Memorandum

July 26, 2007

MEMORANDUM

TO: John H. Hager

Assistant Secretary, OSERS

THRU: Andy Pepin _________

Paul O’Connell _________

Sherron Dunmore _________

FROM: Edward Anthony

SUBJECT: Request for Extension of OMB Approval for Written Application for the Independent Living Services for Older Individuals Who Are Blind Program (OMB approval number: 1820-0660)

PURPOSE

The purpose of this memorandum is to obtain your approval of the request to seek an extension of OMB approval for the Written Application for the Independent Living Services for Older Individuals Who Are Blind (IL-OIB) Program and your signature on the Certification for Paperwork Reduction Act Submissions.

DISCUSSION

Grants are made to states to support services for individuals age 55 or older whose severe visual impairment makes competitive employment difficult to obtain but for whom independent living goals are feasible. The IL-OIB program funds states to provide independent living services to older individuals who are blind, conduct activities that will improve or expand services for these individuals, and conduct activities to improve public understanding of the problems facing these individuals. This data collection instrument expires November 11, 2007. RSA is requesting that the instrument be renewed for an additional three years to enable the IL-OIB programs to apply for formula funding for their states.

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The attached package (Paperwork Reduction Act Submission: OMB Form 83-1) has been reviewed for compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act and is ready to be transmitted to the Department’s Information Management Team for clearance and submission to OMB.

RECOMMENDATION

Request your signature on the attached OMB 83-I

Attachment