximum extent practicable, will make available non-Federal resources (in cash or in- kind) to pay the non-Federal share of such costs. ``(B) Federal share.--The Federal share of the costs of the recreation programs carried out under this section shall be-- ``(i) with respect to the first year in which assistance is provided under a grant under this section, 100 percent; ``(ii) with respect to the second year in which assistance is provided under a grant under this section, 75 percent; and ``(iii) with respect to the third year in which assistance is provided under a grant under this section, 50 percent. ``(4) Application.--To be eligible to receive a grant under this section, a State, agency, or organization shall submit an application to the Commissioner at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Commissioner may require, including a description of-- ``(A) the manner in which the findings and results of the project to be funded under the grant, particularly information that facilitates the replication of the results of such projects, will be made generally available; and ``(B) the manner in which the service program funded under the grant will be continued after Federal assistance ends. ``(5) Level of services.--Recreation programs funded under this section shall maintain, at a minimum, the same level of services over a 3-year project period. ``(6) Reports by grantees.-- ``(A) Requirement.--The Commissioner shall require that each recipient of a grant under this section annually prepare and submit to the Commissioner a report concerning the results of the activities funded under the grant. ``(B) Limitation.--The Commissioner may not make financial assistance available to a grant recipient for a subsequent year until the Commissioner has received and evaluated the annual report of the recipient under subparagraph (A) for the current year. ``(b) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section, such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 1999 through 2003. ``SEC. 306. <<NOTE: 29 USC 776.>> MEASURING OF PROJECT OUTCOMES AND PERFORMANCE. ``The Commissioner may require that recipients of grants under this title submit information, including data, as determined by the Commissioner to be necessary to measure project outcomes [[Page 112 STAT.1198]] and performance, including any data needed to comply with the Government Performance and Results Act.''. SEC. 407. NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY. Title IV of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 780 et seq.) is amended to read as follows: ``TITLE IV--NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY ``establishment of national council on disability ``Sec. 400. <<NOTE: President. 29 USC 780.>> (a)(1)(A) There is established within the Federal Government a National Council on Disability (hereinafter in this title referred to as the `National Council'), which shall be composed of fifteen members appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. ``(B) The President shall select members of the National Council after soliciting recommendations from representatives of-- ``(i) organizations representing a broad range of individuals with disabilities; and ``(ii) organizations interested in individuals with disabilities. ``(C) The members of the National Council shall be individuals with disabilities, parents or guardians of individuals with disabilities, or other individuals who have substantial knowledge or experience relating to disability policy or programs. The members of the National Council shall be appointed so as to be representative of individuals with disabilities, national organizations concerned with individuals with disabilities, providers and administrators of services to individuals with disabilities, individuals engaged in conducting medical or scientific research relating to individuals with disabilities, business concerns, and labor organizations. A majority of the members of the National Council shall be individuals with disabilities. The members of the National Council shall be broadly representative of minority and other individuals and groups. ``(2) The purpose of the National Council is to promote policies, programs, practices, and procedures that-- ``(A) guarantee equal opportunity for all individuals with disabilities, regardless of the nature or severity of the disability; and ``(B) empower individuals with disabilities to achieve economic self-sufficiency, independent living, and inclusion and integration into all aspects of society. ``(b)(1) Each member of the National Council shall serve for a term of 3 years, except that the terms of service of the members initially appointed after the date of enactment of the Rehabilitation, Comprehensive Services, and Developmental Disabilities Amendments of 1978 shall be (as specified by the President) for such fewer number of years as will provide for the expiration of terms on a staggered basis. ``(2)(A) No member of the National Council may serve more than two consecutive full terms beginning on the date of commencement of the first full term on the Council. Members may serve after the expiration of their terms until their successors have taken office. ``(B) As used in this paragraph, the term `full term' means a term of 3 years. [[Page 112 STAT.1199]] ``(3) Any member appointed to fill a vacancy occurring before the expiration of the term for which such member's predecessor was appointed shall be appointed only for the remainder of such term. ``(c) <<NOTE: President.>> The President shall designate the Chairperson from among the members appointed to the National Council. The National Council shall meet at the call of the Chairperson, but not less often than four times each year. ``(d) Eight members of the National Council shall constitute a quorum and any vacancy in the National Council shall not affect its power to function. ``duties of national council ``Sec. 401. <<NOTE: 29 USC 781.>> (a) The National Council shall-- ``(1) provide advice to the Director with respect to the policies and conduct of the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, including ways to improve research concerning individuals with disabilities and the methods of collecting and disseminating findings of such research; ``(2) provide advice to the Commissioner with respect to the policies of and conduct of the Rehabilitation Services Administration; ``(3) advise the President, the Congress, the Commissioner, the appropriate Assistant Secretary of the Department of Education, and the Director of the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research on the development of the programs to be carried out under this Act; ``(4) provide advice regarding priorities for the activities of the Interagency Disability Coordinating Council and review the recommendations of such Council for legislative and administrative changes to ensure that such recommendations are consistent with the purposes of the Council to promote the full integration, independence, and productivity of individuals with disabilities; ``(5) review and evaluate on a continuing basis-- ``(A) policies, programs, practices, and procedures concerning individuals with disabilities conducted or assisted by Federal departments and agencies, including programs established or assisted under this Act or under the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act; and ``(B) all statutes and regulations pertaining to Federal programs which assist such individuals with disabilities; in order to assess the effectiveness of such policies, programs, practices, procedures, statutes, and regulations in meeting the needs of individuals with disabilities; ``(6) assess the extent to which such policies, programs, practices, and procedures facilitate or impede the promotion of the policies set forth in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of section 400(a)(2); ``(7) gather information about the implementation, effectiveness, and impact of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.); ``(8) make recommendations to the President, the Congress, the Secretary, the Director of the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, and other officials of Federal [[Page 112 STAT.1200]] agencies or other Federal entities, respecting ways to better promote the policies set forth in section 400(a)(2); ``(9) provide to the Congress on a continuing basis advice, recommendations, legislative proposals, and any additional information that the National Council or the Congress deems appropriate; and ``(10) review and evaluate on a continuing basis new and emerging disability policy issues affecting individuals with disabilities at the Federal, State, and local levels, and in the private sector, including the need for and coordination of adult services, access to personal assistance services, school reform efforts and the impact of such efforts on individuals with disabilities, access to health care, and policies that operate as disincentives for the individuals to seek and retain employment. ``(b)(1) <<NOTE: Deadline. Reports.>> Not later than October 31, 1998, and annually thereafter, the National Council shall prepare and submit to the President and the appropriate committees of the Congress a report entitled `National Disability Policy: A Progress Report'. ``(2) The report shall assess the status of the Nation in achieving the policies set forth in section 400(a)(2), with particular focus on the new and emerging issues impacting on the lives of individuals with disabilities. The report shall present, as appropriate, available data on health, housing, employment, insurance, transportation, recreation, training, prevention, early intervention, and education. The report shall include recommendations for policy change. ``(3) In determining the issues to focus on and the findings, conclusions, and recommendations to include in the report, the National Council shall seek input from the public, particularly individuals with disabilities, representatives of organizations representing a broad range of individuals with disabilities, and organizations and agencies interested in individuals with disabilities. ``compensation of national council members ``Sec. 402. <<NOTE: 29 USC 782.>> (a) Members of the National Council shall be entitled to receive compensation at a rate equal to the rate of pay for level 4 of the Senior Executive Service Schedule under section 5382 of title 5, United States Code, including travel time, for each day they are engaged in the performance of their duties as members of the National Council. ``(b) Members of the National Council who are full-time officers or employees of the United States shall receive no additional pay on account of their service on the National Council except for compensation for travel expenses as provided under subsection (c) of this section. ``(c) While away from their homes or regular places of business in the performance of services for the National Council, members of the National Council shall be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, in the same manner as persons employed intermittently in the Government service are allowed expenses under section 5703 of title 5, United States Code. ``staff of national council ``Sec. 403. <<NOTE: 29 USC 783.>> (a)(1) The Chairperson of the National Council may appoint and remove, without regard to the provisions of title 5, [[Page 112 STAT.1201]] United States Code, governing appointments, the provisions of chapter 75 of such title (relating to adverse actions), the provisions of chapter 77 of such title (relating to appeals), or the provisions of chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of such title (relating to classification and General Schedule pay rates), an Executive Director to assist the National Council to carry out its duties. The Executive Director shall be appointed from among individuals who are experienced in the planning or operation of programs for individuals with disabilities. ``(2) The Executive Director is authorized to hire technical and professional employees to assist the National Council to carry out its duties. ``(b)(1) The National Council may procure temporary and intermittent services to the same extent as is authorized by section 3109(b) of title 5, United States Code (but at rates for individuals not to exceed the daily equivalent of the rate of pay for level 4 of the Senior Executive Service Schedule under section 5382 of title 5, United States Code). ``(2) The National Council may-- ``(A) accept voluntary and uncompensated services, notwithstanding the provisions of section 1342 of title 31, United States Code; ``(B) in the name of the Council, solicit, accept, employ, and dispose of, in furtherance of this Act, any money or property, real or personal, or mixed, tangible or nontangible, received by gift, devise, bequest, or otherwise; and ``(C) enter into contracts and cooperative agreements with Federal and State agencies, private firms, institutions, and individuals for the conduct of research and surveys, preparation of reports and other activities necessary to the discharge of the Council's duties and responsibilities. ``(3) Not more than 10 per centum of the total amounts available to the National Council in each fiscal year may be used for official representation and reception. ``(c) The Administrator of General Services shall provide to the National Council on a reimbursable basis such administrative support services as the Council may request. ``(d)(1) It shall be the duty of the Secretary of the Treasury to invest such portion of the amounts made available under subsection (a)(2)(B) as is not, in the Secretary's judgment, required to meet current withdrawals. Such investments may be made only in interest- bearing obligations of the United States or in obligations guaranteed as to both principal and interest by the United States. ``(2) The amounts described in paragraph (1), and the interest on, and the proceeds from the sale or redemption of, the obligations described in paragraph (1) shall be available to the National Council to carry out this title. ``administrative powers of national council ``Sec. 404. <<NOTE: 29 USC 784.>> (a) The National Council may prescribe such bylaws and rules as may be necessary to carry out its duties under this title. ``(b) The National Council may hold such hearings, sit and act at such times and places, take such testimony, and receive such evidence as it deems advisable. [[Page 112 STAT.1202]] ``(c) The National Council may appoint advisory committees to assist the National Council in carrying out its duties. The members thereof shall serve without compensation. ``(d) The National Council may use the United States mails in the same manner and upon the same conditions as other departments and agencies of the United States. ``(e) The National Council may use, with the consent of the agencies represented on the Interagency Disability Coordinating Council, and as authorized in title V, such services, personnel, information, and facilities as may be needed to carry out its duties under this title, with or without reimbursement to such agencies. ``authorization of appropriations ``Sec. 405. <<NOTE: 29 USC 785.>> There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this title such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 1999 through 2003.''. SEC. 408. RIGHTS AND ADVOCACY. (a) Conforming Amendments to Rights and Advocacy Provisions.-- (1) Employment.--Section 501 (29 U.S.C. 791) is amended-- (A) in the third sentence of subsection (a), by striking ``President's Committees on Employment of the Handicapped'' and inserting ``President's Committees on Employment of People With Disabilities''; and (B) in subsection (e), by striking ``individualized written rehabilitation program'' and inserting ``individualized plan for employment''. (2) Access board.--Section 502 (29 U.S.C. 792) is amended-- (A) in subsection (a)(1), in the sentence following subparagraph (B), by striking ``Chairperson'' and inserting ``chairperson''; (B) in subsection (b)-- (i) in paragraph (2), by striking ``guidelines'' and inserting ``information''; (ii) by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the following: ``(3) establish and maintain-- ``(A) minimum guidelines and requirements for the standards issued pursuant to the Act commonly known as the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968; ``(B) minimum guidelines and requirements for the standards issued pursuant to titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; ``(C) guidelines for accessibility of telecommunications equipment and customer premises equipment under section 255 of the Telecommunications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 255); and ``(D) standards for accessible electronic and information technology under section 508;''; (iii) in paragraph (9), by striking ``; and'' and inserting a semicolon; (iv) in paragraph (10), by striking the period and inserting ``; and''; and (v) by adding at the end the following: [[Page 112 STAT.1203]] ``(11) carry out the responsibilities specified for the Access Board in section 508.''; (C) in subsection (d)(1), by striking ``procedures under this section'' and inserting ``procedures under this subsection''; (D) in subsection (g)(2), by striking ``Committee on Education and Labor'' and inserting ``Committee on Education and the Workforce''; (E) in subsection (h)(2)(A), by striking ``paragraphs (5) and (7)'' and inserting ``paragraphs (2) and (4)''; and (F) in subsection (i), by striking ``fiscal years 1993 through 1997'' and inserting ``fiscal years 1999 through 2003''. (3) Federal grants and contracts.--Section 504(a) (29 U.S.C. 794(a)) is amended in the first sentence by striking ``section 7(8)'' and inserting ``section 7(20)''. (4) Secretarial responsibilities.--Section 506(a) (29 U.S.C. 794b(a)) is amended-- (A) by striking the second sentence and inserting the following: ``Any concurrence of the Access Board under paragraph (2) shall reflect its consideration of cost studies carried out by States.''; and (B) in the second sentence of subsection (c), by striking ``provided under this paragraph'' and inserting ``provided under this subsection''. (b) Electronic and Information Technology Regulations.--Section 508 (29 U.S.C. 794d) is amended to read as follows: ``SEC. 508. ELECTRONIC AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY. ``(a) Requirements for Federal Departments and Agencies.-- ``(1) Accessibility.-- ``(A) Development, procurement, maintenance, or use of electronic and information technology.--When developing, procuring, maintaining, or using electronic and information technology, each Federal department or agency, including the United States Postal Service, shall ensure, unless an undue burden would be imposed on the department or agency, that the electronic and information technology allows, regardless of the type of medium of the technology-- ``(i) individuals with disabilities who are Federal employees to have access to and use of information and data that is comparable to the access to and use of the information and data by Federal employees who are not individuals with disabilities; and ``(ii) individuals with disabilities who are members of the public seeking information or services from a Federal department or agency to have access to and use of information and data that is comparable to the access to and use of the information and data by such members of the public who are not individuals with disabilities. ``(B) Alternative means efforts.--When development, procurement, maintenance, or use of electronic and information technology that meets the standards published by the Access Board under paragraph (2) would impose [[Page 112 STAT.1204]] an undue burden, the Federal department or agency shall provide individuals with disabilities covered by paragraph (1) with the information and data involved by an alternative means of access that allows the individual to use the information and data. ``(2) Electronic and information technology standards.-- ``(A) <<NOTE: Deadline. Publication.>> In general.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998, the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (referred to in this section as the `Access Board'), after consultation with the Secretary of Education, the Administrator of General Services, the Secretary of Commerce, the Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, the Secretary of Defense, and the head of any other Federal department or agency that the Access Board determines to be appropriate, including consultation on relevant research findings, and after consultation with the electronic and information technology industry and appropriate public or nonprofit agencies or organizations, including organizations representing individuals with disabilities, shall issue and publish standards setting forth-- ``(i) for purposes of this section, a definition of electronic and information technology that is consistent with the definition of information technology specified in section 5002(3) of the Clinger-Cohen Act of 1996 (40 U.S.C. 1401(3)); and ``(ii) the technical and functional performance criteria necessary to implement the requirements set forth in paragraph (1). ``(B) Review and amendment.--The Access Board shall periodically review and, as appropriate, amend the standards required under subparagraph (A) to reflect technological advances or changes in electronic and information technology. ``(3) <<NOTE: Deadlines. Regulations.>> Incorporation of standards.--Not later than 6 months after the Access Board publishes the standards required under paragraph (2), the Federal Acquisition Regulatory Council shall revise the Federal Acquisition Regulation and each Federal department or agency shall revise the Federal procurement policies and directives under the control of the department or agency to incorporate those standards. Not later than 6 months after the Access Board revises any standards required under paragraph (2), the Council shall revise the Federal Acquisition Regulation and each appropriate Federal department or agency shall revise the procurement policies and directives, as necessary, to incorporate the revisions. ``(4) Acquisition planning.--In the event that a Federal department or agency determines that compliance with the standards issued by the Access Board under paragraph (2) relating to procurement imposes an undue burden, the documentation by the department or agency supporting the procurement shall explain why compliance creates an undue burden. ``(5) Exemption for national security systems.--This section shall not apply to national security systems, as that [[Page 112 STAT.1205]] term is defined in section 5142 of the Clinger-Cohen Act of 1996 (40 U.S.C. 1452). ``(6) Construction.-- ``(A) Equipment.--In a case in which the Federal Government provides access to the public to information or data through electronic and information technology, nothing in this section shall be construed to require a Federal department or agency-- ``(i) to make equipment owned by the Federal Government available for access and use by individuals with disabilities covered by paragraph (1) at a location other than that where the electronic and information technology is provided to the public; or ``(ii) to purchase equipment for access and use by individuals with disabilities covered by paragraph (1) at a location other than that where the electronic and information technology is provided to the public. ``(B) Software and peripheral devices.--Except as required to comply with standards issued by the Access Board under paragraph (2), nothing in paragraph (1) requires the installation of specific accessibility- related software or the attachment of a specific accessibility-related peripheral device at a workstation of a Federal employee who is not an individual with a disability. ``(b) Technical Assistance.--The Administrator of General Services and the Access Board shall provide technical assistance to individuals and Federal departments and agencies concerning the requirements of this section. ``(c) <<NOTE: Deadline. Reports.>> Agency Evaluations.--Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998, the head of each Federal department or agency shall evaluate the extent to which the electronic and information technology of the department or agency is accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities described in subsection (a)(1), compared to the access to and use of the technology by individuals described in such subsection who are not individuals with disabilities, and submit a report containing the evaluation to the Attorney General. ``(d) Reports.-- ``(1) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> Interim report.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998, the Attorney General shall prepare and submit to the President a report containing information on and recommendations regarding the extent to which the electronic and information technology of the Federal Government is accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities described in subsection (a)(1). ``(2) Biennial reports.--Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998, and every 2 years thereafter, the Attorney General shall prepare and submit to the President and Congress a report containing information on and recommendations regarding the state of Federal department and agency compliance with the requirements of this section, including actions regarding individual complaints under subsection (f ). ``(e) Cooperation.--Each head of a Federal department or agency (including the Access Board, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and the General Services Administration) shall [[Page 112 STAT.1206]] provide to the Attorney General such information as the Attorney General determines is necessary to conduct the evaluations under subsection (c) and prepare the reports under subsection (d). ``(f ) Enforcement.-- ``(1) General.-- ``(A) <<NOTE: Effective date.>> Complaints.-- Effective 2 years after the date of enactment of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998, any individual with a disability may file a complaint alleging that a Federal department or agency fails to comply with subsection (a)(1) in providing electronic and information technology. ``(B) Application.--This subsection shall apply only to electronic and information technology that is procured by a Federal department or agency not less than 2 years after the date of enactment of the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998. ``(2) Administrative complaints.--Complaints filed under paragraph (1) shall be filed with the Federal department or agency alleged to be in noncompliance. The Federal department or agency receiving the complaint shall apply the complaint procedures established to implement section 504 for resolving allegations of discrimination in a federally conducted program or activity. ``(3) Civil actions.--The remedies, procedures, and rights set forth in sections 505(a)(2) and 505(b) shall be the remedies, procedures, and rights available to any individual with a disability filing a complaint under paragraph (1). ``(g) Application to Other Federal Laws.--This section shall not be construed to limit any right, remedy, or procedure otherwise available under any provision of Federal law (including sections 501 through 505) that provides greater or equal protection for the rights of individuals with disabilities than this section.''. (c) Protection and Advocacy of Individual Rights.--Section 509 (29 U.S.C. 794e) is amended to read as follows: ``SEC. 509. PROTECTION AND ADVOCACY OF INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS. ``(a) Purpose and Construction.-- ``(1) Purpose.--The purpose of this section is to support a system in each State to protect the legal and human rights of individuals with disabilities who-- ``(A) need services that are beyond the scope of services authorized to be provided by the client assistance program under section 112; and ``(B)(i) are ineligible for protection and advocacy programs under part C of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (42 U.S.C. 6041 et seq.) because the individuals do not have a developmental disability, as defined in section 102 of such Act (42 U.S.C. 6002); and ``(ii) are ineligible for services under the Protection and Advocacy for Mentally Ill Individuals Act of 1986 (42 U.S.C. 10801 et seq.) because the individuals are not individuals with mental illness, as defined in section 102 of such Act (42 U.S.C. 10802). ``(2) Construction.--This section shall not be construed to require the provision of protection and advocacy services that can be provided under the Technology-Related Assistance [[Page 112 STAT.1207]] for Individuals With Disabilities Act of 1988 (42 U.S.C. 2201 et seq.). ``(b) Appropriations Less Than $5,500,000.--For any fiscal year in which the amount appropriated to carry out this section is less than $5,500,000, the Commissioner may make grants from such amount to eligible systems within States to plan for, develop outreach strategies for, and carry out protection and advocacy programs authorized under this section for individuals with disabilities who meet the requirements of subparagraphs (A) and (B) of subsection (a)(1). ``(c) Appropriations of $5,500,000 or More.-- ``(1) Reservations.-- ``(A) Technical assistance.--For any fiscal year in which the amount appropriated to carry out this section equals or exceeds $5,500,000, the Commissioner shall set aside not less than 1.8 percent and not more than 2.2 percent of the amount to provide training and technical assistance to the systems established under this section. ``(B) Grant for the eligible system serving the american indian consortium.--For any fiscal year in which the amount appropriated to carry out this section equals or exceeds $10,500,000, the Commissioner shall reserve a portion, and use the portion to make a grant for the eligible system serving the American Indian consortium. The Commission shall make the grant in an amount of not less than $50,000 for the fiscal year. ``(2) Allotments.--For any such fiscal year, after the reservations required by paragraph (1) have been made, the Commissioner shall make allotments from the remainder of such amount in accordance with paragraph (3) to eligible systems within States to enable such systems to carry out protection and advocacy programs authorized under this section for individuals referred to in subsection (b). ``(3) Systems within states.-- ``(A) Population basis.--Except as provided in subparagraph (B), from such remainder for each such fiscal year, the Commissioner shall make an allotment to the eligible system within a State of an amount bearing the same ratio to such remainder as the population of the State bears to the population of all States. ``(B) Minimums.--Subject to the availability of appropriations to carry out this section, and except as provided in paragraph (4), the allotment to any system under subparagraph (A) shall be not less than $100,000 or \1/3\ of 1 percent of the remainder for the fiscal year for which the allotment is made, whichever is greater, and the allotment to any system under this section for any fiscal year that is less than $100,000 or \1/3\ of 1 percent of such remainder shall be increased to the greater of the two amounts. ``(4) Systems within other jurisdictions.-- ``(A) In general.--For the purposes of paragraph (3)(B), Guam, American Samoa, the United States Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands shall not be considered to be States. ``(B) Allotment.--The eligible system within a jurisdiction described in subparagraph (A) shall be allotted [[Page 112 STAT.1208]] under paragraph (3)(A) not less than $50,000 for the fiscal year for which the allotment is made. ``(5) Adjustment for inflation.--For any fiscal year, beginning in fiscal year 1999, in which the total amount appropriated to carry out this section exceeds the total amount appropriated to carry out this section for the preceding fiscal year, the Commissioner shall increase each of the minimum grants or allotments under paragraphs (1)(B), (3)(B), and (4)(B) by a percentage that shall not exceed the percentage increase in the total amount appropriated to carry out this section between the preceding fiscal year and the fiscal year involved. ``(d) Proportional Reduction.--To provide minimum allotments to systems within States (as increased under subsection (c)(5)) under subsection (c)(3)(B), or to provide minimum allotments to systems within States (as increased under subsection (c)(5)) under subsection (c)(4)(B), the Commissioner shall proportionately reduce the allotments of the remaining systems within States under subsection (c)(3), with such adjustments as may be necessary to prevent the allotment of any such remaining system within a State from being reduced to less than the minimum allotment for a system within a State (as increased under subsection (c)(5)) under subsection (c)(3)(B), or the minimum allotment for a State (as increased under subsection (c)(5)) under subsection (c)(4)(B), as appropriate. ``(e) Reallotment.--Whenever the Commissioner determines that any amount of an allotment to a system within a State for any fiscal year described in subsection (c)(1) will not be expended by such system in carrying out the provisions of this section, the Commissioner shall make such amount available for carrying out the provisions of this section to one or more of the systems that the Commissioner determines will be able to use additional amounts during such year for carrying out such provisions. Any amount made available to a system for any fiscal year pursuant to the preceding sentence shall, for the purposes of this section, be regarded as an increase in the allotment of the system (as determined under the preceding provisions of this section) for such year. ``(f ) Application.--In order to receive assistance under this section, an eligible system shall submit an application to the Commissioner, at such time, in such form and manner, and containing such information and assurances as the Commissioner determines necessary to meet the requirements of this section, including assurances that the eligible system will-- ``(1) have in effect a system to protect and advocate the rights of individuals with disabilities; ``(2) have the same general authorities, including access to records and program income, as are set forth in part C of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (42 U.S.C. 6041 et seq.); ``(3) have the authority to pursue legal, administrative, and other appropriate remedies or approaches to ensure the protection of, and advocacy for, the rights of such individuals within the State or the American Indian consortium who are individuals described in subsection (a)(1); ``(4) provide information on and make referrals to programs and services addressing the needs of individuals with disabilities in the State or the American Indian consortium; [[Page 112 STAT.1209]] ``(5) develop a statement of objectives and priorities on an annual basis, and provide to the public, including individuals with disabilities and, as appropriate, the individuals' representatives, an opportunity to comment on the objectives and priorities established by, and activities of, the system including-- ``(A) the objectives and priorities for the activities of the system for each year and the rationale for the establishment of such objectives and priorities; and ``(B) the coordination of programs provided through the system under this section with the advocacy programs of the client assistance program under section 112, the State long-term care ombudsman program established under the Older Americans Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3001 et seq.), the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (42 U.S.C. 6000 et seq.), and the Protection and Advocacy for Mentally Ill Individuals Act of 1986 (42 U.S.C. 10801 et seq.); ``(6) <<NOTE: Procedures.>> establish a grievance procedure for clients or prospective clients of the system to ensure that individuals with disabilities are afforded equal opportunity to access the services of the system; and ``(7) provide assurances to the Commissioner that funds made available under this section will be used to supplement and not supplant the non-Federal funds that would otherwise be made available for the purpose for which Federal funds are provided. ``(g) Carryover and Direct Payment.-- ``(1) Direct payment.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Commissioner shall pay directly to any system that complies with the provisions of this section, the amount of the allotment of the State or the grant for the eligible system that serves the American Indian consortium involved under this section, unless the State or American Indian consortium provides otherwise. ``(2) Carryover.--Any amount paid to an eligible system that serves a State or American Indian consortium for a fiscal year that remains unobligated at the end of such year shall remain available to such system that serves the State or American Indian consortium for obligation during the next fiscal year for the purposes for which such amount was paid. ``(h) Limitation on Disclosure Requirements.--For purposes of any audit, report, or evaluation of the performance of the program established under this section, the Commissioner shall not require such a program to disclose the identity of, or any other personally identifiable information related to, any individual requesting assistance under such program. ``(i) Administrative Cost.--In any State in which an eligible system is located within a State agency, a State may use a portion of any allotment under subsection (c) for the cost of the administration of the system required by this section. Such portion may not exceed 5 percent of the allotment. ``( j) Delegation.--The Commissioner may delegate the administration of this program to the Commissioner of the Administration on Developmental Disabilities within the Department of Health and Human Services. ``(k) Report.--The Commissioner shall annually prepare and submit to the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the [[Page 112 STAT.1210]] House of Representatives and the Committee on Labor and Human Resources of the Senate a report describing the types of services and activities being undertaken by programs funded under this section, the total number of individuals served under this section, the types of disabilities represented by such individuals, and the types of issues being addressed on behalf of such individuals. ``(l) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 1999 through 2003. ``(m) Definitions.--As used in this section: ``(1) Eligible system.--The term `eligible system' means a protection and advocacy system that is established under part C of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (42 U.S.C. 6041 et seq.) and that meets the requirements of subsection (f ). ``(2) American indian consortium.--The term `American Indian consortium' means a consortium established as described in section 142 of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (42 U.S.C. 6042).''. SEC. 409. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES. Title VI of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 795 et seq.) is amended to read as follows: ``TITLE VI-- <<NOTE: Employment Opportunities for Individuals With Disabilities Act.>> EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES ``short title ``Sec. 601. <<NOTE: 29 USC 701 note.>> This title may be cited as the `Employment Opportunities for Individuals With Disabilities Act'. ``Part A--Projects With Industry ``projects with industry ``Sec. 611. <<NOTE: 29 USC 795.>> (a)(1) The purpose of this part is to create and expand job and career opportunities for individuals with disabilities in the competitive labor market by engaging the talent and leadership of private industry as partners in the rehabilitation process, to identify competitive job and career opportunities and the skills needed to perform such jobs, to create practical job and career readiness and training programs, and to provide job placements and career advancement. ``(2) The Commissioner, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor and with designated State units, may award grants to individual employers, community rehabilitation program providers, labor unions, trade associations, Indian tribes, tribal organizations, designated State units, and other entities to establish jointly financed Projects With Industry to create and expand job and career opportunities for individuals with disabilities, which projects shall-- ``(A) provide for the establishment of business advisory councils, that shall-- ``(i) be comprised of-- ``(I) representatives of private industry, business concerns, and organized labor; [[Page 112 STAT.1211]] ``(II) individuals with disabilities and representatives of individuals with disabilities; and ``(III) a representative of the appropriate designated State unit; ``(ii) identify job and career availability within the community, consistent with the current and projected local employment opportunities identified by the local workforce investment board for the community under section 118(b)(1)(B) of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998; ``(iii) identify the skills necessary to perform the jobs and careers identified; and ``(iv) prescribe training programs designed to develop appropriate job and career skills, or job placement programs designed to identify and develop job placement and career advancement opportunities, for individuals with disabilities in fields related to the job and career availability identified under clause (ii); ``(B) provide job development, job placement, and career advancement services; ``(C) to the extent appropriate, provide for-- ``(i) training in realistic work settings in order to prepare individuals with disabilities for employment and career advancement in the competitive market; and ``(ii) to the extent practicable, the modification of any facilities or equipment of the employer involved that are used primarily by individuals with disabilities, except that a project shall not be required to provide for such modification if the modification is required as a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.); and ``(D) provide individuals with disabilities with such support services as may be required in order to maintain the employment and career advancement for which the individuals have received training under this part. ``(3)(A) An individual shall be eligible for services described in paragraph (2) if the individual is determined to be an individual described in section 102(a)(1), and if the determination is made in a manner consistent with section 102(a). ``(B) Such a determination may be made by the recipient of a grant under this part, to the extent the determination is appropriate and available and consistent with the requirements of section 102(a). ``(4) <<NOTE: Contracts.>> The Commissioner shall enter into an agreement with the grant recipient regarding the establishment of the project. Any agreement shall be jointly developed by the Commissioner, the grant recipient, and, to the extent practicable, the appropriate designated State unit and the individuals with disabilities (or the individuals' representatives) involved. Such agreements shall specify the terms of training and employment under the project, provide for the payment by the Commissioner of part of the costs of the project (in accordance with subsection (c)), and contain the items required under subsection (b) and such other provisions as the parties to the agreement consider to be appropriate. ``(5) Any agreement shall include a description of a plan to annually conduct a review and evaluation of the operation of the project in accordance with standards developed by the Commissioner under subsection (d), and, in conducting the review and [[Page 112 STAT.1212]] evaluation, to collect data and information of the type described in subparagraphs (A) through (C) of section 101(a)(10), as determined to be appropriate by the Commissioner. ``(6) The Commissioner may include, as part of agreements with grant recipients, authority for such grant recipients to provide technical assistance to-- ``(A) assist employers in hiring individuals with disabilities; or ``(B) improve or develop relationships between-- ``(i) grant recipients or prospective grant recipients; and ``(ii) employers or organized labor; or ``(C) assist employers in understanding and meeting the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.) as the Act relates to employment of individuals with disabilities. ``(b) No payment shall be made by the Commissioner under any agreement with a grant recipient entered into under subsection (a) unless such agreement-- ``(1) provides an assurance that individuals with disabilities placed under such agreement shall receive at least the applicable minimum wage; ``(2) provides an assurance that any individual with a disability placed under this part shall be afforded terms and benefits of employment equal to terms and benefits that are afforded to the similarly situated nondisabled co-workers of the individual, and that such individuals with disabilities shall not be segregated from their co-workers; and ``(3) provides an assurance that an annual evaluation report containing information specified under subsection (a)(5) shall be submitted as determined to be appropriate by the Commissioner. ``(c) Payments under this section with respect to any project may not exceed 80 per centum of the costs of the project. ``(d)(1) <<NOTE: Standards.>> The Commissioner shall develop standards for the evaluation described in subsection (a)(5) and shall review and revise the evaluation standards as necessary, subject to paragraph (2). ``(2) In revising the standards for evaluation to be used by the grant recipients, the Commissioner shall obtain and consider recommendations for such standards from State vocational rehabilitation agencies, current and former grant recipients, professional organizations representing business and industry, organizations representing individuals with disabilities, individuals served by grant recipients, organizations representing community rehabilitation program providers, and labor organizations. ``(e)(1)(A) <<NOTE: Grants.>> A grant may be awarded under this section for a period of up to 5 years and such grant may be renewed. ``(B) Grants under this section shall be awarded on a competitive basis. To be eligible to receive such a grant, a prospective grant recipient shall submit an application to the Commissioner at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Commissioner may require. ``(2) The Commissioner shall, to the extent practicable, ensure an equitable distribution of payments made under this section among the States. To the extent funds are available, the Commissioner shall award grants under this section to new projects that will serve individuals with disabilities in States, portions of States, [[Page 112 STAT.1213]] Indian tribes, or tribal organizations, that are currently unserved or underserved by projects. ``(f )(1) <<NOTE: Federal Register, publication.>> The Commissioner shall, as necessary, develop and publish in the Federal Register, in final form, indicators of what constitutes minimum compliance consistent with the evaluation standards under subsection (d)(1). ``(2) <<NOTE: Reports.>> Each grant recipient shall report to the Commissioner at the end of each project year the extent to which the grant recipient is in compliance with the evaluation standards. ``(3)(A) The Commissioner shall annually conduct onsite compliance reviews of at least 15 percent of grant recipients. The Commissioner shall select grant recipients for review on a random basis. ``(B) The Commissioner shall use the indicators in determining compliance with the evaluation standards. ``(C) The Commissioner shall ensure that at least one member of a team conducting such a review shall be an individual who-- ``(i) is not an employee of the Federal Government; and ``(ii) has experience or expertise in conducting projects. ``(D) The Commissioner shall ensure that-- ``(i) a representative of the appropriate designated State unit shall participate in the review; and ``(ii) no person shall participate in the review of a grant recipient if-- ``(I) the grant recipient provides any direct financial benefit to the reviewer; or ``(II) participation in the review would give the appearance of a conflict of interest. ``(4) In making a determination concerning any subsequent grant under this section, the Commissioner shall consider the past performance of the applicant, if applicable. The Commissioner shall use compliance indicators developed under this subsection that are consistent with program evaluation standards developed under subsection (d) to assess minimum project performance for purposes of making continuation awards in the third, fourth, and fifth years. ``(5) <<NOTE: Reports.>> Each fiscal year the Commissioner shall include in the annual report to Congress required by section 13 an analysis of the extent to which grant recipients have complied with the evaluation standards. The Commissioner may identify individual grant recipients in the analysis. In addition, the Commissioner shall report the results of onsite compliance reviews, identifying individual grant recipients. ``(g) The Commissioner may provide, directly or by way of grant, contract, or cooperative agreement, technical assistance to-- ``(1) entities conducting projects for the purpose of assisting such entities in-- ``(A) the improvement of or the development of relationships with private industry or labor; or ``(B) the improvement of relationships with State vocational rehabilitation agencies; and ``(2) entities planning the development of new projects. ``(h) As used in this section: ``(1) The term `agreement' means an agreement described in subsection (a)(4). ``(2) The term `project' means a Project With Industry established under subsection (a)(2). ``(3) The term `grant recipient' means a recipient of a grant under subsection (a)(2). [[Page 112 STAT.1214]] ``authorization of appropriations ``Sec. 612. <<NOTE: 29 USC 795a.>> There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out the provisions of this part, such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 1999 through 2003. ``Part B--Supported Employment Services for Individuals With the Most Significant Disabilities ``purpose ``Sec. 621. <<NOTE: 29 USC 795g.>> It is the purpose of this part to authorize allotments, in addition to grants for vocational rehabilitation services under title I, to assist States in developing collaborative programs with appropriate entities to provide supported employment services for individuals with the most significant disabilities to enable such individuals to achieve the employment outcome of supported employment. ``allotments ``Sec. 622. <<NOTE: 29 USC 795h.>> (a) In General.-- ``(1) States.--The Secretary shall allot the sums appropriated for each fiscal year to carry out this part among the States on the basis of relative population of each State, except that-- ``(A) no State shall receive less than $250,000, or \1/3\ of 1 percent of the sums appropriated for the fiscal year for which the allotment is made, whichever is greater; and ``(B) if the sums appropriated to carry out this part for the fiscal year exceed by $1,000,000 or more the sums appropriated to carry out this part in fiscal year 1992, no State shall receive less than $300,000, or \1/3\ of 1 percent of the sums appropriated for the fiscal year for which the allotment is made, whichever is greater. ``(2) Certain territories.-- ``(A) In general.--For the purposes of this subsection, Guam, American Samoa, the United States Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands shall not be considered to be States. ``(B) Allotment.--Each jurisdiction described in subparagraph (A) shall be allotted not less than one- eighth of one percent of the amounts appropriated for the fiscal year for which the allotment is made. ``(b) Reallotment.--Whenever the Commissioner determines that any amount of an allotment to a State for any fiscal year will not be expended by such State for carrying out the provisions of this part, the Commissioner shall make such amount available for carrying out the provisions of this part to one or more of the States that the Commissioner determines will be able to use additional amounts during such year for carrying out such provisions. Any amount made available to a State for any fiscal year pursuant to the preceding sentence shall, for the purposes of this section, be regarded as an increase in the allotment of the State (as determined under the preceding provisions of this section) for such year. [[Page 112 STAT.1215]] ``availability of services ``Sec. 623. <<NOTE: 29 USC 795i.>> Funds provided under this part may be used to provide supported employment services to individuals who are eligible under this part. Funds provided under this part, or title I, may not be used to provide extended services to individuals who are eligible under this part or title I. ``eligibility ``Sec. 624. <<NOTE: 29 USC 795j.>> An individual shall be eligible under this part to receive supported employment services authorized under this Act if-- ``(1) the individual is eligible for vocational rehabilitation services; ``(2) the individual is determined to be an individual with a most significant disability; and ``(3) a comprehensive assessment of rehabilitation needs of the individual described in section 7(2)(B), including an evaluation of rehabilitation, career, and job needs, identifies supported employment as the appropriate employment outcome for the individual. ``state plan ``Sec. 625. <<NOTE: 29 USC 795k.>> (a) State Plan Supplements.--To be eligible for an allotment under this part, a State shall submit to the Commissioner, as part of the State plan under section 101, a State plan supplement for providing supported employment services authorized under this Act to individuals who are eligible under this Act to receive the services. Each State shall make such annual revisions in the plan supplement as may be necessary. ``(b) Contents.--Each such plan supplement shall-- ``(1) designate each designated State agency as the agency to administer the program assisted under this part; ``(2) summarize the results of the comprehensive, statewide assessment conducted under section 101(a)(15)(A)(i), with respect to the rehabilitation needs of individuals with significant disabilities and the need for supported employment services, including needs related to coordination; ``(3) describe the quality, scope, and extent of supported employment services authorized under this Act to be provided to individuals who are eligible under this Act to receive the services and specify the goals and plans of the State with respect to the distribution of funds received under section 622; ``(4) demonstrate evidence of the efforts of the designated State agency to identify and make arrangements (including entering into cooperative agreements) with other State agencies and other appropriate entities to assist in the provision of supported employment services; ``(5) demonstrate evidence of the efforts of the designated State agency to identify and make arrangements (including entering into cooperative agreements) with other public or nonprofit agencies or organizations within the State, employers, natural supports, and other entities with respect to the provision of extended services; ``(6) provide assurances that-- [[Page 112 STAT.1216]] ``(A) funds made available under this part will only be used to provide supported employment services authorized under this Act to individuals who are eligible under this part to receive the services; ``(B) the comprehensive assessments of individuals with significant disabilities conducted under section 102(b)(1) and funded under title I will include consideration of supported employment as an appropriate employment outcome; ``(C) an individualized plan for employment, as required by section 102, will be developed and updated using funds under title I in order to-- ``(i) specify the supported employment services to be provided; ``(ii) specify the expected extended services needed; and ``(iii) identify the source of extended services, which may include natural supports, or to the extent that it is not possible to identify the source of extended services at the time the individualized plan for employment is developed, a statement describing the basis for concluding that there is a reasonable expectation that such sources will become available; ``(D) the State will use funds provided under this part only to supplement, and not supplant, the funds provided under title I, in providing supported employment services specified in the individualized plan for employment; ``(E) services provided under an individualized plan for employment will be coordinated with services provided under other individualized plans established under other Federal or State programs; ``(F) to the extent jobs skills training is provided, the training will be provided on site; and ``(G) supported employment services will include placement in an integrated setting for the maximum number of hours possible based on the unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice of individuals with the most significant disabilities; ``(7) provide assurances that the State agencies designated under paragraph (1) will expend not more than 5 percent of the allotment of the State under this part for administrative costs of carrying out this part; and ``(8) contain such other information and be submitted in such manner as the Commissioner may require. ``restriction ``Sec. 626. <<NOTE: 29 USC 795l.>> Each State agency designated under section 625(b)(1) shall collect the information required by section 101(a)(10) separately for eligible individuals receiving supported employment services under this part and for eligible individuals receiving supported employment services under title I. ``savings provision ``Sec. 627. <<NOTE: 29 USC 795m.>> (a) Supported Employment Services.--Nothing in this Act shall be construed to prohibit a State from providing supported employment services in accordance with the State plan [[Page 112 STAT.1217]] submitted under section 101 by using funds made available through a State allotment under section 110. ``(b) Postemployment Services.--Nothing in this part shall be construed to prohibit a State from providing discrete postemployment services in accordance with the State plan submitted under section 101 by using funds made available through a State allotment under section 110 to an individual who is eligible under this part. ``authorization of appropriations ``Sec. 628. <<NOTE: 29 USC 795n.>> There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this part such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 1999 through 2003.''. SEC. 410. INDEPENDENT LIVING SERVICES AND CENTERS FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING. Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 796 et seq.) is amended to read as follows: ``TITLE VII--INDEPENDENT LIVING SERVICES AND CENTERS FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING ``CHAPTER 1--INDIVIDUALS WITH SIGNIFICANT DISABILITIES ``PART A--GENERAL PROVISIONS ``SEC. 701. <<NOTE: 29 USC 796.>> PURPOSE. ``The purpose of this chapter is to promote a philosophy of independent living, including a philosophy of consumer control, peer support, self-help, self-determination, equal access, and individual and system advocacy, in order to maximize the leadership, empowerment, independence, and productivity of individuals with disabilities, and the integration and full inclusion of individuals with disabilities into the mainstream of American society, by-- ``(1) providing financial assistance to States for providing, expanding, and improving the provision of independent living services; ``(2) providing financial assistance to develop and support statewide networks of centers for independent living; and ``(3) providing financial assistance to States for improving working relationships among State independent living rehabilitation service programs, centers for independent living, Statewide Independent Living Councils established under section 705, State vocational rehabilitation programs receiving assistance under title I, State programs of supported employment services receiving assistance under part B of title VI, client assistance programs receiving assistance under section 112, programs funded under other titles of this Act, programs funded under other Federal law, and programs funded through non-Federal sources. [[Page 112 STAT.1218]] ``SEC. 702. <<NOTE: 29 USC 796a.>> DEFINITIONS. ``As used in this chapter: ``(1) Center for independent living.--The term `center for independent living' means a consumer-controlled, community- based, cross-disability, nonresidential private nonprofit agency that-- ``(A) is designed and operated within a local community by individuals with disabilities; and ``(B) provides an array of independent living services. ``(2) Consumer control.--The term `consumer control' means, with respect to a center for independent living, that the center vests power and authority in individuals with disabilities. ``SEC. 703. <<NOTE: 29 USC 796b.>> ELIGIBILITY FOR RECEIPT OF SERVICES. ``Services may be provided under this chapter to any individual with a significant disability, as defined in section 7(21)(B). ``SEC. 704. <<NOTE: 29 USC 796c.>> STATE PLAN. ``(a) In General.-- ``(1) Requirement.--To be eligible to receive financial assistance under this chapter, a State shall submit to the Commissioner, and obtain approval of, a State plan containing such provisions as the Commissioner may require, including, at a minimum, the provisions required in this section. ``(2) Joint development.--The plan under paragraph (1) shall be jointly developed and signed by-- ``(A) the director of the designated State unit; and ``(B) the chairperson of the Statewide Independent Living Council, acting on behalf of and at the direction of the Council. ``(3) Periodic review and revision.--The plan shall provide for the review and revision of the plan, not less than once every 3 years, to ensure the existence of appropriate planning, financial support and coordination, and other assistance to appropriately address, on a statewide and comprehensive basis, needs in the State for-- ``(A) the provision of State independent living services; ``(B) the development and support of a statewide network of centers for independent living; and ``(C) working relationships between-- ``(i) programs providing independent living services and independent living centers; and ``(ii) the vocational rehabilitation program established under title I, and other programs providing services for individuals with disabilities. ``(4) Date of submission.--The State shall submit the plan to the Commissioner 90 days before the completion date of the preceding plan. If a State fails to submit such a plan that complies with the requirements of this section, the Commissioner may withhold financial assistance under this chapter until such time as the State submits such a plan. ``(b) Statewide Independent Living Council.--The plan shall provide for the establishment of a Statewide Independent Living Council in accordance with section 705. [[Page 112 STAT.1219]] ``(c) Designation of State Unit.--The plan shall designate the designated State unit of such State as the agency that, on behalf of the State, shall-- ``(1) receive, account for, and disburse funds received by the State under this chapter based on the plan; ``(2) provide administrative support services for a program under part B, and a program under part C in a case in which the program is administered by the State under section 723; ``(3) <<NOTE: Records.>> keep such records and afford such access to such records as the Commissioner finds to be necessary with respect to the programs; and ``(4) submit such additional information or provide such assurances as the Commissioner may require with respect to the programs. ``(d) Objectives.--The plan shall-- ``(1) specify the objectives to be achieved under the plan and establish timelines for the achievement of the objectives; and ``(2) explain how such objectives are consistent with and further the purpose of this chapter. ``(e) Independent Living Services.--The plan shall provide that the State will provide independent living services under this chapter to individuals with significant disabilities, and will provide the services to such an individual in accordance with an independent living plan mutually agreed upon by an appropriate staff member of the service provider and the individual, unless the individual signs a waiver stating that such a plan is unnecessary. ``(f ) Scope and Arrangements.--The plan shall describe the extent and scope of independent living services to be provided under this chapter to meet such objectives. If the State makes arrangements, by grant or contract, for providing such services, such arrangements shall be described in the plan. ``(g) Network.--The plan shall set forth a design for the establishment of a statewide network of centers for independent living that comply with the standards and assurances set forth in section 725. ``(h) Centers.--In States in which Sta