UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION OFFICE OF SPECIAL EDUCATION AND REHABILITATIVE SERVICES REHABILITATION SERVICES ADMINISTRATION WASHINGTON, DC 20202-2741 POLICY DIRECTIVE RSA-PD-94- RSM-0501 DATE: ADDRESSEES: STATE VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION AGENCIES (GENERAL) STATE VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION AGENCIES (BLIND) CLIENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS STATEWIDE INDEPENDENT LIVING COUNCILS CENTERS FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING RSA SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM SUBJECT: State Plan for Independent Living under Chapter 1 of Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (Act) POLICY STATEMENT: This transmits State plan materials consisting of a State plan pre-print and instructions for the completion and submittal of the State plan for the State Independent Living Services (SILS) and Centers for Independent Living (CIL) programs for fiscal year (FY) 1995. The effective date for this State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) is October 1, 1994; OMB approval number for this plan is . The Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1992 and 1993 (Public Laws 102-569 and 103-73) include major revisions to Title VII. Because the Title VII regulations are not yet final and because the Statewide Independent Living Councils (SILC), appointed at the beginning of FY 1994, have had only a short period of time to become familiar and involved in the State independent living program activities, the Department has acceded to the request of States, SILCs, and others to have another one year plan for FY 1995. The purpose of Chapter 1 of Title VII of the Act (Ch. 1) is to promote a philosophy of independent living which includes consumer control, peer support, self-help, self-determination, equal access, and individual and system advocacy, in order to maximize the leadership, empowerment, independence, and productivity of individuals with disabilities, and the integration and full inclusion of individuals with disabilities into the mainstream of American society. To implement this purpose, Ch. 1 authorizes financial assistance to States for providing, expanding and improving the provision of SILS, to develop and support statewide networks of CILs, and to improve working relationships among SILS, CILs, SILCs, programs funded under other titles of the Act, and other programs that address issues relevant to individuals with disabilities funded by Federal and non-Federal authorities. In order for a State to participate in the programs under Ch. 1, the designated State unit (DSU), jointly with the SILC, must develop and sign an approvable SPIL for FY 1995. The plan must be submitted by the State to the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) by July 1, 1994, and be approved by the RSA Regional Office. Final RSA action on the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) is contingent on the receipt of comments from the State's review process, or the passage of at least 60 days from the submittal of the plan to the State review process, whichever occurs first. If it is not possible to approve the SPIL before October 1, 1994, the Regional Office may, in accordance with 34 CFR 76.703(c), determine that the SPIL is substantially approvable if it contains only minor technical problems which can be readily addressed and rectified, such as the omission of an assurance that the State has indicated was an oversight that will be immediately corrected. A minor problem would not include the failure of a State to receive approval under the State required review process. The determination of whether or not a problem is minor will be made on a case-by-case basis. A determination that a SPIL is in substantially approvable form would allow a State and CILs to begin obligating funds on or after October 1, 1994. Reimbursement for these obligations, however, is subject to final approval of the SPIL. CITATIONS IN LAW: Chapter 1 of Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended CITATIONS IN REGULATIONS: 34 CFR Parts 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 82, and 85 EFFECTIVE DATE: Upon Issuance EXPIRATION DATE: September 30, 1995 INQUIRIES: RSA Regional Commissioners Acting Commissioner Rehabilitation Services Administration OMB NUMBER: EXPIRATION DATE: UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION OFFICE OF SPECIAL EDUCATION AND REHABILITATIVE SERVICES REHABILITATION SERVICES ADMINISTRATION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20202-2741 Instructions for Completion and Submittal of the State Plan for Independent Living Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 80 hours per response. This estimate includes time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, conducting public hearings, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to the U.S. Department of Education, Information Management & Compliance Division, Washington, DC 20202-4651; and to the Office of Management and Budget, Paperwork Reduction Project 1820-0561, Washington, DC 20503. I. Background Chapter 1 of Title VII (Ch.1) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (Act), provides financial assistance to States for providing, expanding and improving the provision of independent living (IL) services, to develop and support statewide networks of centers for independent living (CILs), and to improve working relationships among State IL services programs (SILS), CILs, Statewide IL Councils (SILCs), programs funded under other titles of the Act, and other programs that address the needs of individuals with significant disabilities funded by Federal and non-Federal authorities. The purpose of Ch. 1 is to promote a philosophy of independent living which includes consumer control, peer support, self-help, self-determination, equal access, and individual and system advocacy, in order to maximize the leadership, empowerment, independence, and productivity of individuals with significant disabilities, and the integration and full inclusion of individuals with significant disabilities into the mainstream of American society. In order for a State to participate in the programs under Ch. 1, it must submit to the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) an approvable State plan (SPIL) for SILS and CILs for fiscal year 1995. No Federal funds or other benefits can be made available under this program unless the SPIL conforms with applicable statutory and regulatory requirements. This SPIL reflects the State's commitment to carry out the Ch. 1 program in compliance with the provisions in the plan, and also the State's planning and implementation activities related to various administrative and operational considerations associated with the plan. As such, the approved SPIL will serve as one of the key elements in RSA's monitoring of the State's performance in carrying out the assurances to which the State commits itself in submitting the SPIL. II. Glossary of Terms and Acronyms Act The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended Casual Consumer-A consumer who calls with a question, seeking information, or who stops in to get a little advice. The term also includes consumers who only participate in services to groups, e.g., recreational outings for persons with disabilities. CIL A "Center for Independent Living." CIL program The "Centers for Independent Living program" funded under part C, Chapter 1 (Ch. 1) of Title VII of the Act. Core Services IL services defined in section 7(29) of the Act-- information and referral; IL skills training; peer counseling (including cross-disability peer counseling); and individual and systems advocacy. CSR A "Consumer Service Record" maintained for eligible consumers receiving IL services under Title VII of the Act. Except for "casual consumers," each individual using IL services will have a CSR, which will either contain an ILP, or a waiver of an ILP. DSU The "Designated State Unit, or Units" identified under section 101(a)(1) of the Act, to jointly with the Statewide Independent Living Council, develop and sign the State plan for Ch. 1 of Title VII under section 704 of the Act. The term includes a State agency designated under State law to provide IL services to individuals who are blind. In such State, the State agency for the Blind may administer the provisions in the State plan providing for services to individuals who are blind. In a "723 State", the DSU is always the general agency. Earmarked Means funds appropriated by the State and Funds expressly or clearly identified as State expenditures in the relevant fiscal year for the sole purpose of funding the general operation of CILs meeting the requirements of section 702 and 725 of the Act. 722 State A State where RSA issues grants under part C, Ch. 1 directly to eligible agencies (CILs). 723 State A State where the State has earmarked funds for the general operation of CILs in an amount greater than the Federal allotment to the State under part C, Ch. 1; the State has indicated its intention to administer the part C, Ch. 1 program by appropriately marking Section 8 of its State plan, which is construed to constitute its application under section 723(a)(2) of the Act; and the State plan has been approved by RSA, constituting approval of the State's application to administer the program. IL "Independent Living" ILP An "Independent Living Plan" for the provision of IL services mutually agreed upon by an appropriate staff member of the service provider and an individual with significant disabilities. While a CSR may contain goals and objectives, a CSR with an ILP will always contain goals or objectives, the services to be provided, and the anticipated duration of the service program and each component service. Minority Means Alaskan Natives, American Indians, Asian groups Americans, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. RSA The "Rehabilitation Services Administration" in the Department of Education, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services. Service Provider-- (i) A DSU who directly provides IL services to consumers; (ii) A CIL; or (iii) An entity who: (A)provides IL services under a grant or contract from the DSU; and (B)is delegated responsibility for the determination of eligibility for IL services. SILC The "Statewide Independent Living Council" established in each State as required by sections 704 and 705 of the Act. SILS The "State Independent Living Services program" funded under part B, Ch. 1 of Title VII of the Act. III. Format and Content of the SPIL The SPIL consists of a preprint in the form of affirmative statements of assurances, each of which represents a Federal requirement to which States must comply. Each pre-print assurance is based on a statutory and/or regulatory citation; the citations are identified in the pre-print. In addition to the assurances, the Act and implementing regulations call for descriptions of the State's plans, policies and activities relating to the implementation of the programs under Title VII. These descriptions are submitted in the form of attachments to the SPIL and provide greater operational detail regarding certain elements of the preprint assurances. In a number of areas, Ch. 1 affords the State choices of action. These areas are identified in the SPIL and call for either a yes or no (Y or N) selection, or a check off (X) for choices selected. IV Preparation of the SPIL (a) Preprint Assurances and information (1) States may reproduce the SPIL preprint for manual submittal, or may work directly on the electronic preprint provided through the RSA or Dimenet Bulletin boards (FILE: "SPIL95"). (2) Since the affirmative assurance statements of the preprint reflect the State's commitment to comply with statutory and RSA policy requirements, changes to these assurance statements are not permitted. (3) For optional choices, indicate the option selected by marking Yes or No, ( Y N ) or placing an "X" in the appropriate space. (4) At the lower right hand corner of each page of the preprint, indicate the effective date as follows: Effective Date: October 1, 1994 (5) In those instances where a preprint assurance requires documentation or implementation of an activity not addressed in any of the required attachments, materials relating to such documentation and/or activity must be maintained by the State, and made available to Federal staff for review and monitoring purposes, e.g., all recipients of financial assistance under Ch. 1, will notify all individuals seeking or receiving services under Ch. 1, in an appropriate accessible format, about the availability of the Client Assistance Program under section 112 of the Act, the purposes of the services provided under such program, and how to contact such program (Section 13.4). (b) Attachments (1) An attachment should provide a clear, succinct and informative narrative that gives greater operational detail to the information provided in the corresponding preprint assurance. Within this context, manuals, bulletins, memoranda, budgets, and similar materials are not to be submitted unless specifically required or clearly suitable to the purpose of the attachment. (2) Each attachment should identify the corresponding section of the preprint, be paginated and show an effective date. The identification is to be placed in the lower right hand corner of the page, e.g., as follows: Attachment 9: Page 1 of 4 PagesEffective Date: October 1, 1994 V. Procedures Regarding Development, Submittal, and Disposition of the SPIL (a) Development of the SPIL (1) The SPIL must be jointly developed and signed by the DSU and the SILC. (2) At least one public hearing must be held to gather comments on the contents of the SPIL prior to submission of the original SPIL. Public hearings must also be held on each subsequent review or substantive revision of the SPIL. (b) State Review Process (34 CFR Part 79) The SPIL is subject to the provisions of Executive Order 12372 pertaining to the State process for review and comment. In those States where the SPIL is subject to the State review process, it is suggested that a draft copy of the plan be submitted to the appropriate RSA Regional Office simultaneously with its submission for State review. This will afford RSA staff the opportunity to review the plan and resolve potential problems prior to the submission of the official plan to RSA. In those States in which the SPIL is subject to review and comment, the official SPIL should be transmitted to the RSA Regional Office upon receipt of a response from the State review process, or a minimum of 60 days from the date of submittal to the State's review process, whichever comes first. (c) Transmittal of Official SPIL to RSA (1) The SPIL may be transmitted to RSA through either: (i) ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION A State is encouraged to file its SPIL electronically through the RSA Bulletin board. To create a file for transmission, add the two letter State designator to the RSA file name, e.g. "AZSPIL95." When the file is uploaded to the RSA Bulletin board, after the decimal point, add the first letter of the month and the date. Thus, Arizona's 1995 State plan for IL transmitted on June 25 to Region IX, would be filed as "AZSPIL95.J25." Any subsequent transmissions regarding SPIL95 would use the same file name but change the transmission date. A separate transmittal letter, containing the information in paragraph (c)(4) must be sent to the Regional Office and must include Section 2 of the SPIL, signed by the director or directors of the DSU(s) and the Chairperson or other designee of the SILC, and incorporating the SPIL by reference; or (ii) MANUAL TRANSMISSION The official, signed SPIL, and two signed copies, should be transmitted to the appropriate RSA Regional Office. (2) The SPIL is to be submitted for approval no later than 90 days before the completion date of the previous plan. SPIL95 is due on July 1, 1994. (3) The official SPIL and the copies should be transmitted to the appropriate RSA Regional Office under cover of a letter signed by the State official(s) who is authorized to submit the SPIL. The transmittal letter should include: (i) A description of the materials transmitted; (ii) Identification of the effective date for the materials; (iii) Information concerning the comments, if any, pursuant to the State review process, if applicable; and (iv) A request for approval of the SPIL. (4) If comments from the State review process become available subsequent to the submission of the official SPIL, it is requested that the comments be transmitted to the RSA Regional Office. (d) Disposition of the Approved State Plan Once the SPIL is approved by the RSA Regional Office, one copy and the signed signature page will be transmitted to the RSA Central Office, the RSA Regional Office will retain one copy, and one copy will be transmitted to the State together with an approval letter. (e) Amendments to the Approved State Plan (34 CFR 76.140 -.142) (1) The State must amend an approved SPIL when the Secretary determines that an amendment is essential during the effective period of the plan, or when there is a significant and relevant change that materially affects: the information or assurances in the plan; the administration or operation of the plan; or the organization, policies, or operations of the State agency(s) that received funds under the plan. Within this context, the DSU(s) and the SILC need to periodically review the State's approved SPIL to ensure its consistency with the State's policies, priorities, and administration relating to the Ch. 1 programs. (2) The procedures applicable to the submission and disposition of amendments to the approved SPIL are the same as those described for the submission and disposition of the original SPIL, e.g., State review process, due date, etc. (f) Responsibilities of RSA Regional Offices The RSA Regional Offices are responsible for the review of plan submissions, negotiation of required changes with the State, provision of technical assistance, approval of the SPIL, and monitoring of the State's compliance with the provisions of the plan. The RSA Regional Commissioner is also responsible for recommending to the RSA Commissioner the disapproval of a SPIL submission when, after negotiation with the State, the Regional Commissioner determines that the SPIL is not approvable. (g) Responsibilities of RSA Commissioner The Commissioner of RSA is responsible for the preparation of the SPIL pre-print, ensuring RSA Regional Office consistency in the approval of SPILs, issuing policies, and for the disapproval of SPIL submissions, based upon the recommendation of the RSA Regional Commissioner and a complete review of the submission, related facts, and relevant laws and regulations. VI. Instructions, Clarification, and Guidance regarding Sections of and Attachments to the SPIL Preprint Section 3.3: Public Hearings At least one public hearing must be held regarding the original SPIL. Public hearings must also be held regarding any substantive revisions. Most States have experience in determining where in the State hearings must be held to provide reasonable access, and what is necessary to ensure reasonable accommodation for persons needing alternative modes of communication. If questions arise, please contact your RSA regional office. Section 19 of the Act requires that a State identify State imposed requirements. RSA expects the State to identify such requirements included in the SPIL, which have been agreed to by the DSU and the SILC in the development of the SPIL, e.g., a decision to impose a financial needs test, an order of selection, or State licensing and certification requirements; or that have been included pursuant to the provisions of Executive Order 12372 pertaining to the State process for review and comment. RSA does not interpret section 19 of the Act to require an exhaustive search of State laws and regulations. Section 4.1: Composition of the SILC Section 705 of the Act as enacted in 1992 and amended in 1993 has resulted in some confusion. To try to shed some light on the complexity, the following example uses the numbering of the table in section 4.1 of the preprint. (1) The total SILC membership is 25 persons. (2) The directors of the State Vocational Rehabilitation agency, the Mental Health agency, Department of Education, Department of Aging, and Department of Parks and Recreation are appointed to the Council in represent their respective agencies. Since the purpose of the appointment is to represent a State agency, these members of the SILC are "ex-officio" and have no voting privileges. An employee of a State agency, e.g., a rehabilitation counselor, who is appointed to the SILC because of his or her expertise and not for the purpose of representing the State, or an agency of the State, is a voting member. If a question regarding the status of a member is raised, check with the appointing authority. (3) Subtracting the number of ex-officio members from the total membership leaves 20 voting members. (4) The 1993 amendments clarified that a majority of the voting members must be persons with disabilities who are not employees of the State or of a CIL; thus, in this example, at least eleven of the 20 voting members must be in this category. (5) The CIL directors in the State vote for and recommend that a named CIL director be designated to represent the CILs in the State. In addition three persons employed by CILs are also appointed to the SILC. The CIL representative appointed under section 705(b)(2)(A) and the CIL employees are voting members. (6) Diversity of disabilities. This requirement makes it clear that the SILC cannot be dominated by members from a single disability group. The intent of the statute is to ensure that as broad a range as possible of different disability categories, consistent with a workable size council, be included in the SILC membership. (7) While section 705 of the Act includes no requirement for minority representation, this section of the graph is included in the SPIL because it is incumbent to the success of the IL programs that careful attention and respect be given to the cultural mores and needs of diverse groups. The remaining sections of the table reflect statutory requirements and have raised no questions. Section 4.2: Placement of the SILC Numbers of people have inquired, "if you cannot place the SILC in any State agency, where can you place it?" RSA hesitates to give specific examples because it is often interpreted as exclusive and precluding options not listed. Because of the many questions, however, RSA examined the 1994 SPIL and found that SILCs have been established and placed as follows: a nonprofit organization; a free standing group attached to a State University; an organization attached to the Governor's office; and as an independent agency in the State. These are not listed in any particular order and this list is not intended to be exhaustive of the possibilities. Attachment 4: Plan for the Provision of Resources to the SILC (Resource Plan) This attachment must include a description of the Resource Plan, including the sources of funds, staff, supplies, and other resources made available under Parts B and C of Ch. 1, Part C of Title I of the Act, and from other public and private sources, that may be necessary for the SILC to carry out its responsibilities under section 705 of the Act and the SPIL. Attachment 8 Policies, Practices and Procedures for Award of Grants Under Section 723 This attachment must describe: (a) Funding priorities. (1) The SPIL may provide that the State will be guided by the following order of priorities in allocating funds among CILs-- (i) support existing CILs that comply with the standards and assurances in section 725 of the Act; (ii) provide for a cost-of-living increase for such existing CILs; (iii) fund new CILs; or (2) The director of the DSU and the chairperson of the SILC or other individual designated by the SILC acting on behalf of and at the direction of the SILC may agree on another order of priority, except that existing eligible agencies that were awarded grants under part C of Title VII by September 30, 1993 that comply with the standards and assurances in section 725 of the Act must continue to receive support. If the decision to have priorities other than those in Section 8(a)(1), the SPIL must describe the priorities. (b) Continuation funding for existing CILs. The attachment must describe the policies and procedures to be used by the DSU in reviewing and renewing grants or assistance contracts to CILs currently funded under part C of Ch. 1, including the procedures to ensure compliance with the self-evaluation and reporting requirements in section 725(c)(8) of the Act. (c) Establishing new CILs. The attachment must describe the policies and procedures for awarding grants or assistance contracts for new CILs including: (1) The appointment of a peer review committee by the DSU and the SILC; (2) The establishment of selection criteria regarding-- (i) evidence of need for a CIL; (ii) past performance of an applicant; (iii) an applicant's plan for complying with or demonstrated success in complying with the standards and assurances in section 725 of the Act; (iv) quality of key personnel; (v) budget and cost effectiveness; (vi) evaluation plan; and (vii) ability of an applicant to carry out the plans. The DSU will award the grant or assistance contract on the basis of the recommendations of the peer review committee if the actions of the committee are consistent with Federal and State law. Attachment 9 Description of Objectives to be Achieved under the SPIL and Timelines for Achieving the Objectives (a) Purpose and Impact of the Objectives. The SPIL is the driving force in how the Ch. 1 independent living programs in the State will be implemented and administered. It is important, therefore, that this attachment contain the State's mission, goals, and objectives for independent living in the State, regardless of the Federal, State, or other source of funds supporting a particular service or activity. (b) Planning Considerations. RSA considers "community-up, State-down" cyclical planning to be important. It encourages coordination, cooperation and communication while ensuring that the State is being sensitive and responsive to the needs of individuals with significant disabilities, identified by the CILs in their service areas, the plans of the CILs to address those needs, and that the CILs operate consistent with the SPIL. In planning for and developing the mission, goals, and objectives, the DSU/SILC is to review the workplans developed by the CILs in compliance with section 725(c)(4) of the Act, the plans proposed for services to older individuals who are blind under Ch. 2 of Title VII, and input from other service providers and incorporate into the SPIL the provisions that are considered appropriate. (c) Timelines. The attachment must contain projected timelines for the achievement of the objectives and describe how the objectives are consistent with and further the purposes of Section 1 of the SPIL. (d) Outline for Objectives. Describe in the attachment: (1) The overall mission or goals for the IL programs in the State; (2) The financial planning objectives for IL in the State, including any resource development objectives for CILs to encourage self-support and expansion of capabilities; (3) The IL program objectives including-- (i)what activities will be undertaken; and (ii)how services will be provided and expanded for individuals and groups of individuals with significant disabilities in the State. (e) The attachment may specify objectives and timelines for several program requirements and options contained in the SPIL. These requirements and options include: (1) Demonstrating ways to expand and improve IL services (optional - Section 9); (2) Supporting the operation of CILs using funds under part B, Ch. 1 (optional - Section 9); (3) Increasing capacities of entities to provide IL services (optional - Section 9); (4) Conducting studies, gathering information, developing model policies and procedures, and presenting recommendations to policy makers to enhance IL services (optional - Section 9); (5) Training consumers, service providers and other persons on the IL philosophy (optional - Section 9); (6) Reaching out to unserved/underserved populations (required - Section 11); (7) Establishing a statewide network of CILs (required - Section 14); and (8) Maximizing cooperation, coordination, and communication among the DSU(s), other State agencies represented on the SILC, other councils and public and private entities, including Indian Tribal Councils, addressing the needs of specific disability populations and issues, and coordinating Federal and State funding for CILs and IL services (required - Section 15). (f) Explain how the objectives are consistent with and further the purposes in section 701 of the Act and Section 1 of the SPIL. Attachment 10: Part B, Ch. 1 Activities This attachment must contain an explanation of how the activities selected for funding from among the available options in section 713 of the Act are consistent with and further the purposes in Section 1 and the Objectives in Section 9 of the SPIL. Attachment 11: Outreach to Unserved or Underserved Populations and Minority Groups (a) This attachment must describe steps to be taken regarding outreach to populations that are unserved or underserved by Title VII of the Act, including minority groups and urban and rural populations. Steps must specifically demonstrate how outreach will be accomplished under the SPIL, including the activities of CILs and other service providers. (b) Related to minority outreach, the attachment may describe: (1) Activities of the DSU(s), the SILC, its members and subcommittees or advisory groups, and CILs and other service providers: (2) How results of completed and planned studies of consumer service record (CSR) data from service providers are, or will be, used to identify unserved and underserved disability and ethnic groups in urban and rural areas; (3) Current and planned cooperative agreements with government agencies, private non-profit agencies and organizations that represent targeted groups, and service provider entities that are known to serve targeted groups; (4) How outreach activities are promoted through the advisory councils of public and private non-profit organizations; (5) Initiatives to promote interagency referrals for serving targeted underserved, unserved or minority groups in urban and rural areas; (6) A description of planned public information programs using media options such as television, radio and newspapers in urban and rural areas targeted to unserved and underserved groups of individuals; (7) Information initiatives-- (i) directed towards professionals, paraprofessionals, social workers, county welfare workers, and other related service providers working with unserved and underserved individuals; (ii) addressing the nature of the SILS and CIL programs, referral and application standards; (iii) including procedures assuring expeditious handling of applications; (iv) including how program information in appropriate accessible form such as print, tape, Braille, etc., is to be developed and distributed to service providers, cooperating agencies, interested associations or organizations, and advocacy groups; (8) Specific plans and plan objectives for each CIL designed to reach out to unserved, underserved, and minority populations present in the service area of each CIL; and, (9) Other initiatives by the DSU/SILC and CILs to reach out to targeted populations, determine eligibility, and provide services in a timely manner. Attachment 12: Description of Extent and Scope of Independent Living Services (a) This Attachment must describe the extent and scope of all IL services to be provided in the State, including services funded under part B and part C of Ch. 1 and Ch. 2 of Title VII of the Act. Provisions in the Act, e.g., sections 722(d), 723(d), 725(c)(4), and 752(i)(2)(C), require that attention be paid to the approved SPIL when making application for funding, administering, or operating a program funded under Title VII of the Act. Thus, section 704(e) of the Act requires that the SPIL contain a description of what IL services are to be provided in the State, from all sources of funding including CILs funded directly by RSA. The attachment is to be descriptive rather than directive. (b) This attachment must describe: (1) The extent and scope of independent living services to be provided as designated in Section 12, including how the State plans to make the core services available; (2) Grant or contractual arrangements with other entities for providing IL services; and (3) How the services and arrangements are consistent with and supportive of the purposes in Section 1 and the objectives described in Attachment 9. (c) The State may consider the following factors in describing the extent and scope of services it plans to provide: (1) The types of services to be provided; (2) The methods of providing the services (e.g., directly by the DSU, by one or more CILs under grants or contracts, through fee for service agreements, or by contracts with other entities); and (3) The comprehensiveness and availability of the services throughout the State; Attachment 13 Consumer Service Records (CSRs) The attachment must describe the State's efforts to minimize duplication of CSRs and maximize communication, coordination, and cooperation to ensure that records adequate for effective State and Federal purposes are maintained, while minimizing burden on service providers. States are encouraged to develop a system whereby only a single CSR is maintained for each consumer. Information from other service providers would be fed into the single CSR. Attachment 14 Establishment of Statewide Network of Centers The attachment must describe a design for the establishment of a statewide network of CILs that comply with the standards and assurances set forth in section 725 of the Act. If the network is considered complete, the attachment should so state and, either in this attachment or in Section 9 and 11, describe future plans for expansion of the program to serve populations that are unserved or underserved including an explanation of why it is not feasible to plan for the establishment of additional CILs to serve the geographical areas where such populations exist. Attachment 15 Working Relationships (a) This attachment must describe the following: (1) The steps that will be taken to maximize the communication, cooperation, and coordination among-- (i) the SILS program, the SILC, and CILs; and (ii) the DSU, other State agencies represented on the SILC, other councils that address the needs of specific disability populations and issues, and other public and private entities determined to be appropriate by the SILC; (2) How services funded under Ch. 1 will be coordinated with, and complement, other services in order to avoid unnecessary duplication with other Federal, State, and local programs; and (3) The State's efforts to coordinate Federal and State funding for CILs and SILS. (b) In addressing cooperation, coordination, and communication in independent living, the attachment may: (1) Include information on cooperative service agreements between agencies that serve specific disability populations; (2) Describe special agreements that call for reciprocal representation on councils and advisory boards that address the needs of specific disability populations and issues; (3) Provide information on arrangements to include representatives of other entities relevant to IL as members of the SILC; and (4) Describe how CILs and other providers of IL services will be supported by a combination of State, Federal and private funding sources. Attachment 16: Evaluation Plan (a) This Attachment must describe the State's evaluation plan containing methods for the periodic evaluation of the effectiveness of the SPIL in meeting the objectives established in Section 9. The methods must also specifically provide for the evaluation of the satisfaction by individuals with significant disabilities. (b) The evaluation plan must specifically address: (1) The evaluation, review, and monitoring activities to be undertaken by the SILC under section 705(c)(2); (2) The evaluation activities planned by the DSU in those States administering the Part C, Ch. 1 program in the review of CILs in accordance with section 723(g)(1) of the Act; and (3) How the activities to be carried out under the evaluation plan are coordinated, as required by Section 15. (c) This evaluation plan may describe: (1) The evaluation schedule for determining whether established timelines for accomplishing objectives are met; (2) The criteria for each objective and procedures to determine accomplishment of the objectives; (3) The specific roles of the DSU and the SILC; (4) General content of survey instruments or questionnaires designed to determine the satisfaction of individuals with significant disabilities, and how and when such instruments are administered; also, how information concerning satisfaction of individuals with significant disabilities will be used; and (5) Other evaluation initiatives to determine the effectiveness of SPIL objectives. State: Agency Type(s): STATE PLAN for INDEPENDENT LIVING SERVICES and CENTERS FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING FISCAL YEAR 1995 Ch. 1 of Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE Section 1: Purpose of the State Plan 1 1.1 Philosophy of the programs 1.2 Participation in the programs Section 2:Legal Basis and State Certifications 2 Section 3:Plan Submittal 4 3.1 Frequency of Submittal 3.2 State Plan Development 3.3 Public Hearings 3.4 Opportunity for Review and Comment Under State Review Process Section 4:Statewide Independent Living Council 5 4.1 Composition of the SILC 4.2 Placement of the SILC 4.3 Plan for provision of resources to the SILC Section 5:Designation and Responsibilities of the State Unit(s)7 5.1 Designation 5.2 Designated State Unit Responsibilities 5.3 Methods of Administration Section 6:Staff and staff development 7 6.1 Personnel administration 6.2 Personnel development 6.3 Affirmative action 6.4 Nondiscrimination Section 7:Financial Administration 8 7.1 General Provisions 7.2 Source of State Funds 7.3 Financial Recordkeeping 7.4 Access to Financial Records 7.5 Financial Reports Section 8: State Administration of Part C Program 10 8.1 Funds earmarked to support CILs 8.2 State applies to administer Part C funds 8.3 State administers funds in compliance with 723 8.4 Policies, practices and procedures for award of grants Section 9:Objectives 12 9.1 Objectives 9.2 Consideration of CIL workplans 9.3 Timelines for Achievement of Objectives 9.3 Consistency of objectives with purposes of Section 1 Section 10:Information on Use of Part B, Ch. 1 Funds 14 10.1 Use of 711 funds in support of 713 purposes 10.2 Explanation of how 713 activities further objectives in Section 9.1 Section 11:Outreach 15 Section 12:Extent and Scope of Independent Living Services 15 Section 13:Eligibility and Independent Living Plans 17 13.1 Eligibility for Receipt of Services 13.2 Consumer Service Record 13.2 Independent Living Plans 13.3 Notice about CAP Section 14:Statewide Network of Centers for Independent Living (CILs)19 14.1 Network design 14.2 Identification of unserved and underserved areas and priorities Section 15:Cooperation, Coordination, Communication 19 Section 16:Evaluation plan 20 ATTACHMENTS Attachment 4 Plan for the Provision of Resources to the SILC (Resource Plan) Attachment 8 Policies, Practices and Procedures for Award of Grants Under Section 723 Attachment 9 SPIL Objectives Attachment 10 Part B, Ch. 1 Activities Attachment 11 Outreach Attachment 12 Extent and Scope of IL Services Attachment 13 Consumer Service Records (CSRs) Attachment 14 Design for a Network of CILs Attachment 15 Working Relationships Attachment 16 Evaluation Plan Section 1: Purpose of the State Plan for Independent Living Services and Centers for Independent Living (SPIL) 1.1 Philosophy of the programs (Sec. 701 of the Act) The State assures that in the implementation of this plan the State will: (a) promote a philosophy of independent living, including a philosophy of consumer control, peer support, self-help, self-determination, equal access, and individual, self, and system advocacy, in order to maximize the leadership, empowerment, independence, and productivity of individuals with significant disabilities, and the integration and full inclusion of such individuals into the mainstream of American society; (b) provide financial assistance for providing, expanding, or improving the provision of independent living (IL) services; (c) provide assistance to develop and support a Statewide network of centers for independent living (CILs), operated by consumer-controlled, community- based, cross-disability, nonresidential private nonprofit agencies that are operated within local communities by individuals with disabilities and that provide an array of IL services; and (d) plan and advocate to improve working relationships among the various entities affecting the lives of people with significant disabilities. 1.2 Participation in the programs (Sec. 704(a)(1) of the Act) (a) The State understands that no Federal funds or other benefits can be made available under the programs addressed in the SPIL unless the State conforms with applicable statutory and regulatory requirements. (b) This SPIL reflects the State's commitment to carry out the portions of the Ch. 1 program for which it is responsible in compliance with the provisions in the plan, and also the State's planning and implementation activities related to various administrative and operational considerations associated with the plan. Section 2:Legal Basis and State Certifications (Sec. 704 of the Act) (a) As a condition to the receipt of financial assistance under Chapter 1 of Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (Ch. 1), the (Name of Designated State Unit(s)) jointly with the Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC), is authorized to develop and sign this State Plan (SPIL) for the State Independent Living Services (SILS) and Centers for Independent Living (CILs) programs. The DSU agrees to administer the programs in compliance with the provisions of the Act, all applicable regulations, policies, and procedures promulgated by the Secretary, and the provisions of this SPIL. (b) The State legally may carry out each provision of the SPIL and the DSU has the authority under State law to perform the functions of the plan. (c) All provisions of the SPIL are consistent with State law. (d) The (Title of State Officer(s)) has authority under State law to receive, hold, and disburse Federal funds made available under the SPIL. (e) The SPIL being submitted has been adopted or otherwise formally approved by the DSU and SILC. (f) The SPIL is the basis for State operation and administration of the SILS and CILs programs, as appropriate, and is available for public inspection. (g) The effective date of this SPIL is October 1, 1994. SIGNATURE OF STATE AGENCY OFFICIAL DATE NAME AND TITLE OF STATE AGENCY OFFICIAL PHONE NUMBER SIGNATURE OF STATE AGENCY OFFICIAL DATE NAME AND TITLE OF STATE AGENCY OFFICIAL PHONE NUMBER SIGNATURE OF SILC CHAIRPERSON DATE NAME OF SILC CHAIRPERSON PHONE NUMBER Section 3: Plan Submittal 3.1 Frequency of Submittal (Sec. 704(a)(3) of the Act) (a) This SPIL is for fiscal year 1995. In subsequent years, a plan is submitted every three years by July 1 of the year preceding the first fiscal year for which the plan is submitted. (b) Plan amendments are submitted whenever the Secretary determines an amendment to the SPIL is essential during the effective period of the plan; or when there is a significant and relevant change that materially affects the information or the assurances in the plan, the administration or operation of the plan, or the organization, policies, or operations of the DSU or SILC. 3.2 State Plan Development (Sec. 704(a)(2) of the Act) The State plan is jointly developed and signed by the director of the DSU and the chairperson of the SILC or other individual, acting on behalf of and at the direction of the Council. 3.3 Public Hearings (Secs. 17, 704(m)(6) of the Act) (a) The State provides for at least one public hearings regarding the contents of the SPIL during both the formulation of the original SPIL and, after submission, at least one public hearing on any substantive review or revision of the SPIL. (b) The State identifies State imposed requirements resulting from the application of any State rule or policy relating to the administration or operation of the programs under Title VII. Following are descriptions of the State imposed requirements included in the SPIL. 3.4Opportunity for Review and Comment Under State Review Process (34 CFR 79.8 and 76.141-142) If the SPIL or an amendment to the plan is subject to the State review process, such materials are reviewed, and commented on, in accordance with the provisions of Executive Order 12372. Comments provided by the State review process will be transmitted to the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA). Section 4: Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) (Sec. 705(a) and (b) of the Act) 4.1 Composition of the SILC (Sec. 705(b) of the Act) (1) The total number of persons on the Council. (2)The number of persons on the Council who are appointed to represent State agencies (ex-officio, non voting members of the SILC). (3)The number of voting members on the Council. (4) The number of Council members with disabilities not employed by a CIL or any State agency. (5)The number of persons on the Council who represent or are employed by CILs. (6)The Council includes individuals with a diversity of disabilities. Y N (7)The Council includes members from minority groups. Y N (8)The council has a voting membership that is knowledgeable about CILs Y N (9)The Council members provide statewide representation Y N (10)The Council Chairperson is elected from among the voting members by the voting members on the Council. Y N 4.2 Placement of the SILC (Sec. 705(a) of the Act) The SILC is not established as an entity within any State agency including the DSU, and is independent of the DSU and all other State agencies. Following is a description of the legal status and placement of the SILC. 4.3 Plan for provision of resources to the SILC (Resource Plan) (Sec. 705(e) of the Act) (a) In conjunction with the DSU, the SILC will prepare a Resource Plan for the provision of resources, including staff and personnel that will be necessary to carry out the functions of the SILC during the term of the SPIL. (b) The SILC will be responsible for the proper expenditure of funds and the use of resources it receives under the Resource Plan. (c) No conditions or requirements will be included in the plan for provision of resources that will compromise the independence of the SILC. (d) While assisting the SILC in carrying out its duties under the SPIL, staff and other personnel assigned to the SILC under the Resource Plan will not be assigned duties by the DSU or other agency or office of the State that would create a conflict of interest. Attachment 4 describes the plan for the provision of resources to the SILC. Section 5: Designation and Responsibilities of the State Unit(s) 5.1 Designation (Sec. 704(c) of the Act) The State unit(s) designated to receive, account for, disburse funds, and provide administrative support services is: 5.2 DSU Responsibilities under the SPIL (Sec. 704(c) of the Act) The DSU: (a) Receives, accounts for, and disburses funds received by the State under Ch. 1 in accordance with the SPIL; (b) Provides administrative support services for the part B SILS program, and part C of Ch. 1 CIL program in a case in which the program is administered by the State under section 723 of the Act; (c) Keeps such records and affords such access to such records as the Secretary finds to be necessary with respect to the programs; and (d) Submits the SPIL and such additional information or provides such assurances as the Secretary may require with respect to the programs. 5.3 Methods of Administration (Sec. 704(m) of the Act) The State employs those methods of administration as may be found necessary by the Secretary for proper and efficient implementation of the SPIL and for carrying out functions for which the DSU is responsible under the SPIL. Section 6: Staff and Staff Development 6.1 Personnel administration (Sec. 12(c), 704(m) of the Act) (a) The staff of service providers will include personnel who are specialists in the development and provision of IL services and in the development and support of CILs. (b) To the maximum extent feasible, each service provider will make available personnel able to communicate-- (1)With individuals with significant disabilities who rely on special modes of communication, such as manual communication, nonverbal communication devices, Braille, or audio tape, and who apply for or receive IL services under the SPIL; and (2)In the native languages of individuals with significant disabilities whose English proficiency is limited and who apply for or receive IL services under the SPIL. 6.2 Personnel development (Sec. 12(c), 704(m) of the Act) The State assures that service providers will establish and maintain a program of staff development for all classes of positions involved in providing IL services and, if appropriate, in administering the CIL program. The staff development program will emphasize improving the skills of staff directly responsible for the provision of IL services, including knowledge of the IL philosophy. 6.3 Affirmative action (Sec. 704(m)(2) of the Act) All recipients of financial assistance under Ch. 1 take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities on the same terms and conditions required with respect to the employment of such individuals under the provisions of section 503 of the Act. 6.4 Nondiscrimination (34 CFR 76.500) No individual will on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under this plan. Section 7: Financial Administration 7.1 General Provisions (Sec. 704(m)(3) of the Act) All recipients of financial assistance under Ch. 1 will adopt such fiscal control and fund accounting procedures as may be necessary to ensure the proper disbursement of and accounting for funds paid to the State under Ch. 1. 7.2 Source of State Funds (Secs. 712(b)(2) and 7(C) of the Act) (a) The non-Federal share of the cost of any project that receives assistance through an allotment under part B, Ch. 1 will be provided in cash or in kind, fairly evaluated, including plant, equipment, or services. (b) For the purpose of determining the Federal share with respect to the State, expenditures by a political subdivision of the State will, subject to regulations prescribed by the Secretary, be regarded as expenditures by the State. 7.3 Financial Recordkeeping (Sec. 704(m)(4) of the Act) All recipients of financial assistance under Ch. 1 will: (a) maintain records that fully disclose-- (1) the amount and disposition by such recipient of the proceeds of such financial assistance, (2) the total cost of the project or undertaking in connection with which such financial assistance is given or used, and (3) the amount of that portion of the cost of the project or undertaking supplied by other sources; and (b) maintain such other records as the Secretary determines to be appropriate to facilitate an effective audit. 7.4 Access to Financial Records (Sec. 704(m)(4 & 5) of the Act) All recipients of financial assistance under Ch. 1 will afford access to the Secretary and the Comptroller General or any of their duly authorized representatives, for the purpose of conducting audits and examinations, any books, documents, papers, and records of the recipients that are pertinent to the financial assistance received under Ch. 1. 7.5 Financial Reports (Sec. 704(m)(4)(D) of the Act) All recipients of financial assistance under Ch. 1 will submit reports with respect to records required in section 7.3 of the SPIL, as the Secretary determines to be appropriate. Section 8: State Administration of Part C Program 8.1 Funds earmarked to support CILs (Sec. 723(a) of the Act) In fiscal year (FY) 1993, the general operations of the State's CILs, were supported by the following amounts of earmarked funds. State Funds Federal Allotment 8.2 State applies to administer Part C program (Secs. 704(h) and 723 of the Act) The director of the DSU hereby applies to award grants or assistance contracts to eligible agencies in the State that comply with the standards and assurances set forth in section 725 of the Act. The grants are made from the funds allotted to the State for the purpose of planning, conduct, administration, and evaluation of CILs. Yes No 8.3 State administers funds in compliance with 723 (Sec. 704(h) of the Act) (a) If Section 8.2 is answered in the affirmative, the director of the DSU awards grants or assistance contracts under section 723 of the Act to any eligible agency that was awarded a grant under part C of Ch. 1 on September 30, 1993, unless the director makes a finding that the agency involved fails to comply with the standards and assurances set forth in section 725 of the Act. (b) The State assures that any grant or assistance contracts issued to eligible agencies will not add any requirements, terms, or conditions to the grant or assistance contract other than those that would be permitted if the assistance contract were a subgrant consistent with grants issued by RSA under section 722 of the Act. (c) In administering the part C, Ch. 1 program, the State will not enter into any procurement contracts with CILs to carry out section 723 of the Act. (d) In order to meet the requirements in section 723(a)(1)(B) and (2) of the Act, the State will submit this section of the SPIL for approval each year subsequent to the first year of approval to administer the Part C, Ch. 1 program. (e) Unless the provisions of Attachment 8 are materially changed, submittal of this Section shall not constitute a material revision of the SPIL requiring public hearings or State review under Section 3. Attachment 8 describes the policies, practices, and procedures, which comply with section 723 of the Act, that the State utilizes for awarding continuation and new grants. Section 9: Objectives 9.1 Objectives (Sec. 704(d) of the Act) (a) The State will provide leadership and guidance for independent living in the State through the SPIL. The objectives for IL in the State will include: (1) The overall mission or goals for the IL programs in the State; (2) The financial planning objectives for IL in the State, including any resource development objectives for CILs to encourage self-support and expansion of capabilities; (3) The IL program objectives including-- (i)what activities will be undertaken; and (ii)how services will be provided and expanded for individuals and groups of individuals with significant disabilities in the State. 9.2 Consideration of CIL workplans (Sec. 704(d) of the Act) In developing the objectives in the SPIL, the SILC and the DSU will consider, and incorporate where appropriate, the priorities and objectives established by the CILs under section 725(c)(4), the plans of the State agencies supported under section 752 of the Act, and other service providers. 9.3 Timelines for Achievement of Objectives (Sec. 704(d)(1) of the Act) The State will establish timelines for the achievement of the objectives required by paragraph (a). 9.3 Consistency of objectives with purposes of Section 1 (Sec. 704(d)(2) of the Act) The objectives established in Section 9.1 are consistent with and further the purposes in Section 1 of the SPIL. Attachment 9 describes the State's objectives developed under this section; the plan to reach the objectives; the timelines for the achievement of the objectives, and explains how such objectives are consistent with and further the purposes of Section 1. Section 10: Information on Use of Part B, Ch. 1 Funds 10.1 Use of 711 funds in support of 713 purposes (Sec. 713 of the Act) Part B Funds are to be used only for the following purposes (all optional):Directly by DSUGrant/ Contract (a) Resource plan for SILC Y N Y N (b)IL services Y N Y N (c)Expand and improve IL services Y N Y N (d)Support operation of CILs Y N Y N (e)Support activities to increase capacity to develop approaches or systems for providing IL services Y N Y N (f) Conduct studies and analyses Y N Y N (g)Train regarding IL philosophy Y N Y N (h)Provide outreach to unserved or underserved populations Y N Y N 10.2 Explanation of how 713 activities further objectives in Section 9.1 Attachment 10 describes how the activities in Section 10.1 are consistent with the purposes in Section 1 and further the objectives in Section 9. Section 11: Outreach (Secs. 704(l) and 713(7) of the Act) The State reaches out to populations, including minority groups and urban and rural populations, that are unserved or underserved by the programs funded under Title VII of the Act. Attachment 11 describes the steps that will be taken regarding outreach to populations, including minority groups and urban and rural populations, that are unserved or underserved by the programs funded under Title VII of the Act. Also described, are populations designated for special outreach efforts and the geographic areas in which they reside. Section 12: Extent and Scope of Independent Living Services (Secs. 7(30), 704(e) and 713(1) of the Act) (a) This section describes all IL services to be provided under the SPIL, including services funded under parts B and C of Ch. 1, and Ch. 2 of Title VII of the Act to meet the objectives in Section 9. (b) The State provides the following independent living core services to individuals and groups of individuals with significant disabilities: (1)Information and referral; (2) Independent living skills training; (3)Peer counseling (including cross-disability peer counseling); and (4) Individual and systems advocacy, (c) In addition, the State provides the following independent living services to individuals and groups of individuals with significant disabilities: (1) Counseling services, including psychological, psychotherapeutic, and related services; (2) Services related to securing housing or shelter, including services related to community group living, and supportive of the purposes of this Act and of the titles of this Act, and adaptive housing services (including appropriate accommodations to and modifications of any space used to serve, or occupied by, individuals with significant disabilities); (3) Rehabilitation technology; (4) Mobility training; (5) Services and training for individuals with cognitive and sensory disabilities, including life skills training, and interpreter and reader services; (6) Personal assistance services, including attendant care and the training of personnel providing such services; (7) Surveys, directories, and other activities to identify appropriate housing, recreation opportunities, and accessible transportation, and other support services; (8) Consumer information programs on rehabilitation and independent living services available under this Act, especially for minorities and other individuals with disabilities who have traditionally been unserved or underserved by programs under this Act; (9) Education and training necessary for living in the community and participating in community activities; (10) Supported living; (11) Transportation, including referral and assistance for such transportation; (12) Physical rehabilitation; (13) Therapeutic treatment; (14) Provision of needed prostheses and other appliances and devices; (15) Individual and group social and recreational services; (16) Training to develop skills specifically designed for youths who are individuals with significant disabilities to promote self- awareness and esteem, develop advocacy and self-empowerment skills, and explore career options; (17) Services for children with significant disabilities; (18) Services under other Federal, State, or local programs designed to provide resources, training, counseling, or other assistance of substantial benefit in enhancing the independence, productivity, and quality of life of individuals with significant disabilities; (19) Appropriate preventive services to decrease the need of individuals with significant disabilities assisted under this Act for similar services in the future; (20) Community awareness programs to enhance the understanding and integration into society of individuals with disabilities; and (21) Such other services as may be necessary and not inconsistent with the provisions of this Act. (d) The State directly, or through grants or contracts, provides IL services in the State, including the core services. Attachment 12 describes the extent and scope of the above identified IL services, and how they meet the State's objectives for IL identified in Section 9. The attachment also describes any arrangements of grants or contracts made by the State for providing such services. Section 13: Eligibility and Independent Living Plans 13.1 Eligibility for Receipt of Services (Secs. 7(15)(B) and 703 of the Act) (a) Individuals with significant disabilities are eligible for services provided under the SPIL. (b) To be eligible, an individual is one: (1)who has a significant physical or mental impairment; (2)whose ability to function independently in the family or community or whose ability to obtain, maintain, or advance in employment is substantially limited; and (3)for whom the delivery of independent living services will improve the ability to function, continue functioning, or move towards functioning independently in the family or community or to continue in employment, respectively. 13.2 Consumer Service Record (Secs. 704(m)(4)(B), 725(c)(8) of the Act) A consumer service record (CSR) will be maintained for each consumer, other than a casual consumer, which will contain documentation that the consumer is eligible for IL services, the information required for the annual report under section 725(c)(8), and an ILP or a waiver as described in Section 13.3. 13.3 Independent Living Plans (Sec. 704(e) of the Act) The State provides IL services under Ch. 1 to individuals with significant disabilities in accordance with an IL plan (ILP) mutually agreed upon by an appropriate staff member of the service provider and the individual, unless the individual signs a waiver stating that such a plan is unnecessary. 13.4 Notice about the Client Assistance Program (Secs. 20 and 704(m)(1) of the Act) All recipients of financial assistance under Ch. 1 that provide services to individuals with significant disabilities advise those individuals seeking or receiving services under Ch. 1 about the availability of the Client Assistance Program under section 112 of the Act, the purposes of the services provided under such program, and information on the means of seeking assistance under such program. Attachment 13 describes the State's efforts to minimize the duplication of CSRs and maximize communication, coordination, and cooperation to ensure that records adequate for effective State and Federal purposes are maintained while minimizing burden on service providers. Section 14: Statewide Network of Centers for Independent Living (CILs) 14.1 Network design (Sec. 704(g) of the Act) The State has developed a design for the establishment of a statewide network of CILs that comply with the standards and assurances set forth in section 725 of the Act. 14.2 Unserved and underserved areas and priorities (Sec. 704(g) of the Act) (a) The network design: (i)identifies unserved and underserved geographic areas of the State; and (ii)includes an order of priority for the establishment of CILs in those areas. Attachment 14 describes the design for the establishment of a statewide network of CILs and the order of priorities for the establishment of new CILs. If the network is considered complete, the attachment describes future plans for expansion of the program to serve populations that are unserved or underserved and explains why it is not feasible to plan for the establishment of additional CILs to serve the geographical areas where such populations exist. Section 15: Cooperation, Coordination, Communication (Secs. 704(i-k) of the Act) (a) The State takes steps that maximize the communication, cooperation, coordination, and working relationships among-- (1) the SILS program, the SILC and CILs; and (2) the DSU, other State agencies represented on the SILC, other councils that address the needs of specific disability populations and issues, and other public and private entities, including Indian Tribal Councils, determined to be appropriate by the SILC. (b) The State ensures that services funded under Ch. 1 will complement and be coordinated with other services in order to avoid unnecessary duplication with other Federal, State, and local programs. (c) The State coordinates Federal and State funding for CILs and SILS. Attachment 15 describes the State's efforts in maximizing the communication, cooperation, and coordination specified in this section. Section 16: Evaluation Plan (Sec. 704(n) of the Act) The State establishes a method for the periodic evaluation of the effectiveness of the SPIL: (a) In meeting the State's objectives and timelines for meeting those objectives; (b) In the satisfaction of individuals with disabilities; and (c) In meeting the objectives established in Section 9 of the SPIL. Attachment 16 describes the methods used for these evaluations including projected DSU evaluation activities; SILC monitoring, review, and evaluation activities; and plans for the evaluation of consumer satisfaction. List of Attachments for the State Plan for Independent Living The State plan attachments describe in greater detail certain elements of the assurances provided in the State plan preprint. The following is a list of the attachments required for the SPIL. Attachment 4 Plan for the Provision of Resources to the SILC (Resource Plan) This attachment describes the Resource Plan for the provision of staff and other resources to the SILC. Attachment 8 Policies, Practices and Procedures for Award of Grants Under Section 723 If the State qualifies and applies to administer the Part C, Ch. 1 program, this attachment describes the DSU's policies, practices, and procedures utilized for the award of grants, which comply with section 723 of the Act. Attachment 9 SPIL Objectives This attachment describes the State's objectives developed under Section 9; the plan to reach the objectives; the timelines for the achievement of the objectives, and explains how the objectives are consistent with and further the purposes of Section 1. Attachment 10 Part B, Ch. 1 Activities This attachment describes how the activities funded under Part B, Ch. 1, identified in Section 10.1 are consistent with and further the purposes in Section 1 and the objectives in Section 9. Attachment 11 Outreach This attachment describes the steps that will be taken regarding outreach to populations, including minority groups and urban and rural populations, that are unserved or underserved by the programs funded under Title VII of the Act. Also described, are populations designated for special outreach efforts and the geographic areas in which they reside. Attachment 12 Extent and Scope of IL Services This attachment describes the extent and scope of the IL services provided in the State, and how they meet the State's objectives for IL identified in Section 9. The attachment also describes any arrangements for grants or contracts made by the State for providing such services. Attachment 13 Consumer Service Records (CSRs) This attachment describes the State's efforts to minimize the duplication of CSRs and maximize communication, coordination, and cooperation to ensure that records adequate for effective State and Federal purposes are maintained while minimizing burden on service providers. Attachment 14 Design for a Network of CILs This attachment describes the design for the establishment of a statewide network of CILs, identification of geographic areas underserved and unserved, and the order of priorities for the establishment of new CILs in those areas. Attachment 15 Working Relationships This attachment describes the State's efforts in maximizing the communication, cooperation, and coordination specified in this section. Attachment 16 Evaluation Plan This attachment describes the evaluation plan, which contains the methods used for periodic evaluation of the effectiveness of the SPIL. It includes projected DSU evaluation activities; SILC monitoring, review, and evaluation activities; and plans for the evaluation of consumer satisfaction