[Congressional Bills 108th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[S. 2595 Introduced in Senate (IS)]
<DOC>
108th CONGRESS
2d Session
S. 2595
To establish State grant programs related to assistive technology and
protection and advocacy services, and for other purposes.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
June 24, 2004
Mr. Gregg (for himself, Mr. Harkin, Mr. Roberts, Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Reed,
Mrs. Murray, Mr. Jeffords, Mr. Enzi, and Mr. Dodd) introduced the
following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on
Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
_______________________________________________________________________
A BILL
To establish State grant programs related to assistive technology and
protection and advocacy services, and for other purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Improving Access to Assistive
Technology for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 2004''.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE.
(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:
(1) Over 54,000,000 individuals in the United States have
disabilities, with almost half experiencing severe disabilities
that affect their ability to see, hear, communicate, reason,
walk, or perform other basic life functions.
(2) 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 and make choices;
(C) benefit from an education;
(D) pursue meaningful careers; and
(E) enjoy full inclusion and integration in the
economic, political, social, cultural, and educational
mainstream of society in the United States.
(3) Too many individuals with disabilities are outside the
economic and social mainstream of society in the United States.
For example, individuals with disabilities are less likely than
their non-disabled peers to graduate from high school,
participate in postsecondary education, work, own a home,
participate fully in their community, vote, or use the computer
and the internet.
(4) As President Bush's New Freedom Initiative states,
``Assistive and universally designed technologies can be a
powerful tool for millions of Americans with disabilities,
dramatically improving one's quality of life and ability to
engage in productive work. New technologies are opening
opportunities for even those with the most severe disabilities.
For example, some individuals with quadriplegia can now operate
computers by the glance of an eye.''.
(5) According to the National Council on Disability, ``For
Americans without disabilities, technology makes things easier.
For Americans with disabilities, technology makes things
possible.''.
(6) Substantial progress has been made in the development
of assistive technology devices, universally designed products,
and accessible information technology and telecommunications
systems. Those devices, products, and systems can facilitate
communication, ensure independent functioning, enable early
childhood development, support educational achievement, provide
and enhance employment options, and enable full participation
in community living. Access to such devices, products, and
systems can also reduce expenditures associated with early
childhood intervention, education, rehabilitation and training,
health care, employment, residential living, independent
living, recreation opportunities, and other aspects of daily
living.
(7) Over the last 15 years, the Federal Government has
invested in the development of statewide comprehensive systems
of assistive technology, which have proven effective in
assisting individuals with disabilities in accessing assistive
technology devices and assistive technology services. Federal
dollars fund statewide infrastructures that support equipment
demonstration programs, short-term device loan programs,
financial loan programs, equipment exchange and recycling
programs, training programs, advocacy services, and information
and referral services.
(8) Despite the success of the programs and services
described in paragraph (7), individuals with disabilities who
need assistive technology and accessible information technology
continue to have a great need to know what technology is
available, to determine what technology is most appropriate,
and to obtain and utilize that technology to ensure their
maximum independence and participation in society.
(9) The 2000 decennial Census indicates that over
21,000,000 individuals in the United States, more than 8
percent of the United States population, have a disability that limits
their basic physical abilities such as walking, climbing stairs,
reaching, lifting, or carrying. Nearly 12 percent of working-age
individuals in the United States, or 21,300,000 of those individuals,
have a disability that affects their ability to work.
(10) The combination of significant recent changes in
Federal policy (including changes to section 508 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794d), accessibility
provisions of the Help America Vote Act of 2002 (42 U.S.C.
15301 et seq.), Executive Order 13217 (42 U.S.C. 12131 note;
relating to community-based alternatives for individuals with
disabilities), and the amendments made by the No Child Left
Behind Act of 2001) and the rapid and unending evolution of
technology require a Federal investment in State assistive
technology systems to ensure that individuals with disabilities
reap the benefits of the technological revolution and
participate fully in life in their communities.
(b) Purposes.--The purposes of this Act are--
(1) to enhance the ability of the Federal Government to
provide States with financial assistance that supports
statewide--
(A) activities to increase access to, and funding
for, assistive technology devices and assistive
technology services, including financing systems and
financing programs;
(B) device demonstration, device loan, and device
re-utilization programs;
(C) training and technical assistance in the
provision or use of assistive technology devices and
assistive technology services;
(D) information systems relating to the provision
of assistive technology devices and assistive
technology services; and
(E) improved interagency and public-private
coordination that results in increased availability of
assistive technology devices and assistive technology
services; and
(2) to provide States with financial assistance to
undertake activities that assist each State in maintaining and
strengthening cross-disability, full-lifespan State assistive
technology programs, consistent with the Federal commitment to
full participation and independent living of individuals with
disabilities.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Accessible information technology and
telecommunications.--The term ``accessible information
technology and telecommunications'' means information
technology or electronic and information technology as defined
by section 1194.4 of title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (or
any corresponding similar regulation or ruling) that conforms
to the applicable technical standards set forth in sections
1194.21 through 1194.26 of such title (or any corresponding
similar regulation or ruling).
(2) Adult service provider.--The term ``adult service
provider'' means a public or private entity that provides
services to, or is otherwise substantially involved with the
major life functions of, individuals with disabilities. Such
term includes--
(A) entities and organizations providing
residential, supportive, employment services, or
employment-related services to individuals with
disabilities;
(B) centers for independent living, such as the
centers described in part C of title VII of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 796f et seq.);
(C) employment support agencies connected to adult
vocational rehabilitation, including one-stop partners,
as defined in section 101 of the Workforce Investment
Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 2801); and
(D) other organizations or vendors licensed or
registered by the designated State agency, as defined
in section 7 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29
U.S.C. 705).
(3) American indian consortium.--The term ``American Indian
consortium'' means a consortium established under subtitle C of
title I of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill
of Rights Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 15041 et seq.).
(4) Assistive technology.--The term ``assistive
technology'' means technology designed to be utilized in an
assistive technology device or assistive technology service.
(5) Assistive technology device.--The term ``assistive
technology device'' means any item, piece of equipment, or
product system, whether acquired commercially, modified, or
customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve
functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.
(6) Assistive technology service.--The term ``assistive
technology service'' means any service that directly assists an
individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or
use of an assistive technology device. Such term includes--
(A) the evaluation of the assistive technology
needs of an individual with a disability, including a
functional evaluation of the impact of the provision of
appropriate assistive technology and appropriate
services to the individual in the customary environment
of the individual;
(B) a service consisting of purchasing, leasing, or
otherwise providing for the acquisition of assistive
technology devices by individuals with disabilities;
(C) a service consisting of selecting, designing,
fitting, customizing, adapting, applying, maintaining,
repairing, replacing, or donating assistive technology
devices;
(D) coordination and use of necessary therapies,
interventions, or services with assistive technology
devices, such as therapies, interventions, or services
associated with education and rehabilitation plans and
programs;
(E) training or technical assistance for an
individual with a disability or, where appropriate, the
family members, guardians, advocates, or authorized
representatives of such an individual; and
(F) training or technical assistance for
professionals (including individuals providing
education and rehabilitation services and entities that
manufacture or sell assistive technology devices),
employers, providers of employment and training
services, or other individuals who provide services to,
employ, or are otherwise substantially involved in the
major life functions of individuals with disabilities.
(7) Capacity building and advocacy activities.--The term
``capacity building and advocacy activities'' means efforts
that--
(A) result in laws, regulations, policies,
practices, procedures, or organizational structures
that promote consumer-responsive programs or entities;
and
(B) facilitate and increase access to, provision
of, and funding for, assistive technology devices and
assistive technology services,
in order to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve
greater independence, productivity, and integration and
inclusion within the community and the workforce.
(8) Comprehensive statewide program of technology-related
assistance.--The term ``comprehensive statewide program of
technology-related assistance'' means a consumer-responsive
program of technology-related assistance for individuals with
disabilities, implemented by a State, and equally available to
all individuals with disabilities residing in the State,
regardless of their type of disability, age, income level, or
location of residence in the State, or the type of assistive
technology device or assistive technology service required.
(9) Consumer-responsive.--The term ``consumer-
responsive''--
(A) with regard to policies, means that the
policies are consistent with the principles of--
(i) respect for individual dignity,
personal responsibility, self-determination,
and pursuit of meaningful careers, based on
informed choice, of individuals with
disabilities;
(ii) respect for the privacy, rights, and
equal access (including the use of accessible
formats) of such individuals;
(iii) inclusion, integration, and full
participation of such individuals in society;
(iv) support for the involvement in
decisions of a family member, a guardian, an
advocate, or an authorized representative, if
an individual with a disability requests,
desires, or needs such involvement; and
(v) support for individual and systems
advocacy and community involvement; and
(B) with respect to an entity, program, or
activity, means that the entity, program, or activity--
(i) is easily accessible to, and usable by,
individuals with disabilities and, when
appropriate, their family members, guardians,
advocates, or authorized representatives;
(ii) responds to the needs of individuals
with disabilities in a timely and appropriate
manner; and
(iii) facilitates the full and meaningful
participation of individuals with disabilities
(including individuals from underrepresented
populations and rural populations) and their
family members, guardians, advocates, and
authorized representatives, in--
(I) decisions relating to the
provision of assistive technology
devices and assistive technology
services to such individuals; and
(II) decisions related to the
maintenance, improvement, and
evaluation of the comprehensive
statewide program of technology-related
assistance, including decisions that
affect capacity building and advocacy
activities.
(10) Disability.--The term ``disability'' means a condition
of an individual that is considered to be a disability or
handicap for the purposes of any Federal law other than this
Act or for the purposes of the law of the State in which the
individual resides.
(11) Individual with a disability; individuals with
disabilities.--
(A) Individual with a disability.--The term
``individual with a disability'' means any individual
of any age, race, or ethnicity--
(i) who has a disability; and
(ii) who is or would be enabled by an
assistive technology device or an assistive
technology service to minimize deterioration in
functioning, to maintain a level of
functioning, or to achieve a greater level of
functioning in any major life activity.
(B) Individuals with disabilities.--The term
``individuals with disabilities'' means more than 1
individual with a disability.
(12) Institution of higher education.--The term
``institution of higher education'' has the meaning given such
term in section 101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 1001(a)), and includes a community college receiving
funding under the Tribally Controlled College or University
Assistance Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.).
(13) Protection and advocacy services.--The term
``protection and advocacy services'' means services that--
(A) are described in subtitle C of title I of the
Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of
Rights Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 15041 et seq.), the
Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental
Illness Act (42 U.S.C. 10801 et seq.), or section 509
of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794e); and
(B) assist individuals with disabilities with
respect to assistive technology devices and assistive
technology services.
(14) Protection and advocacy system.--The term ``protection
and advocacy system'' means a protection and advocacy system
established under subtitle C of title I of the Developmental
Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (42
U.S.C. 15041 et seq.).
(15) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Education.
(16) State.--
(A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph
(B), the term ``State'' means 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.
(B) Outlying areas.--In section 4(b):
(i) Outlying area.--The term ``outlying
area'' means the United States Virgin Islands,
Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of
the Northern Mariana Islands.
(ii) State.--The term ``State'' does not
include the United States Virgin Islands, Guam,
American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the
Northern Mariana Islands.
(17) State assistive technology program.--The term ``State
assistive technology program'', except as used in section
4(c)(2)(E), means a program authorized under section 4 or 6(a).
(18) Targeted individuals and entities.--The term
``targeted individuals and entities'' means--
(A) individuals with disabilities of all ages and
their family members, guardians, advocates, and
authorized representatives;
(B) underrepresented populations, including the
aging workforce;
(C) individuals who work for public or private
entities (including centers for independent living
described in part C of title VII of the Rehabilitation
Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 796f et seq.), insurers, or
managed care providers) that have contact with
individuals with disabilities;
(D) educators at all levels (including providers of
early intervention services, elementary schools,
secondary schools, community colleges, and vocational
and other institutions of higher education) and related
services personnel;
(E) technology experts (including web designers and
procurement officials);
(F) health, allied health, and rehabilitation
professionals and hospital employees (including
discharge planners);
(G) employers, especially small business employers,
and providers of employment and training services;
(H) entities that manufacture or sell assistive
technology devices;
(I) policymakers and service providers;
(J) entities that carry out community programs
designed to develop essential community services in
rural and urban areas, including AgrAbility projects,
Rural Business-Cooperative Service programs, Community
Development Financial Institution Fund programs, and
other rural and urban programs; and
(K) other appropriate individuals and entities, as
determined for a State by the State advisory council.
(19) Technology-related assistance.--The term ``technology-
related assistance'' means assistance provided through capacity
building and advocacy activities that accomplish the purposes
described in section 2(b)(2).
(20) Underrepresented population.--The term
``underrepresented population'' means a population that is
typically underrepresented in service provision, and includes
populations such as persons who have low-incidence
disabilities, persons who are minorities, poor persons, persons
with limited English proficiency, older individuals, or persons
from rural areas.
(21) Universal design.--The term ``universal design'' means
a concept or philosophy for designing and delivering products
and services that are usable by people with the widest possible
range of functional capabilities, which include products and
services that are directly accessible (without requiring
assistive technologies) and products and services that are
interoperable with assistive technologies.
SEC. 4. STATE GRANTS FOR ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY.
(a) Grants to States.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall award grants under
subsection (b) to States to support activities that increase
access to assistive technology and accessible information
technology and telecommunications, for individuals with
disabilities across the human lifespan and across the wide
array of disabilities, on a statewide basis.
(2) Period of grant.--The Secretary shall provide
assistance through such a grant to a State for not more than 5
years.
(b) Amount of Financial Assistance.--
(1) In general.--From funds appropriated under section
10(a) for a fiscal year and available to carry out this
section, the Secretary shall award a grant to each eligible
State and eligible outlying area based on the corresponding
allotment determined under paragraph (2).
(2) Allotments.--
(A) In general.--Except as provided in
subparagraphs (B) and (C), from the funds described in
paragraph (1), the Secretary shall allot not less than
$500,000 to each State and not less than $150,000 to
each outlying area for each fiscal year.
(B) Lower appropriation year.--For a fiscal year
for which the amount of the funds described in
paragraph (1) is less than $29,000,000, from those
funds, the Secretary--
(i) shall allot to each State or outlying
area the amount the State or outlying area
received for fiscal year 2004 to carry out
section 101 of the Assistive Technology Act of
1998, as in effect on the day before the date
of enactment of this Act; and
(ii) from any funds remaining after the
Secretary makes the allotments described in
clause (i), shall allot to each State an equal
amount.
(C) Higher appropriation year.--For a fiscal year
for which the amount of the funds described in
paragraph (1) is not less than $29,000,000, from those
funds, the Secretary--
(i) from a portion of the funds equal to
$29,000,000, shall make the
allotments described in clauses (i) and (ii) of subparagraph (B);
(ii) from any funds remaining after the
Secretary makes the allotments described in
clause (i), shall allot to each outlying area
an additional amount, so that each outlying
area receives a total allotment of not less
than $150,000 under this paragraph; and
(iii) from any funds remaining after the
Secretary makes the allotments described in
clauses (i) and (ii)--
(I) shall allot to each State an
amount that bears the same relationship
to 80 percent of the remainder as the
population of the State bears to the
population of all States; and
(II) from 20 percent of the
remainder, shall allot to each State an
equal amount.
(3) Carryover.--Any amount paid to a State program for a
fiscal year under this section shall remain available to such
program for obligation until the end of the next fiscal year
for the purposes for which such amount was originally provided,
except that program income generated from such amount shall
remain available to such program until expended.
(c) Lead Agency, Implementing Entity, and Advisory Council.--
(1) Lead agency and implementing entity.--
(A) Lead agency.--The Governor shall designate a
lead agency to control and administer the funds made
available through the grant awarded to the State under
this section.
(B) Implementing entity.--
(i) In general.--The Governor shall
designate an agency, office, or other entity to
carry out State activities under this section
(referred to in this section as the
``implementing entity''), if such implementing
entity is different from the lead agency.
(ii) Type of entity.--In designating the
implementing entity, the Governor may
designate--
(I) a commission, council, or other
official body appointed by the
Governor;
(II) a public-private partnership
or consortium;
(III) a public agency, including
the immediate office of the Governor, a
State oversight office, a State agency,
a public institution of higher
education, a University Center for
Excellence in Developmental
Disabilities Education, Research, and
Service established under subtitle D of
title I of the Developmental
Disabilities Assistance and Bill of
Rights Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 15061 et
seq.), or another public entity;
(IV) a council established under
Federal or State law;
(V) an incorporated private
nonprofit organization described in
section 501(c)(3) of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986 and exempt from
tax under section 501(a) of that Code;
or
(VI) another appropriate agency,
office, or entity.
(iii) Expertise, experience, and ability.--
In designating the implementing entity, the
Governor shall designate an entity with
expertise, experience, and ability with respect
to--
(I) providing leadership in
developing State initiatives related to
assistive technology and accessible
information technology and
telecommunications;
(II) responding to assistive
technology and accessible information
technology and telecommunications needs
of individuals with disabilities with
the full range of disabilities and of
all ages; and
(III) promoting availability
throughout the State of assistive
technology devices, assistive
technology services, and accessible
information technology and
telecommunications.
(C) Change in agency or entity.--On obtaining the
approval of the Secretary, the Governor may redesignate
the lead agency, or the implementing entity, if the
Governor shows to the Secretary good cause why the
entity designated as the lead agency, or the
implementing entity, respectively, should not serve as
that agency or entity, respectively. The Governor shall make the
showing in the application described in subsection (d) or other
documentation requested by the Secretary.
(2) Advisory council.--
(A) In general.--There shall be established an
advisory council to provide consumer-responsive,
consumer-driven decisionmaking for, planning of,
implementation of, and evaluation of the activities
carried out through the grant.
(B) Composition and representation.--
(i) Individuals with disabilities.--A
majority, not less than 51 percent, of the
members of the advisory council shall be
individuals with disabilities that use
assistive technology, or family members or
guardians of such individuals.
(ii) Composition.--The advisory council
shall be composed of--
(I) a representative of the
designated State agency, as defined in
section 7 of the Rehabilitation Act of
1973 (29 U.S.C. 705) and the State
agency for individuals who are blind
(within the meaning of section 101 of
that Act (29 U.S.C. 721)), if such
agency is separate;
(II) a representative of a State
center for independent living described
in part C of title VII of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C.
796f et seq.);
(III) a representative of the State
workforce investment board established
under section 111 of the Workforce
Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C.
2821);
(IV) a representative of the State
educational agency, as defined in
section 9101 of the Elementary and
Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 7801);
(V) a representative of the State
agency for the medicaid program
established under title XIX of the
Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1396 et
seq.);
(VI) the Director of the State
assistive technology program;
(VII) representatives of other
State agencies, public agencies, and
private organizations, as determined by
the State; and
(VIII) individuals with
disabilities, or parents, family
members, or guardians of individuals
with disabilities, who represent
recipients of services from the
entities identified in subclauses (I)
through (VII).
(iii) Representation.--The advisory council
shall be geographically representative of the
State and reflect the diversity of the State
with respect to race, ethnicity, types of
disabilities across the age span, and users of
types of services that an individual with a
disability may receive.
(C) Expenses.--The members of the advisory council
shall receive no compensation for their service on the
advisory council, but shall be reimbursed for
reasonable and necessary expenses actually incurred in
the performance of official duties for the advisory
council.
(D) Period.--The members of the State advisory
council shall be appointed not later than 90 days after
the approval of the State application described in
subsection (d).
(E) Impact on existing statutes, rules, or
policies.--Nothing in this paragraph shall be construed
to affect State statutes, rules, or official policies
relating to advisory bodies for State assistive
technology programs or require changes to governing
bodies of incorporated agencies who carry out State
assistive technology programs.
(d) Application.--
(1) In general.--Any State that desires to receive a grant
under this section shall submit an application to the
Secretary, at such time, in such manner, and containing such
information as the Secretary may require.
(2) Lead agency and implementing entity.--The application
shall contain information identifying and describing the lead
agency referred to in subsection (c)(1)(A). The application
shall contain information identifying and describing the
implementing entity referred to in subsection (c)(1)(B),
including information describing the expertise, experience, and
ability of the entity.
(3) Advisory council.--The application shall contain an
assurance that an advisory council will be established in
accordance with subsection (c)(2).
(4) Involvement of public and private entities.--The
application shall describe how various public and private
entities were involved in the development of the application
and will be involved in the implementation of the activities to
be carried out through the grant, including--
(A) in cases determined to be appropriate by the
State or the State advisory council, a description of
the nature and extent of resources that will be
committed by public and private collaborators to assist
in accomplishing identified goals; and
(B) a description of the mechanisms established to
ensure coordination of activities and collaboration
between the implementing entity and a State or entity
that receives a grant under section 6(a).
(5) Implementation.--The application shall include a
description of--
(A) how the State will implement each of the
required activities described in subsection (e), except
as provided in subparagraph (A) or (B) of subsection
(e)(1); and
(B) how the State will allocate and utilize grant
funds to implement the activities.
(6) Assurances.--The application shall include assurances
that--
(A) the State will annually collect data related to
the required activities in order to prepare the
progress reports required under subsection (f);
(B) funds received through the grant--
(i) will be expended in accordance with
this section, on initiatives identified by the
advisory council described in subsection
(c)(2);
(ii) will be used to supplement, and not
supplant, funds available from other sources
for technology-related assistance, including
the provision of assistive technology devices
and assistive technology services;
(iii) will not be used to pay a financial
obligation for technology-related assistance
(including the provision of assistive
technology devices or assistive technology
services) that would have been paid with funds
from other sources if funds had not been
available through the grant; and
(iv) will not be commingled with State or
other funds, except that the State may, subject
to such documentation requirements as the
Secretary may establish, pool funds received
through the grant with other public or private
funds to achieve a goal specified in an
application approved under this section;
(C) the lead agency will control and administer the
funds received through the grant;
(D) the State will adopt such fiscal control and
accounting procedures as may be necessary to ensure
proper disbursement of and accounting for the funds
received through the grant; and
(E) the State (including the State lead agency)
will not use more than 10 percent of the funds received
through the grant for indirect costs.
(e) Use of Funds.--
(1) In general.--Any State that receives a grant under this
section shall use the funds made available through the grant to
carry out the activities described in paragraph (2), except
that the State shall not be required to carry out an activity
if--
(A) another entity in the State is providing the
same or a similar activity; or
(B) the advisory council described in subsection
(c)(2) determines through a needs assessment that the
residents of the State consider the activity to be
unwarranted.
(2) Required activities.--
(A) State financing systems.--The State shall
support activities to increase access to, and funding
for, assistive technology devices and assistive
technology services (which shall not include direct
payment for such a device or service for an individual
with a disability but may include support and
administration of a program to provide such payment),
including development of systems to provide and pay for
such devices and services, for targeted individuals
described in section 3(18)(A), such as--
(i) support for the development of systems
for the purchase, lease, or other acquisition
of, or payment for, assistive technology
devices and assistive technology services; or
(ii) support for the development of State-
financed or privately financed alternative
financing systems of subsidies (which may
include studying the feasibility of, improving,
administering, operating, providing capital
for, or collaborating with an entity with
respect to, such a system) for the provision of
assistive technology devices (including related
accessible information technology and
telecommunications) and assistive technology
services, such as--
(I) a low-interest loan fund;
(II) an interest buy-down program;
(III) a revolving loan fund;
(IV) a loan guarantee or insurance
program;
(V) a program providing for the
purchase, lease, or other acquisition
of assistive technology devices or
assistive technology services; or
(VI) another mechanism that is
approved by the Secretary.
(B) Device demonstrations.--
(i) In general.--The State shall directly,
or in collaboration with public and private
entities, such as one-stop partners, as defined
in section 101 of the Workforce Investment Act
of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 2801), demonstrate, assist
individuals in making informed choices
regarding, and provide experiences with, a
variety of assistive technology devices and
assistive technology services, using personnel
who are familiar with such devices and services
and their applications.
(ii) Comprehensive information.--The State
shall directly, or through referrals, provide
to individuals, to the extent practicable,
comprehensive information about State and local
assistive technology venders, providers, and
repair services.
(C) Device loan programs.--The State shall
directly, or in collaboration with public or private
entities, carry out device loan programs that provide
short-term loans of assistive technology devices to
individuals, employers, public agencies, or others
seeking to meet the needs of individuals with
disabilities.
(D) Device re-utilization programs.--The State
shall directly, or in collaboration with public or
private entities, carry out assistive technology device
re-utilization programs that provide for the exchange,
repair, recycling, or other re-utilization of assistive
technology devices, which may include redistribution
through device sales, loans, rentals, or donations.
(E) Training and technical assistance.--
(i) In general.--The State shall directly,
or provide support to public or private
entities with demonstrated expertise in
collaborating with public or private agencies
that serve individuals with disabilities to
develop and disseminate training materials,
conduct training, and provide technical
assistance, for individuals from local settings
statewide, including representatives of State
and local educational agencies, other State and
local agencies, early intervention programs,
adult service programs, hospitals and other
health care facilities, institutions of higher
education, and businesses.
(ii) Authorized activities.--In carrying
out activities under clause (i), the State
shall carry out activities that enhance the
knowledge, skills, and competencies of
individuals from local settings described in
clause (i), which may include--
(I) general awareness training on
the benefits of assistive technology
and the Federal, State, and private
funding sources available to assist
targeted individuals and entities in
acquiring assistive technology;
(II) skills-development training in
assessing the need for assistive
technology devices and assistive
technology services;
(III) training to ensure the
appropriate application and use of
assistive technology devices, assistive
technology services, accessible
information technology
and telecommunications, and accessible technology for e-government
functions;
(IV) training in the importance of
culturally competent and linguistically
appropriate approaches to assessment
and implementation; and
(V) technical training on
integrating assistive technology into
the development and implementation of
service plans, including any education,
health, discharge, Olmstead,
employment, or other plan required
under Federal or State law.
(F) Public awareness.--
(i) In general.--The State shall conduct
public-awareness activities designed to provide
information to targeted individuals and
entities relating to the availability and
benefits of assistive technology devices and
assistive technology services.
(ii) Collaboration.--The State shall
collaborate with a training and technical
assistance provider described in section
7(b)(1) to carry out public awareness
activities focusing on infants, toddlers,
children, transition-age youth, employment-age
adults, seniors, and employers.
(iii) Statewide information and referral
system.--
(I) In general.--The State shall
directly, or in collaboration with
public or private (such as nonprofit)
entities, provide for the continuation
and enhancement of a statewide
information and referral system
designed to meet the needs of targeted
individuals and entities.
(II) Content.--The system shall
deliver information on--
(aa) assistive technology
devices and accessible
information technology and
telecommunications products;
(bb) assistive technology
services, with specific data
regarding provider availability
within the State; and
(cc) the availability of
resources, including funding
through public and private
sources, to obtain assistive
technology devices, accessible
information technology and
telecommunications products,
and assistive technology
services.
(G) Interagency coordination and collaboration.--
The State shall promote improved coordination of
activities and collaboration among public and private
entities that are responsible for policies, procedures,
or funding for the provision of assistive technology
devices and assistive technology services to
individuals with disabilities, service providers, and
others.
(H) Targeted population activity.--
(i) In general.--The State shall directly,
or in collaboration with public or private
entities, carry out coordinated activities to
improve access to assistive technology devices
and assistive technology services for 1 State-
chosen targeted population, consisting of--
(I) elementary and secondary school
students, elementary and secondary
education providers, and related
personnel;
(II) adult service provider
clients, adult service providers, and
related personnel; or
(III) employees, employment
providers, and related personnel.
(ii) Required activities.--In carrying out
activities under clause (i), the State shall
carry out targeted initiatives consisting of 2
or more of the required activities described in
subparagraphs (A) through (F), including--
(I) public-awareness activities
described in subparagraph (F); and
(II) training and technical
assistance described in subparagraph
(E) which shall include technical
training described in subparagraph
(E)(v).
(iii) Optional activities.--In carrying out
activities under clause (i), the State may
carry out State-identified improvement
projects, which may include activities to--
(I) improve the timely acquisition
or retention and utilization of
appropriate assistive technology for
students in transition;
(II) increase utilization of
technology solutions to enhance
community integration and aging in
place; and
(III) increase integration of
assistive technology and accessible
information technology and
telecommunications into the services
provided at one-stop centers
established under subtitle B of title I
of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998
(29 U.S.C. 2831 et seq.).
(3) Conditions.--
(A) Covered state.--In this paragraph, a ``covered
State'' means a State that received funds for an
alternative financing mechanism under--
(i) title III of the Assistive Technology
Act of 1998, as in effect on the day before the
date of enactment of this Act; and
(ii) a grant awarded under this section, to
carry out activities described in paragraph
(2)(A).
(B) Requirements.--Each covered State shall meet
the requirements of subparagraphs (B) and (C) of
section 6(a)(5), except that references in those
subparagraphs to a grant shall be considered to be
references to the grant described in subparagraph
(A)(ii).
(4) State funds.--A State may use State funds to carry out
activities described in paragraph (2)(A) for additional
targeted individuals and entities (other than individuals and
entities described in section 3(18)(A)) if the State advisory
council described in subsection (c)(2) approves the additional
targeted individuals and entities.
(f) Progress Reports.--
(1) Data collection.--States shall participate in data
collection as required by law, including data collection
required for preparation of the report described in paragraph
(2).
(2) Reports.--
(A) In general.--Not later than December 31 of each
year, the Secretary shall prepare and submit to the
President and to Congress a report on the activities
funded under this Act.
(B) Contents.--The report shall include data
collected pursuant to this section and section 6(a)(7).
The report shall document, with respect to activities
carried out under this section and section 6(a)--
(i) the number and dollar amount of
financial loans made;
(ii) the number and type of assistive
technology device demonstrations provided;
(iii) the number and type of assistive
technology devices loaned through device loan
programs;
(iv) the number and estimated value of
assistive technology devices exchanged,
repaired, recycled, or re-utilized (including
redistributed through device sales, loans,
rentals, or donations) through device re-
utilization programs;
(v)(I) the number and general
characteristics of individuals who participated
in training (such as individuals with
disabilities, parents, educators, employers,
providers of employment services, health care
workers, counselors, other service providers,
or vendors) and the topics of such training;
and
(II) to the extent practicable, the
geographic distribution of individuals who
participate in training or technical assistance
activities;
(vi) the amount and nature of technical
assistance provided to State and local agencies
and other entities;
(vii) the number of individuals assisted
through the public-awareness activities and
statewide information and reference system;
(viii) the outcomes of any improvement
initiatives carried out by the State as a
result of activities funded under this section,
including a description of any written
policies, practices, and procedures that the
State has developed and implemented regarding
access to, provision of, and funding for,
assistive technology devices, accessible
information technology and telecommunications,
and assistive technology services, in the
contexts of education, health care, employment,
community living, and information technology and telecommunications,
including e-government;
(ix) the outcomes of interagency
coordination and collaboration activities
carried out by the State that support access to
assistive technology, including documenting--
(I) the type of, purpose for, and
source of leveraged funding or other
contributed resources from public and
private entities, and the number of
individuals served with those resources
for which information is not reported
under clauses (i) through (viii) or
clause (x), and other outcomes
accomplished as a result of such
activities carried out with those
resources; and
(II) the type of, purpose for, and
amount of funding provided through
subcontracts or other collaborative
resource-sharing agreements with public
and private entities, including
community-based nonprofit
organizations, and the number of
individuals served through those
agreements for which information is not
reported under clauses (i) through
(viii) or clause (x), and other
outcomes accomplished as a result of
such activities carried out through
those agreements;
(x) measured outcomes of activities
undertaken to improve access to assistive
technology devices and assistive technology
services for targeted populations; and
(xi) the level of customer satisfaction
with, or the outcomes of, the services
provided.
SEC. 5. STATE GRANTS FOR PROTECTION AND ADVOCACY SERVICES RELATED TO
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY.
(a) Grants.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary shall make grants under
subsection (b) to protection and advocacy systems in each State
for the purpose of enabling such systems to assist in the
acquisition, utilization, or maintenance of assistive
technology devices or assistive technology services for
individuals with disabilities.
(2) General authorities.--In providing such services,
protection and advocacy systems shall have the same general
authorities as the systems are afforded under subtitle C of
title I of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill
of Rights Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C. 15041 et seq.), as determined
by the Secretary.
(b) Grants.--
(1) Reservation.--For each fiscal year, the Secretary shall
reserve such sums as may be necessary to carry out paragraph
(4).
(2) Population basis.--On October 1 of each year, from the
funds appropriated under section 10(b) and remaining after the
reservations required by paragraph (1) have been made, the
Secretary shall make a grant to a protection and advocacy
system within each State in an amount bearing the same ratio to
the remaining funds as the population of the State bears to the
population of all States.
(3) Minimums.--Subject to the availability of
appropriations, the amount of a grant to a protection and
advocacy system under paragraph (2) for a fiscal year shall--
(A) in the case of a protection and advocacy system
located in American Samoa, Guam, the United States
Virgin Islands, or the Commonwealth of the Northern
Mariana Islands, not be less than $30,000; and
(B) in the case of a protection and advocacy system
located in a State not described in subparagraph (A),
not be less than $50,000.
(4) Payment to the system serving the american indian
consortium.--
(A) In general.--The Secretary shall make grants to
the protection and advocacy system serving the American
Indian Consortium to provide services in accordance
with this section.
(B) Amount of grants.--The amount of such grants
shall be the same as provided under paragraph (3)(A),
as increased under paragraph (5).
(5) Minimum grant increase.--For each fiscal year for which
the total amount appropriated under section 10(b) is $4,419,000
or more, and such appropriated amount exceeds the total amount
appropriated under such section (or a predecessor authority)
for the preceding fiscal year, the Secretary shall increase
each of the minimum grant amounts described in subparagraphs
(A) and (B) of paragraph (3) by a percentage equal to the
percentage increase (if any) in the total amount appropriated under
section 10(b) (or a predecessor authority) to carry out this section
between the preceding fiscal year and the fiscal year involved.
(c) Direct Payment.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law,
the Secretary shall pay directly to any protection and advocacy system
that complies with this section, the total amount of the grant made for
such system under this section, unless the system provides otherwise
for payment of the grant amount.
(d) Certain States.--
(1) Grant to lead agency.--Notwithstanding any other
provision of this section, with respect to a State that, on
November 12, 1998, was described in section 102(f)(1) of the
Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals With Disabilities
Act of 1988, the Secretary shall pay the amount of the grant
described in subsection (a), and made under subsection (b), to
the lead agency designated under section 4(c)(1) for the State.
(2) Distribution of funds.--A lead agency to which a grant
is awarded under paragraph (1) shall determine the manner in
which funds made available through the grant will be allocated
among the entities that were providing protection and advocacy
services in that State on the date described in such paragraph,
and shall distribute funds to such entities. In distributing
such funds, the lead agency shall not establish any additional
eligibility or procedural requirements for an entity in the
State that supports protection and advocacy services through a
protection and advocacy system. Such an entity shall comply
with the same requirements (including reporting and enforcement
requirements) as any other entity that receives funding under
this section.
(3) Application of provisions.--Except as provided in this
subsection, the provisions of this section shall apply to the
grant in the same manner, and to the same extent, as the
provisions apply to a grant to a system.
(e) Carryover.--Any amount paid to a protection and advocacy system
for a fiscal year under this section shall remain available to such
system for obligation until the end of the next fiscal year for the
purposes for which such amount was originally provided, except that
program income generated from such amount shall remain available to
such system until expended.
(f) Annual Report.--Each protection and advocacy system that
receives a payment under this section shall submit an annual report to
the Secretary concerning the services provided and outcomes of services
provided under this section to individuals with disabilities for the
purposes of assisting in the acquisition, utilization, or maintenance
of assistive technology devices or assistive technology services.
SEC. 6. SUPPLEMENTARY GRANTS AND PROJECTS OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE.
(a) Supplementary Grants.--
(1) grants.--
(A) In general.--The Secretary shall award
supplementary grants, on a competitive basis, to States
or other entities to carry out 1 or more of the
activities described in paragraph (6), either directly
or through subgrants to or other collaborative
mechanisms with public or private entities, to allow
individuals with disabilities and their family members,
guardians, advocates, and authorized representatives to
purchase or have increased access to assistive
technology devices and assistive technology services.
The Secretary shall award such a grant to not more than
1 entity in each State.
(B) Period of grants.--The Secretary shall award
grants under this subsection for periods of 12 months.
(2) Eligibility.--To be eligible to receive a grant under
this subsection, a State shall have received a grant under
section 4 or under section 101 of the Assistive Technology Act
of 1998, as in effect on the day before the date of enactment
of this Act.
(3) Applications.--A State or entity that desires to
receive a grant under this subsection shall submit an
application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and
containing such information as the Secretary may require,
including the following:
(A)(i) A description of--
(I) the goals the State or entity has
identified for the supplementary grant; and
(II) the activities the State or entity
will carry out to achieve such goals, in
accordance with the requirements of paragraphs
(5) and (6).
(ii) A description of how the State or entity will
measure whether the goals identified by the State or
entity have been achieved by the end of the grant
period.
(B) A description of the proposed use of funds to
meet the identified goals.
(C) If the application is submitted by an entity
other than the implementing entity for the State
assistive technology program, a description of the
mechanisms established to ensure coordination of
activities and collaboration with the implementing
entity.
(D) In the case of an application for a grant for
an alternative financing loan program described in
paragraph (6)(A), information identifying and
describing--
(i) a consumer-based organization that has
individuals with disabilities involved in
organizational decisionmaking at all
organizational levels, that will administer the
alternative financing loan program; and
(ii) a commercial lending institution,
State financing agency, or other qualified
entity who will facilitate implementation of
the program.
(E) A description of resources that have been
committed for the activities to be carried out under
the grant and assurances that--
(i) the State or entity will provide any
required non-Federal contributions toward the
cost of the activities;
(ii) the State or entity will make every
effort to continue the activities on a
permanent basis;
(iii) the funds made available through the
grant to support the activities will supplement
and not supplant other funds available to
provide such activities;
(iv) in the case of a grant for an
alternative financing loan program described in
paragraph (6)(A)--
(I) all funds that support the
alternative financing loan program,
including the grant funds, funds
provided for the non-Federal
contributions described in clause (i),
funds repaid during the life of the
program, and any interest or investment
income resulting from the program, will
be placed in a permanent separate
account and identified and accounted
for separately from any other funds;
(II) such account will be--
(aa) used only to support
the alternative financing
program;
(bb) administered by an
organization that has
individuals with disabilities
involved in organizational
decisionmaking at all
organizational levels; and
(cc) administered with the
same judgment and care that a
person of prudence, discretion,
and intelligence would exercise
in the management of the
financial affairs of such
person; and
(III) if the funds in the account
are invested, the funds will be
invested in low-risk securities in
which a regulated insurance company may
invest under the law of the State.
(4) Preferences.--
(A) Experience.--In awarding grants under this
subsection for activities described in subparagraph (A)
or (B) of paragraph (6), the Secretary shall give
preference to a State entity or other entity that--
(i) has experience carrying out similar
activities; or
(ii) received a grant under title III of
the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, as in
effect on the day before the date of enactment
of this Act, or a predecessor authority.
(B) No prior grant or low grant total.--In awarding
grants under this subsection for activities described
in paragraph (6)(A), the Secretary may give preference
to a State, or an entity in a State, where the State
has not received a grant, or has received less than a
total of $1,000,000 in grant awards, under title III of
the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, as in effect on
the day before the date of enactment of this Act. In
awarding grants under this subsection for activities
described in paragraph (6)(B), the Secretary may give
preference to a State, or an entity in a State, where
the State has not operated a device loan program for
assistive technology or assistive technology devices.
(C) Limitations.--A State, or an entity in a State,
where the State has not received an alternative
financing grant described in subparagraph (B) may not receive an
initial grant under this subsection for activities described in
paragraph (6)(A) in an amount greater than $1,000,000. A State, or an
entity in a State, where the State has not operated a device loan
program described in subparagraph (B) may not receive an initial grant
under this subsection for activities described in paragraph (6)(B) in
an amount greater than $1,000,000.
(5) Conditions on supplementary grants.--
(A) Payments to states or other entities.--Subject
to the conditions specified in this subsection, the
Secretary shall make payments to the States or entities
that are selected to receive supplementary grants
awarded under this subsection.
(B) Obligation and expenditure.--A State or entity
that receives a grant under this subsection shall
obligate and expend the funds made available through
the grant during the period of the grant.
(C) Matching requirement.--With respect to the cost
to be incurred by a State or entity that receives a
grant under this subsection to carry out activities
described in paragraph (6), a State or entity that
receives such a grant in an amount of more than
$500,000 shall make available non-Federal contributions
in an amount not less than $1 for every $5 of Federal
funds provided under the grant.
(D) Indirect costs.--No State or entity shall use
more than 10 percent of the funds made available
through a grant awarded under this subsection for
indirect costs.
(6) Activities.--The State or entity may use funds made
available through a grant awarded under this subsection to
carry out 1 or more of the following activities:
(A) Alternative financing loan programs capital
infusion grants.--The establishment or expansion, and
administration, of an alternative financing loan
program to allow targeted individuals and entities
described in section 3(18)(A) to purchase assistive
technology devices and assistive technology services,
accessible information technology and
telecommunications, and related goods and services
required for the independence and productivity of an
individual with a disability. The program may include--
(i) a low-interest loan fund program;
(ii) an interest buy-down program;
(iii) a revolving loan fund program;
(iv) a loan guarantee or insurance program;
or
(v) a program based on another financing
mechanism that is approved by the Secretary.
(B) Device loan programs capital infusion grants.--
The expansion and administration of device loan
programs to meet unique or comprehensive State needs,
such as the expansion and administration of the
programs through--
(i) joint funding agreements between the
implementing entity for the State assistive
technology program and educational agencies,
vocational rehabilitation agencies, entities
providing medical assistance, or other public
or private entities who pay for assistive
technology devices; or
(ii) a specialized State-specific funding
stream or pool for the purchase of assistive
technology to be loaned.
(C) State funds.--A State may use State funds to
carry out activities described in subparagraph (A) for
additional targeted individuals and entities (other
than individuals and entities described in section
3(18)(A)) if the State advisory council described in
section 4(c)(2) and the consumer-based organization
described in paragraph (3)(D) approve the additional
targeted individuals and entities.
(7) Progress reports.--
(A) in general.--Each State or entity that
receives a grant under this subsection shall prepare
and submit to the Secretary a status report not later
than 7 months after the date on which the State or
entity receives the grant and a final report not later
than 18 months after the date on which the State or
entity receives the grant. Each report shall document
the progress of the State or entity in meeting the
goals described in paragraph (3)(A)(i)(I).
(B) Alternative financing loan program data
required.--A State or entity that receives a grant for
an alternative financing loan program described in paragraph (6)(A)
shall include in each report loan data with respect to the program for
the period of the grant award, including--
(i) the number and dollar amount of loans
made under that paragraph for--
(I) loan applications received;
(II) loan applications approved;
and
(III) loan applications not
approved;
(ii) the default rate of the loans;
(iii) the range of interest rates and
average interest rate for the loans;
(iv) the range of income and average income
of approved loan applicants for the loans;
(v) the types and dollar amounts of
assistive technology financed through the
loans; and
(vi) the outcomes of the loan program,
including information relevant to the benefits
to individuals utilizing the program.
(C) Device loan programs data required.--A State
that receives a grant for a device loan program
described in paragraph (6)(B) shall include in each
report loan data with respect to the program for the
period of the grant award, including--
(i) the number and type of assistive
technology devices loaned under that paragraph;
(ii) the general characteristics of
borrowers (such as individuals with
disabilities, parents, educators, employers,
providers of employment services, health care
workers, counselors, other service providers,
or venders);
(iii) the purposes for which the loans were
made; and
(iv) the outcomes of the loans, including
information relevant to the benefits to
individuals utilizing the program.
(8) Construction.--Nothing in this subsection shall be
construed as affecting the authority of a State to establish an
alternative financing system under section 4.
(b) Projects of National Significance.--
(1) Competitive grant for development of a national public-
awareness toolkit.--
(A) Purpose.--The purpose of this paragraph is to
support the development of a national public-awareness
toolkit for dissemination to State assistive technology
programs, in order to expand public-awareness efforts
to reach targeted individuals and entities, as defined
in subparagraphs (A), (B), (D), (F), (G), and (I) of
section 3(18).
(B) Competitive technical assistance grant
authorized.--The Secretary may award a grant on a
competitive basis to an eligible partnership, to enable
the partnership to carry out the activities described
in subparagraph (A).
(C) Eligible partnership.--To be eligible to
receive the grant, the partnership--
(i) shall consist of--
(I) an implementing entity for a
State assistive technology program or
an organization or association that
represents implementing entities for
State assistive technology programs;
(II) a private or public entity
from the media industry;
(III) a private entity from the
assistive technology industry; and
(IV) a private employer or an
organization or association that
represents private employers; and
(ii) may include another entity determined
by the Secretary to be appropriate.
(D) Applications.--To be eligible to receive a
grant under this paragraph, a partnership shall submit
an application to the Secretary at such time, in such
manner, and containing such information as the
Secretary may require.
(E) Use of funds.--A partnership that receives a
grant under this paragraph shall use the funds made
available through the grant to develop a national
public-awareness toolkit, which shall contain
appropriate multimedia materials to reach targeted
individuals and entities, as defined in subparagraphs
(A), (B), (D), (F), (G), and (I) of section 3(18), for
dissemination to State assistive technology programs.
(2) Research, development, and evaluation.--
(A) Competitive research, development, and
evaluation grants authorized.--The Secretary may award
grants to eligible entities to carry out research,
development, and evaluation of assistive technology.
(B) Eligible entities.--Entities eligible to
receive a grant under this paragraph shall include--
(i) providers of assistive technology
services and assistive technology devices;
(ii) public and private educational
agencies serving students in kindergarten,
elementary school, or secondary school;
(iii) institutions of higher education,
including University Centers for Excellence in
Developmental Disabilities Education, Research,
and Service authorized under subtitle D of
title I of the Developmental Disabilities
Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (42
U.S.C. 15061 et seq.), or such institutions
offering rehabilitation engineering programs,
computer science programs, or information
technology programs;
(iv) manufacturers of assistive technology
and accessible information technology and
telecommunications;
(v) consumer organizations concerned with
assistive technology;
(vi) professionals, organizations, and
agencies, providing services to individuals
with disabilities; and
(vii) professionals, individuals, and
organizations, providing employment services to
individuals with disabilities.
(C) Priority activities.--In awarding such grants,
the Secretary shall give priority to funding projects
that address 1 or more of the following:
(i) Developing standards for reliability
and accessibility of assistive technology, and
standards for interoperability (including open
standards) of assistive technology with
information technology, telecommunications
products, and other assistive technology.
(ii) Developing and implementing
measurements and tools that evaluate assistive
technology for--
(I) conformity with reliability,
accessibility and interoperability
standards developed under clause (i);
(II) usability by individuals with
disabilities to meet functional needs;
or
(III) other characteristics that
support increased functional
performance of assistive technology.
(iii) Developing assistive technology that
benefits individuals with disabilities or
developing technologies or practices that
result in the adaptation, maintenance,
servicing, or improvement of assistive
technology devices.
(D) Input.--An entity that receives a grant under
this paragraph shall, in developing and implementing
the project carried out through the grant, coordinate
activities with the implementing entity for the State
assistive technology program (or a national
organization that represents such programs) and the
State advisory council described in section 4(c)(2) (or
a national organization that represents such councils).
(E) Report.--The entity shall prepare and submit a
report to the Secretary at such time, in such manner,
and containing such information as the Secretary may
require.
(3) Personnel preparation centers.--
(A) Grants.--The Secretary shall award grants, on a
competitive basis, to public and private entities and
institutions of higher education, including University
Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities
Education, Research, and Service established under
subtitle D of title I of the Developmental Disabilities
Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C.
15061 et seq.), to fund the establishment or expansion
of personnel preparation centers.
(B) Eligible entities.--To be eligible to receive a
grant under this paragraph, an entity shall have--
(i) knowledge and skills to assess and
evaluate the need for assistive technology
devices and assistive technology services;
(ii) knowledge and skills to assist
consumers in the selection and acquisition of
the devices and services; and
(iii) experience training professionals in
school districts, at early intervention service
sites, and in adult service provider settings,
in geographically diverse areas within the
State.
(C) Application.--
(i) In general.--To be eligible to receive
a grant under this paragraph, an entity shall
submit an application to the Secretary at such
time, in such manner, and containing such
information as the Secretary may require.
(ii) Contents.--At a minimum, the
application shall include--
(I) a description of the entity's
knowledge and skills regarding
assistive technology assessment and
evaluation;
(II) a description of how the
entity will collect training outcome
data;
(III) a description of the manner
in which the entity will carry out
financial and programmatic
responsibilities, including any shared
responsibilities, in implementing the
activities carried out under the grant;
(IV) a description of the
relationship between the entity and
school personnel, early intervention
service personnel, and adult service
provider personnel in the State; and
(V) a description of an advisory
committee designated or established
under subparagraph (E).
(D) Use of funds.--An entity that receives a grant
under this paragraph shall use the funds made available
through the grant to carry out the activities described
in subparagraph (B).
(E) Advisory committee.--
(i) In general.--A council (which may be
the advisory council described in section
4(c)(2)) shall be designated to serve as an
advisory committee, or an advisory committee
shall be established, to make recommendations
for the training to be offered through the
grant, the specific populations to receive the
training, and the reporting requirements
applicable to the entity under subparagraph
(F).
(ii) Composition.--At a minimum, such
advisory committee shall be composed of--
(I) consumers of assistive
technology services and assistive
technology devices;
(II) providers of assistive
technology services and assistive
technology devices;
(III) the implementing entity for
the State assistive technology program;
and
(IV) entities (other than the
entity described in clause (i)) that
receive grants under this paragraph.
(F) Reporting requirements.--
(i) In general.--An entity that receives a
grant under this paragraph shall submit to the
Secretary an annual report detailing outcomes
achieved through activities carried out under
the grant at such time, in such manner, and
containing such information as the Secretary
may require, after receiving the
recommendations of the advisory committee
described in subparagraph (E) for the entity.
(ii) Contents.--At a minimum, the report
shall include information on--
(I) the number and geographical
distribution of teachers (broken down
into general education and special
education categories) and other school
personnel who received training under
this paragraph in the school year
covered by the report;
(II) the number and geographical
distribution of early intervention
service personnel who received training
under this paragraph in the year
covered by the report; and
(III) the number and geographical
distribution of adult service provider
personnel who received training under
this paragraph in the year covered by
the report.
(4) Period of grants.--The Secretary shall make grants
under this subsection for periods of 12 months.
(5) Conditions on projects of national significance.--
(A) Payments to partnerships and entities.--Subject
to the conditions specified in this paragraph, the
Secretary shall make payments to the partnerships and
entities that are selected to receive grants awarded
under this subsection.
(B) Obligation and expenditure.--A partnership or
entity that receives a grant under this subsection
shall obligate and expend the funds made available
through the grant during the period of the grant.
(C) Matching requirement.--
(i) In general.--With respect to the cost
to be incurred by a partnership or entity that
receives a grant under this subsection in
carrying out the activities for which the grant
was awarded, a partnership or entity that
receives a grant under this subsection in an
amount of more than $50,000 shall make
available non-Federal contributions in an
amount not less than $1 for every $3 of the
portion of the grant amount that exceeds
$50,000.
(ii) Non-federal contributions.--The
partnership or entity may make the non-Federal
contributions available in cash or in kind,
fairly evaluated, including plant, equipment,
or services.
SEC. 7. TRAINING, TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE, DATA-COLLECTION, REPORTING, AND
INTERNET PROGRAMS.
(a) In General.--In order to strengthen and support State assistive
technology programs, and protection and advocacy systems authorized
under section 5, the Secretary may award 1 or more grants, contracts,
or cooperative agreements on a competitive basis under subsections (b)
and (c) to provide training and technical assistance, and conduct data
collection and reporting, about and for the State assistive technology
programs and protection and advocacy systems.
(b) Training and Technical Assistance; Data Collection and
Reporting.--
(1) State projects training and technical assistance
efforts.--
(A) In general.--The Secretary shall award grants,
contracts, and cooperative agreements to provide
training and technical assistance concerning State
assistive technology programs.
(B) Eligible entities.--To be eligible to receive a
grant, contract, or cooperative agreement under this
paragraph, an entity shall have personnel with--
(i) documented experience and expertise in
administering State assistive technology
programs, including developing, implementing,
and administering the required and
discretionary activities described in sections
4 and 6(a); and
(ii) documented experience in and knowledge
about banking, finance, and microlending.
(C) Application.--To be eligible to receive a
grant, contract, or cooperative agreement under this
paragraph, an entity shall submit an application to the
Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing
such information as the Secretary may require.
(D) Training and technical assistance efforts.--In
awarding the grant, contract, or cooperative agreement,
the Secretary shall ensure that the recipient conducts
a training and technical assistance program, taking
into account the required input and collaborations
described in subparagraph (E), through which the
recipient--
(i) addresses State-specific information
requests concerning assistive technology and
accessible information technology and
telecommunications from implementing entities
for State assistive technology programs funded
under this Act and public and private entities
not funded under this Act, including--
(I) requests for information on
effective approaches to developing,
implementing, evaluating, and
sustaining required and discretionary
activities identified in sections 4 and
6(a), and requests for assistance in
developing corrective action plans;
(II) requests for examples of
Federal, State, and local
policies, practices, procedures, regulations, interagency agreements,
administrative hearing decisions, or legal actions that facilitate, and
overcome barriers to, the provision of funding for, and access to,
assistive technology devices, accessible information technology and
telecommunications, and assistive technology services for individuals
with disabilities; and
(III) other requests for training
and technical assistance from State
assistive technology programs funded
under this Act and public and private
entities not funded under this Act, and
other assignments specified by the
Secretary; and
(ii) provides State-specific and national
training and technical assistance concerning
assistive technology and accessible information
technology and telecommunications to
implementing entities for State assistive
technology programs, including financing
systems, funded under section 4, other entities
funded under this Act (with respect to the
required or discretionary activities that the
entities carry out under this Act and
especially with respect to the establishment or
expansion, and administration (including
evaluation and sustenance), of alternative
financing loan programs under section 6(a)),
and public and private entities not funded
under this Act, including--
(I) annually providing a forum for
exchanging information and promoting
program and policy improvements in
required activities of the State
assistive technology programs;
(II) facilitating on-site and
electronic information sharing using
state-of-the-art Internet technologies
such as real-time online discussions,
multipoint video conferencing, and web-
based audio/video broadcasts, on
emerging topics that affect State
assistive technology programs and
individuals with assistive technology
and accessible information technology
and telecommunications needs;
(III) convening experts from State
assistive technology programs to
discuss and make recommendations with
regard to national emerging issues of
importance to individuals with
assistive technology and accessible
information technology and
telecommunications needs;
(IV) sharing best practice and
evidence-based practices among State
assistive technology programs;
(V) maintaining an accessible
website that includes a link to State
assistive technology programs, Federal
departments and agencies, and
associations and developing a national
toll-free number that links callers
from a State with the State assistive
technology program in their State;
(VI) developing or utilizing
existing (as of the date of the award
involved) model cooperative volume-
purchasing mechanisms designed to
reduce the financial costs of
purchasing assistive technology for
required and discretionary activities
identified in sections 4 and 6(a), and
reducing duplication of activities
among State assistive technology
programs; and
(VII) providing access to experts
in the areas of banking, microlending,
and finance, for implementing entities
for State assistive technology programs
and other entities funded under this
Act to administer alternative financing
loan programs, through site visits,
teleconferences, and other means, to
ensure access to information for
entities that are carrying out new
programs or programs that are not
making progress in achieving the
objectives of the programs.
(E) Required input and collaboration.--In providing
training and technical assistance under this paragraph,
a recipient of a grant, contract, or cooperative
agreement under this paragraph shall meet the following
requirements:
(i) Input.--The recipient shall involve, in
the planning and identification of priority
issues and needs, the directors of State assistive technology programs
and other individuals the Secretary determines to be appropriate,
especially--
(I) individuals with disabilities
who use, and understand the barriers to
the acquisition of, assistive
technology and accessible information
technology and telecommunications;
(II) family members, guardians,
advocates, and authorized
representatives of such individuals;
(III) relevant employees from other
Federal departments and agencies;
(IV) businesses; and
(V) venders and public and private
researchers and developers.
(ii) Collaboration.--The recipient shall
collaborate, in developing and implementing
training and technical assistance activities
identified as priorities, with other
organizations, in particular--
(I) national organizations
representing State assistive technology
programs;
(II) organizations representing
State officials and agencies engaged in
the delivery of assistive technology
and accessible information technology
and telecommunications;
(III) the data-collection and
reporting providers described in
paragraph (2); and
(IV) other providers of national
programs or programs of national
significance funded under this Act.
(2) State projects data-collection and reporting program.--
(A) In general.--The Secretary shall award grants,
contracts, and cooperative agreements to conduct data
collection and reporting concerning State assistive
technology programs.
(B) Eligible entities.--To be eligible to receive a
grant, contract, or cooperative agreement under this
paragraph, an entity shall have personnel with--
(i) documented experience and expertise in
administering State assistive technology
programs;
(ii) experience in collecting and analyzing
data associated with implementing required and
discretionary activities;
(iii) expertise necessary to identify
additional data elements needed to provide
comprehensive reporting of State activities and
outcomes; and
(iv) experience in utilizing data to
provide annual reports to State policymakers.
(C) Application.--To be eligible to receive a
grant, contract, or cooperative agreement under this
paragraph, an eligible applicant shall submit an
application to the Secretary at such time, in such
manner, and containing such information as the
Secretary may require.
(D) Data-collection and reporting program.--In
awarding the grant, contract, or cooperative agreement,
the Secretary shall ensure that the recipient conducts
a data-collection and reporting program that enhances
and improves the operations and conduct of a State
assistive technology program. The Secretary shall
ensure that the recipient achieves that enhancement and
improvement by using quantitative and qualitative data
elements, measuring the outcomes of the required
activities described in section 4(e), and measuring the
accrued benefits of the activities to individuals who
need assistive technology and accessible information
technology and telecommunications.
(E) Required data elements.--The core set of the
data elements shall, at a minimum, include data
elements for--
(i) the number and dollar amount of
financial loans made;
(ii) the number and type of assistive
technology device demonstrations provided;
(iii) the number and type of assistive
technology devices loaned through device loan
programs;
(iv) the number and estimated value of
assistive technology devices exchanged,
repaired, recycled, or re-utilized (including
redistributed through device sales,
loans, rentals, or donations) through device re-utilization programs;
(v)(I) the number and general
characteristics of individuals who participated
in training (such as individuals with
disabilities, parents, educators, employers,
providers of employment services, health care
workers, counselors, other service providers,
or vendors) and the topics of such training;
and
(II) to the extent practicable, the
geographic distribution of individuals who
participated in training or technical
assistance activities;
(vi) the amount and nature of technical
assistance provided to State and local agencies
and other entities;
(vii) the number of individuals assisted
through the public-awareness activities and
statewide information and reference system;
(viii) the outcomes of any improvement
initiatives carried out by the State as a
result of activities funded under section 4;
(ix) the outcomes of interagency
coordination and collaboration activities
carried out by the State that support access to
assistive technology;
(x) measured outcomes of activities
undertaken to improve access to assistive
technology devices and assistive technology
services for targeted populations;
(xi) the outcomes of the services provided;
and
(xii) the level of customer satisfaction
with, or the outcomes of, the services
provided.
(F) Required input and collaboration.--In
conducting data-collection and reporting activities
under this paragraph, a recipient of a grant, contract,
or cooperative agreement under this paragraph shall
meet the following requirements:
(i) Input.--The recipient shall actively
involve, in the development of the data-
collection and reporting system, the directors
of State assistive technology programs and
other individuals the Secretary determines to
be appropriate, especially--
(I) individuals with disabilities
who use, and understand the barriers to
the acquisition of, assistive
technology and accessible information
technology and telecommunications;
(II) family members, guardians,
advocates, and authorized
representatives of such individuals;
(III) relevant employees from other
Federal departments and agencies;
(IV) businesses; and
(V) venders and public and private
researchers and developers.
(ii) Collaboration.--The recipient shall
actively collaborate, in developing and
implementing the system, with other
organizations, in particular--
(I) national organizations
representing State assistive technology
programs;
(II) the training and technical
assistance providers described in
paragraph (1); and
(III) entities carrying out
projects of national significance
funded under section 6(b), as
appropriate.
(3) State protection and advocacy services training and
technical assistance efforts.--
(A) General authority.--The Secretary shall award
grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements to
provide training and technical assistance concerning
protection and advocacy services.
(B) Eligible entities.--To be eligible to receive a
grant, contract, or cooperative agreement under this
paragraph to provide training and technical assistance,
an entity shall have personnel with documented
experience related to protection and advocacy services.
(C) Application.--To be eligible to receive a
grant, contract, or cooperative agreement under this
paragraph, an eligible applicant shall submit an
application to the Secretary at such time, in such
manner, and containing such information as the
Secretary may require.
(D) Training and technical assistance efforts.--
(i) Technical assistance efforts.--In
awarding the grant, contract, or cooperative
agreement, the Secretary shall ensure that the
recipient conducts a technical assistance
program through which the recipient--
(I) provides advocacy-related and
management-related technical
assistance;
(II) prepares publications, in
numerous formats, on the funding of
assistive technology through a variety
of funding sources;
(III) makes available, through in-
house resource libraries, documents
related to the funding of assistive
technology;
(IV) maintains a project website
containing information concerning the
funding of assistive technology, and
containing publications and links to
other web-based resources to support
assistive technology advocacy efforts;
and
(V) maintains a national assistive
technology list serve.
(ii) Training efforts.--In awarding the
grant, contract, or cooperative agreement, the
Secretary shall ensure that the recipient
conducts a training program through which the
recipient--
(I) provides advocacy-related
training through annual statewide or
regional conferences and distance-
training events; and
(II) provides management-related
training at annual training events,
assisting protection and advocacy
managers and fiscal officers to meet
grant obligations.
(iii) Data collection and reporting.--The
recipient shall prepare and submit to the
Secretary a report containing information on
the activities carried out under this
paragraph, including information on the
following:
(I) Non-case services.
(II) Case services.
(III) Statistical information for
individuals served.
(IV) Systemic activities and
litigation.
(V) Priorities and objectives.
(VI) Agency administration.
(c) National Information Internet System.--
(1) In general.--In order to provide information nationally
on the availability of assistive technology, the Secretary may
award 1 grant, contract, or cooperative agreement on a
competitive basis to maintain, renovate, and update the
National Public Internet Site established under section
104(c)(1) of the Assistive Technology Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C.
3014(c)(1)), as in effect on the date of enactment of this Act.
(2) Eligible entity.--To be eligible to receive a grant,
contract, or cooperative agreement under paragraph (1), an
entity shall be a nonprofit organization, for-profit
organization, or institution of higher education, that--
(A) emphasizes research and engineering;
(B) has a multidisciplinary research center; and
(C) has demonstrated expertise in--
(i) working with assistive technology,
accessible information technology and
telecommunications, and intelligent agent
interactive information dissemination systems;
(ii) managing libraries of assistive
technology, accessible information technology
and telecommunications, and disability-related
resources;
(iii) delivering to individuals with
disabilities education, information, and
referral services, including technology-based
curriculum-development services for adults with
low-level reading skills;
(iv) developing cooperative partnerships
with the private sector, particularly with
private-sector computer software, hardware, and
Internet services entities; and
(v) developing and designing advanced
Internet sites.
(3) Application.--To be eligible to receive a grant,
contract, or cooperative agreement under this section, an
eligible applicant shall submit an application to the Secretary
at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the
Secretary may require.
(4) National public internet site.--
(A) Features of internet site.--The National Public
Internet Site shall contain the following features:
(i) Availability of information at any
time.--The site shall be designed so that any
member of the public may obtain information
posted on the site at any time.
(ii) Innovative automated intelligent
agent.--The site shall be constructed with an
innovative automated intelligent agent that is
a diagnostic tool for assisting users in
problem definition and the selection of
appropriate assistive technology devices and
assistive technology services resources and
accessible information technology and
telecommunications.
(iii) Resources.--
(I) Library on assistive
technology.--The site shall include
access to a comprehensive working
library on assistive technology and
accessible information technology and
telecommunications for all
environments, including home,
workplace, transportation, and other
environments.
(II) Information on accommodating
individuals with disabilities.--The
site shall include access to evidence-
based research and best practices
concerning how assistive technology and
accessible information technology and
telecommunications can be used to
accommodate individuals with
disabilities in the areas of education,
employment, health care, community
living, and telecommunications and
information technology.
(III) Resources for a number of
disabilities.--The site shall include
resources relating to the largest
possible number of disabilities,
including resources relating to low-
level reading skills and cognitive
disabilities.
(iv) Links to private-sector resources and
information.--To the extent feasible, the site
shall be linked to relevant private-sector
resources and information, under agreements
developed between the recipient of the grant,
contract, or cooperative agreement and
cooperating private-sector entities.
(v) Links to public-sector resources and
information.--To the extent feasible, the site
shall be linked to relevant public-sector
resources and information, such as the Internet
sites of the Office of Special Education and
Rehabilitation Services of the Department of
Education, the Office of Disability Employment
Policy of the Department of Labor, the Small
Business Administration, the Architectural and
Transportation Barriers Compliance Board, and
the Technology Administration of the Department
of Commerce, the accessible website described
in subsection (b)(1)(D)(ii)(V), the Jobs
Accommodation Network funded by the Office of
Disability Employment Policy of the Department
of Labor, and other relevant sites.
(B) Minimum library components.--At a minimum, the
National Public Internet Site shall maintain updated
information on--
(i) State assistive technology program
demonstration sites where individuals may try
out assistive technology devices;
(ii) State assistive technology program
device loan program sites where individuals may
borrow assistive technology devices;
(iii) State assistive technology program
device re-utilization program sites;
(iv) alternative financing programs or
systems operated through, or independently of,
State assistive technology programs, and other
sources of funding for assistive technology
devices; and
(v) various tax credits available to
employers for hiring or accommodating employees
who are individuals with disabilities.
(5) Input.--While providing information (including
technical assistance) under this subsection, the Secretary and
recipient of the grant, contract, or cooperative agreement
under this subsection shall consider the input of the directors of
State assistive technology programs and other individuals the Secretary
determines to be appropriate, especially--
(A) individuals with disabilities who use, and
understand the barriers to the acquisition of,
assistive technology and accessible information
technology and telecommunications;
(B) family members, guardians, advocates, and
authorized representatives of such individuals;
(C) relevant employees from other Federal
departments and agencies involved in the procurement or
development of assistive technology devices, or the
provision of assistive technology services;
(D) employers of people with disabilities,
especially small business employers; and
(E) venders and public and private researchers and
developers.
SEC. 8. TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY ASSESSMENT.
(a) In General.--To better promote and serve the United States
assistive technology industry, the Secretary may conduct a detailed
assessment of the industry. Such assessment shall provide data and
analysis concerning the industry's market, products, and services, for
better strategic and business modeling.
(b) Contents.--The Secretary shall ensure that the assessment
provides data and analysis including--
(1) data to better assess the industry's potential and
provide metrics for future growth;
(2) information addressing strategies and certification
practices of international trading partners; and
(3) details about programs within the Department of
Commerce that facilitate assistive technology industry export
efforts.
(c) Consultation.--The Secretary shall conduct the assessment after
consultation with the Under Secretary for Technology of the Department
of Commerce members of the assistive technology industry, the
Interagency Committee on Disability Research established under section
203 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 763), and other
appropriate agencies.
SEC. 9. ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS.
(a) General Administration.--
(1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision of
law, the Commissioner of the Rehabilitation Services
Administration in the Office of Special Education and
Rehabilitative Services of the Department of Education shall be
responsible for the administration of this Act.
(2) Collaboration.--The Commissioner of the Rehabilitation
Services Administration may make 1 or more grants to, or enter
into 1 or more contracts, interagency agreements, or
cooperative agreements with, the Director of the Office of
Special Education Programs or the National Institute on
Disability and Rehabilitation Research in the Office of Special
Education and Rehabilitative Services of the Department of
Education, the Assistant Secretary for Disability Employment
Policy in the Department of Labor, the Under Secretary for
Technology in the Department of Commerce, the Administrator of
the Small Business Administration, or the head of any other
entity approved by the Secretary to assist in the
administration of this Act.
(3) Administration.--In administering this Act, the
Commissioner of the Rehabilitation Services Administration
shall ensure the provision of assistive technology, through
comprehensive statewide programs of technology-related
assistance, to individuals of all ages, whether the individuals
will use the assistive technology to obtain or maintain
employment or for other reasons.
(b) Review of Participating Entities.--The Secretary shall assess
the extent to which entities that receive grants under this Act are
complying with the applicable requirements of this Act and achieving
goals that are consistent with the requirements of the grant programs
under which the entities received the grants.
(c) Corrective Action and Sanctions.--
(1) Corrective action.--If the Secretary determines that an
entity that receives a grant under this Act fails to
substantially comply with the applicable requirements of this
Act, the Secretary shall assist the entity, through technical
assistance funded under section 7 or other means, within 90
days after such determination, to develop a corrective action
plan.
(2) Sanctions.--If the entity fails to develop and comply
with a corrective action plan described in paragraph (1) during
a fiscal year, the entity shall be subject to 1 of the
following corrective actions selected by the Secretary:
(A) Partial or complete termination of funding
under the grant program.
(B) Ineligibility to participate in the grant
program in the following year.
(C) Reduction in funding for the following year
under the grant program.
(D) Required redesignation of the lead agency
designated under section 4(c)(1).
(3) Appeals procedures.--The Secretary shall establish
appeals procedures for entities that are determined to be in
noncompliance with the applicable requirements of this Act.
(d) Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to
affect the enforcement authority of the Secretary, another Federal
officer, or a court under part E of the General Education Provisions
Act (20 U.S.C. 1234 et seq.) or other applicable law.
(e) Effect on Other Assistance.--This Act may not be construed as
authorizing a Federal or State agency to reduce medical or other
assistance available, or to alter eligibility for a benefit or service,
under any other Federal law.
SEC. 10. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
(a) State Grants for Assistive Technology; Training, Technical
Assistance, Data-Collection, Reporting, and Internet Programs.--
(1) In general.--There are authorized to be appropriated to
carry out sections 4 and 7 $36,000,000 for fiscal year 2005,
and such sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 2006
through 2010.
(2) Training, technical assistance, data-collection,
reporting, and internet programs.--
(A) In general.--Of the amount appropriated under
this subsection for a fiscal year, not more than
$1,235,000 may be made available to carry out section
7.
(B) Reservations.--Of the amount made available to
carry out section 7 for a fiscal year--
(i) not less than 45 percent shall be made
available to carry out section 7(b)(1);
(ii) not less than 20 percent shall be made
available to carry out section 7(b)(2);
(iii) not less than 15 percent shall be
made available to carry out section 7(b)(3);
and
(iv) not more than 20 percent shall be made
available to carry out section 7(c).
(b) State Grants for Protection and Advocacy Services Related to
Assistive Technology.--There are authorized to be appropriated to carry
out section 5 $4,419,000 for fiscal year 2005 and such sums as may be
necessary for each of fiscal years 2006 through 2010.
(c) Supplementary Grants and Projects of National Significance.--
There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out section 6 such
sums as may be necessary for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2010.
SEC. 11. REPEAL.
The Assistive Technology Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 3001 et seq.) is
repealed.
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