This data collection instrument is being submitted to obtain approval to continue collecting information on the Independent Living Services For Older Individuals Who Are Blind program. Through this program, 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. This data will be used to evaluate and construct a profile for the program nationwide. The respondents will be the managers of the Independent Living Services For Older Individuals Who Are blind program in each of the 56 states and territories. The revisions to this instrument consist of 2 additional items in Part I to capture the amount of other federal funds made available to the program, and the carryover for those funds. In Part III, rearrangement in the order of requested information to avoid double counting of consumers in the race and ethnicity categories; an additional item to capture the number of consumers served who are homeless; additional items to capture the number of consumers referred from nursing homes, assisted living facilities, government/social service agencies, and self referrals.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.