An extension is being requested for the 30-month survey. The extension will allow additional time to locate sample members for the administration of this survey and will lead to a higher response rate. The two follow-up surveys are the main way the evaluation team will collect data on the receipt of services and training (funded by WIA or not), as well as employment and self-sufficiency outcomes. Administrative data on these topics falls short of providing the level of detail, coverage, and uniformity across sites in the data elements needed to conduct a comprehensive and fine-tuned analysis of the effectiveness of WIAâs intensive and training services. The data on service receipt will be used to determine the extent to which the offer of services, including training, actually led to an increase in services. Some customers will not take up the offer of services and some customers in the core and core-and-intensive groups will be able to access services similar to those restricted through the evaluation from sources other than WIA. Data from the surveys will also be used to compute the average cost of services received for each survey sample member. The data on outcomes will be used to estimate the impact of the services and their benefits.
The proposed extension will not change the total amount of burden associated with the administration of the 30-month follow-up survey. Total burden is expected to remain at the approved amount of 2,460 (4,920 interviews à 1/2 hour per interview). Given the current response schedule, we expect that 1,230 of the interviews will be conducted during the proposed extension period of February 1, 2016 to July 31, 2016. This equates to 615 burden hours (1,230 interviews à 1/2 hour per interview).
The remaining information collections that were approved in 2013 (Resource Room Sign-in Sheet, Veteransâ Supplemental Study Staff Interviews, Protocols for Focus Groups, Veterans Focus Groups, and Cost Data Collection, Program Costs Questionnaire and Front Line Staff Activity Log) have fulfilled their purpose, and the agency seeks to discontinue their use. This results in a discretionary burden reduction of 11,929 responses and 1,966 hours.
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.
Appendix B 2-Consent.docx
Appendix B_Forms (10-19-15).pdf
Cost Data Collection, Front Line Staff Activity Log