CHAPTER 35 - PROGRAMS FOR OLDER AMERICANS

Title 42 > CHAPTER 35

Sections (144)

§ 3001 Congressional declaration of objectives

The Congress hereby finds and declares that, in keeping with the traditional American concept of the inherent dignity of the individual in our democratic society, the older people of our Nation are entitled to, and it is the joint and several duty and responsibility of the governments of the United States, of the several States and their political subdivisions, and of Indian tribes to assist our older people to secure equal opportunity to the full and free enjoyment of the following objectives: An adequate income in retirement in accordance with the American standard of living. The best possible physical and mental health (including access to person-centered, trauma-informed services as appropriate) which science can make available and without regard to economic status. Obtaining and maintaining suitable housing, independently selected, designed and located with reference to special needs and available at costs which older citizens can afford. Full restoration services for those who require institutional care, and a comprehensive array of community-based, long-term care services adequate to appropriately sustain older people in their communities and in their homes, including support to family members and other persons providing voluntary care to older individuals needing long-term care services. Opportunity for employment with no discriminatory personnel practices because of age. Retirement in health, honor, dignity—after years of contribution to the economy. Participating in and contributing to meaningful activity within the widest range of civic, cultural, education and training and recreational opportunities. Efficient community services, including access to low-cost transportation, which provide a choice in supported living arrangements and social assistance in a coordinated manner and which are readily available when needed, with emphasis on maintaining a continuum of care for vulnerable older individuals. Immediate benefit from proven research knowledge which can sustain and improve health and happiness. Freedom, independence, and the free exercise of individual initiative in planning and managing their own lives, full participation in the planning and operation of community-based services and programs provided for their benefit, and protection against abuse, neglect, and exploitation. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title I, § 101 , July 14, 1965 , 79 Stat. 219 ; Pub. L. 93–29, title I, § 102 , May 3, 1973 , 87 Stat. 30 ; Pub. L. 95–478, title I, § 101 , Oct. 18, 1978 , 92 Stat. 1513 ; Pub. L. 97–115, § 2(a)(1) , Dec. 29, 1981 , 95 Stat. 1595 ; Pub. L. 98–459, title I, § 102 , Oct. 9, 1984 , 98 Stat. 1767 ; Pub. L. 100–175, title I, § 101 , Nov. 29, 1987 , 101 Stat. 928 ; Pub. L. 102–375, title I, § 101 , title IX, § 904(a)(1), Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1197 , 1305; Pub. L. 116–131, title I, § 102 , Mar. 25, 2020 , 134 Stat. 242 .)

“The amendments made by— sections 303(a)(2), 303(a)(3), 304 (excluding paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (a)), 305, 306, 307, and 317 [enacting sections 3030g–21 and 3030g–22 of this title and amending sections 3023 to 3027 of this title], and title VII [enacting sections 3058 to 3058ee of this title and amending sections 1395i–3, 1396r, 3012, 3018, 3021, 3023, 3027, 3030d, and 3030 l of this title], of the Older Americans Act Amendments of 1992 ( Public Law 102–375 ; 106 Stat. 1221 et seq.) shall not apply with respect to fiscal year 1993.”

“SEC. 801 DEFINITIONS.

“As used in this subtitle: The term ‘nursing home nurse aide’ means an individual employed at a nursing or convalescent home who assists in the care of patients at such home under the direction of nursing and medical staff. The term ‘home health care aide’ means an individual who— is employed by a government, charitable, nonprofit, or proprietary agency; and cares for elderly, convalescent, or handicapped individuals in the home of the individuals by performing routine home assistance (such as housecleaning, cooking, and laundry) and assisting in the health care of such individuals under the direction of a physician or nurse.

“SEC. 802 INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS.

(“(a) National Center for Health Statistics.— The Director of the National Center for Health Statistics of the Centers for Disease Control [now Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] shall collect, and prepare a report containing— demographic information on home health care aides and nursing home nurse aides, including information on the— age, race, marital status, education, number of children and other dependents, gender, and primary language, of the aides; and location of facilities at which the aides are employed in— rural communities; or urban or suburban communities; and information on the role of the aides in providing institution-based and home-based long-term care.

(“(b) Department of Labor.— The Secretary of Labor shall— collect, and prepare a report containing, information on home health care aides, including— information on conditions of employment, including— the length of employment of the aides with the current employer of the aides; the number of aides who are— employed by a for-profit employer; employed by a nonprofit private employer; employed by a charitable employer; employed by a government employer; or independent contractors; the number of full-time, part-time, and temporary positions for the aides; the ratio of the aides to professional staff; the types of tasks performed by the aides, the level of skill needed to perform the tasks, and whether the tasks are completed in a institution-based or home-based setting; and the average number and range of hours worked each week by the aides; and information on availability of the employment benefits for home health care aides and a description of the benefits, including— information on health insurance coverage; the type of pension plan coverage; the amount of vacation leave; wage rates; and the extent of work-related training provided; and collect, and prepare a report containing, information on nursing home nurse aides, including— the information described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (1); and information on— the type of facility of the employer of the aides, such as a skilled nursing facility, as defined in section 1819(a) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395i–3(a) ), or an intermediate care facility within the meaning of section 1121(a) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1320a(a) ); the number of beds at the facility; and the ratio of the aides to residents of the facility.

“SEC. 803 REPORTS.

(“(a) Reports to Commissioner on Aging [now Assistant Secretary for Aging].— Not later than March 1, 1994 , the Director of the National Center for Health Statistics of the Centers for Disease Control [now Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] shall transmit to the Commissioner on Aging the report required by section 802(a). Not later than March 1, 1993 , the Secretary of Labor shall transmit to the Commissioner on Aging a plan for the collection of the information described in section 802(b)(1). Not later than March 1, 1995 , the Secretary of Labor shall transmit to the Commissioner on Aging the report required by section 802(b)(1). Not later than March 1, 1994 , the Secretary of Labor shall transmit to the Commissioner on Aging the report required by section 802(b)(2). The report required by section 802(a) shall be prepared and organized in such a manner as the Director of the National Center for Health Statistics may determine to be appropriate. The reports required by paragraphs (1) and (2) of section 802(b) shall be prepared and organized in such a manner as the Secretary of Labor may determine to be appropriate. The reports required by section 802 shall not identify by name individuals supplying information for purposes of the reports. The reports shall present information collected in the aggregate.

(“(b) Report to Congress.— The Commissioner on Aging [now Assistant Secretary for Aging] shall review the reports required by section 802 and shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report containing— the reports required by section 802; the comments of the Commissioner on the reports; and additional information, regarding the roles of nursing home nurse aides and home health care aides in providing long-term care, obtained through the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman program established under sections 307(a)(12) and 712 of the Older Americans Act of 1965 [now 42 U.S.C. 3027(a)(9) , 3058g].

“SEC. 804 OCCUPATIONAL CODE.

“The Secretary of Labor shall include an occupational code covering nursing home nurse aides and an occupational code covering home health care aides in each wage survey of relevant industries conducted by the Department of Labor that begins after the date of enactment of this Act [ Sept. 30, 1992 ].”

“SEC. 201 AUTHORIZATION OF THE CONFERENCE.

(“(a) Authority To Call Conference.— Not later than December 31, 2005 , the President shall convene the White House Conference on Aging in order to fulfill the purpose set forth in subsection (c) and to make fundamental policy recommendations regarding programs that are important to older individuals and to the families and communities of such individuals.

(“(b) Planning and Direction.— The Conference described in subsection (a) shall be planned and conducted under the direction of the Secretary, in cooperation with the Assistant Secretary for Aging, the Director of the National Institute on Aging, the Administrator of the Health Care Financing Administration, the Social Security Administrator, and the heads of such other Federal agencies serving older individuals as are appropriate. Planning and conducting the Conference includes the assignment of personnel.

(“(c) Purpose.— The purpose of the Conference described in subsection (a) shall be to gather individuals representing the spectrum of thought and experience in the field of aging to— evaluate the manner in which the objectives of this Act [probably means the Older Americans Act of 1965, Pub. L. 89–73 , which enacted this chapter] can be met by using the resources and talents of older individuals, of families and communities of such individuals, and of individuals from the public and private sectors; evaluate the manner in which national policies that are related to economic security and health care are prepared so that such policies serve individuals born from 1946 to 1964 and later, as the individuals become older individuals, including an examination of the Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid programs carried out under titles II, XVIII, and XIX of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 401 et seq., 1395 et seq., and 1396 et seq.) in relation to providing services under this Act, and determine how well such policies respond to the needs of older individuals; and develop not more than 50 recommendations to guide the President, Congress, and Federal agencies in serving older individuals.

(“(d) Conference Participants and Delegates.— In order to carry out the purposes of this section, the Conference shall bring together— representatives of Federal, State, and local governments, professional and lay people who are working in the field of aging, and representatives of the general public, particularly older individuals. The delegates shall be selected without regard to political affiliation or past partisan activity and shall, to the best of the appointing authority’s ability, be representative of the spectrum of thought in the field of aging. Delegates shall include individuals who are professionals, individuals who are nonprofessionals, minority individuals, individuals from low-income families, representatives of Federal, State, and local governments, and individuals from rural areas. A majority of such delegates shall be age 55 or older.

“SEC. 202 CONFERENCE ADMINISTRATION.

(“(a) Administration.— In administering this section, the Secretary shall— provide written notice to all members of the Policy Committee of each meeting, hearing, or working session of the Policy Committee not later than 48 hours before the occurrence of such meeting, hearing, or working session, request the cooperation and assistance of the heads of such other Federal departments and agencies as may be appropriate in the carrying out of this section, make available for public comment a proposed agenda, prepared by the Policy Committee, for the Conference which will reflect to the greatest extent possible the major issues facing older individuals consistent with the provisions of subsection (a), prepare and make available background materials for the use of delegates to the Conference which the Secretary deems necessary, and engage such additional personnel as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this section without regard to provisions of title 5, United States Code, governing appointments in the competitive service, and without regard to chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of such title relating to classification and General Schedule pay rates.

(“(b) Duties.— The Secretary shall, in carrying out the Secretary’s responsibilities and functions under this section, and as part of the White House Conference on Aging, ensure that— the agenda prepared under subsection (a)(3) for the Conference is published in the Federal Register not later than 30 days after such agenda is approved by the Policy Committee, and the Secretary may republish such agenda together with the recommendations of the Secretary regarding such agenda, and the personnel engaged under subsection (a)(5) shall be fairly balanced in terms of points of views represented and shall be appointed without regard to political affiliation or previous partisan activities, [and] the recommendations of the Conference are not inappropriately influenced by any appointing authority or by any special interest, but will instead be the result of the independent judgment of the Conference, and current and adequate statistical data, including decennial census data, and other information on the well-being of older individuals in the United States are readily available, in advance of the Conference, to the delegates of the Conference, together with such information as may be necessary to evaluate Federal programs and policies relating to aging. In carrying out this subparagraph, the Secretary is authorized to make grants to, and enter into cooperative agreements with, public agencies and nonprofit private organizations.

(“(c) Gifts.— The Secretary may accept, on behalf of the United States, gifts (in cash or in kind, including voluntary and uncompensated services), which shall be available to carry out this title. Gifts of cash shall be available in addition to amounts appropriated to carry out this title. Gifts may be earmarked by the donor or the executive committee for a specific purpose.

(“(d) Records.— The Secretary shall maintain records regarding— the sources, amounts, and uses of gifts accepted under subsection (c); and the identity of each person receiving assistance to carry out this title, and the amount of such assistance received by each such person.

“SEC. 203 POLICY COMMITTEE; RELATED COMMITTEES.

(“(a) Policy Committee.— There is established a Policy Committee comprised of 17 members to be selected, not later than 2 years prior to the date on which the Conference convenes, as follows: Nine members shall be selected by the President and shall include— three members who are officers or employees of the United States; and six members with experience in the field of aging, including providers and consumers of aging services. Two members shall be selected by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, after consultation with the Committee on Education and the Workforce and the Committee on Ways and Means of the House of Representatives, and two members shall be selected by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, after consultation with such committees. Two members shall be selected by the Majority Leader of the Senate, after consultation with members of the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Special Committee on Aging of the Senate, and two members shall be selected by the Minority Leader of the Senate, after consultation with members of such committees. The Policy Committee shall initially meet at the call of the Secretary, but not later than 30 days after the last member is selected under subsection (a). Subsequent meetings of the Policy Committee shall be held at the call of the chairperson of the Policy Committee. Through meetings, hearings, and working sessions, the Policy Committee shall— make recommendations to the Secretary to facilitate the timely convening of the Conference; formulate and approve a proposed agenda for the Conference not later than 90 days after the first meeting of the Policy Committee for the Secretary; make recommendations for participants and delegates of the Conference; establish the number of delegates to be selected under section 201(d)(2); establish an executive committee consisting of three to five members, with a majority of such members being age 55 or older, to work with Conference staff; and establish other committees as needed that have a majority of members who are age 55 or older. The Policy Committee shall act by the vote of a majority of the members present. A quorum of Committee members shall not be required to conduct Committee business. The President shall select the chairperson from among the members of the Policy Committee. The chairperson may vote only to break a tie vote of the other members of the Policy Committee.

(“(b) Advisory and Other Committees.— The President shall establish an advisory committee to the Conference which shall include representation from the Federal Council on Aging and other public agencies and private nonprofit organizations as appropriate. The President shall consider for appointment to the advisory committee individuals recommended by the Policy Committee. The Secretary may establish such other committees, including technical committees, as may be necessary to assist in the planning, conducting, and reviewing of the Conference.

(“(c) Composition of Committees.— Each committee established under subsection (b) shall be composed of professionals and public members, and shall include individuals from low-income families and from minority groups. A majority of the public members of each such committee shall be 55 years of age or older, and individuals who are Native Americans.

(“(d) Compensation.— Appointed members of any such committee (other than any officers or employees of the Federal Government), while attending conferences or meetings of the committee or otherwise serving at the request of the Secretary, shall be entitled to receive compensation at a rate to be fixed by the Secretary, but not to exceed the daily equivalent of the maximum rate of pay payable under section 5376 of title 5 , United States Code (including travel time). While away from their homes or regular places of business, such members may be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, as authorized under section 5703 of such title for persons employed intermittently in Federal Government service.

“SEC. 204 REPORT OF THE CONFERENCE.

(“(a) Preliminary Report.— Not later than 100 days after the date on which the Conference adjourns, the Policy Committee shall publish and deliver to the chief executive officers of the States a preliminary report on the Conference. Comments on the preliminary report of the Conference shall be accepted by the Policy Committee.

(“(b) Final Report.— Not later than 6 months after the date on which the Conference adjourns, the Policy Committee shall publish and transmit to the President and to Congress recommendations resulting from the Conference and suggestions for any administrative action and legislation necessary to implement the recommendations contained within the report.

“SEC. 205 DEFINITIONS.

“For the purposes of this title— the term ‘area agency on aging’ has the meaning given the term in section 102 of the Older Americans Act of 1965 ( 42 U.S.C. 3002 ), the term ‘State agency on aging’ means the State agency designated under section 305(a)(1) of the Act, the term ‘Secretary’ means the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the term ‘Conference’ means the White House Conference on Aging, and the term ‘State’ means any of the several States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands of the United States, the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, or the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

“SEC. 206 AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

(“(a) Authorization.— There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section [title]— such sums as may be necessary for the first fiscal year in which the Policy Committee plans the Conference and for the following fiscal year; and such sums as may be necessary for the fiscal year in which the Conference is held. Authority to enter into contracts under this title shall be effective only to the extent, or in such amounts as are, provided in advance in appropriations Acts.

(“(b) Availability of Funds.— Except as provided in paragraph (3), funds appropriated to carry out this title and funds received as gifts under section 202(c) shall remain available for obligation or expenditure until the expiration of the one-year period beginning on the date the Conference adjourns. Except as provided in paragraph (3), any such funds neither expended nor obligated before the expiration of the one-year period beginning on the date the Conference adjourns shall be available to carry out the Older Americans Act of 1965 ( 42 U.S.C. 3001 et seq.). If the Conference is not convened before December 31, 2005 , such funds neither expended nor obligated before such date shall be available to carry out the Older Americans Act of 1965.”

§ 3002 Definitions

For the purposes of this chapter— The term “abuse” means the knowing infliction of physical or psychological harm or the knowing deprivation of goods or services that are necessary to meet essential needs or to avoid physical or psychological harm. The term “Administration” means the Administration on Aging. The term “adult protective services” means such services provided to adults as the Secretary may specify and includes services such as— receiving reports of adult abuse, neglect, or exploitation; investigating the reports described in subparagraph (A); case planning, monitoring, evaluation, and other casework and services; and providing, arranging for, or facilitating the provision of medical, social service, economic, legal, housing, law enforcement, or other protective, emergency, or support services. The term “Aging and Disability Resource Center” means an entity, network, or consortium established by a State as part of the State system of long-term care, to provide a coordinated and integrated system for older individuals and individuals with disabilities (as defined in section 12102 of this title ), and the caregivers of older individuals and individuals with disabilities, that provides, in collaboration with (as appropriate) area agencies on aging, centers for independent living (as described in part C of chapter 1 of title VII of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 ( 29 U.S.C. 796f et seq.)), and other aging or disability entities— comprehensive information on the full range of available public and private long-term care programs, options, service providers, and resources within a community, including information on the availability of integrated long-term care services, and Federal or State programs that provide long-term care services and supports through home and community-based service programs; person-centered counseling to assist individuals in assessing their existing or anticipated long-term care needs and goals, and developing and implementing a person-centered plan for long-term services, supports, and care that is consistent with the desires and choices of such an individual and designed to meet the individual’s specific needs, goals, and circumstances; access for individuals to the full range of publicly-supported long-term care services and supports for which the individuals may be eligible, including home and community-based service options, by serving as a convenient point of entry for such programs and supports; and in cooperation with area agencies on aging, centers for independent living described in part C of chapter 1 of title VII of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and other community-based entities, including other aging or disability entities, information and referrals regarding available home and community-based services for individuals who are at risk for residing in, or who reside in, institutional settings, so that the individuals have the choice to remain in or to return to the community. The term “aging network” means the network of— State agencies, area agencies on aging, title VI [subchapter X of this chapter] grantees, and the Administration; and organizations that— are providers of direct services to older individuals; or are institutions of higher education; and receive funding under this chapter. The term “area agency on aging” means an area agency on aging designated under section 3025(a)(2)(A) of this title or a State agency performing the functions of an area agency on aging under section 3025(b)(5) of this title . The term “Assistant Secretary” means the Assistant Secretary for Aging. The term “assistive device” includes an assistive technology device. The terms “assistive technology”, “assistive technology device”, and “assistive technology service” have the meanings given such terms in section 3002 of title 29 . The term “State assistive technology entity” means the agency, office, or other entity designated under subsection (c)(1) of section 3003 of title 29 to carry out State activities under such section. The term “at risk for institutional placement” means, with respect to an older individual, that such individual is unable to perform at least 2 activities of daily living without substantial assistance (including verbal reminding, physical cuing, or supervision) and is determined by the State involved to be in need of placement in a long-term care facility. The term “board and care facility” means an institution regulated by a State pursuant to section 1382e(e) of this title . The term “case management service”— means a service provided to an older individual, at the direction of the older individual or a family member of the individual— by an individual who is trained or experienced in the case management skills that are required to deliver the services and coordination described in subparagraph (B); and to assess the needs, and to arrange, coordinate, and monitor an optimum package of services to meet the needs, of the older individual; and includes services and coordination such as— comprehensive assessment of the older individual (including the physical, psychological, and social needs of the individual); development and implementation of a service plan with the older individual to mobilize the formal and informal resources and services identified in the assessment to meet the needs of the older individual, including coordination of the resources and services— with any other plans that exist for various formal services, such as hospital discharge plans; and with the information and assistance services provided under this chapter; coordination and monitoring of formal and informal service delivery, including coordination and monitoring to ensure that services specified in the plan are being provided; periodic reassessment and revision of the status of the older individual with— the older individual; or if necessary, a primary caregiver or family member of the older individual; and in accordance with the wishes of the older individual, advocacy on behalf of the older individual for needed services or resources. The term “civic engagement” means an individual or collective action designed to address a public concern or an unmet human, educational, health care, environmental, or public safety need. The term “disability” means (except when such term is used in the phrase “severe disability”, “developmental disabilities”, “physical or mental disability”, “physical and mental disabilities”, or “physical disabilities”) a disability attributable to mental or physical impairment, or a combination of mental and physical impairments, that results in substantial functional limitations in 1 or more of the following areas of major life activity: (A) self-care, (B) receptive and expressive language, (C) learning, (D) mobility, (E) self-direction, (F) capacity for independent living, (G) economic self-sufficiency, (H) cognitive functioning, and (I) emotional adjustment. The term “disease prevention and health promotion services” means— health risk assessments; routine health screening, which may include hypertension, glaucoma, cholesterol, cancer, vision, hearing, diabetes, bone density, oral health, immunization status, and nutrition screening (including screening for malnutrition); nutritional counseling and educational services for individuals and their primary caregivers; evidence-based health promotion programs, including programs related to the prevention and mitigation of the effects of chronic disease (including osteoporosis, hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease), infectious disease, and vaccine-preventable disease, prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, as well as alcohol and substance abuse reduction, chronic pain management, smoking cessation, weight loss and control, stress management, falls prevention, physical activity, and improved nutrition; programs regarding physical fitness, group exercise, and music therapy, art therapy, and dance-movement therapy, including programs for multigenerational participation that are provided by— an institution of higher education; a local educational agency, as defined in section 8801 1 of title 20; or a community-based organization; home injury control services, including screening of high-risk home environments and provision of educational programs on injury prevention (including fall and fracture prevention) in the home environment; screening for the prevention of depression and screening for suicide risk, coordination of community mental and behavioral health services, provision of educational activities, and referral to psychiatric and psychological services; screening for fall-related traumatic brain injury and other fall-related injuries, coordination of treatment, rehabilitation and related services, and referral services related to such injury or injuries; educational programs on the availability, benefits, and appropriate use of preventive health services covered under title XVIII of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395 et seq.); medication management screening and education to prevent incorrect medication and adverse drug reactions; information concerning diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation concerning age-related diseases and chronic disabling conditions, including osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders with neurological and organic brain dysfunction; services that are a part of responses to a public health emergency or emerging health threat; gerontological counseling; screening for the prevention of negative health effects associated with social isolation and coordination of supportive services and health care to address negative health effects associated with social isolation; and counseling regarding social services and followup health services based on any of the services described in subparagraphs (A) through (N). The term shall not include services for which payment may be made under titles XVIII and XIX of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395 et seq., 1396 et seq.). The term “elder abuse” means abuse of an older individual. The term “elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation” means abuse, neglect, and exploitation, of an older individual. The term “elder justice” means— from a societal perspective, efforts to— prevent, detect, treat, intervene in, and prosecute elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; and protect older individuals with diminished capacity while maximizing their autonomy; and from an individual perspective, the recognition of an older individual’s rights, including the right to be free of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The terms “exploitation” and “financial exploitation” mean the fraudulent or otherwise illegal, unauthorized, or improper act or process of an individual, including a caregiver or fiduciary, that uses the resources of an older individual for monetary or personal benefit, profit, or gain, or that results in depriving an older individual of rightful access to, or use of, benefits, resources, belongings, or assets. In subparagraph (A), the term “caregiver” means an individual who has the responsibility for the care of an older individual, either voluntarily, by contract, by receipt of payment for care, or as a result of the operation of law and means a family member or other individual who provides (on behalf of such individual or of a public or private agency, organization, or institution) compensated or uncompensated care to an older individual. The term “family violence” has the same meaning given the term in the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act [ 42 U.S.C. 10401 et seq.]. The term “fiduciary”— means a person or entity with the legal responsibility— to make decisions on behalf of and for the benefit of another person; and to act in good faith and with fairness; and includes a trustee, a guardian, a conservator, an executor, an agent under a financial power of attorney or health care power of attorney, or a representative payee. The term “focal point” means a facility established to encourage the maximum collocation and coordination of services for older individuals. The term “frail” means, with respect to an older individual in a State, that the older individual is determined to be functionally impaired because the individual— is unable to perform at least two activities of daily living without substantial human assistance, including verbal reminding, physical cueing, or supervision; or at the option of the State, is unable to perform at least three such activities without such assistance; or due to a cognitive or other mental impairment, requires substantial supervision because the individual behaves in a manner that poses a serious health or safety hazard to the individual or to another individual. The term “greatest economic need” means the need resulting from an income level at or below the poverty line. The term “greatest social need” means the need caused by noneconomic factors, which include— physical and mental disabilities; language barriers; and cultural, social, or geographical isolation, including isolation caused by racial or ethnic status, that— restricts the ability of an individual to perform normal daily tasks; or threatens the capacity of the individual to live independently. The term “Hispanic-serving institution” has the meaning given the term in section 1101a of title 20 . The term “Indian” means a person who is a member of an Indian tribe. Except for the purposes of subchapter X of this chapter, the term “Indian tribe” means any tribe, band, nation, or other organized group or community of Indians (including any Alaska Native village or regional or village corporation as defined in or established pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act ( Public Law 92–203 ; 85 Stat. 688 ) [ 43 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.]) which (A) is recognized as eligible for the special programs and services provided by the United States to Indians because of their status as Indians; or (B) is located on, or in proximity to, a Federal or State reservation or rancheria. The term “information and assistance service” means a service for older individuals that— provides the individuals with current information on opportunities and services available to the individuals within their communities, including information relating to assistive technology; assesses the problems and capacities of the individuals; links the individuals to the opportunities and services that are available; to the maximum extent practicable, ensures that the individuals receive the services needed by the individuals, and are aware of the opportunities available to the individuals, by establishing adequate followup procedures; and serves the entire community of older individuals, particularly— older individuals with greatest social need; older individuals with greatest economic need; and older individuals at risk for institutional placement. The term “information and referral” includes information relating to assistive technology. The term “in-home services” includes— services of homemakers and home health aides; visiting and telephone reassurance; chore maintenance; in-home respite care for families, and adult day care as a respite service for families; minor modification of homes that is necessary to facilitate the ability of older individuals to remain at home and that is not available under another program (other than a program carried out under this chapter); personal care services; and other in-home services as defined— by the State agency in the State plan submitted in accordance with section 3027 of this title ; and by the area agency on aging in the area plan submitted in accordance with section 3026 of this title . The term “institution of higher education” has the meaning given the term in section 1001 of title 20 . The term “integrated long-term care”— means items and services that consist of— with respect to long-term care— long-term care items or services provided under a State plan for medical assistance under the Medicaid program established under title XIX of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.), including nursing facility services, home and community-based services, personal care services, and case management services provided under the plan; and any other supports, items, or services that are available under any federally funded long-term care program; and with respect to other health care, items and services covered under— the Medicare program established under title XVIII of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395 et seq.); the State plan for medical assistance under the Medicaid program; or any other federally funded health care program; and includes items or services described in subparagraph (A) that are provided under a public or private managed care plan or through any other service provider. The term “legal assistance”— means legal advice and representation provided by an attorney to older individuals with economic or social needs; and includes— to the extent feasible, counseling or other appropriate assistance by a paralegal or law student under the direct supervision of an attorney; and counseling or representation by a nonlawyer where permitted by law. The term “long-term care” means any service, care, or item (including an assistive device), including a disease prevention and health promotion service, an in-home service, and a case management service— intended to assist individuals in coping with, and to the extent practicable compensate for, a functional impairment in carrying out activities of daily living; furnished at home, in a community care setting (including a small community care setting as defined in subsection (g)(1), and a large community care setting as defined in subsection (h)(1), of section 1929 of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1396t )), or in a long-term care facility; and not furnished to prevent, diagnose, treat, or cure a medical disease or condition. The term “long-term care facility” means— any skilled nursing facility, as defined in section 1819(a) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395i–3(a) ); any nursing facility, as defined in section 1919(a) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1396r(a) ); a board and care facility; and any other adult care home, including an assisted living facility, similar to a facility or institution described in subparagraphs (A) through (C). The term “multipurpose senior center” means a community facility for the organization and provision of a broad spectrum of services, which shall include provision of health (including mental and behavioral health), social, nutritional, and educational services and the provision of facilities for recreational activities for older individuals. The term “Native American” means— an Indian as defined in paragraph (26); and a Native Hawaiian, as defined in section 3057k of this title . The term “neglect” means— the failure of a caregiver (as defined in paragraph (18)(B)) or fiduciary to provide the goods or services that are necessary to maintain the health or safety of an older individual; or self-neglect. The term “nonprofit” as applied to any agency, institution, or organization means an agency, institution, or organization which is, or is owned and operated by, one or more corporations or associations no part of the net earnings of which inures, or may lawfully inure, to the benefit of any private shareholder or individual. The term “older individual” means an individual who is 60 years of age or older. The term “person-centered, trauma-informed”, with respect to services, means services provided through an aging program that— use a holistic approach to providing services or care; promote the dignity, strength, and empowerment of victims of trauma; and incorporate evidence-based practices based on knowledge about the role of trauma in trauma victims’ lives. The term “physical harm” means bodily injury, impairment, or disease. The term “planning and service area” means an area designated by a State agency under section 3025(a)(1)(E) of this title , including a single planning and service area described in section 3025(b)(5)(A) of this title . The term “poverty line” means the official poverty line (as defined by the Office of Management and Budget, and adjusted by the Secretary in accordance with section 9902(2) of this title . 2 The term “representative payee” means a person who is appointed by a governmental entity to receive, on behalf of an older individual who is unable to manage funds by reason of a physical or mental incapacity, any funds owed to such individual by such entity. The term “Secretary” means the Secretary of Health and Human Services, except that for purposes of subchapter IX such term means the Secretary of Labor. The term “self-directed care” means an approach to providing services (including programs, benefits, supports, and technology) under this chapter intended to assist an individual with activities of daily living, in which— such services (including the amount, duration, scope, provider, and location of such services) are planned, budgeted, and purchased under the direction and control of such individual; such individual is provided with such information and assistance as are necessary and appropriate to enable such individual to make informed decisions about the individual’s care options; the needs, capabilities, and preferences of such individual with respect to such services, and such individual’s ability to direct and control the individual’s receipt of such services, are assessed by the area agency on aging (or other agency designated by the area agency on aging) involved; based on the assessment made under subparagraph (C), the area agency on aging (or other agency designated by the area agency on aging) develops together with such individual and the individual’s family, caregiver (as defined in paragraph (18)(B)), or legal representative— a plan of services for such individual that specifies which services such individual will be responsible for directing; a determination of the role of family members (and others whose participation is sought by such individual) in providing services under such plan; and a budget for such services; and the area agency on aging or State agency provides for oversight of such individual’s self-directed receipt of services, including steps to ensure the quality of services provided and the appropriate use of funds under this chapter. The term “self-neglect” means an adult’s inability, due to physical or mental impairment or diminished capacity, to perform essential self-care tasks including— obtaining essential food, clothing, shelter, and medical care; obtaining goods and services necessary to maintain physical health, mental and behavioral health, or general safety; or managing one’s own financial affairs. The term “severe disability” means a severe, chronic disability attributable to mental or physical impairment, or a combination of mental and physical impairments, that— is likely to continue indefinitely; and results in substantial functional limitation in 3 or more of the major life activities specified in subparagraphs (A) through (G) of paragraph (8). 3 The term “sexual assault” has the meaning given the term in section 10447 of title 34 . 1 The term “State” means any of the several States, the District of Columbia, the Virgin Islands of the United States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The term “State agency” means the agency designated under section 3025(a)(1) of this title . The term “State system of long-term care” means the Federal, State, and local programs and activities administered by a State that provide, support, or facilitate access to long-term care for individuals in such State. The term “supportive service” means a service described in section 3030d(a) of this title . The term “traumatic brain injury” has the meaning given such term in section 280b–1c(d) of this title . Except for the purposes of subchapter X of this chapter, the term “tribal organization” means the recognized governing body of any Indian tribe, or any legally established organization of Indians which is controlled, sanctioned, or chartered by such governing body. In any case in which a contract is let or grant made to an organization to perform services benefiting more than one Indian tribe, the approval of each such Indian tribe shall be a prerequisite to the letting or making of such contract or grant. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title I, § 102 , July 14, 1965 , 79 Stat. 219 ; Pub. L. 90–42, § 5(a) , July 1, 1967 , 81 Stat. 107 ; Pub. L. 91–69, § 10(a) , Sept. 17, 1969 , 83 Stat. 114 ; Pub. L. 94–135, title I , §§ 104(b), 114(a), Nov. 28, 1975 , 89 Stat. 714 , 725; Pub. L. 95–478, title V, § 503(a) , Oct. 18, 1978 , 92 Stat. 1559 ; Pub. L. 97–115, § 2(a)(2) , (3), Dec. 29, 1981 , 95 Stat. 1595 ; Pub. L. 100–175, title I , §§ 136(a)(1), 146(a), 182(a), (b)(1), Nov. 29, 1987 , 101 Stat. 942 , 950, 964; Pub. L. 100–628, title VII, § 705(1) , Nov. 7, 1988 , 102 Stat. 3247 ; Pub. L. 102–375, title I, § 102(a) , (b)(1)(A), title IX, § 904(a)(2), Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1197 , 1200, 1306; Pub. L. 103–171 , §§ 2(1), 3(a)(1), Dec. 2, 1993 , 107 Stat. 1988 , 1989; Pub. L. 105–244, title I, § 102(a)(13)(C) , Oct. 7, 1998 , 112 Stat. 1620 ; Pub. L. 106–501, title I, § 101 , title VIII, § 801(a), Nov. 13, 2000 , 114 Stat. 2227 , 2291; Pub. L. 108–36, title IV, § 416 , June 25, 2003 , 117 Stat. 831 ; Pub. L. 109–365, title I, § 101 , Oct. 17, 2006 , 120 Stat. 2523 ; Pub. L. 114–144 , §§ 2, 9(1), Apr. 19, 2016 , 130 Stat. 334 , 351; Pub. L. 116–131, title I , §§ 103, 104(1), 105, 106(1), 107–113, title VII, § 701(1), Mar. 25, 2020 , 134 Stat. 242–245 , 271.)

§ 3003 Congressional declaration of additional objectives

The Congress finds that millions of older citizens in this Nation are suffering unnecessary harm from the lack of adequate services. It is therefore the purpose of this Act, in support of the objectives of the Older Americans Act of 1965 [ 42 U.S.C. 3001 et seq.], to— make available comprehensive programs which include a full range of health, education, and supportive services to our older citizens who need them, give full and special consideration to older citizens with special needs in planning such programs, and, pending the availability of such programs for all older citizens, give priority to the elderly with the greatest economic and social need. provide comprehensive programs which will assure the coordinated delivery of a full range of essential services to our older citizens, and, where applicable, also furnish meaningful employment opportunities for many individuals, including older persons, young persons, and volunteers from the community, and insure that the planning and operation of such programs will be undertaken as a partnership of older citizens, community agencies, and State and local governments, with appropriate assistance from the Federal Government. ( Pub. L. 93–29, title I, § 101 , May 3, 1973 , 87 Stat. 30 ; Pub. L. 97–115, § 3(d) , Dec. 29, 1981 , 95 Stat. 1597 .)

§ 3011 Establishment of Administration on Aging

(a) Function and operation There is established in the Office of the Secretary an Administration on Aging which shall be headed by an Assistant Secretary for Aging. Except for subchapter IX, the Administration shall be the agency for carrying out this chapter. There shall be a direct reporting relationship between the Assistant Secretary and the Secretary. In the performance of the functions of the Assistant Secretary, the Assistant Secretary shall be directly responsible to the Secretary. The Secretary shall not approve or require any delegation of the functions of the Assistant Secretary (including the functions of the Assistant Secretary carried out through regional offices) to any other officer not directly responsible to the Assistant Secretary.

(b) Appointment of Assistant Secretary The Assistant Secretary shall be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.

(c) Office for American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian Programs; Director There is established in the Administration an Office for American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian Programs. The Office shall be headed by a Director of the Office for American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian Aging appointed by the Assistant Secretary. The Director of the Office for American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian Aging shall— evaluate the adequacy of outreach under subchapter III and subchapter X for older individuals who are Native Americans and recommend to the Assistant Secretary necessary action to improve service delivery, outreach, coordination between subchapter III and subchapter X services, and particular problems faced by older Indians and Native Hawaiians; and include a description of the results of such evaluation and recommendations in the annual report required by section 3018(a) of this title to be submitted by the Assistant Secretary; serve as the effective and visible advocate in behalf of older individuals who are Native Americans within the Department of Health and Human Services and with other departments and agencies of the Federal Government regarding all Federal policies affecting such individuals, with particular attention to services provided to Native Americans by the Indian Health Service; coordinate activities between other Federal departments and agencies to assure a continuum of improved services through memoranda of agreements or through other appropriate means of coordination; administer and evaluate the grants provided under this chapter to Indian tribes, public agencies and nonprofit private organizations serving Native Hawaiians; recommend to the Assistant Secretary policies and priorities with respect to the development and operation of programs and activities conducted under this chapter relating to older individuals who are Native Americans; collect and disseminate information related to problems experienced by older Native Americans, including information (compiled with assistance from public or nonprofit private entities, including institutions of higher education, with experience in assessing the characteristics and health status of older individuals who are Native Americans) on elder abuse, in-home care, health problems, and other problems unique to Native Americans; develop research plans, and conduct and arrange for research, in the field of American Native aging with a special emphasis on the gathering of statistics on the status of older individuals who are Native Americans; develop and provide technical assistance and training programs to grantees under subchapter X; promote coordination— between the administration of subchapter III and the administration of subchapter X; and between programs established under subchapter III by the Assistant Secretary and programs established under subchapter X by the Assistant Secretary; including sharing among grantees information on programs funded, and on training and technical assistance provided, under such subchapters; and serve as the effective and visible advocate on behalf of older individuals who are Indians, Alaskan Natives, and Native Hawaiians, in the States to promote the enhanced delivery of services and implementation of programs, under this chapter and other Federal Acts, for the benefit of such individuals.

(d) Office of Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs There is established in the Administration the Office of Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs (in this subsection referred to as the “Office”). The Office shall be headed by a Director of the Office of Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs (in this subsection referred to as the “Director”) who shall be appointed by the Assistant Secretary from among individuals who have expertise and background in the fields of long-term care advocacy and management. The Director shall report directly to the Assistant Secretary. No individual shall be appointed Director if— the individual has been employed within the previous 2 years by— a long-term care facility; a corporation that then owned or operated a long-term care facility; or an association of long-term care facilities; the individual— has an ownership or investment interest (represented by equity, debt, or other financial relationship) in a long-term care facility or long-term care service; or receives, or has the right to receive, directly or indirectly remuneration (in cash or in kind) under a compensation arrangement with an owner or operator of a long-term care facility; or the individual, or any member of the immediate family of the individual, is subject to a conflict of interest. The Director shall— serve as an effective and visible advocate on behalf of older individuals who reside in long-term care facilities, within the Department of Health and Human Services and with other departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the Federal Government regarding all Federal policies affecting such individuals; review and make recommendations to the Assistant Secretary regarding— the approval of the provisions in State plans submitted under section 3027(a) of this title that relate to State Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs; and the adequacy of State budgets and policies relating to the programs; after consultation with State Long-Term Care Ombudsmen and the State agencies, make recommendations to the Assistant Secretary regarding— policies designed to assist State Long-Term Care Ombudsmen; and methods to periodically monitor and evaluate the operation of State Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs, to ensure that the programs satisfy the requirements of section 3027(a)(9) of this title and section 3058g of this title , including provision of service to residents of board and care facilities and of similar adult care facilities; keep the Assistant Secretary and the Secretary fully and currently informed about— problems relating to State Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs; and the necessity for, and the progress toward, solving the problems; review, and make recommendations to the Secretary and the Assistant Secretary regarding, existing and proposed Federal legislation, regulations, and policies regarding the operation of State Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs; make recommendations to the Assistant Secretary and the Secretary regarding the policies of the Administration, and coordinate the activities of the Administration with the activities of other Federal entities, State and local entities, and nongovernmental entities, relating to State Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs; supervise the activities carried out under the authority of the Administration that relate to State Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs; administer the National Ombudsman Resource Center established under section 3012(a)(18) of this title and make recommendations to the Assistant Secretary regarding the operation of the National Ombudsman Resource Center; advocate, monitor, and coordinate Federal and State activities of Long-Term Care Ombudsmen under this chapter; submit to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate an annual report on the effectiveness of services provided under section 3027(a)(9) of this title and section 3058g of this title ; have authority to investigate the operation or violation of any Federal law administered by the Department of Health and Human Services that may adversely affect the health, safety, welfare, or rights of older individuals; not later than 180 days after April 19, 2016 , establish standards applicable to the training required by section 3058g(h)(5) of this title ; and collect and analyze best practices related to responding to elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation in long-term care facilities, and publish a report of such best practices.

(e) Elder abuse prevention and services The Assistant Secretary is authorized to designate within the Administration a person to have responsibility for elder abuse prevention and services. It shall be the duty of the Assistant Secretary, acting through the person designated to have responsibility for elder abuse prevention and services, and in coordination with the heads of State adult protective services programs and the Director of the Office of Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs— to develop objectives, priorities, policy, and a long-term plan for— facilitating the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of a coordinated, multidisciplinary elder justice system in the United States; providing Federal leadership to support State efforts in carrying out elder justice programs and activities relating to— elder abuse prevention, detection, treatment, intervention, and response; training of individuals regarding the matters described in subclause (I); and the development of a State comprehensive elder justice system, as defined in section 3058aa–1(b) of this title ; establishing Federal guidelines and disseminating best practices for uniform data collection and reporting by States; working with States, the Department of Justice, and other Federal entities to annually collect, maintain, and disseminate data relating to elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation, to the extent practicable; establishing an information clearinghouse to collect, maintain, and disseminate information concerning best practices and resources for training, technical assistance, and other activities to assist States and communities to carry out evidence-based programs to prevent and address elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; conducting research related to elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; providing technical assistance to States and other eligible entities that provide or fund the provision of the services described in subchapter XI; carrying out a study to determine the national incidence and prevalence of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation in all settings; and promoting collaborative efforts and diminishing duplicative efforts in the development and carrying out of elder justice programs at the Federal, State and local levels; and to assist States and other eligible entities under subchapter XI to develop strategic plans to better coordinate elder justice activities, research, and training. The Secretary, acting through the Assistant Secretary, may issue such regulations as may be necessary to carry out this subsection and section 3058aa–1 of this title .

(f) Mental health services The Assistant Secretary may designate an officer or employee who shall be responsible for the administration of mental and behavioral health services authorized under this chapter. It shall be the duty of the Assistant Secretary, acting through the individual designated under paragraph (1), to develop objectives, priorities, and a long-term plan for supporting State and local efforts involving education about and prevention, detection, and treatment of mental disorders, including age-related dementia, depression, and Alzheimer’s disease and related neurological disorders with neurological and organic brain dysfunction.

(g) Research, Demonstration, and Evaluation Center for the Aging Network The Assistant Secretary shall, as appropriate, coordinate the research and evaluation functions of this chapter under a Research, Demonstration, and Evaluation Center for the Aging Network (in this subsection referred to as the “Center”), which shall be headed by a director designated by the Assistant Secretary from individuals described in paragraph (4). The purpose of the Center shall be— to coordinate, as appropriate, research, research dissemination, evaluation, demonstration projects, and related activities carried out under this chapter; to provide assessment of the programs and interventions authorized under this chapter; and to increase the repository of information on evidence-based programs and interventions available to the aging network, which information shall be applicable to existing programs and interventions and help in the development of new evidence-based programs and interventions. Activities of the Center shall include, as appropriate, conducting, promoting, coordinating, and providing support for— research and evaluation activities that support the objectives of this chapter, including— evaluation of new and existing programs and interventions authorized by this chapter; and research on and assessment of the relationship between programs and interventions under this chapter and the health outcomes, social determinants of health, quality of life, and independence of individuals served under this chapter; demonstration projects that support the objectives of this chapter, including activities to bring effective demonstration projects to scale with a prioritization of projects that address the needs of underserved populations, and promote partnerships among aging services, community-based organizations, and Medicare and Medicaid providers, plans, and health (including public health) systems; outreach and dissemination of research findings; and technical assistance related to the activities described in this paragraph. The director shall be an individual with substantial knowledge of and experience in aging and health policy, and research administration. Not later than October 1, 2020 , and at 5-year intervals thereafter, the director shall prepare and publish in the Federal Register for public comment a draft of a 5-year plan that— outlines priorities for research, research dissemination, evaluation, demonstration projects, and related activities; explains the basis for such priorities; and describes how the plan will meet the needs of underserved populations. The director shall coordinate, as appropriate, research, research dissemination, evaluation, and demonstration projects, and related activities with appropriate agency program staff, and, as appropriate, with other Federal departments and agencies involved in research in the field of aging. Not later than December 31, 2020 , and annually thereafter, the director shall prepare, and submit to the Secretary, the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate, the Special Committee on Aging of the Senate, and the Committee on Education and Labor of the House of Representatives, a report on the activities funded under this section and subchapter IV. The director shall, as appropriate, consult with experts on aging research and evaluation and aging network stakeholders on the implementation of the activities described under paragraph (3) of this subsection. The director shall coordinate, as appropriate, all research and evaluation authorities under this chapter.

§ 3012 Functions of Assistant Secretary

(a) Duties and functions of Administration It shall be the duty and function of the Administration to— serve as the effective and visible advocate for older individuals within the Department of Health and Human Services and with other departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the Federal Government by maintaining active review and commenting responsibilities over all Federal policies affecting older individuals; collect and disseminate information related to problems of the aged and aging; directly assist the Secretary in all matters pertaining to problems of the aged and aging; administer the grants provided by this chapter, but not approve an application submitted by an applicant for a grant for an activity under a provision of this chapter for which such applicant previously received a grant under such provision unless the Assistant Secretary determines— the activity for which such application was submitted is being operated, or was operated, effectively to achieve its stated purpose; and such applicant has complied with the assurances provided to the Assistant Secretary with the application for such previous grant. 1 develop plans, conduct and arrange for research in the field of aging, and assist in the establishment and implementation of programs designed to meet the health and economic needs of older individuals for supportive services, including nutrition, hospitalization, education and training services (including preretirement training, and continuing education), cultural experiences, activities, and services, including in the arts, low-cost transportation and housing, assistive technology, and health (including mental and behavioral health) services; provide technical assistance and consultation to States and political subdivisions thereof with respect to programs for the aged and aging; prepare, publish, and disseminate educational materials dealing with the health and economic welfare of older individuals; gather statistics in the field of aging which other Federal agencies are not collecting, and take whatever action is necessary to achieve coordination of activities carried out or assisted by all departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the Federal Government with respect to the collection, preparation, and dissemination of information relevant to older individuals; develop basic policies and set priorities with respect to the development and operation of programs and activities conducted under authority of this chapter; coordinate Federal programs and activities related to such purposes; coordinate, and assist in, the planning and development by public (including Federal, State, and local agencies) and private organizations of programs for older individuals, with a view to the establishment of a nationwide network of comprehensive, coordinated services and opportunities for such individuals; consult and coordinate activities with the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the heads of other Federal entities to implement and build awareness of programs providing benefits affecting older individuals; and carry on a continuing evaluation of the programs and activities related to the objectives of this chapter, with particular attention to the impact of the programs and activities carried out under— titles XVIII and XIX of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395 et seq., 1396 et seq.); the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 ( 29 U.S.C. 621 et seq.); and the National Housing Act ( 12 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) relating to housing for older individuals and the setting of standards for the licensing of nursing homes, intermediate care homes, and other facilities providing care for such individuals; provide information and assistance to private organizations for the establishment and operation by them of programs and activities related to the objectives of this chapter; develop, in coordination with other agencies (including the Health Resources and Services Administration), a national plan for meeting the needs for trained personnel in the field of aging, and for training persons for carrying out programs related to the objectives of this chapter, and conduct and provide for the conducting of such training; consult with national organizations representing minority individuals to develop and disseminate training packages and to provide technical assistance efforts designed to assist State and area agencies on aging, and service providers, in providing services to older individuals with greatest economic need or individuals with greatest social need, with particular attention to and specific objectives for providing services to low-income minority individuals and older individuals residing in rural areas; collect for each fiscal year, for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 1988 , directly or by contract, statistical data regarding programs and activities carried out with funds provided under this chapter, including— with respect to each type of service or activity provided with such funds— the aggregate amount of such funds expended to provide such service or activity; the number of individuals who received such service or activity; and the number of units of such service or activity provided; the number of senior centers which received such funds; and the extent to which each area agency on aging designated under section 3025(a) of this title satisfied the requirements of paragraphs (2) and (4)(A) of section 3026(a) of this title ; obtain from— the Department of Agriculture information explaining the requirements for eligibility to receive benefits under the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 [ 7 U.S.C. 2011 et seq.]; and the Social Security Administration information explaining the requirements for eligibility to receive supplemental security income benefits under title XVI of the Social Security Act [ 42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.] (or assistance under a State plan program under title XVI of that Act); and distribute such information, in written form, to State agencies, for redistribution to area agencies on aging, to carry out outreach activities and application assistance; establish and operate the National Ombudsman Resource Center (in this paragraph referred to as the “Center”), under the administration of the Director of the Office of Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs, that will— by grant or contract— conduct research; provide training, technical assistance, and information to State Long-Term Care Ombudsmen; analyze laws, regulations, programs, and practices; and provide assistance in recruiting and retaining volunteers for State Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs by establishing a national program for recruitment efforts that utilizes the organizations that have established a successful record in recruiting and retaining volunteers for ombudsman or other programs; relating to Federal, State, and local long-term care ombudsman policies; and assist State Long-Term Care Ombudsmen in the implementation of State Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs; and make available to the Center not less than the amount of resources made available to the Long-Term Care Ombudsman National Resource Center for fiscal year 2000; conduct strict monitoring of State compliance with the requirements in effect, under this chapter to prohibit conflicts of interest and to maintain the integrity and public purpose of services provided and service providers, under this chapter in all contractual and commercial relationships; encourage, and provide technical assistance to, States, area agencies on aging, and service providers to carry out outreach and benefits enrollment assistance to inform and enroll older individuals with greatest economic need, who may be eligible to participate, but who are not participating, in Federal and State programs providing benefits for which the individuals are eligible, including— supplemental security income benefits under title XVI of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.), or assistance under a State plan program under such title; medical assistance under title XIX of such Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.); benefits under the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 ( 7 U.S.C. 2011 et seq.); or benefits under any other applicable program; and at the election of the Assistant Secretary and in cooperation with related Federal agency partners administering the Federal programs, make a grant to or enter into a contract with a qualified, experienced entity to establish a National Center on Senior Benefits Outreach and Enrollment, which shall— maintain and update web-based decision support and enrollment tools, and integrated, person-centered systems, designed to inform older individuals about the full range of benefits for which the individuals may be eligible under Federal and State programs; utilize cost-effective strategies to find older individuals with greatest economic need and enroll the individuals in the programs; create and support efforts for Aging and Disability Resource Centers, and other public and private State and community-based organizations, including faith-based organizations and coalitions, to serve as benefits enrollment centers for the programs; develop and maintain an information clearinghouse on best practices and cost-effective methods for finding and enrolling older individuals with greatest economic need in the programs for which the individuals are eligible; and provide, in collaboration with related Federal agency partners administering the Federal programs, training and technical assistance on effective outreach, screening, enrollment, and follow-up strategies; establish information and assistance services as priority services for older individuals, and develop and operate, either directly or through contracts, grants, or cooperative agreements, a National Eldercare Locator Service, providing information and assistance services through a nationwide toll-free number to identify community resources for older individuals; develop guidelines for area agencies on aging to follow in choosing and evaluating providers of legal assistance; develop guidelines and a model job description for choosing and evaluating legal assistance developers referred to in sections 3027(a)(13) and 3058j of this title; establish and carry out pension counseling and information programs described in section 3020e–1 of this title ; provide technical assistance, training, and other means of assistance to State agencies, area agencies on aging, and service providers regarding State and local data collection and analysis; design and implement, for purposes of compliance with paragraph (19), uniform data collection procedures for use by State agencies, including— uniform definitions and nomenclature; standardized data collection procedures; a participant identification and description system; procedures for collecting information on services needed by older individuals (including services that would permit such individuals to receive long-term care in home and community-based settings), as identified by service providers in assisting clients through the provision of the supportive services; and procedures for the assessment of unmet needs for services under this chapter; improve the delivery of services to older individuals living in rural areas through— synthesizing results of research on how best to meet the service needs of older individuals in rural areas; developing a resource guide on best practices for States, area agencies on aging, and service providers; and providing training and technical assistance to States to implement these best practices of service delivery; make available to States, area agencies on aging, and service providers information and technical assistance to support the provision of evidence-based disease prevention and health promotion services, including information and technical assistance on delivery of such services in different settings; provide information and technical assistance to States, area agencies on aging, and service providers, in collaboration with relevant Federal agencies, on providing efficient, person-centered transportation services, including across geographic boundaries; identify model programs and provide information and technical assistance to States, area agencies on aging, and service providers (including providers operating multipurpose senior centers), to support the modernization of multipurpose senior centers; provide technical assistance to and share best practices with States, area agencies on aging, and Aging and Disability Resource Centers, on how to collaborate and coordinate services with health care entities, such as Federally-qualified health centers, as defined in section 1905( l )(2)(B) of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1396d ( l )(2)(B)), in order to improve care coordination for individuals with multiple chronic illnesses; provide technical assistance to, and share best practices with, State agencies and area agencies on aging on how to collaborate and coordinate activities and develop long-range emergency preparedness plans with local and State emergency response agencies, relief organizations, local and State governments, Federal agencies as appropriate, and any other institutions that have responsibility for disaster relief service delivery; with input from aging network stakeholders, including caregivers, develop objectives, priorities, and a long-term plan for supporting State and local efforts involving education about prevention of, detection of, and response to negative health effects associated with social isolation among older individuals, and submit a report to Congress on this effort by January 2021; and provide (to the extent practicable) a standardized notification to State agencies, area agencies on aging, providers of services under this chapter, and grantees or contract awardees under this chapter, through an electronic format (e-mail or other electronic notification), of the availability of, or updates to, policies, practices, and procedures under this chapter.

(b) Development and implementation of comprehensive, coordinated systems for long-term care To promote the development and implementation of comprehensive, coordinated systems at Federal, State, and local levels that enable older individuals to receive long-term care in home and community-based settings, in a manner responsive to the needs and preferences of older individuals and their family caregivers, the Assistant Secretary shall, consistent with the applicable provisions of this subchapter— collaborate, coordinate, and consult with other Federal entities responsible for formulating and implementing programs, benefits, and services related to providing long-term care, and may make grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements with funds received from other Federal entities; conduct research and demonstration projects to identify innovative, cost-effective strategies for modifying State systems of long-term care to— respond to the needs and preferences of older individuals and family caregivers; and target services to individuals at risk for institutional placement, to permit such individuals to remain in home and community-based settings; establish criteria for and promote the implementation (through area agencies on aging, service providers, and such other entities as the Assistant Secretary determines to be appropriate) of evidence-based programs to assist older individuals and their family caregivers in learning about and making behavioral changes intended to reduce the risk of injury, disease, and disability among older individuals; facilitate, in coordination with the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and other heads of Federal entities as appropriate, the provision of long-term care in home and community-based settings, including the provision of such care through self-directed care models that— provide for the assessment of the needs and preferences of an individual at risk for institutional placement to help such individual avoid unnecessary institutional placement and depletion of income and assets to qualify for benefits under the Medicaid program under title XIX of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.); respond to the needs and preferences of such individual and provide the option— for the individual to direct and control the receipt of supportive services provided; or as appropriate, for a person who was appointed by the individual, or is legally acting on the individual’s behalf, in order to represent or advise the individual in financial or service coordination matters (referred to in this paragraph as a “representative” of the individual), to direct and control the receipt of those services; and assist an older individual (or, as appropriate, a representative of the individual) to develop a plan for long-term support, including selecting, budgeting for, and purchasing home and community-based long-term care and supportive services; provide for the Administration to play a lead role with respect to issues concerning home and community-based long-term care, including— directing (as the Secretary or the President determines to be appropriate) or otherwise participating in departmental and interdepartmental activities concerning long-term care; reviewing and commenting on departmental rules, regulations, and policies related to providing long-term care; making recommendations to the Secretary with respect to home and community-based long-term care, including recommendations based on findings made through projects conducted under paragraph (2); and when feasible, developing, in consultation with States and national organizations, a consumer-friendly tool to assist older individuals and their families in choosing home and community-based services, with a particular focus on ways for consumers to assess how providers protect the health, safety, welfare, and rights, including the rights provided under section 3030c–1 of this title , of older individuals; promote, in coordination with other appropriate Federal agencies— enhanced awareness by the public of the importance of planning in advance for long-term care; and the availability of information and resources to assist in such planning; ensure access to, and the dissemination of, information about all long-term care options and service providers, including the availability of integrated long-term care; implement in all States Aging and Disability Resource Centers— to serve as visible and trusted sources of information on the full range of long-term care options, including both institutional and home and community-based care, which are available in the community; to provide personalized and consumer-friendly assistance to empower individuals to identify and articulate goals of care and to make informed decisions about their care options; to provide coordinated and streamlined access to all publicly supported long-term care options so that consumers can obtain the care they need through a single intake, assessment, and eligibility determination process; to help individuals to respond to or plan ahead for their long-term care needs; to assist (in coordination with the entities carrying out the health insurance information, counseling, and assistance program (receiving funding under section 1395b–4 of this title ) in the States) beneficiaries, and prospective beneficiaries, under the Medicare program established under title XVIII of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395 et seq.) in understanding and accessing prescription drug and preventative health benefits under the provisions of, and amendments made by, the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003; and to provide information and referrals regarding available home and community-based services for individuals who are at risk for residing in, or who reside in, institutional settings, so that the individuals have the choice to remain in or to return to the community; establish, either directly or through grants or contracts, national technical assistance programs to assist State agencies, area agencies on aging, and community-based service providers funded under this chapter in implementing— home and community-based long-term care systems, including evidence-based programs; and evidence-based disease prevention and health promotion services programs, including delivery of such services in different settings; and activities for increasing business acumen, capacity building, organizational development, innovation, and other methods of growing and sustaining the capacity of the aging network to serve older individuals and caregivers most effectively; develop, in collaboration with the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, performance standards and measures for use by States to determine the extent to which their State systems of long-term care fulfill the objectives described in this subsection; and conduct such other activities as the Assistant Secretary determines to be appropriate.

(c) Encouragement of participation by volunteer groups, utilization of older individuals, and cost savings The Assistant Secretary, in consultation with the Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation for National and Community Service, shall— encourage and permit volunteer groups (including organizations carrying out national service programs and including organizations of youth in secondary or postsecondary school) that are active in supportive services and civic engagement to participate and be involved individually or through representative groups in supportive service and civic engagement programs or activities to the maximum extent feasible; develop a comprehensive strategy for utilizing older individuals to address critical local needs of national concern, including the engagement of older individuals in the activities of public and nonprofit organizations such as community-based organizations, including faith-based organizations; and encourage other community capacity-building initiatives involving older individuals, with particular attention to initiatives that demonstrate effectiveness and cost savings in meeting critical needs.

(d) National Center on Elder Abuse The Assistant Secretary shall establish and operate the National Center on Elder Abuse (in this subsection referred to as the “Center”). In operating the Center, the Assistant Secretary shall— annually compile, publish, and disseminate a summary of recently conducted research on elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; develop and maintain an information clearinghouse on all programs (including private programs) showing promise of success, for the prevention, identification, and treatment of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; compile, publish, and disseminate training materials for personnel who are engaged or intend to engage in the prevention, identification, and treatment of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; provide technical assistance to State agencies and to other public and nonprofit private agencies and organizations to assist the agencies and organizations in planning, improving, developing, and carrying out programs and activities relating to the special problems of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; and conduct research and demonstration projects regarding the causes, prevention, identification, and treatment of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The Assistant Secretary shall carry out paragraph (2) through grants or contracts. The Assistant Secretary shall issue criteria applicable to the recipients of funds under this subsection. To be eligible to receive a grant or enter into a contract under subparagraph (A), an entity shall submit an application to the Assistant Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Assistant Secretary may require. The Assistant Secretary shall— establish research priorities for making grants or contracts to carry out paragraph (2)(E); and not later than 60 days before the date on which the Assistant Secretary establishes such priorities, publish in the Federal Register for public comment a statement of such proposed priorities. The Assistant Secretary shall make available to the Center such resources as are necessary for the Center to carry out effectively the functions of the Center under this chapter and not less than the amount of resources made available to the Resource Center on Elder Abuse for fiscal year 2000.

(e) National Aging Information Center The Assistant Secretary shall make grants or enter into contracts with eligible entities to establish the National Aging Information Center (in this subsection referred to as the “Center”) to— provide information about grants and projects under subchapter IV; annually compile, analyze, publish, and disseminate— statistical data collected under subsection (a)(19); census data on aging demographics; and data from other Federal agencies on the health, social, and economic status of older individuals and on the services provided to older individuals; biennially compile, analyze, publish, and disseminate statistical data collected on the functions, staffing patterns, and funding sources of State agencies and area agencies on aging; analyze the information collected under section 3011(c)(3)(F) of this title by the Director of the Office for American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian Aging; provide technical assistance, training, and other means of assistance to State agencies, area agencies on aging, and service providers, regarding State and local data collection and analysis; and be a national resource on statistical data regarding aging. To be eligible to receive a grant or enter into a contract under subparagraph (A), an entity shall submit an application to the Assistant Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Assistant Secretary may require. Entities eligible to receive a grant or enter into a contract under subparagraph (A) shall be organizations with a demonstrated record of experience in education and information dissemination. The Assistant Secretary shall establish procedures specifying the length of time that the Center shall provide the information described in paragraph (1) with respect to a particular project or activity. The procedures shall require the Center to maintain the information beyond the term of the grant awarded, or contract entered into, to carry out the project or activity. The Assistant Secretary shall establish the procedures described in subparagraph (A) after consultation with— practitioners in the field of aging; older individuals; representatives of institutions of higher education; national aging organizations; State agencies; area agencies on aging; legal assistance providers; service providers; and other persons with an interest in the field of aging.

(f) Development of performance outcome measures The Assistant Secretary, in accordance with the process described in paragraph (2), and in collaboration with a representative group of State agencies, tribal organizations, area agencies on aging, and providers of services involved in the performance outcome measures shall develop and publish by December 31, 2001 , a set of performance outcome measures for planning, managing, and evaluating activities performed and services provided under this chapter. To the maximum extent possible, the Assistant Secretary shall use data currently collected (as of the date of development of the measures) by State agencies, area agencies on aging, and service providers through the National Aging Program Information System and other applicable sources of information in developing such measures. The process for developing the performance outcome measures described in paragraph (1) shall include— a review of such measures currently in use by State agencies and area agencies on aging (as of the date of the review); development of a proposed set of such measures that provides information about the major activities performed and services provided under this chapter; pilot testing of the proposed set of such measures, including an identification of resource, infrastructure, and data collection issues at the State and local levels; and evaluation of the pilot test and recommendations for modification of the proposed set of such measures.

(g) Training and provision of services addressing elder justice and exploitation The Assistant Secretary shall, as appropriate, ensure that programs authorized under this chapter include appropriate training in the prevention of abuse, neglect, and exploitation and provision of services that address elder justice and the exploitation of older individuals.

(h) Publication of funded centers and demonstration projects The Assistant Secretary shall publish, on an annual basis, a list of centers and demonstration projects funded under each subchapter of this chapter. The Assistant Secretary shall ensure that this information is also directly provided to State agencies and area agencies on aging.

(i) RAISE Family Caregivers Act The Assistant Secretary shall carry out the RAISE Family Caregivers Act ( 42 U.S.C. 3030s note).

§ 3013 Federal agency consultation

(a) In general The Assistant Secretary, in carrying out the objectives and provisions of this chapter, shall coordinate, advise, consult with, and cooperate with the head of each department, agency, or instrumentality of the Federal Government proposing or administering programs or services substantially related to the objectives of this chapter, with respect to such programs or services. In particular, the Assistant Secretary shall coordinate, advise, consult, and cooperate with the Secretary of Labor in carrying out subchapter IX and with the Corporation for National and Community Service in carrying out this chapter. The head of each department, agency, or instrumentality of the Federal Government proposing to establish programs and services substantially related to the objectives of this chapter shall consult with the Assistant Secretary prior to the establishment of such programs and services. To achieve appropriate coordination, the head of each department, agency, or instrumentality of the Federal Government administering any program substantially related to the objectives of this chapter, particularly administering any program referred to in subsection (b), shall consult and cooperate with the Assistant Secretary in carrying out such program. In particular, the Secretary of Labor shall consult and cooperate with the Assistant Secretary in carrying out title I of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3111 et seq.]. The head of each department, agency, or instrumentality of the Federal Government administering programs and services substantially related to the objectives of this chapter shall collaborate with the Assistant Secretary in carrying out this chapter, and shall develop a written analysis, for review and comment by the Assistant Secretary, of the impact of such programs and services on— older individuals (with particular attention to low-income older individuals, including low-income minority older individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and older individuals residing in rural areas) and eligible individuals (as defined in section 3056p of this title ); and the functions and responsibilities of State agencies and area agencies on aging.

(b) Federal programs related to chapter objectives For the purposes of subsection (a), programs related to the objectives of this chapter shall include— title I of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3111 et seq.], title II of the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 [ 42 U.S.C. 5000 et seq.], titles XVI, XVIII, XIX, and XX of the Social Security Act [ 42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq., 1395 et seq., 1396 et seq., 1397 et seq.], sections 1715v and 1715w of title 12, the United States Housing Act of 1937 [ 42 U.S.C. 1437 et seq.], section 1701q of title 12 , title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 [ 42 U.S.C. 5301 et seq.], title I of Higher Education Act of 1965 [ 20 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.] and the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3271 et seq.], sections 5309 and 5310 of title 49, the Public Health Service Act [ 42 U.S.C. 201 et seq.], including block grants under title XIX of such Act [ 42 U.S.C. 300w et seq.], the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981 [ 42 U.S.C. 8621 et seq.], part A of the Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings Act of 1976 [ 42 U.S.C. 6861 et seq.], relating to weatherization assistance for low income persons, the Community Services Block Grant Act [ 42 U.S.C. 9901 et seq.], demographic statistics and analysis programs conducted by the Bureau of the Census under title 13, parts II and III of title 38, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 [ 29 U.S.C. 701 et seq.], the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 [ 42 U.S.C. 15001 et seq.], the Edward Byrne Memorial State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance Programs, established under part E of title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 ( 42 U.S.C. 3750–376 6b)), 1 sections 3003 and 3004 of title 29, and section 393D of the Public Health Service Act ( 42 U.S.C. 280b–1f ), relating to safety of seniors.

(c) Interagency Coordinating Committee on Aging The Secretary, in collaboration with other Federal officials specified in paragraph (2), shall establish an Interagency Coordinating Committee on Healthy Aging and Age-Friendly Communities (referred to in this subsection as the “Committee”) focusing on the coordination of agencies with respect to aging issues and the development of a national set of recommendations, in accordance with paragraph (6), to support the ability of older individuals to age in place and access homelessness prevention services, preventive health care, promote age-friendly communities, and address the ability of older individuals to access long-term care supports, including access to caregivers and home- and community-based health services. The officials referred to in paragraph (1) shall include the Secretary of Labor and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and may include, at the direction of the President, the Attorney General, the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Commissioner of Social Security, and such other Federal officials as the President may direct. An official described in this paragraph may appoint a designee to carry out the official’s duties under paragraph (1). The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall serve as the first chairperson of the Committee, for 1 term, and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall serve as the chairperson for the following term. After that following term, the Committee shall select a chairperson from among the members of the Committee, and any member may serve as the chairperson. No member may serve as the chairperson for more than 1 consecutive term. For purposes of this subsection, a term shall be a period of 2 calendar years. The first term, after March 25, 2020 , shall start not later than 1 year after March 25, 2020 . The Committee shall meet not less often than once each year. The recommendations described in paragraph (1) may include recommendations for— ways to improve coordination among Federal agencies with responsibility for programs and services that impact older individuals; best practices and evidence-based program and service models to assist older individuals in meeting their housing, health care, and other supportive service needs, including— consumer-directed care models for home and community-based care and supportive services that link housing, health care, and other supportive services and that facilitate aging in place, enabling older individuals to remain in their homes and communities as the individuals age; innovations in technology applications (including assistive technology devices and assistive technology services) that give older individuals access to information on available services or that help in providing services to older individuals; and best practices identified in coordination with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institute on Aging, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and other Federal agencies, as appropriate, to reduce and prevent falls among older individuals, that incorporate evidence-based falls prevention programs and home modifications, which recommendations shall supplement and not unnecessarily duplicate activities authorized under section 393D of the Public Health Service Act ( 42 U.S.C. 280b–1f ), relating to safety of seniors; ways to collect and disseminate information about the programs and services available to older individuals to ensure that such information is accessible; ways to ensure the continued collection of data relating to the housing, health care, and other supportive service needs of older individuals and to support efforts to identify and address unmet data needs; actively seeking input from and consulting with nonprofit organizations, academic or research institutions, community-based organizations, philanthropic organizations, or other entities supporting age-friendly communities about the activities described in subparagraphs (A) through (F); identifying any barriers and impediments, including barriers and impediments in statutory and regulatory law, to the access and use by older individuals of federally funded programs and services; and ways to improve coordination to provide housing, health care, and other supportive services to older individuals. Not later than 90 days following the end of each term, the Committee shall prepare and submit to the Committee on Financial Services of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Education and Labor of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Ways and Means of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of the Senate, the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate, and the Special Committee on Aging of the Senate, a report that— describes the activities and accomplishments of the Committee in— enhancing the overall coordination of federally funded programs and services that impact older individuals; and meeting the requirements of paragraph (6); incorporates an analysis from the head of each agency that is a member of the interagency coordinating committee established under paragraph (1) that describes the barriers and impediments, including barriers and impediments in statutory and regulatory law (as the chairperson of the Committee determines to be appropriate), to the access and use by older individuals of programs and services administered by such agency; and makes such recommendations as the chairman determines to be appropriate for actions to meet the needs described in paragraph (6) and for coordinating programs and services designed to meet those needs. On the request of the Committee, any Federal Government employee may be detailed to the Committee without reimbursement, and such detail shall be without interruption or loss of civil service status or privilege. In this subsection, the term “age-friendly community” means a community that— is taking measurable steps to— include adequate and accessible housing, public spaces and buildings, safe and secure paths, variable route transportation services, and programs and services designed to support health and well-being; respect and include older individuals in social opportunities, civic participation, volunteerism, and employment; and facilitate access to supportive services for older individuals; is not an assisted living facility or long-term care facility; and has a plan in place to meet local needs for housing, transportation, civic participation, social connectedness, and accessible public spaces.

§ 3013a Consultation with State agencies, area agencies on aging, and Native American grant recipients

The Assistant Secretary shall consult and coordinate with State agencies, area agencies on aging, and recipients of grants under subchapter X in the development of Federal goals, regulations, program instructions, and policies under this chapter. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title II, § 203A , as added Pub. L. 102–375, title II, § 204 , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1211 ; amended Pub. L. 103–171, § 3(a)(13) , Dec. 2, 1993 , 107 Stat. 1990 .)

§ 3014 Repealed. Pub. L. 97–115, § 2(e)(1), Dec. 29, 1981, 95 Stat. 1596

§ 3015 Gifts and donations

(a) Gifts and donations The Assistant Secretary may accept, use, and dispose of, on behalf of the United States, gifts or donations (in cash or in kind, including voluntary and uncompensated services or property), which shall be available until expended for the purposes specified in subsection (b). Gifts of cash and proceeds of the sale of property shall be available in addition to amounts appropriated to carry out this chapter.

(b) Use of gifts and donations Gifts and donations accepted pursuant to subsection (a) may be used either directly, or for grants to or contracts with public or nonprofit private entities, for the following activities: The design and implementation of demonstrations of innovative ideas and best practices in programs and services for older individuals. The planning and conduct of conferences for the purpose of exchanging information, among concerned individuals and public and private entities and organizations, relating to programs and services provided under this chapter and other programs and services for older individuals. The development, publication, and dissemination of informational materials (in print, visual, electronic, or other media) relating to the programs and services provided under this chapter and other matters of concern to older individuals.

(c) Ethics guidelines The Assistant Secretary shall establish written guidelines setting forth the criteria to be used in determining whether a gift or donation should be declined under this section because the acceptance of the gift or donation would— reflect unfavorably upon the ability of the Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services, or any employee of the Administration or Department, to carry out responsibilities or official duties under this chapter in a fair and objective manner; or compromise the integrity or the appearance of integrity of programs or services provided under this chapter or of any official involved in those programs or services.

§ 3016 Authority of Assistant Secretary

(a) Consultative services and technical assistance; short-term training and technical instruction; research and demonstrations; preparation and dissemination of informational materials; staff and technical assistance to Federal Council on the Aging; designation of full-time nutrition professional as administrator of nutrition services In carrying out the objectives of this chapter, the Assistant Secretary is authorized to— provide consultative services and technical assistance to public or nonprofit private agencies and organizations; provide short-term training and technical instruction; conduct research and demonstrations; and collect, prepare, publish, and disseminate special educational or informational materials, including reports of the projects for which funds are provided under this chapter. The Assistant Secretary shall designate an officer or employee who shall serve on a full-time basis and who shall be responsible for the administration of the nutrition services described in subparts I and II of part C of subchapter III and shall have duties that include— designing, implementing, and evaluating evidence-based programs to support improved nutrition and regular physical activity for older individuals; developing guidelines for nutrition providers concerning safety, sanitary handling of food, equipment, preparation, and food storage; conducting outreach and disseminating evidence-based information to nutrition service providers about the benefits of healthful diets and regular physical activity, including information about the most current Dietary Guidelines for Americans published under section 5341 of title 7 , the Food Guidance System of the Department of Agriculture, and advances in nutrition science; promoting coordination between nutrition service providers and community-based organizations serving older individuals; developing guidelines on cost containment; defining a long range role for the nutrition services in community-based care systems; developing model menus and other appropriate materials for serving special needs populations and meeting cultural meal preferences; disseminating guidance that describes strategies for improving the nutritional quality of meals provided under subchapter III, including strategies for increasing the consumption of whole grains, lowfat dairy products, fruits, and vegetables; developing and disseminating guidelines for conducting nutrient analyses of meals provided under subparts I and II of part C of subchapter III, including guidelines for averaging key nutrients over an appropriate period of time; and providing technical assistance to the regional offices of the Administration with respect to each duty described in clauses (i) through (ix). The regional offices of the Administration shall be responsible for disseminating, and providing technical assistance regarding, the guidelines and information described in clauses (ii), (iii), and (v) of subparagraph (A) to State agencies, area agencies on aging, and persons that provide nutrition services under part C of subchapter III. The Assistant Secretary may provide technical assistance, including through the regional offices of the Administration, to State agencies, area agencies on aging, local government agencies, or leaders in age-friendly communities (as defined, for purposes of this subparagraph, in section 3013(c)(9) of this title ) regarding— dissemination of, or consideration of ways to implement, best practices and recommendations from the Interagency Coordinating Committee on Healthy Aging and Age-Friendly Communities established under section 3013(c) of this title ; and methods for managing and coordinating existing programs to meet the needs of growing age-friendly communities. The officer or employee designated under subparagraph (A) shall— have expertise in nutrition, energy balance, and meal planning; and be a registered dietitian or registered dietitian nutritionist.

(b) Utilization of services and facilities of Federal and other public or nonprofit agencies; advance or reimbursement payments for such use In administering the functions of the Administration under this chapter, the Assistant Secretary may utilize the services and facilities of any agency of the Federal Government and of any other public or nonprofit agency or organization, in accordance with agreements between the Assistant Secretary and the head thereof, and is authorized to pay therefor, in advance or by way of reimbursement, as may be provided in the agreement.

§ 3017 Evaluation of programs

(a) Authority of Secretary; scope of evaluation; persons conducting evaluation The Secretary shall measure and evaluate the impact of all programs authorized by this chapter, their effectiveness in achieving stated goals in general, and in relation to their cost, their impact on related programs, their effectiveness in targeting for services under this chapter unserved older individuals with greatest economic need (including low-income minority individuals and older individuals residing in rural areas) and unserved older individuals with greatest social need (including low-income minority individuals and older individuals residing in rural areas), and their structure and mechanisms for delivery of services, including, where appropriate, comparisons with appropriate control groups composed of persons who have not participated in such programs. Evaluations shall be conducted by persons not immediately involved in the administration of the program or project evaluated.

(b) Relationship of programs to health care expenditures Not later than July 1, 2020 , the Secretary shall provide, directly or through grant or contract, for an evaluation of programs under this chapter, which shall include, to the extent practicable, an analysis of the relationship of such programs, including demonstration projects under subchapter IV of this chapter, to health care expenditures under the Medicare program established under title XVIII of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395 et seq.) and the Medicaid program established under title XIX of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.). The Secretary shall oversee analyses of data obtained in connection with program evaluation to evaluate, where feasible, the relationship of programs under this chapter to health care expenditures, including under the Medicare and Medicaid programs.

(c) General standards The Secretary may not make grants or contracts under subchapter IV of this chapter until the Secretary develops and publishes general standards to be used by the Secretary in evaluating the programs and projects assisted under such subchapter. Results of evaluations conducted pursuant to such standards shall be included in the reports required by section 3018 of this title .

(d) Opinions of program and project participants; comparison of effectiveness of related programs; consultation with organizations concerned with older individuals In carrying out evaluations under this section, the Secretary shall, whenever possible, arrange to obtain the opinions of program and project participants about the strengths and weaknesses of the programs and projects, and conduct, where appropriate, evaluations which compare the effectiveness of related programs in achieving common objectives. In carrying out such evaluations, the Secretary shall consult with organizations concerned with older individuals, including those representing minority individuals, older individuals residing in rural areas and older individuals with disabilities.

(e) Annual summaries and analyses of evaluation; demonstration projects; transmittal to Congress; dissemination to Federal, State, and local agencies and private organizations; accessibility to public The Secretary shall annually publish summaries and analyses of the results of evaluative research and evaluation of program and project impact and effectiveness, including, as appropriate, health and nutrition education demonstration projects conducted under section 3027(f) 1 of this title, the full contents of which shall be transmitted to Congress, be disseminated to Federal, State, and local agencies and private organizations with an interest in aging, and be accessible to the public.

(f) Federal property The Secretary shall take the necessary action to assure that all studies, evaluations, proposals, and data produced or developed with Federal funds shall become the property of the United States.

(g) Availability to Secretary of information from executive agencies Such information as the Secretary may deem necessary for purposes of the evaluations conducted under this section shall be made available to him, upon request, by the departments and agencies of the executive branch.

(h) Funds From the total amount appropriated for each fiscal year to carry out subchapter III, the Secretary may use such sums as may be necessary, but not to exceed ½ of 1 percent of such amount, for purposes of conducting evaluations under this section, either directly or through grants or contracts. No part of such sums may be reprogrammed, transferred, or used for any other purpose. Funds expended under this subsection shall be justified and accounted for by the Secretary.

§ 3018 Reports to Congress

(a) Annual report Not later than one hundred and twenty days after the close of each fiscal year, the Assistant Secretary shall prepare and submit to the President and to the Congress a full and complete report on the activities carried out under this chapter. Such annual reports shall include— statistical data reflecting services and activities provided to individuals during the preceding fiscal year; statistical data collected under section 3012(a)(16) of this title ; statistical data and an analysis of information regarding the effectiveness of the State agency and area agencies on aging in targeting services to older individuals with greatest economic need and older individuals with greatest social need, with particular attention to low-income minority individuals, older individuals residing in rural areas, low-income individuals, and frail individuals (including individuals with any physical or mental functional impairment); and a description of the implementation of the plan required by section 3012(a)(14) of this title .

(b) Report on ombudsman program Not later than March 1 of each year, the Assistant Secretary shall compile a report— summarizing and analyzing the data collected under subchapters III and XI in accordance with section 3058g(c) of this title for the then most recently concluded fiscal year; identifying significant problems and issues revealed by such data (with special emphasis on problems relating to quality of care and residents’ rights); discussing current issues concerning the long-term care ombudsman programs of the States; and making recommendations regarding legislation and administrative actions to resolve such problems. The Assistant Secretary shall submit the report required by paragraph (1) to— the Special Committee on Aging of the Senate; the Committee on Education and Labor of the House of Representatives; and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate. The Assistant Secretary shall provide the report required by paragraph (1), and make the State reports required under subchapters III and XI in accordance with section 3058g(h)(1) of this title available, to— the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services; the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services; the Office of Civil Rights of the Department of Health and Human Services; the Secretary of Veterans Affairs; and each public agency or private organization designated as an Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman under subchapter III or XI in accordance with section 3058g(a)(4)(A) of this title .

(c) Outreach activities; report on evaluations to be included in annual report The Assistant Secretary shall, as part of the annual report submitted under subsection (a), prepare and submit a report on the outreach activities supported under this chapter, together with such recommendations as the Assistant Secretary deems appropriate. In carrying out this subsection, the Assistant Secretary shall consider— the number of older individuals reached through the activities; the dollar amount of the assistance and benefits received by older individuals as a result of such activities; the cost of such activities in terms of the number of individuals reached and the dollar amount described in paragraph (2); the effect of such activities on supportive services and nutrition services furnished under subchapter III of this chapter; and the effectiveness of State and local efforts to target older individuals with greatest economic need (including low-income minority individuals and older individuals residing in rural areas) and older individuals with greatest social need (including low-income minority individuals and older individuals residing in rural areas) to receive services under this chapter.

(d) Evaluation to Congress The Assistant Secretary shall provide the evaluation required under section 3017(b) of this title to— the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate; the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate; the Special Committee on Aging of the Senate; the Committee on Education and Labor of the House of Representatives; and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives.

§ 3019 Joint funding of projects

Pursuant to regulations prescribed by the President, and to the extent consistent with the other provisions of this chapter, where funds are provided for a single project by more than one Federal agency to any agency or organization assisted under this chapter, the Federal agency principally involved may be designated to act for all in administering the funds provided. In such cases, a single non-Federal share requirement may be established according to the proportion of funds advanced by each Federal agency, and any such agency may waive any technical grant or contract requirement (as defined by such regulations) which is inconsistent with the similar requirements of the administering agency or which the administering agency does not impose. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title II, § 208 , formerly § 209, as added Pub. L. 93–29, title II, § 201(c) , May 3, 1973 , 87 Stat. 35 ; renumbered § 208, Pub. L. 97–115, § 2(e)(2) , Dec. 29, 1981 , 95 Stat. 1596 .)

§ 3020 Advance funding

(a) For the purpose of affording adequate notice of funding available under this chapter, appropriations under this chapter are authorized to be included in the appropriation Act for the fiscal year preceding the fiscal year for which they are available for obligation.

(b) In order to effect a transition to the advance funding method of timing appropriation action, subsection (a) shall apply notwithstanding that its initial application will result in the enactment in the same year (whether in the same appropriation Act or otherwise) of two separate appropriations, one for the then current fiscal year and one for the succeeding fiscal year.

§ 3020a Application of other laws; costs of projects under this chapter not treated as income or benefits under other laws

(a) The provisions and requirements of chapter 71 of title 31 shall not apply to the administration of the provisions of this chapter or to the administration of any program or activity under this chapter.

(b) No part of the costs of any project under any subchapter of this chapter may be treated as income or benefits to any eligible individual (other than any wage or salary to such individual) for the purpose of any other program or provision of Federal or State law.

§ 3020b Reduction of paperwork

In order to reduce unnecessary, duplicative, or disruptive demands for information, the Assistant Secretary, in consultation with State agencies and other appropriate agencies and organizations, shall continually review and evaluate all requests by the Administration for information under this chapter and take such action as may be necessary to reduce the paperwork required under this chapter. The Assistant Secretary shall request only such information as the Assistant Secretary deems essential to carry out the objectives and provisions of this chapter and, in gathering such information, shall make use of uniform service definitions to the extent that such definitions are available. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title II, § 211 , formerly § 212, as added Pub. L. 95–478, title I, § 102(i) , Oct. 18, 1978 , 92 Stat. 1515 ; renumbered § 211, Pub. L. 97–115, § 2(e)(2) , Dec. 29, 1981 , 95 Stat. 1596 ; amended Pub. L. 98–459, title II, § 208 , Oct. 9, 1984 , 98 Stat. 1771 ; Pub. L. 102–375, title I, § 102(b)(1)(A) , (9)(A), title IX, § 904(a)(9), Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1200 , 1201, 1306; Pub. L. 103–171 , §§ 2(6), 3(a)(13), Dec. 2, 1993 , 107 Stat. 1988 , 1990.)

§ 3020c Contracting and grant authority; private pay relationships; appropriate use of funds

(a) In general Subject to subsection (b), this chapter shall not be construed to prevent a recipient of a grant or a contract under this chapter (other than subchapter IX) from entering into an agreement with a profitmaking organization for the recipient to provide services to individuals or entities not otherwise receiving services under this chapter, provided that— if funds provided under this chapter to such recipient are initially used by the recipient to pay part or all of a cost incurred by the recipient in developing and carrying out such agreement, such agreement guarantees that the cost is reimbursed to the recipient; if such agreement provides for the provision of 1 or more services, of the type provided under this chapter by or on behalf of such recipient, to an individual or entity seeking to receive such services— the individuals and entities may only purchase such services at their fair market rate; all costs incurred by the recipient in providing such services (and not otherwise reimbursed under paragraph (1)), are reimbursed to such recipient; and the recipient reports the rates for providing such services under such agreement in accordance with subsection (c) and the rates are consistent with the prevailing market rate for provision of such services in the relevant geographic area as determined by the State agency or area agency on aging (as applicable); and any amount of payment to the recipient under the agreement that exceeds reimbursement under this subsection of the recipient’s costs is used to provide, or support the provision of, services under this chapter.

(b) Ensuring appropriate use of funds An agreement described in subsection (a) may not— be made without the prior approval of the State agency (or, in the case of a grantee under subchapter X, without the prior recommendation of the Director of the Office for American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian Aging and the prior approval of the Assistant Secretary), after timely submission of all relevant documents related to the agreement including information on all costs incurred; directly or indirectly provide for, or have the effect of, paying, reimbursing, subsidizing, or otherwise compensating an individual or entity in an amount that exceeds the fair market value of the services subject to such agreement; result in the displacement of services otherwise available to an older individual with greatest social need, an older individual with greatest economic need, or an older individual who is at risk for institutional placement; or in any other way compromise, undermine, or be inconsistent with the objective of serving the needs of older individuals, as determined by the Assistant Secretary.

(c) Monitoring and reporting To ensure that any agreement described in subsection (a) complies with the requirements of this section and other applicable provisions of this chapter, the Assistant Secretary shall develop and implement uniform monitoring procedures and reporting requirements consistent with the provisions of subparagraphs (A) through (E) of section 3026(a)(13) of this title in consultation with the State agencies and area agencies on aging. The Assistant Secretary shall annually prepare and submit to the chairpersons and ranking members of the appropriate committees of Congress a report analyzing all such agreements, and the costs incurred and services provided under the agreements. This report shall contain information on the number of the agreements per State, summaries of all the agreements, and information on the type of organizations participating in the agreements, types of services provided under the agreements, and the net proceeds from, and documentation of funds spent and reimbursed, under the agreements.

(d) Timely reimbursement All reimbursements made under this section shall be made in a timely manner, according to standards specified by the Assistant Secretary.

(e) Cost In this section, the term “cost” means an expense, including an administrative expense, incurred by a recipient in developing or carrying out an agreement described in subsection (a), whether the recipient contributed funds, staff time, or other plant, equipment, or services to meet the expense.

§ 3020d Surplus property eligibility

Any State or local government agency, and any nonprofit organization or institution, which receives funds appropriated for programs for older individuals under this chapter, under title IV or title XX of the Social Security Act [ 42 U.S.C. 601 et seq., 1397 et seq.], or under titles VIII and X of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 [ 42 U.S.C. 2991 et seq., 2996 et seq.] and the Community Services Block Grant Act [ 42 U.S.C. 9901 et seq.], shall be deemed eligible to receive for such programs, property which is declared surplus to the needs of the Federal Government in accordance with laws applicable to surplus property. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title II, § 213 , formerly § 214, as added Pub. L. 95–478, title I, § 102(i) , Oct. 18, 1978 , 92 Stat. 1516 ; renumbered § 213 and amended Pub. L. 97–115, § 2(e)(2) , (k), Dec. 29, 1981 , 95 Stat. 1596 .)

§ 3020e Nutrition education

The Assistant Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture, shall conduct outreach and provide technical assistance to agencies and organizations that serve older individuals to assist such agencies and organizations to carry out integrated health promotion and disease prevention programs that— are designed for older individuals; and include— nutrition education; physical activity; and other activities to modify behavior and to improve health literacy, including providing information on optimal nutrient intake, through nutrition education and nutrition assessment and counseling, in accordance with section 3030g–21(2)(J) of this title . ( Pub. L. 89–73, title II, § 214 , as added Pub. L. 102–375, title II, § 209 , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1215 ; amended Pub. L. 103–171, § 3(a)(13) , Dec. 2, 1993 , 107 Stat. 1990 ; Pub. L. 106–501, title VIII, § 801(b)(5) , Nov. 13, 2000 , 114 Stat. 2292 ; Pub. L. 109–365, title II, § 208 , Oct. 17, 2006 , 120 Stat. 2537 .)

§ 3020e–1 Pension counseling and information programs

(a) Definitions In this section: The term “pension and other retirement benefits” means private, civil service, and other public pensions and retirement benefits, including benefits provided under— the Social Security program under title II of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 401 et seq.); the railroad retirement program under the Railroad Retirement Act of 1974 ( 45 U.S.C. 231 et seq.); the government retirement benefits programs under the Civil Service Retirement System set forth in chapter 83 of title 5, the Federal Employees Retirement System set forth in chapter 84 of title 5, or other Federal retirement systems; or employee pension benefit plans as defined in section 1002(2) of title 29 . The term “pension counseling and information program” means a program described in subsection (b).

(b) Program authorized The Assistant Secretary shall award grants to eligible entities to establish and carry out pension counseling and information programs that create or continue a sufficient number of pension assistance and counseling programs to provide outreach, information, counseling, referral, and other assistance regarding pension and other retirement benefits, and rights related to such benefits, to individuals in the United States.

(c) Eligible entities The Assistant Secretary shall award grants under this section to— State agencies or area agencies on aging; and nonprofit organizations with a proven record of providing— services related to retirement of older individuals; services to Native Americans; or specific pension counseling.

(d) Citizen advisory panel The Assistant Secretary shall establish a citizen advisory panel to advise the Assistant Secretary regarding which entities should receive grant awards under this section. Such panel shall include representatives of business, labor, national senior advocates, and national pension rights advocates. The Assistant Secretary shall consult such panel prior to awarding grants under this section.

(e) Application To be eligible to receive a grant under this section, an entity shall submit an application to the Assistant Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Assistant Secretary may require, including— a plan to establish a pension counseling and information program that— establishes or continues a State or area pension counseling and information program; serves a specific geographic area; provides counseling (including direct counseling and assistance to individuals who need information regarding pension and other retirement benefits) and information that may assist individuals in obtaining, or establishing rights to, and filing claims or complaints regarding, pension and other retirement benefits; provides information on sources of pension and other retirement benefits; establishes a system to make referrals for legal services and other advocacy programs; establishes a system of referral to Federal, State, and local departments or agencies related to pension and other retirement benefits; provides a sufficient number of staff positions (including volunteer positions) to ensure information, counseling, referral, and assistance regarding pension and other retirement benefits; provides training programs for staff members, including volunteer staff members, of pension and other retirement benefits programs; makes recommendations to the Administration, the Department of Labor and other Federal, State, and local agencies concerning issues for older individuals related to pension and other retirement benefits; and establishes or continues an outreach program to provide information, counseling, referral and assistance regarding pension and other retirement benefits, with particular emphasis on outreach to women, minorities, older individuals residing in rural areas, low-income retirees, and older individuals with limited English proficiency; and an assurance that staff members (including volunteer staff members) have no conflict of interest in providing the services described in the plan described in paragraph (1).

(f) Criteria The Assistant Secretary shall consider the following criteria in awarding grants under this section: Evidence of a commitment by the entity to carry out a proposed pension counseling and information program. The ability of the entity to perform effective outreach to affected populations, particularly populations with limited English proficiency and other populations that are identified as in need of special outreach. Reliable information that the population to be served by the entity has a demonstrable need for the services proposed to be provided under the program. The ability of the entity to provide services under the program on a statewide or regional basis.

(g) Training and technical assistance program The Assistant Secretary shall award grants to eligible entities to establish training and technical assistance programs that shall provide information and technical assistance to the staffs of entities operating pension counseling and information programs described in subsection (b), and general assistance to such entities, including assistance in the design of program evaluation tools. Entities that are eligible to receive a grant under this subsection include nonprofit private organizations with a record of providing national information, referral, and advocacy in matters related to pension and other retirement benefits. To be eligible to receive a grant under this subsection, an entity shall submit an application to the Assistant Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Assistant Secretary may require.

(h) Pension assistance hotline and intragency coordination The Assistant Secretary shall enter into agreements with other Federal agencies to establish and administer a national telephone hotline that shall provide information regarding pension and other retirement benefits, and rights related to such benefits. Such hotline described in paragraph (1) shall provide information for individuals (including individuals with limited English proficiency) seeking outreach, information, counseling, referral, and assistance regarding pension and other retirement benefits, and rights related to such benefits. The Assistant Secretary may enter into agreements with the Secretary of Labor and the heads of other Federal agencies that regulate the provision of pension and other retirement benefits in order to carry out this subsection.

(i) Report to Congress Not later than 30 months after November 13, 2000 , the Assistant Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Education and Labor of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions of the Senate a report that— summarizes the distribution of funds authorized for grants under this section and the expenditure of such funds; summarizes the scope and content of training and assistance provided under a program carried out under this section and the degree to which the training and assistance can be replicated; outlines the problems that individuals participating in programs funded under this section encountered concerning rights related to pension and other retirement benefits; and makes recommendations regarding the manner in which services provided in programs funded under this section can be incorporated into the ongoing programs of State agencies, area agencies on aging, multipurpose senior centers and other similar entities.

(j) Administrative expenses Of the funds appropriated under section 3020f of this title to carry out this section for a fiscal year, not more than $100,000 may be used by the Administration for administrative expenses.

(k) National Resource Center for Women and Retirement The Assistant Secretary shall, directly or by grant or contract, operate the National Resource Center for Women and Retirement (in this subsection referred to as the “Center”). The Center shall— provide tools, such as basic financial management, retirement planning, and other tools that promote financial literacy and help to identify and prevent exploitation (including fraud), and integrate these with information on health and long-term care; annually disseminate a summary of outreach activities provided, including work to provide user-friendly consumer information and public education materials; develop targeted outreach strategies; provide technical assistance to State agencies and to other public and nonprofit private agencies and organizations; and develop partnerships and collaborations to address program objectives.

§ 3020f Authorization of appropriations

(a) In general For purposes of carrying out this chapter, there are authorized to be appropriated for administration, salaries, and expenses of the Administration $43,937,410forfiscalyear2020,$46,573,655 for fiscal year 2021, $49,368,074forfiscalyear2022,$52,330,158 for fiscal year 2023, and $55,469,968 for fiscal year 2024.

(b) Additional authorizations There are authorized to be appropriated— to carry out section 3012(a)(21) of this title (relating to the National Eldercare Locator Service), $2,180,660forfiscalyear2020,$2,311,500 for fiscal year 2021, $2,450,190forfiscalyear2022,$2,597,201 for fiscal year 2023, and $2,753,033forfiscalyear2024;tocarryoutsection3020e–1ofthistitle,$1,988,060 for fiscal year 2020, $2,107,344forfiscalyear2021,$2,233,784 for fiscal year 2022, $2,367,811forfiscalyear2023,and$2,509,880 for fiscal year 2024; to carry out section 3012 of this title (relating to Elder Rights Support Activities under this subchapter), $1,371,740forfiscalyear2020,$1,454,044 for fiscal year 2021, $1,541,287forfiscalyear2022,$1,633,764 for fiscal year 2023, and $1,731,790forfiscalyear2024;andtocarryoutsection3012(b)ofthistitle(relatingtotheAgingandDisabilityResourceCenters),$8,687,330 for fiscal year 2020, $9,208,570forfiscalyear2021,$9,761,084 for fiscal year 2022, $10,346,749forfiscalyear2023,and$10,967,554 for fiscal year 2024.

§ 3020g National Technical Assistance Center on Grandfamilies and Kinship Families

(a) In general In addition to amounts otherwise available, there is appropriated to the Secretary of Health and Human Services for fiscal year 2021, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, $10,000,000, to remain available through September 30, 2025 , for the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of the Administration for Community Living, to establish, directly or through grants or contracts, a National Technical Assistance Center on Grandfamilies and Kinship Families (in this section referred to as the “Center”) to provide training, technical assistance, and resources for government programs, nonprofit and other community-based organizations, and Indian Tribes, Tribal organizations, and urban Indian organizations, that serve grandfamilies and kinship families to support the health and well-being of members of grandfamilies and kinship families, including caregivers, children, and their parents. The Center shall focus primarily on serving grandfamilies and kinship families in which the primary caregiver is an adult age 55 or older, or the child has one or more disabilities.

(b) Activities of the Center The Center shall— engage experts to stimulate the development of new and identify existing evidence-based, evidence-informed, and exemplary practices or programs related to health promotion (including mental health and substance use disorder treatment), education, nutrition, housing, financial needs, legal issues, disability self-determination, caregiver support, and other issues to help serve caregivers, children, and their parents in grandfamilies and kinship families; encourage and support the implementation of the evidence-based, evidence-informed, and exemplary practices or programs identified under paragraph (1) to support grandfamilies and kinship families and to promote coordination of services for grandfamilies and kinship families across systems that support them; facilitate learning across States, territories, Indian Tribes, Tribal organizations, and urban Indian organizations for providing technical assistance, resources, and training related to issues described in paragraph (1) to individuals and entities across systems that directly work with grandfamilies and kinship families; help government programs, nonprofit and other community-based organizations, and Indian Tribes, Tribal organizations, and urban Indian organizations, serving grandfamilies and kinship families, to plan and coordinate responses to assist grandfamilies and kinship families during national, State, Tribal, territorial, and local emergencies and disasters; and assist government programs, and nonprofit and other community-based organizations, in promoting equity and implementing culturally and linguistically appropriate approaches as the programs and organizations serve grandfamilies and kinship families.

§ 3021 Purpose and program

(a) Congressional declaration of purpose It is the purpose of this subchapter to encourage and assist State agencies and area agencies on aging to concentrate resources in order to develop greater capacity and foster the development and implementation of comprehensive and coordinated systems to serve older individuals by entering into new cooperative arrangements in each State with the persons described in paragraph (2), for the planning, and for the provision of, supportive services, and multipurpose senior centers, in order to— secure and maintain maximum independence and dignity in a home environment for older individuals capable of self care with appropriate supportive services; remove individual and social barriers to economic and personal independence for older individuals; provide a continuum of care for vulnerable older individuals; secure the opportunity for older individuals to receive managed in-home and community-based long-term care services; and measure impacts related to social determinants of health of older individuals. The persons referred to in paragraph (1) include— State agencies and area agencies on aging; other State agencies, including agencies that administer home and community care programs; Indian tribes, tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations; the providers, including voluntary organizations or other private sector organizations, of supportive services, nutrition services, and multipurpose senior centers; organizations representing or employing older individuals or their families; and organizations that have experience in providing training, placement, and stipends for volunteers or participants who are older individuals (such as organizations carrying out Federal service programs administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service), in community service settings.

(b) Administration of program In order to effectively carry out the purpose of this subchapter, the Assistant Secretary shall administer programs under this subchapter through the Administration. In carrying out the provisions of this subchapter, the Assistant Secretary may request the technical assistance and cooperation of the Department of Education, the Department of Labor, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Department of Transportation, the Office of Community Services, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration,, 1 and such other agencies and departments of the Federal Government as may be appropriate.

(c) Ombudsman program The Assistant Secretary shall provide technical assistance and training (by contract, grant, or otherwise) to State long-term care ombudsman programs established under section 3027(a)(9) of this title in accordance with section 3058g of this title , and to individuals within such programs designated under section 3058g of this title to be representatives of a long-term care ombudsman, in order to enable such ombudsmen and such representatives to carry out the ombudsman program effectively.

(d) Use of funds Any funds received under an allotment as described in section 3024(a) of this title , or funds contributed toward the non-Federal share under section 3024(d) of this title , shall be used only for activities and services to benefit older individuals and other individuals as specifically provided for in this subchapter. No provision of this subchapter shall be construed as prohibiting a State agency or area agency on aging from providing services by using funds from sources not described in paragraph (1).

§ 3022 Definitions

For the purpose of this subchapter— The term “comprehensive and coordinated system” means a system for providing all necessary supportive services, including nutrition services, in a manner designed to— facilitate accessibility to, and utilization of, all supportive services and nutrition services provided within the geographic area served by such system by any public or private agency or organization; develop and make the most efficient use of supportive services and nutrition services in meeting the needs of older individuals; use available resources efficiently and with a minimum of duplication; and encourage and assist public and private entities that have unrealized potential for meeting the service needs of older individuals to assist the older individuals on a voluntary basis. The term “education and training service” means a supportive service designed to assist older individuals to better cope with their economic, health, and personal needs through services such as consumer education, continuing education, health education, pre­retirement education, financial planning, and other education and training services which will advance the objectives of this chapter. The term “family caregiver” means an adult family member, or another individual, who is an informal provider of in-home and community care to an older individual or to an individual of any age with Alzheimer’s disease or a related disorder with neurological and organic brain dysfunction. The term “unit of general purpose local government” means— a political subdivision of the State whose authority is general and not limited to only one function or combination of related functions; or an Indian tribal organization. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title III, § 302 , as added Pub. L. 95–478, title I, § 103(b) , Oct. 18, 1978 , 92 Stat. 1517 ; amended Pub. L. 97–115, § 3(b) , (d), Dec. 29, 1981 , 95 Stat. 1596 , 1597; Pub. L. 98–459, title III, § 302 , Oct. 9, 1984 , 98 Stat. 1771 ; Pub. L. 100–175, title I , §§ 136(a)(2), 144(a), 182(b)(2), (e)(1), Nov. 29, 1987 , 101 Stat. 943 , 948, 964; Pub. L. 102–375, title I, § 102(b)(3) , title III, § 302, Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1201 , 1220; Pub. L. 103–171, § 2(7) , Dec. 2, 1993 , 107 Stat. 1988 ; Pub. L. 109–365, title III, § 302 , Oct. 17, 2006 , 120 Stat. 2538 ; Pub. L. 116–131, title II, § 202(1) , Mar. 25, 2020 , 134 Stat. 254 .)

§ 3023 Authorization of appropriations; uses of funds

(a) There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out part B (relating to supportive services) $412,029,180forfiscalyear2020,$436,750,931 for fiscal year 2021, $462,955,987forfiscalyear2022,$490,733,346 for fiscal year 2023, and $520,177,347 for fiscal year 2024. Funds appropriated under paragraph (1) shall be available to carry out section 3058g of this title .

(b) There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out subpart I of part C (relating to congregate nutrition services) $530,015,940forfiscalyear2020,$561,816,896 for fiscal year 2021, $595,525,910forfiscalyear2022,$631,257,465 for fiscal year 2023, and $669,132,913forfiscalyear2024.ThereareauthorizedtobeappropriatedtocarryoutsubpartIIofpartC(relatingtohomedeliverednutritionservices)$268,935,940 for fiscal year 2020, $285,072,096forfiscalyear2021,$302,176,422 for fiscal year 2022, $320,307,008forfiscalyear2023,and$339,525,428 for fiscal year 2024.

(c) Grants made under part B, and subparts I and II of part C, of this subchapter may be used for paying part of the cost of— the administration of area plans by area agencies on aging designated under section 3025(a)(2)(A) of this title , including the preparation of area plans on aging consistent with section 3026 of this title and the evaluation of activities carried out under such plans; and the development of comprehensive and coordinated systems for supportive services, and congregate and home delivered nutrition services under subparts I and II of part C, the development and operation of multipurpose senior centers, and the delivery of legal assistance.

(d) There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out part D (relating to disease prevention and health promotion services) $26,587,360forfiscalyear2020,$28,182,602 for fiscal year 2021, $29,873,558forfiscalyear2022,$31,665,971 for fiscal year 2023, and $33,565,929 for fiscal year 2024.

(e) There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out part E (relating to family caregiver support) $193,869,020forfiscalyear2020,$205,501,161 for fiscal year 2021, $217,831,231forfiscalyear2022,$230,901,105 for fiscal year 2023, and $244,755,171 for fiscal year 2024.

§ 3024 Allotment to States

(a) In general From the sums appropriated under subsections (a) through (d) of section 3023 of this title for each fiscal year, each State shall be allotted an amount which bears the same ratio to such sums as the population of older individuals in such State bears to the population of older individuals in all States. In determining the amounts allotted to States from the sums appropriated under section 3023 of this title for a fiscal year, the Assistant Secretary shall first determine the amount allotted to each State under paragraph (1) and then proportionately adjust such amounts, if necessary, to meet the requirements of paragraph (3). No State shall be allotted less than ½ of 1 percent of the sum appropriated for the fiscal year for which the determination is made. Guam and the United States Virgin Islands shall each be allotted not less than ¼ of 1 percent of the sum appropriated for the fiscal year for which the determination is made. American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands shall each be allotted not less than 1 ⁄ 16 of 1 percent of the sum appropriated for the fiscal year for which the determination is made. For the purposes of the exception contained in subparagraph (A) only, the term “State” does not include Guam, American Samoa, the United States Virgin Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. In this subparagraph and paragraph (5)— the term “allot” means allot under this subsection from a sum appropriated under section 3023(a) or 3023(b)(1) of this title, as the case may be; and the term “covered fiscal year” means any of fiscal years 2020 through 2029. If the sum appropriated under section 3023(a) or 3023(b)(1) of this title for a particular covered fiscal year is less than or equal to the sum appropriated under section 3023(a) or 3023(b)(1) of this title, respectively, for fiscal year 2019, amounts shall be allotted to States from the sum appropriated for the particular year in accordance with paragraphs (1) and (2), and subparagraphs (A) through (C) as applicable, but no State shall be allotted an amount that is less than— for fiscal year 2020, 99.75 percent of the State’s allotment from the corresponding sum appropriated for fiscal year 2019; for fiscal year 2021, 99.50 percent of that allotment; for fiscal year 2022, 99.25 percent of that allotment; for fiscal year 2023, 99.00 percent of that allotment; for fiscal year 2024, 98.75 percent of that allotment; for fiscal year 2025, 98.50 percent of that allotment; for fiscal year 2026, 98.25 percent of that allotment; for fiscal year 2027, 98.00 percent of that allotment; for fiscal year 2028, 97.75 percent of that allotment; and for fiscal year 2029, 97.50 percent of that allotment. If the sum appropriated under section 3023(a) or 3023(b)(1) of this title for a particular covered fiscal year is greater than the sum appropriated under section 3023(a) or 3023(b)(1) of this title, respectively, for fiscal year 2019, the allotments to States from the sum appropriated for the particular year shall be calculated as follows: From the portion equal to the corresponding sum appropriated for fiscal year 2019, amounts shall be allotted in accordance with paragraphs (1) and (2), and subparagraphs (A) through (C) as applicable, but no State shall be allotted an amount that is less than the percentage specified in clause (ii), for that particular year, of the State’s allotment from the corresponding sum appropriated for fiscal year 2019. From the remainder, amounts shall be allotted in accordance with paragraph (1), subparagraphs (A) through (C) as applicable, and paragraph (2) to the extent needed to meet the requirements of those subparagraphs. The number of individuals aged 60 or older in any State and in all States shall be determined by the Assistant Secretary on the basis of the most recent data available from the Bureau of the Census, and other reliable demographic data satisfactory to the Assistant Secretary. State allotments for a fiscal year under this section shall be proportionally reduced to the extent that appropriations may be insufficient to provide the full allotments as required by paragraph (3).

(b) Unused funds Whenever the Assistant Secretary determines that any amount allotted to a State under part B or C, or part E, for a fiscal year under this section will not be used by such State for carrying out the purpose for which the allotment was made, the Assistant Secretary shall make such allotment available for carrying out such purpose to one or more other States to the extent the Assistant Secretary determines that such other States will be able to use such additional amount for carrying out such purpose. Any amount made available to a State from an appropriation for a fiscal year in accordance with the preceding sentence shall, for purposes of this subchapter, be regarded as part of such State’s allotment (as determined under subsection (a)) for such year, but shall remain available until the end of the succeeding fiscal year.

(c) Withholding of funds; disbursement If the Assistant Secretary finds that any State has failed to qualify under the State plan requirements of section 3027 of this title or the Assistant Secretary does not approve the funding formula required under section 3025(a)(2)(C) of this title , the Assistant Secretary shall withhold the allotment of funds to such State referred to in subsection (a). The Assistant Secretary shall disburse the funds so withheld directly to any public or private nonprofit institution or organization, agency, or political subdivision of such State submitting an approved plan under section 3027 of this title , which includes an agreement that any such payment shall be matched in the proportion determined under subsection (d)(1)(D) for such State, by funds or in-kind resources from non-Federal sources.

(d) Costs of administration, ombudsman program, demonstration projects, supportive services, senior centers and nutrition services; payment and determination of non-Federal share From any State’s allotment, after the application of section 3028(b) of this title , under this section for any fiscal year— such amount as the State agency determines, but not more than 10 percent thereof, shall be available for paying such percentage as the agency determines, but not more than 75 percent, of the cost of administration of area plans; such amount as the State agency determines to be adequate for conducting an effective ombudsman program under section 3027(a)(9) of this title shall be available for conducting such program; not less than $150,000 and not more than 4 percent of the amount allotted to the State for carrying out part B, shall be available for conducting outreach demonstration projects under section 3058e of this title ; and the remainder of such allotment shall be available to such State only for paying such percentage as the State agency determines, but not more than 85 percent of the cost of supportive services, senior centers, and nutrition services under this subchapter provided in the State as part of a comprehensive and coordinated system in planning and service areas for which there is an area plan approved by the State agency. The non-Federal share shall be in cash or in kind. In determining the amount of the non-Federal share, the Assistant Secretary may attribute fair market value to services and facilities contributed from non-Federal sources.

§ 3025 Designation of State agencies

(a) Duties of designated agency In order for a State to be eligible to participate in programs of grants to States from allotments under this subchapter— the State shall, in accordance with regulations of the Assistant Secretary, designate a State agency as the sole State agency to— develop a State plan to be submitted to the Assistant Secretary for approval under section 3027 of this title ; administer the State plan within such State; be primarily responsible for the planning, policy development, administration, coordination, priority setting, and evaluation of all State activities related to the objectives of this chapter; serve as an effective and visible advocate for older individuals by reviewing and commenting upon all State plans, budgets, and policies which affect older individuals and providing technical assistance to any agency, organization, association, or individual representing the needs of older individuals; and divide the State into distinct planning and service areas (or in the case of a State specified in subsection (b)(5)(A), designate the entire State as a single planning and service area), in accordance with guidelines issued by the Assistant Secretary, after considering the geographical distribution of older individuals in the State, the incidence of the need for supportive services, nutrition services, multipurpose senior centers, and legal assistance, the distribution of older individuals who have greatest economic need (with particular attention to low-income older individuals, including low-income minority older individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and older individuals residing in rural areas) residing in such areas, the distribution of older individuals who have greatest social need (with particular attention to low-income older individuals, including low-income minority older individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and older individuals residing in rural areas) residing in such areas, the distribution of older individuals who are Indians residing in such areas, the distribution of resources available to provide such services or centers, the boundaries of existing areas within the State which were drawn for the planning or administration of supportive services programs, the location of units of general purpose local government within the State, and any other relevant factors; the State agency shall— except as provided in subsection (b)(5), designate for each such area after consideration of the views offered by the unit or units of general purpose local government in such area, a public or private nonprofit agency or organization as the area agency on aging for such area; provide assurances, satisfactory to the Assistant Secretary, that the State agency will take into account, in connection with matters of general policy arising in the development and administration of the State plan for any fiscal year, the views of recipients of supportive services or nutrition services, or individuals using multipurpose senior centers provided under such plan; in consultation with area agencies, in accordance with guidelines issued by the Assistant Secretary, and using the best available data, develop and publish for review and comment a formula for distribution within the State of funds received under this subchapter that takes into account— the geographical distribution of older individuals in the State; and the distribution among planning and service areas of older individuals with greatest economic need and older individuals with greatest social need, with particular attention to low-income minority older individuals; submit its formula developed under subparagraph (C) to the Assistant Secretary for approval; provide assurances that preference will be given to providing services to older individuals with greatest economic need and older individuals with greatest social need (with particular attention to low-income older individuals, including low-income minority older individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and older individuals residing in rural areas), and include proposed methods of carrying out the preference in the State plan; provide assurances that the State agency will require use of outreach efforts described in section 3027(a)(16) of this title ; and set specific objectives, in consultation with area agencies on aging, for each planning and service area for providing services funded under this subchapter to low-income minority older individuals and older individuals residing in rural areas; provide an assurance that the State agency will undertake specific program development, advocacy, and outreach efforts focused on the needs of low-income minority older individuals and older individuals residing in rural areas; and provide a description of the efforts described in clause (ii) that will be undertaken by the State agency; and the State agency shall, consistent with this section, promote the development and implementation of a State system of long-term care that is a comprehensive, coordinated system that enables older individuals to receive long-term care in home and community-based settings, in a manner responsive to the needs and preferences of the older individuals and their family caregivers, by— collaborating, coordinating, and consulting with other agencies in such State responsible for formulating, implementing, and administering programs, benefits, and services related to providing long-term care; participating in any State government activities concerning long-term care, including reviewing and commenting on any State rules, regulations, and policies related to long-term care; conducting analyses and making recommendations with respect to strategies for modifying the State system of long-term care to better— respond to the needs and preferences of older individuals and family caregivers; facilitate the provision, by service providers, of long-term care in home and community-based settings; and target services to individuals at risk for institutional placement, to permit such individuals to remain in home and community-based settings; implementing (through area agencies on aging, service providers, and such other entities as the State determines to be appropriate) evidence-based programs to assist older individuals and their family caregivers in learning about and making behavioral changes intended to reduce the risk of injury, disease, and disability among older individuals; and providing for the availability and distribution (through public education campaigns, Aging and Disability Resource Centers, area agencies on aging, and other appropriate means) of information relating to— the need to plan in advance for long-term care; and the full range of available public and private long-term care (including integrated long-term care) programs, options, service providers, and resources.

(b) Planning and service areas In carrying out the requirement of subsection (a)(1), the State may designate as a planning and service area any unit of general purpose local government which has a population of 100,000 or more. In any case in which a unit of general purpose local government makes application to the State agency under the preceding sentence to be designated as a planning and service area, the State agency shall, upon request, provide an opportunity for a hearing to such unit of general purpose local government. A State may designate as a planning and service area under subsection (a)(1), any region within the State recognized for purposes of areawide planning which includes one or more such units of general purpose local government when the State determines that the designation of such a regional planning and service area is necessary for, and will enhance, the effective administration of the programs authorized by this subchapter. The State may include in any planning and service area designated under subsection (a)(1) such additional areas adjacent to the unit of general purpose local government or regions so designated as the State determines to be necessary for, and will enhance the effective administration of the programs authorized by this subchapter. The State is encouraged in carrying out the requirement of subsection (a)(1) to include the area covered by the appropriate economic development district involved in any planning and service area designated under subsection (a)(1), and to include all portions of an Indian reservation within a single planning and service area, if feasible. The chief executive officer of each State in which a planning and service area crosses State boundaries, or in which an interstate Indian reservation is located, may apply to the Assistant Secretary to request redesignation as an interstate planning and service area comprising the entire metropolitan area or Indian reservation. If the Assistant Secretary approves such an application, the Assistant Secretary shall adjust the State allotments of the areas within the planning and service area in which the interstate planning and service area is established to reflect the number of older individuals within the area who will be served by an interstate planning and service area not within the State. Whenever a unit of general purpose local government, a region, a metropolitan area or an Indian reservation is denied designation under the provisions of subsection (a)(1), such unit of general purpose local government, region, metropolitan area, or Indian reservation may appeal the decision of the State agency to the Assistant Secretary. The Assistant Secretary shall afford such unit, region, metropolitan area, or Indian reservation an opportunity for a hearing. In carrying out the provisions of this paragraph, the Assistant Secretary may approve the decision of the State agency, disapprove the decision of the State agency and require the State agency to designate the unit, region, area, or Indian reservation appealing the decision as a planning and service area, or take such other action as the Assistant Secretary deems appropriate. A State which on or before October 1, 1980 , had designated, with the approval of the Assistant Secretary, a single planning and service area covering all of the older individuals in the State, in which the State agency was administering the area plan, may after that date designate one or more additional planning and service areas within the State to be administered by public or private nonprofit agencies or organizations as area agencies on aging, after considering the factors specified in subsection (a)(1)(E). The State agency shall continue to perform the functions of an area agency on aging for any area of the State not included in a planning and service area for which an area agency on aging has been designated. Whenever a State agency designates a new area agency on aging after October 9, 1984 , the State agency shall give the right to first refusal to a unit of general purpose local government if (i) such unit can meet the requirements of subsection (c), and (ii) the boundaries of such a unit and the boundaries of the area are reasonably contiguous. A State agency shall establish and follow appropriate procedures to provide due process to affected parties, if the State agency initiates an action or proceeding to— revoke the designation of the area agency on aging under subsection (a); designate an additional planning and service area in a State; divide the State into different planning and service areas; or otherwise affect the boundaries of the planning and service areas in the State. The procedures described in clause (i) shall include procedures for— providing notice of an action or proceeding described in clause (i); documenting the need for the action or proceeding; conducting a public hearing for the action or proceeding; involving area agencies on aging, service providers, and older individuals in the action or proceeding; and allowing an appeal of the decision of the State agency in the action or proceeding to the Assistant Secretary. An adversely affected party involved in an action or proceeding described in clause (i) may bring an appeal described in clause (ii)(V) on the basis of— the facts and merits of the matter that is the subject of the action or proceeding; or procedural grounds. In deciding an appeal described in clause (ii)(V), the Assistant Secretary may affirm or set aside the decision of the State agency. If the Assistant Secretary sets aside the decision, and the State agency has taken an action described in subclauses (I) through (III) of clause (i), the State agency shall nullify the action.

(c) Eligible State area agencies; development of area; preferred area agency on aging designees An area agency on aging designated under subsection (a) shall be— an established office of aging which is operating within a planning and service area designated under subsection (a); any office or agency of a unit of general purpose local government, which is designated to function only for the purpose of serving as an area agency on aging by the chief elected official of such unit; any office or agency designated by the appropriate chief elected officials of any combination of units of general purpose local government to act only on behalf of such combination for such purpose; any public or nonprofit private agency in a planning and service area, or any separate organizational unit within such agency, which is under the supervision or direction for this purpose of the designated State agency and which can and will engage only in the planning or provision of a broad range of supportive services, or nutrition services within such planning and service area; or in the case of a State specified in subsection (b)(5), the State agency; and shall provide assurance, determined adequate by the State agency, that the area agency on aging will have the ability to develop an area plan and to carry out, directly or through contractual or other arrangements, a program in accordance with the plan within the planning and service area. In designating an area agency on aging within the planning and service area or within any unit of general purpose local government designated as a planning and service area the State shall give preference to an established office on aging, unless the State agency finds that no such office within the planning and service area will have the capacity to carry out the area plan.

(d) Publication for review and comment; contents The publication for review and comment required by paragraph (2)(C) of subsection (a) shall include— a descriptive statement of the formula’s assumptions and goals, and the application of the definitions of greatest economic or social need, a numerical statement of the actual funding formula to be used, a listing of the population, economic, and social data to be used for each planning and service area in the State, and a demonstration of the allocation of funds, pursuant to the funding formula, to each planning and service area in the State.

§ 3026 Area plans

(a) Preparation and development by area agency on aging; requirements Each area agency on aging designated under section 3025(a)(2)(A) of this title shall, in order to be approved by the State agency, prepare and develop an area plan for a planning and service area for a two-, three-, or four-year period determined by the State agency, with such annual adjustments as may be necessary. Each such plan shall be based upon a uniform format for area plans within the State prepared in accordance with section 3027(a)(1) of this title . Each such plan shall— provide, through a comprehensive and coordinated system, for supportive services, nutrition services, and, where appropriate, for the establishment, maintenance, modernization, or construction of multipurpose senior centers (including a plan to use the skills and services of older individuals in paid and unpaid work, including multigenerational and older individual to older individual work), within the planning and service area covered by the plan, including determining the extent of need for supportive services, nutrition services, and multipurpose senior centers in such area (taking into consideration, among other things, the number of older individuals with low incomes residing in such area, the number of older individuals who have greatest economic need (with particular attention to low-income older individuals, including low-income minority older individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and older individuals residing in rural areas) residing in such area, the number of older individuals who have greatest social need (with particular attention to low-income older individuals, including low-income minority older individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and older individuals residing in rural areas) residing in such area, the number of older individuals at risk for institutional placement residing in such area, the number of older individuals at risk for institutional placement residing in such area, and the number of older individuals who are Indians residing in such area, and the efforts of voluntary organizations in the community), evaluating the effectiveness of the use of resources in meeting such need, and entering into agreements with providers of supportive services, nutrition services, or multipurpose senior centers in such area, for the provision of such services or centers to meet such need; provide assurances that an adequate proportion, as required under section 3027(a)(2) of this title , of the amount allotted for part B to the planning and service area will be expended for the delivery of each of the following categories of services— services associated with access to services (transportation, health services (including mental and behavioral health services), outreach, information and assistance (which may include information and assistance to consumers on availability of services under part B and how to receive benefits under and participate in publicly supported programs for which the consumer may be eligible), and case management services); in-home services, including supportive services for families of older individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders with neurological and organic brain dysfunction); 1 and legal assistance; and assurances that the area agency on aging will report annually to the State agency in detail the amount of funds expended for each such category during the fiscal year most recently concluded; designate, where feasible, a focal point for comprehensive service delivery in each community, giving special consideration to designating multipurpose senior centers (including multipurpose senior centers operated by organizations referred to in paragraph (6)(C)) as such focal point; and specify, in grants, contracts, and agreements implementing the plan, the identity of each focal point so designated; provide assurances that the area agency on aging will— set specific objectives, consistent with State policy, for providing services to older individuals with greatest economic need, older individuals with greatest social need, and older individuals at risk for institutional placement; include specific objectives for providing services to low-income minority older individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and older individuals residing in rural areas; and include proposed methods to achieve the objectives described in items (aa) and (bb) of subclause (I); provide assurances that the area agency on aging will include in each agreement made with a provider of any service under this subchapter, a requirement that such provider will— specify how the provider intends to satisfy the service needs of low-income minority individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and older individuals residing in rural areas in the area served by the provider; to the maximum extent feasible, provide services to low-income minority individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and older individuals residing in rural areas in accordance with their need for such services; and meet specific objectives established by the area agency on aging, for providing services to low-income minority individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and older individuals residing in rural areas within the planning and service area; and with respect to the fiscal year preceding the fiscal year for which such plan is prepared— identify the number of low-income minority older individuals in the planning and service area; describe the methods used to satisfy the service needs of such minority older individuals; and provide information on the extent to which the area agency on aging met the objectives described in clause (i); provide assurances that the area agency on aging will use outreach efforts that will— identify individuals eligible for assistance under this chapter, with special emphasis on— older individuals residing in rural areas; older individuals with greatest economic need (with particular attention to low-income minority individuals and older individuals residing in rural areas); older individuals with greatest social need (with particular attention to low-income minority individuals and older individuals residing in rural areas); older individuals with severe disabilities; older individuals with limited English proficiency; older individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders with neurological and organic brain dysfunction (and the caretakers of such individuals); and older individuals at risk for institutional placement, specifically including survivors of the Holocaust; and inform the older individuals referred to in subclauses (I) through (VII) of clause (i), and the caretakers of such individuals, of the availability of such assistance; and contain an assurance that the area agency on aging will ensure that each activity undertaken by the agency, including planning, advocacy, and systems development, will include a focus on the needs of low-income minority older individuals and older individuals residing in rural areas; provide assurances that the area agency on aging will coordinate planning, identification, assessment of needs, and provision of services for older individuals with disabilities, with particular attention to individuals with severe disabilities and individuals at risk for institutional placement, with agencies that develop or provide services for individuals with disabilities; provide that the area agency on aging will— take into account in connection with matters of general policy arising in the development and administration of the area plan, the views of recipients of services under such plan; serve as the advocate and focal point for older individuals within the community by (in cooperation with agencies, organizations, and individuals participating in activities under the plan) monitoring, evaluating, and commenting upon all policies, programs, hearings, levies, and community actions which will affect older individuals; where possible, enter into arrangements with organizations providing day care services for children, assistance to older individuals caring for relatives who are children, and respite for families, so as to provide opportunities for older individuals to aid or assist on a voluntary basis in the delivery of such services to children, adults, and families; if possible regarding the provision of services under this subchapter, enter into arrangements and coordinate with organizations that have a proven record of providing services to older individuals, that— were officially designated as community action agencies or community action programs under section 210 of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 ( 42 U.S.C. 2790 ) 2 for fiscal year 1981, and did not lose the designation as a result of failure to comply with such Act; or came into existence during fiscal year 1982 as direct successors in interest to such community action agencies or community action programs; and make use of trained volunteers in providing direct services delivered to older individuals and individuals with disabilities needing such services and, if possible, work in coordination with organizations that have experience in providing training, placement, and stipends for volunteers or participants (such as organizations carrying out Federal service programs administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service), in community service settings; and that meet the requirements under section 9910 of this title ; establish an advisory council consisting of older individuals (including minority individuals and older individuals residing in rural areas) who are participants or who are eligible to participate in programs assisted under this chapter, family caregivers of such individuals, representatives of older individuals, service providers, representatives of the business community, local elected officials, providers of veterans’ health care (if appropriate), and the general public, to advise continuously the area agency on aging on all matters relating to the development of the area plan, the administration of the plan and operations conducted under the plan; establish effective and efficient procedures for coordination of— entities conducting programs that receive assistance under this chapter within the planning and service area served by the agency; and entities conducting other Federal programs for older individuals at the local level, with particular emphasis on entities conducting programs described in section 3013(b) of this title , within the area; in coordination with the State agency and with the State agency responsible for mental and behavioral health services, increase public awareness of mental health disorders, remove barriers to diagnosis and treatment, and coordinate mental and behavioral health services (including mental health screenings) provided with funds expended by the area agency on aging with mental and behavioral health services provided by community health centers and by other public agencies and nonprofit private organizations; if there is a significant population of older individuals who are Indians in the planning and service area of the area agency on aging, the area agency on aging shall conduct outreach activities to identify such individuals in such area and shall inform such individuals of the availability of assistance under this chapter; in coordination with the State agency and with the State agency responsible for elder abuse prevention services, increase public awareness of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation, and remove barriers to education, prevention, investigation, and treatment of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation, as appropriate; and to the extent feasible, coordinate with the State agency to disseminate information about the State assistive technology entity and access to assistive technology options for serving older individuals; provide that the area agency on aging shall, consistent with this section, facilitate the area-wide development and implementation of a comprehensive, coordinated system for providing long-term care in home and community-based settings, in a manner responsive to the needs and preferences of older individuals and their family caregivers, by— collaborating, coordinating activities, and consulting with other local public and private agencies and organizations responsible for administering programs, benefits, and services related to providing long-term care; conducting analyses and making recommendations with respect to strategies for modifying the local system of long-term care to better— respond to the needs and preferences of older individuals and family caregivers; facilitate the provision, by service providers, of long-term care in home and community-based settings; and target services to older individuals at risk for institutional placement, to permit such individuals to remain in home and community-based settings; implementing, through the agency or service providers, evidence-based programs to assist older individuals and their family caregivers in learning about and making behavioral changes intended to reduce the risk of injury, disease, and disability among older individuals; and providing for the availability and distribution (through public education campaigns, Aging and Disability Resource Centers, the area agency on aging itself, and other appropriate means) of information relating to— the need to plan in advance for long-term care; and the full range of available public and private long-term care (including integrated long-term care) programs, options, service providers, and resources; provide that case management services provided under this subchapter through the area agency on aging will— not duplicate case management services provided through other Federal and State programs; be coordinated with services described in subparagraph (A); and be provided by a public agency or a nonprofit private agency that— gives each older individual seeking services under this subchapter a list of agencies that provide similar services within the jurisdiction of the area agency on aging; gives each individual described in clause (i) a statement specifying that the individual has a right to make an independent choice of service providers and documents receipt by such individual of such statement; has case managers acting as agents for the individuals receiving the services and not as promoters for the agency providing such services; or is located in a rural area and obtains a waiver of the requirements described in clauses (i) through (iii); provide assurances that— the area agency on aging, in carrying out the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman program under section 3027(a)(9) of this title , will expend not less than the total amount of funds appropriated under this chapter and expended by the agency in fiscal year 2019 in carrying out such a program under this subchapter; and funds made available to the area agency on aging pursuant to section 3058g of this title shall be used to supplement and not supplant other Federal, State, and local funds expended to support activities described in section 3058g of this title ; provide a grievance procedure for older individuals who are dissatisfied with or denied services under this subchapter; provide information and assurances concerning services to older individuals who are Native Americans (referred to in this paragraph as “older Native Americans”), including— information concerning whether there is a significant population of older Native Americans in the planning and service area and if so, an assurance that the area agency on aging will pursue activities, including outreach, to increase access of those older Native Americans to programs and benefits provided under this subchapter; an assurance that the area agency on aging will, to the maximum extent practicable, coordinate the services the agency provides under this subchapter with services provided under subchapter X; and an assurance that the area agency on aging will make services under the area plan available, to the same extent as such services are available to older individuals within the planning and service area, to older Native Americans; and 3 provide that the area agency on aging will establish procedures for coordination of services with entities conducting other Federal or federally assisted programs for older individuals at the local level, with particular emphasis on entities conducting programs described in section 3013(b) of this title within the planning and service area. 4 provide assurances that the area agency on aging will— maintain the integrity and public purpose of services provided, and service providers, under this subchapter in all contractual and commercial relationships; disclose to the Assistant Secretary and the State agency— the identity of each nongovernmental entity with which such agency has a contract or commercial relationship relating to providing any service to older individuals; and the nature of such contract or such relationship; demonstrate that a loss or diminution in the quantity or quality of the services provided, or to be provided, under this subchapter by such agency has not resulted and will not result from such contract or such relationship; demonstrate that the quantity or quality of the services to be provided under this subchapter by such agency will be enhanced as a result of such contract or such relationship; and on the request of the Assistant Secretary or the State, for the purpose of monitoring compliance with this chapter (including conducting an audit), disclose all sources and expenditures of funds such agency receives or expends to provide services to older individuals; provide assurances that preference in receiving services under this subchapter will not be given by the area agency on aging to particular older individuals as a result of a contract or commercial relationship that is not carried out to implement this subchapter; provide assurances that funds received under this subchapter will be used— to provide benefits and services to older individuals, giving priority to older individuals identified in paragraph (4)(A)(i); and in compliance with the assurances specified in paragraph (13) and the limitations specified in section 3020c of this title ; provide, to the extent feasible, for the furnishing of services under this chapter, consistent with self-directed care; include information detailing how the area agency on aging will coordinate activities, and develop long-range emergency preparedness plans, with local and State emergency response agencies, relief organizations, local and State governments, and any other institutions that have responsibility for disaster relief service delivery; provide assurances that the area agency on aging will collect data to determine— the services that are needed by older individuals whose needs were the focus of all centers funded under subchapter IV in fiscal year 2019; and the effectiveness of the programs, policies, and services provided by such area agency on aging in assisting such individuals; and provide assurances that the area agency on aging will use outreach efforts that will identify individuals eligible for assistance under this chapter, with special emphasis on those individuals whose needs were the focus of all centers funded under subchapter IV in fiscal year 2019.

(b) Assessment of preparation of area agencies An area agency on aging may include in the area plan an assessment of how prepared the area agency on aging and service providers in the planning and service area are for any anticipated change in the number of older individuals during the 10-year period following the fiscal year for which the plan is submitted. Such assessment may include— the projected change in the number of older individuals in the planning and service area; an analysis of how such change may affect such individuals, including individuals with low incomes, individuals with greatest economic need, minority older individuals, older individuals residing in rural areas, and older individuals with limited English proficiency; an analysis of how the programs, policies, and services provided by such area agency can be improved, and how resource levels can be adjusted to meet the needs of the changing population of older individuals in the planning and service area; and an analysis of how the change in the number of individuals age 85 and older in the planning and service area is expected to affect the need for supportive services. An area agency on aging, in cooperation with government officials, State agencies, tribal organizations, or local entities, may make recommendations to government officials in the planning and service area and the State, on actions determined by the area agency to build the capacity in the planning and service area to meet the needs of older individuals for— health and human services; land use; housing; transportation; public safety; workforce and economic development; recreation; education; civic engagement; emergency preparedness; protection from elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; assistive technology devices and services; and any other service as determined by such agency.

(c) Waiver of requirements Each State, in approving area agency on aging plans under this section, shall waive the requirement described in paragraph (2) of subsection (a) for any category of services described in such paragraph if the area agency on aging demonstrates to the State agency that services being furnished for such category in the area are sufficient to meet the need for such services in such area and had conducted a timely public hearing upon request.

(d) Transportation services; funds Subject to regulations prescribed by the Assistant Secretary, an area agency on aging designated under section 3025(a)(2)(A) of this title or, in areas of a State where no such agency has been designated, the State agency, may enter into agreements with agencies administering programs under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 [ 29 U.S.C. 701 et seq.], and titles XIX and XX of the Social Security Act [ 42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq., 1397 et seq.] for the purpose of developing and implementing plans for meeting the common need for transportation services of individuals receiving benefits under such Acts and older individuals participating in programs authorized by this subchapter. In accordance with an agreement entered into under paragraph (1), funds appropriated under this subchapter may be used to purchase transportation services for older individuals and may be pooled with funds made available for the provision of transportation services under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 [ 29 U.S.C. 701 et seq.], and titles XIX and XX of the Social Security Act [ 42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq., 1397 et seq.].

(e) Confidentiality of information relating to legal assistance An area agency on aging may not require any provider of legal assistance under this subchapter to reveal any information that is protected by the attorney-client privilege.

(f) Withholding of area funds If the head of a State agency finds that an area agency on aging has failed to comply with Federal or State laws, including the area plan requirements of this section, regulations, or policies, the State may withhold a portion of the funds to the area agency on aging available under this subchapter. The head of a State agency shall not make a final determination withholding funds under paragraph (1) without first affording the area agency on aging due process in accordance with procedures established by the State agency. At a minimum, such procedures shall include procedures for— providing notice of an action to withhold funds; providing documentation of the need for such action; and at the request of the area agency on aging, conducting a public hearing concerning the action. If a State agency withholds the funds, the State agency may use the funds withheld to directly administer programs under this subchapter in the planning and service area served by the area agency on aging for a period not to exceed 180 days, except as provided in subparagraph (B). If the State agency determines that the area agency on aging has not taken corrective action, or if the State agency does not approve the corrective action, during the 180-day period described in subparagraph (A), the State agency may extend the period for not more than 90 days.

(g) No restriction on provision of services Nothing in this chapter shall restrict an area agency on aging from providing services not provided or authorized by this chapter, including through— contracts with health care payers; consumer private pay programs; or other arrangements with entities or individuals that increase the availability of home- and community-based services and supports.

§ 3027 State plans

(a) Criteria for eligibility; contents Except as provided in the succeeding sentence and section 3029(a) of this title , each State, in order to be eligible for grants from its allotment under this subchapter for any fiscal year, shall submit to the Assistant Secretary a State plan for a two-, three-, or four-year period determined by the State agency, with such annual revisions as are necessary, which meets such criteria as the Assistant Secretary may by regulation prescribe. If the Assistant Secretary determines, in the discretion of the Assistant Secretary, that a State failed in 2 successive years to comply with the requirements under this subchapter, then the State shall submit to the Assistant Secretary a State plan for a 1-year period that meets such criteria, for subsequent years until the Assistant Secretary determines that the State is in compliance with such requirements. Each such plan shall comply with all of the following requirements: The plan shall— require each area agency on aging designated under section 3025(a)(2)(A) of this title to develop and submit to the State agency for approval, in accordance with a uniform format developed by the State agency, an area plan meeting the requirements of section 3026 of this title ; and be based on such area plans. The plan shall provide that the State agency will— evaluate, using uniform procedures described in section 3012(a)(26) of this title , the need for supportive services (including legal assistance pursuant to subsection (a)(11), information and assistance, and transportation services), nutrition services, and multipurpose senior centers within the State; develop a standardized process to determine the extent to which public or private programs and resources (including volunteers and programs and services of voluntary organizations) that have the capacity and actually meet such need; specify a minimum proportion of the funds received by each area agency on aging in the State to carry out part B that will be expended (in the absence of a waiver under section 3026(c) or 3030c–3 of this title) by such area agency on aging to provide each of the categories of services specified in section 3026(a)(2) of this title . The plan shall— include (and may not be approved unless the Assistant Secretary approves) the statement and demonstration required by paragraphs (2) and (4) of section 3025(d) of this title (concerning intrastate distribution of funds); and with respect to services for older individuals residing in rural areas— provide assurances that the State agency will spend for each fiscal year, not less than the amount expended for such services for fiscal year 2000; identify, for each fiscal year to which the plan applies, the projected costs of providing such services (including the cost of providing access to such services); and describe the methods used to meet the needs for such services in the fiscal year preceding the first year to which such plan applies. The plan shall provide that the State agency will conduct periodic evaluations of, and public hearings on, activities and projects carried out in the State under this subchapter and subchapter XI, including evaluations of the effectiveness of services provided to individuals with greatest economic need, greatest social need, or disabilities (with particular attention to low-income minority older individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and older individuals residing in rural areas). The plan shall provide that the State agency will— afford an opportunity for a hearing upon request, in accordance with published procedures, to any area agency on aging submitting a plan under this subchapter, to any provider of (or applicant to provide) services; issue guidelines applicable to grievance procedures required by section 3026(a)(10) of this title ; and afford an opportunity for a public hearing, upon request, by any area agency on aging, by any provider of (or applicant to provide) services, or by any recipient of services under this subchapter regarding any waiver request, including those under section 3030c–3 of this title . The plan shall provide that the State agency will make such reports, in such form, and containing such information, as the Assistant Secretary may require, and comply with such requirements as the Assistant Secretary may impose to insure the correctness of such reports. The plan shall provide satisfactory assurance that such fiscal control and fund accounting procedures will be adopted as may be necessary to assure proper disbursement of, and accounting for, Federal funds paid under this subchapter to the State, including any such funds paid to the recipients of a grant or contract. The plan shall provide assurances that— no individual (appointed or otherwise) involved in the designation of the State agency or an area agency on aging, or in the designation of the head of any subdivision of the State agency or of an area agency on aging, is subject to a conflict of interest prohibited under this chapter; no officer, employee, or other representative of the State agency or an area agency on aging is subject to a conflict of interest prohibited under this chapter; and mechanisms are in place to identify and remove conflicts of interest prohibited under this chapter. The plan shall provide that no supportive services, nutrition services, or in-home services will be directly provided by the State agency or an area agency on aging in the State, unless, in the judgment of the State agency— provision of such services by the State agency or the area agency on aging is necessary to assure an adequate supply of such services; such services are directly related to such State agency’s or area agency on aging’s administrative functions; or such services can be provided more economically, and with comparable quality, by such State agency or area agency on aging. Regarding case management services, if the State agency or area agency on aging is already providing case management services (as of the date of submission of the plan) under a State program, the plan may specify that such agency is allowed to continue to provide case management services. The plan may specify that an area agency on aging is allowed to directly provide information and assistance services and outreach. The plan shall provide assurances that— the State agency will carry out, through the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman, a State Long-Term Care Ombudsman program in accordance with section 3058g of this title and this subchapter, and will expend for such purpose an amount that is not less than the amount expended by the State agency with funds received under this subchapter for fiscal year 2019, and an amount that is not less than the amount expended by the State agency with funds received under subchapter VII for fiscal year 2019; and funds made available to the State agency pursuant to section 3058g of this title shall be used to supplement and not supplant other Federal, State, and local funds expended to support activities described in section 3058g of this title . The plan shall provide assurances that the special needs of older individuals residing in rural areas will be taken into consideration and shall describe how those needs have been met and describe how funds have been allocated to meet those needs. The plan shall provide that with respect to legal assistance— the plan contains assurances that area agencies on aging will (i) enter into contracts with providers of legal assistance which can demonstrate the experience or capacity to deliver legal assistance; (ii) include in any such contract provisions to assure that any recipient of funds under division (i) will be subject to specific restrictions and regulations promulgated under the Legal Services Corporation Act [ 42 U.S.C. 2996 et seq.] (other than restrictions and regulations governing eligibility for legal assistance under such Act and governing membership of local governing boards) as determined appropriate by the Assistant Secretary; and (iii) attempt to involve the private bar in legal assistance activities authorized under this subchapter, including groups within the private bar furnishing services to older individuals on a pro bono and reduced fee basis; the plan contains assurances that no legal assistance will be furnished unless the grantee administers a program designed to provide legal assistance to older individuals with social or economic need and has agreed, if the grantee is not a Legal Services Corporation project grantee, to coordinate its services with existing Legal Services Corporation projects in the planning and service area in order to concentrate the use of funds provided under this subchapter on individuals with the greatest such need; and the area agency on aging makes a finding, after assessment, pursuant to standards for service promulgated by the Assistant Secretary, that any grantee selected is the entity best able to provide the particular services; the State agency will provide for the coordination of the furnishing of legal services to older individuals within the State, and provide advice and technical assistance in the provision of legal services to older individuals within the State and support the furnishing of training and technical assistance for legal services for older individuals; the plan contains assurances, to the extent practicable, that legal services furnished under the plan will be in addition to any legal services for older individuals being furnished with funds from sources other than this chapter and that reasonable efforts will be made to maintain existing levels of legal services for older individuals; and the plan contains assurances that area agencies on aging will give priority to legal assistance related to income, health care, long-term care, nutrition, housing, utilities, protective services, defense of guardianship, abuse, neglect, and age discrimination. The plan shall provide, whenever the State desires to provide for a fiscal year for services for the prevention of abuse of older individuals— the plan contains assurances that any area agency on aging carrying out such services will conduct a program consistent with relevant State law and coordinated with existing State adult protective service activities for— public education to identify and prevent abuse of older individuals; receipt of reports of abuse of older individuals; active participation of older individuals participating in programs under this chapter through outreach, conferences, and referral of such individuals to other social service agencies or sources of assistance where appropriate and consented to by the parties to be referred; and referral of complaints to law enforcement or public protective service agencies where appropriate; the State will not permit involuntary or coerced participation in the program of services described in this paragraph by alleged victims, abusers, or their households; and all information gathered in the course of receiving reports and making referrals shall remain confidential unless all parties to the complaint consent in writing to the release of such information, except that such information may be released to a law enforcement or public protective service agency. The plan shall provide assurances that each State will assign personnel (one of whom shall be known as a legal assistance developer) to provide State leadership in developing legal assistance programs for older individuals throughout the State. The plan shall, with respect to the fiscal year preceding the fiscal year for which such plan is prepared— identify the number of low-income minority older individuals in the State, including the number of low-income minority older individuals with limited English proficiency; and describe the methods used to satisfy the service needs of the low-income minority older individuals described in subparagraph (A), including the plan to meet the needs of low-income minority older individuals with limited English proficiency. The plan shall provide assurances that, if a substantial number of the older individuals residing in any planning and service area in the State are of limited English-speaking ability, then the State will require the area agency on aging for each such planning and service area— to utilize, in the delivery of outreach services under section 3026(a)(2)(A) of this title , the services of workers who are fluent in the language spoken by a predominant number of such older individuals who are of limited English-speaking ability; and to designate an individual employed by the area agency on aging, or available to such area agency on aging on a full-time basis, whose responsibilities will include— taking such action as may be appropriate to assure that counseling assistance is made available to such older individuals who are of limited English-speaking ability in order to assist such older individuals in participating in programs and receiving assistance under this chapter; and providing guidance to individuals engaged in the delivery of supportive services under the area plan involved to enable such individuals to be aware of cultural sensitivities and to take into account effectively linguistic and cultural differences. The plan shall provide assurances that the State agency will require outreach efforts that will— identify individuals eligible for assistance under this chapter, with special emphasis on— older individuals residing in rural areas; older individuals with greatest economic need (with particular attention to low-income older individuals, including low-income minority older individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and older individuals residing in rural areas); older individuals with greatest social need (with particular attention to low-income older individuals, including low-income minority older individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and older individuals residing in rural areas); older individuals with severe disabilities; older individuals with limited English-speaking ability; and older individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders with neurological and organic brain dysfunction (and the caretakers of such individuals); and inform the older individuals referred to in clauses (i) through (vi) of subparagraph (A), and the caretakers of such individuals, of the availability of such assistance. The plan shall provide, with respect to the needs of older individuals with severe disabilities, assurances that the State will coordinate planning, identification, assessment of needs, and service for older individuals with disabilities with particular attention to individuals with severe disabilities with the State agencies with primary responsibility for individuals with disabilities, including severe disabilities, to enhance services and develop collaborative programs, where appropriate, to meet the needs of older individuals with disabilities. The plan shall provide assurances that area agencies on aging will conduct efforts to facilitate the coordination of community-based, long-term care services, pursuant to section 3026(a)(7) of this title , for older individuals who— reside at home and are at risk of institutionalization because of limitations on their ability to function independently; are patients in hospitals and are at risk of prolonged institutionalization; or are patients in long-term care facilities, but who can return to their homes if community-based services are provided to them. The plan shall include the assurances and description required by section 3058d(a) of this title . The plan shall provide assurances that special efforts will be made to provide technical assistance to minority providers of services. The plan shall— provide an assurance that the State agency will coordinate programs under this subchapter and programs under subchapter X, if applicable; and provide an assurance that the State agency will pursue activities to increase access by older individuals who are Native Americans to all aging programs and benefits provided by the agency, including programs and benefits provided under this subchapter, if applicable, and specify the ways in which the State agency intends to implement the activities. If case management services are offered to provide access to supportive services, the plan shall provide that the State agency shall ensure compliance with the requirements specified in section 3026(a)(8) of this title . The plan shall provide assurances that demonstrable efforts will be made— to coordinate services provided under this chapter with other State services that benefit older individuals; and to provide multigenerational activities, such as opportunities for older individuals to serve as mentors or advisers in child care, youth day care, educational assistance, at-risk youth intervention, juvenile delinquency treatment, and family support programs. The plan shall provide assurances that the State will coordinate public services within the State to assist older individuals to obtain transportation services associated with access to services provided under this subchapter, to services under subchapter X, to comprehensive counseling services, and to legal assistance. The plan shall include assurances that the State has in effect a mechanism to provide for quality in the provision of in-home services under this subchapter. The plan shall provide assurances that area agencies on aging will provide, to the extent feasible, for the furnishing of services under this chapter, consistent with self-directed care. The plan shall include, at the election of the State, an assessment of how prepared the State is, under the State’s statewide service delivery model, for any anticipated change in the number of older individuals during the 10-year period following the fiscal year for which the plan is submitted. Such assessment may include— the projected change in the number of older individuals in the State; an analysis of how such change may affect such individuals, including individuals with low incomes, individuals with greatest economic need, minority older individuals, older individuals residing in rural areas, and older individuals with limited English proficiency; an analysis of how the programs, policies, and services provided by the State can be improved, including coordinating with area agencies on aging, and how resource levels can be adjusted to meet the needs of the changing population of older individuals in the State; and an analysis of how the change in the number of individuals age 85 and older in the State is expected to affect the need for supportive services. The plan shall include information detailing how the State will coordinate activities, and develop long-range emergency preparedness plans, with area agencies on aging, local emergency response agencies, relief organizations, local governments, State agencies responsible for emergency preparedness, and any other institutions that have responsibility for disaster relief service delivery. The plan shall include information describing the involvement of the head of the State agency in the development, revision, and implementation of emergency preparedness plans, including the State Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan. The plan shall contain an assurance that the State shall prepare and submit to the Assistant Secretary annual reports that describe— data collected to determine the services that are needed by older individuals whose needs were the focus of all centers funded under subchapter IV in fiscal year 2019; data collected to determine the effectiveness of the programs, policies, and services provided by area agencies on aging in assisting such individuals; and outreach efforts and other activities carried out to satisfy the assurances described in paragraphs (18) and (19) of section 3026(a) of this title .

(b) Approval by Assistant Secretary; waiver of requirements The Assistant Secretary shall approve any State plan which the Assistant Secretary finds fulfills the requirements of subsection (a), except the Assistant Secretary may not approve such plan unless the Assistant Secretary determines that the formula submitted under section 3025(a)(2)(D) of this title complies with the guidelines in effect under section 3025(a)(2)(C) of this title . The Assistant Secretary, in approving any State plan under this section, may waive the requirement described in paragraph (3)(B) of subsection (a) if the State agency demonstrates to the Assistant Secretary that the service needs of older individuals residing in rural areas in the State are being met, or that the number of older individuals residing in such rural areas is not sufficient to require the State agency to comply with such requirement.

(c) Notice and hearing prior to disapproval The Assistant Secretary shall not make a final determination disapproving any State plan, or any modification thereof, or make a final determination that a State is ineligible under section 3025 of this title , without first affording the State reasonable notice and opportunity for a hearing. Not later than 30 days after such final determination, a State dissatisfied with such final determination may appeal such final determination to the Secretary for review. If the State timely appeals such final determination in accordance with subsection (e)(1), the Secretary shall dismiss the appeal filed under this paragraph. If the State is dissatisfied with the decision of the Secretary after review under paragraph (2), the State may appeal such decision not later than 30 days after such decision and in the manner described in subsection (e). For purposes of appellate review under the preceding sentence, a reference in subsection (e) to the Assistant Secretary shall be deemed to be a reference to the Secretary.

(d) Discontinuance of payments; disbursement of withheld funds to agencies with approved plans; matching funds Whenever the Assistant Secretary, after reasonable notice and opportunity for a hearing to the State agency, finds that— the State is not eligible under section 3025 of this title , the State plan has been so changed that it no longer complies substantially with the provisions of subsection (a), or in the administration of the plan there is a failure to comply substantially with any such provision of subsection (a), the Assistant Secretary shall notify such State agency that no further payments from its allotments under section 3024 of this title and section 3028 of this title will be made to the State (or, in the Assistant Secretary’s discretion, that further payments to the State will be limited to projects under or portions of the State plan not affected by such failure), until the Assistant Secretary is satisfied that there will no longer be any failure to comply. Until the Assistant Secretary is so satisfied, no further payments shall be made to such State from its allotments under section 3024 of this title and section 3028 of this title (or payments shall be limited to projects under or portions of the State plan not affected by such failure). The Assistant Secretary shall, in accordance with regulations the Assistant Secretary shall prescribe, disburse the funds so withheld directly to any public or nonprofit private organization or agency or political subdivision of such State submitting an approved plan in accordance with the provisions of this section. Any such payment shall be matched in the proportions specified in section 3024 of this title .

(e) Appeal A State which is dissatisfied with a final action of the Assistant Secretary under subsection (b), (c), or (d) may appeal to the United States court of appeals for the circuit in which the State is located, by filing a petition with such court within 30 days after such final action. A copy of the petition shall be forthwith transmitted by the clerk of the court to the Assistant Secretary, or any officer designated by the Assistant Secretary for such purpose. The Assistant Secretary thereupon shall file in the court the record of the proceedings on which the Assistant Secretary’s action is based, as provided in section 2112 of title 28 . Upon the filing of such petition, the court shall have jurisdiction to affirm the action of the Assistant Secretary or to set it aside, in whole or in part, temporarily or permanently, but until the filing of the record, the Assistant Secretary may modify or set aside the Assistant Secretary’s order. The findings of the Assistant Secretary as to the facts, if supported by substantial evidence, shall be conclusive, but the court, for good cause shown, may remand the case to the Assistant Secretary to take further evidence, and the Assistant Secretary shall, within 30 days, file in the court the record of those further proceedings. Such new or modified findings of fact shall likewise be conclusive if supported by substantial evidence. The judgment of the court affirming or setting aside, in whole or in part, any action of the Assistant Secretary shall be final, subject to review by the Supreme Court of the United States upon certiorari or certification as provided in section 1254 of title 28 . The commencement of proceedings under this subsection shall not, unless so specifically ordered by the court, operate as a stay of the Assistant Secretary’s action.

(f) Confidentiality of information relating to legal assistance Neither a State, nor a State agency, may require any provider of legal assistance under this subchapter to reveal any information that is protected by the attorney-client privilege.

§ 3028 Cost of administration of State plans

(a) Activities constituting administration; use of excess funds to supplement cost of administration of area plans; election to pay costs from sums received for administration of area plans Amounts available to States under subsection (b) may be used to make grants to States for paying such percentages as each State agency determines, but not more than 75 percent, of the cost of the administration of its State plan, including the preparation of the State plan, the evaluation of activities carried out under such plan, the collection of data and the carrying out of analyses related to the need for supportive services, nutrition services, and multipurpose senior centers within the State, and dissemination of information so obtained, the provision of short-term training to personnel of public or nonprofit private agencies and organizations engaged in the operation of programs authorized by this chapter, and the carrying out of demonstration projects of statewide significance relating to the initiation, expansion, or improvement of services assisted under this subchapter. Any sums available to a State under subsection (b) for part of the cost of the administration of its State plan which the State determines is not needed for such purpose may be used by the State to supplement the amount available under section 3024(d)(1)(A) of this title to cover part of the cost of the administration of area plans. Any State which has been designated a single planning and service area under section 3025(a)(1)(E) of this title covering all, or substantially all, of the older individuals in such State, as determined by the Assistant Secretary, may elect to pay part of the costs of the administration of State and area plans either out of sums received under this section of out of sums made available for the administration of area plans under section 3024(d)(1)(A) of this title , but shall not pay such costs out of sums received or allotted under both such sections.

(b) Formula for computation of allotment; application for additional funds; approval of application by Assistant Secretary; limitation on amount of additional funds; transfer of funds If for any fiscal year the aggregate amount appropriated under section 3023 of this title does not exceed $800,000,000,then—exceptasprovidedinsubparagraph(B),thegreaterof—5percentofthetotalamountoftheallotmentsmadetoaStateundersections3024(a)(1)and3030s–1(f)ofthistitle;or$300,000; and in the case of Guam, American Samoa, the United States Virgin Islands, the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the greater of 5 percent of such total amount or $75,000;shallbeavailabletosuchStatetocarryoutthepurposesofthissection.Ifforanyfiscalyeartheaggregateamountappropriatedundersection3023ofthistitleexceeds$800,000,000, then— except as provided in subparagraph (B), the greater of— 5 percent of the total amount of the allotments made to a State under sections 3024(a)(1) and 3030s–1(f) of this title; or $750,000;andinthecaseofGuam,AmericanSamoa,theUnitedStatesVirginIslands,theTrustTerritoryofthePacificIslands,andtheCommonwealthoftheNorthernMarianaIslands,thegreaterof5percentofsuchtotalamountor$100,000; shall be available to such State to carry out the purposes of this section. If the aggregate amount appropriated under section 3023 of this title for a fiscal year does not exceed $800,000,000, then any State which desires to receive amounts, in addition to amounts allotted to such State under paragraph (1), to be used in the administration of its State plan in accordance with subsection (a) may transmit an application to the Assistant Secretary in accordance with this paragraph. Any such application shall be transmitted in such form, and according to such procedures, as the Assistant Secretary may require, except that such application may not be made as part of, or as an amendment to, the State plan. The Assistant Secretary may approve any application transmitted by a State under subparagraph (A) if the Assistant Secretary determines, based upon a particularized showing of need, that— the State will be unable to fully and effectively administer its State plan and to carry out programs and projects authorized by this subchapter unless such additional amounts are made available by the Assistant Secretary; the State is making full and effective use of its allotment under paragraph (1) and of the personnel of the State agency and area agencies designated under section 3025(a)(2)(A) of this title in the administration of its State plan in accordance with subsection (a); and the State agency and area agencies on aging of such State are carrying out, on a full-time basis, programs and activities which are in furtherance of the objectives of this chapter. The Assistant Secretary may approve that portion of the amount requested by a State in its application under subparagraph (A) which the Assistant Secretary determines has been justified in such application. Amounts which any State may receive in any fiscal year under this paragraph may not exceed three-fourths of 1 percent of the sum of the amounts allotted under section 3024(a) of this title to such State to carry out the State plan for such fiscal year. No application by a State under subparagraph (A) shall be approved unless it contains assurances that no amounts received by the State under this paragraph will be used to hire any individual to fill a job opening created by the action of the State in laying off or terminating the employment of any regular employee not supported under this chapter in anticipation of filling the vacancy so created by hiring an employee to be supported through use of amounts received under this paragraph. Notwithstanding any other provision of this subchapter and except as provided in subparagraph (B), with respect to funds received by a State and attributable to funds appropriated under paragraph (1) or (2) of section 3023(b) of this title , the State may elect to transfer not more than 40 percent of the funds so received between subpart I and subpart II of part C, for use as the State considers appropriate to meet the needs of the area served. The Assistant Secretary shall approve any such transfer unless the Assistant Secretary determines that such transfer is not consistent with the objectives of this chapter. If a State demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the Assistant Secretary, that funds received by the State and attributable to funds appropriated under paragraph (1) or (2) of section 3023(b) of this title , including funds transferred under subparagraph (A) without regard to this subparagraph, for any fiscal year are insufficient to satisfy the need for services under subpart I or subpart II of part C, then the Assistant Secretary may grant a waiver that permits the State to transfer under subparagraph (A) to satisfy such need an additional 10 percent of the funds so received by a State and attributable to funds appropriated under paragraph (1) or (2) of section 3023(b) of this title . A State’s request for a waiver under subparagraph (B) shall— be not more than one page in length; include a request that the waiver be granted; specify the amount of the funds received by a State and attributable to funds appropriated under paragraph (1) or (2) of section 3023(b) of this title , over the permissible 40 percent referred to in subparagraph (A), that the State requires to satisfy the need for services under subpart I or II of part C; and not include a request for a waiver with respect to an amount if the transfer of the amount would jeopardize the appropriate provision of services under subpart I or II of part C. The State, in consultation with area agencies on aging, shall ensure the process used by the State in transferring funds under this paragraph (including requirements relating to the authority and timing of such transfers) is simplified and clarified to reduce administrative barriers and direct limited resources to the greatest nutrition service needs at the community level. Such process shall be modified to attempt to lessen the administrative barriers of such transfers, and help direct limited resources to where they are needed the most as the unmet need for nutrition services grows. Notwithstanding any other provision of this subchapter, of the funds received by a State attributable to funds appropriated under subsection (a)(1), and paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (b), of section 3023 of this title , the State may elect to transfer not more than 30 percent for any fiscal year between programs under part B and part C, for use as the State considers appropriate. The State shall notify the Assistant Secretary of any such election. At a minimum, the notification described in subparagraph (A) shall include a description of the amount to be transferred, the purposes of the transfer, the need for the transfer, and the impact of the transfer on the provision of services from which the funding will be transferred. A State agency may not delegate to an area agency on aging or any other entity the authority to make a transfer under paragraph (4)(A) or (5)(A). The Assistant Secretary shall annually collect, and include in the report required by section 3018(a) of this title , data regarding the transfers described in paragraphs (4)(A) and (5)(A), including— the amount of funds involved in the transfers, analyzed by State; the rationales for the transfers; in the case of transfers described in paragraphs (4)(A) and (5)(A), the effect of the transfers of the provision of services, including the effect on the number of meals served, under— subpart I of part C; and subpart II of part C; and in the case of transfers described in paragraph (5)(A)— in the case of transfers to part B, information on the supportive services, or services provided through senior centers, for which the transfers were used; and the effect of the transfers on the provision of services provided under— part B; and part C, including the effect on the number of meals served. The Assistant Secretary shall review the reports submitted under section 3027(a)(30) of this title and include aggregate data in the report required by section 3018(a) of this title , including data on— the effectiveness of the programs, policies, and services provided by area agencies on aging in assisting older individuals whose needs were the focus of all centers funded under subchapter IV in fiscal year 2019; and outreach efforts and other activities carried out to satisfy the assurances described in paragraphs (18) and (19) of section 3026(a) of this title , to identify such older individuals and their service needs.

(c) Availability of funds under this section to provide services under parts B and C The amounts of any State’s allotment under subsection (b) for any fiscal year which the Assistant Secretary determines will not be required for that year for the purposes described in subsection (a)(1) shall be available to provide services under part B or part C, or both, in the State.

§ 3029 Payments of grants or contracts

(a) Advances or reimbursement; installments; assistance in development of State plan Payments of grants or contracts under this subchapter may be made (after necessary adjustments resulting from previously made overpayments or underpayments) in advance or by way of reimbursement, and in such installments, as the Assistant Secretary may determine. From a State’s allotment for a fiscal year which is available under section 3028 of this title the Assistant Secretary may pay to a State which does not have a State plan approved under section 3027 of this title such amounts as the Assistant Secretary deems appropriate for the purpose of assisting such State in developing a State plan.

(b) Matching funds; percentage limitation For each fiscal year, not less than 25 percent of the non-Federal share of the total expenditures under the State plan which is required by section 3024(d) of this title shall be met from funds from State or local public sources. Funds required to meet the non-Federal share required by section 3024(d)(1)(D) of this title , in amounts exceeding 10 percent of the cost of the services specified in such section 3024(d)(1)(D) of this title , shall be met from State sources.

(c) Reduction of State allotment A State’s allotment under section 3024 of this title for a fiscal year shall be reduced by the percentage (if any) by which its expenditures for such year from State sources under its State plan approved under section 3027 of this title are less than its average annual expenditures from such sources for the period of 3 fiscal years preceding such year.

§ 3030 Disaster relief reimbursements

(a) Application; limitations The Assistant Secretary may provide reimbursements to any State (or to any tribal organization receiving a grant under subchapter X), upon application for such reimbursement, for funds such State makes available to area agencies on aging in such State (or funds used by such tribal organization) for the delivery of supportive services (and related supplies) during any major disaster declared by the President in accordance with the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act [ 42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.]. Total payments to all States and such tribal organizations under paragraph (1) in any fiscal year shall not exceed 2 percent of the total amount appropriated and available to carry out subchapter IV. If the Assistant Secretary decides, in the 5-day period beginning on the date such disaster is declared by the President, to provide an amount of reimbursement under paragraph (1) to a State or such tribal organization, then the Assistant Secretary shall provide not less than 75 percent of such amount to such State or such tribal organization not later than 5 days after the date of such decision.

(b) Setting aside of funds by Assistant Secretary At the beginning of each fiscal year the Assistant Secretary shall set aside, for payment to States and such tribal organizations under subsection (a), an amount equal to 2 percent of the total amount appropriated and available to carry out subchapter IV. Amounts set aside under paragraph (1) which are not obligated by the end of the third quarter of any fiscal year shall be made available to carry out subchapter IV.

(c) Effect on other laws Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit expenditures by States and such tribal organizations for disaster relief for older individuals in excess of amounts reimbursable under this section, by using funds made available to them under other sections of this chapter or under other provisions of Federal or State law, or from private sources.

§ 3030a Nutrition services incentive program

(a) Purpose The purpose of this section is to provide incentives to encourage and reward effective performance by States and tribal organizations in the efficient delivery of nutritious meals to older individuals.

(b) Allotment and provision and payment The Secretary shall allot and provide, in accordance with this section, to or on behalf of each State agency with a plan approved under this subchapter for a fiscal year, and to or on behalf of each grantee with an application approved under subchapter X for such fiscal year, an amount bearing the same ratio to the total amount appropriated for such fiscal year under subsection (e) as the number of meals served in the State under such plan approved for the preceding fiscal year (or the number of meals served by the title VI [subchapter X] grantee, under such application approved for such preceding fiscal year), bears to the total number of such meals served in all States and by all title VI [subchapter X] grantees under all such plans and applications approved for such preceding fiscal year. For purposes of paragraph (1), in the case of a grantee that has an application approved under subchapter X for a fiscal year but that did not receive assistance under this section for the preceding fiscal year, the number of meals served by the title VI [subchapter X] grantee for the preceding fiscal year shall be deemed to equal the number of meals that the Assistant Secretary estimates will be served by the title VI [subchapter X] grantee in the fiscal year for which the application was approved.

(c) Donation of products Agricultural commodities (including bonus commodities) and products purchased by the Secretary of Agriculture under section 612c of title 7 , shall be donated to a recipient of a grant or contract to be used for providing nutrition services in accordance with the provisions of this subchapter. The Commodity Credit Corporation shall dispose of food commodities (including bonus commodities) under section 1431 of title 7 by donating them to a recipient of a grant or contract to be used for providing nutrition services in accordance with the provisions of this subchapter. Dairy products (including bonus commodities) purchased by the Secretary of Agriculture under section 1446a–1 of title 7 shall be used to meet the requirements of programs providing nutrition services in accordance with the provisions of this subchapter. Among the commodities provided under this subsection, the Secretary of Agriculture shall give special emphasis to foods of high nutritional value to support the health of older individuals. The Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Assistant Secretary, is authorized to prescribe the terms and conditions respecting the provision of commodities under this subsection.

(d) Option to obtain commodities from Secretary of Agriculture Each State agency and each title VI [subchapter X] grantee shall be entitled to use all or any part of amounts allotted under subsection (b) to obtain, subject to paragraphs (2) and (3), from the Secretary of Agriculture commodities available through any food program of the Department of Agriculture at the rates at which such commodities are valued for purposes of such program. The Secretary of Agriculture shall determine and report to the Secretary, by such date as the Secretary may require, the amount (if any) of its allotment under subsection (b) which each State agency and title VI [subchapter X] grantee has elected to receive in the form of commodities. Such amount shall include an amount bearing the same ratio to the costs to the Secretary of Agriculture of providing such commodities under this subsection as the value of commodities received by such State agency or title VI [subchapter X] grantee under this subsection bears to the total value of commodities so received. From the allotment under subsection (b) for each State agency and title VI [subchapter X] grantee, the Secretary shall transfer funds to the Secretary of Agriculture for the costs of commodities received by such State agency or grantee, and expenses related to the procurement of the commodities on behalf of such State agency or grantee, under this subsection, and shall then pay the balance (if any) to such State agency or grantee. The amount of funds transferred for the expenses related to the procurement of the commodities shall be mutually agreed on by the Secretary and the Secretary of Agriculture. The transfer of funds for the costs of the commodities and the related expenses shall occur in a timely manner after the Secretary of Agriculture submits the corresponding report described in paragraph (2), and shall be subject to the availability of appropriations. Amounts received by the Secretary of Agriculture pursuant to this section to make commodity purchases for a fiscal year for a State agency or title VI [subchapter X] grantee shall remain available, only for the next fiscal year, to make commodity purchases for that State agency or grantee pursuant to this section. Each State agency and title VI [subchapter X] grantee shall promptly and equitably disburse amounts received under this subsection to recipients of grants and contracts. Such disbursements shall only be used by such recipients of grants or contracts to purchase domestically produced foods for their nutrition projects. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to require any State agency or title VI [subchapter X] grantee to elect to receive cash payments under this subsection.

(e) Authorization of appropriations There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section (other than subsection (c)(1)) $171,273,830forfiscalyear2020,$181,550,260 for fiscal year 2021, $192,443,275forfiscalyear2022,$203,989,872 for fiscal year 2023, and $216,229,264 for fiscal year 2024.

(f) Dissemination of information In each fiscal year, the Secretary and the Secretary of Agriculture shall jointly disseminate to State agencies, title VI [subchapter X] grantees, area agencies on aging, and providers of nutrition services assisted under this subchapter, information concerning the foods available to such State agencies, title VI [subchapter X] grantees, area agencies on aging, and providers under subsection (c).

§ 3030b Recapture of payments made for multipurpose senior centers

If, within 10 years after acquisition, or within 20 years after the completion of construction, of any facility for which funds have been paid under this subchapter— the owner of the facility ceases to be a public or nonprofit private agency or organization; or the facility ceases to be used for the purposes for which it was acquired (unless the Assistant Secretary determines, in accordance with regulations, that there is good cause for releasing the applicant or other owner from the obligation to do so); the United States shall be entitled to recover from the applicant or other owner of the facility an amount which bears to the then value of the facility (or so much thereof as constituted an approved project or projects) the same ratio as the amount of such Federal funds bore to the cost of the facility financed with the aid of such funds. Such value shall be determined by agreement of the parties or by action brought in the United States district court for the district in which such facility is situated. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title III, § 312 , as added Pub. L. 95–478, title I, § 103(b) , Oct. 18, 1978 , 92 Stat. 1534 ; amended Pub. L. 103–171, § 3(a)(13) , Dec. 2, 1993 , 107 Stat. 1990 .)

§ 3030c Audit; request for information

(a) The Assistant Secretary and the Comptroller General of the United States or any of their duly authorized representatives shall have access for the purpose of audit and examination to any books, documents, papers, and records that are pertinent to a grant or contract received under this subchapter.

(b) State agencies and area agencies on aging shall not request information or data from providers which is not pertinent to services furnished pursuant to this chapter or a payment made for such services.

§ 3030c–1 Rights relating to in-home services for frail older individuals

The Assistant Secretary shall require entities that provide in-home services under this subchapter to promote the rights of each older individual who receives such services. Such rights include the following: The right— to be fully informed in advance about each in-home service provided by such entity under this subchapter and about any change in such service that may affect the well-being of such individual; and to participate in planning and changing an in-home service provided under this subchapter by such entity unless such individual is judicially adjudged incompetent. The right to voice a grievance with respect to such service that is or fails to be so provided, without discrimination or reprisal as a result of voicing such grievance. The right to confidentiality of records relating to such individual. The right to have the property of such individual treated with respect. The right to be fully informed (orally and in writing), in advance of receiving an in-home service under this subchapter, of such individual’s rights and obligations under this subchapter. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title III, § 314 , as added Pub. L. 102–375, title III, § 311 , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1237 ; amended Pub. L. 103–171 , §§ 2(11), 3(a)(13), Dec. 2, 1993 , 107 Stat. 1989 , 1990.)

§ 3030c–2 Consumer contributions

(a) Cost sharing Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3), a State is permitted to implement cost sharing for all services funded by this chapter by recipients of the services. The State is not permitted to implement the cost sharing described in paragraph (1) for the following services: Information and assistance, outreach, benefits counseling, or case management services. Ombudsman, elder abuse prevention, legal assistance, or other consumer protection services. Congregate and home delivered meals. Any services delivered through tribal organizations. A State or tribal organization shall not permit the cost sharing described in paragraph (1) for any services delivered through tribal organizations. A State shall not permit cost sharing by a low-income older individual if the income of such individual is at or below the Federal poverty line. A State may exclude from cost sharing low-income individuals whose incomes are above the Federal poverty line. A State shall not consider any assets, savings, or other property owned by older individuals when defining low-income individuals who are exempt from cost sharing, when creating a sliding scale for the cost sharing, or when seeking contributions from any older individual. If a State permits the cost sharing described in paragraph (1), such State shall establish a sliding scale, based solely on individual income and the cost of delivering services. If a State permits the cost sharing described in paragraph (1), such State shall require each area agency on aging in the State to ensure that each service provider involved, and the area agency on aging, will— protect the privacy and confidentiality of each older individual with respect to the declaration or nondeclaration of individual income and to any share of costs paid or unpaid by an individual; establish appropriate procedures to safeguard and account for cost share payments; use each collected cost share payment to expand the service for which such payment was given; not consider assets, savings, or other property owned by an older individual in determining whether cost sharing is permitted; not deny any service for which funds are received under this chapter for an older individual due to the income of such individual or such individual’s failure to make a cost sharing payment; determine the eligibility of older individuals to cost share solely by a confidential declaration of income and with no requirement for verification; and widely distribute State created written materials in languages reflecting the reading abilities of older individuals that describe the criteria for cost sharing, the State’s sliding scale, and the mandate described under subparagraph (E). An area agency on aging may request a waiver to the State’s cost sharing policies, and the State shall approve such a waiver if the area agency on aging can adequately demonstrate that— a significant proportion of persons receiving services under this chapter subject to cost sharing in the planning and service area have incomes below the threshold established in State policy; or cost sharing would be an unreasonable administrative or financial burden upon the area agency on aging.

(b) Voluntary contributions Voluntary contributions shall be allowed and may be solicited for all services for which funds are received under this chapter if the method of solicitation is noncoercive. Such contributions shall be encouraged for individuals whose self-declared income is at or above 185 percent of the poverty line, at contribution levels based on the actual cost of services. The area agency on aging shall consult with the relevant service providers and older individuals in agency’s planning and service area in a State to determine the best method for accepting voluntary contributions under this subsection. The area agency on aging and service providers shall not means test for any service for which contributions are accepted or deny services to any individual who does not contribute to the cost of the service. The area agency on aging shall ensure that each service provider will— provide each recipient with an opportunity to voluntarily contribute to the cost of the service; clearly inform each recipient that there is no obligation to contribute and that the contribution is purely voluntary; protect the privacy and confidentiality of each recipient with respect to the recipient’s contribution or lack of contribution; establish appropriate procedures to safeguard and account for all contributions; and use all collected contributions to expand the service for which the contributions were given and to supplement (not supplant) funds received under this chapter.

(c) Participation The State and area agencies on aging, in conducting public hearings on State and area plans, shall solicit the views of older individuals, providers, and other stakeholders on implementation of cost-sharing in the service area or the State. Prior to the implementation of cost sharing under subsection (a), each State and area agency on aging shall develop plans that are designed to ensure that the participation of low-income older individuals (with particular attention to low-income older individuals, including low-income minority older individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and older individuals residing in rural areas) receiving services will not decrease with the implementation of the cost sharing under such subsection.

(d) Evaluation Not later than 1 year after November 13, 2000 , and annually thereafter, the Assistant Secretary shall conduct a comprehensive evaluation of practices for cost sharing to determine its impact on participation rates (with particular attention to low-income older individuals, including low-income minority older individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, and older individuals residing in rural areas). If the Assistant Secretary finds that there is a disparate impact upon low-income or minority older individuals or older individuals residing in rural areas in any State or region within the State regarding the provision of services, the Assistant Secretary shall take corrective action to assure that such services are provided to all older individuals without regard to the cost sharing criteria.

(e) Response to area agencies on aging Upon request from an area agency on aging, the State shall make available any policies or guidance pertaining to policies established under this section. Nothing in paragraph (1) shall require a State to develop policies or guidance pertaining to policies established under this section.

§ 3030c–3 Waivers

(a) In general The Assistant Secretary may waive any of the provisions specified in subsection (b) with respect to a State, upon receiving an application by the State agency containing or accompanied by documentation sufficient to establish, to the satisfaction of the Assistant Secretary, that— approval of the State legislature has been obtained or is not required with respect to the proposal for which waiver is sought; the State agency has collaborated with the area agencies on aging in the State and other organizations that would be affected with respect to the proposal for which waiver is sought; the proposal has been made available for public review and comment, including the opportunity for a public hearing upon request, within the State (and a summary of all of the comments received has been included in the application); and the State agency has given adequate consideration to the probable positive and negative consequences of approval of the waiver application, and the probable benefits for older individuals can reasonably be expected to outweigh any negative consequences, or particular circumstances in the State otherwise justify the waiver.

(b) Requirements subject to waiver The provisions of this subchapter that may be waived under this section are— any provision of sections 3025, 3026, and 3027 of this title requiring statewide uniformity of programs carried out under this subchapter, to the extent necessary to permit demonstrations, in limited areas of a State, of innovative approaches to assist older individuals; any area plan requirement described in section 3026(a) of this title if granting the waiver will promote innovations or improve service delivery and will not diminish services already provided under this chapter; any State plan requirement described in section 3027(a) of this title if granting the waiver will promote innovations or improve service delivery and will not diminish services already provided under this chapter; any restriction under paragraph (5) of section 3028(b) of this title , on the amount that may be transferred between programs carried out under part B and part C; and the requirement of section 3029(c) of this title that certain amounts of a State allotment be used for the provision of services, with respect to a State that reduces expenditures under the State plan of the State (but only to the extent that the non-Federal share of the expenditures is not reduced below any minimum specified in section 3024(d) of this title or any other provision of this subchapter).

(c) Duration of waiver The application by a State agency for a waiver under this section shall include a recommendation as to the duration of the waiver (not to exceed the duration of the State plan of the State). The Assistant Secretary, in granting such a waiver, shall specify the duration of the waiver, which may be the duration recommended by the State agency or such shorter time period as the Assistant Secretary finds to be appropriate.

(d) Reports to Secretary With respect to each waiver granted under this section, not later than 1 year after the expiration of such waiver, and at any time during the waiver period that the Assistant Secretary may require, the State agency shall prepare and submit to the Assistant Secretary a report evaluating the impact of the waiver on the operation and effectiveness of programs and services provided under this subchapter.

§ 3030d Grants for supportive services

(a) Grants The Assistant Secretary shall carry out a program for making grants to States under State plans approved under section 3027 of this title for any of the following supportive services: health (including mental and behavioral health), education and training, welfare, informational, recreational, homemaker, counseling, referral, chronic condition self-care management, or falls prevention services; transportation services to facilitate access to supportive services or nutrition services, and services provided by an area agency on aging, in conjunction with local transportation service providers, public transportation agencies, and other local government agencies, that result in increased provision of such transportation services for older individuals; services designed to encourage and assist older individuals to use the facilities and services (including information and assistance services) available to them, including language translation services to assist older individuals with limited-English speaking ability to obtain services under this subchapter; services designed (A) to assist older individuals to obtain adequate housing, including residential repair and renovation projects designed to enable older individuals to maintain their homes in conformity with minimum housing standards; (B) to adapt homes to meet the needs of older individuals who have physical disabilities; (C) to prevent unlawful entry into residences of older individuals, through the installation of security devices and through structural modifications or alterations of such residences; or (D) to assist older individuals in obtaining housing for which assistance is provided under programs of the Department of Housing and Urban Development; services designed to assist older individuals in avoiding institutionalization and to assist individuals in long-term care institutions who are able to return to their communities, including— client assessment, case management services, and development and coordination of community services; supportive activities to meet the special needs of caregivers, including caretakers who provide in-home services to frail older individuals; and in-home services and other community services, including home health, homemaker, shopping, escort, reader, and letter writing services, to assist older individuals to live independently in a home environment; services designed to provide to older individuals legal assistance and other counseling services and assistance, including— tax counseling and assistance, financial counseling, and counseling regarding appropriate health and life insurance coverage; representation— of individuals who are wards (or are allegedly incapacitated); and in guardianship proceedings of older individuals who seek to become guardians, if other adequate representation is unavailable in the proceedings; and provision, to older individuals who provide uncompensated care to their adult children with disabilities, of counseling to assist such older individuals with permanency planning for such children; services designed to enable older individuals to attain and maintain physical and mental well-being through programs of regular physical activity, exercise, music therapy, art therapy, cultural experiences (including the arts), and dance-movement therapy; services designed to provide health screening (including mental and behavioral health screening, screening for negative health effects associated with social isolation, falls prevention services screening, and traumatic brain injury screening) to detect or prevent (or both) illnesses and injuries that occur most frequently in older individuals; services designed to provide, for older individuals, preretirement counseling and assistance in planning for and assessing future post-retirement needs with regard to public and private insurance, public benefits, lifestyle changes, relocation, legal matters, leisure time, and other appropriate matters; services of an ombudsman at the State level to receive, investigate, and act on complaints by older individuals who are residents of long-term care facilities and to advocate for the well-being of such individuals; provision of services and assistive devices (including provision of assistive technology services and assistive technology devices) which are designed to meet the unique needs of older individuals who are disabled, and of older individuals who provide uncompensated care to their adult children with disabilities; services to encourage the employment of older workers, including job and second career counseling and, where appropriate, job development, referral, and placement, and including the coordination of the services with programs administered by or receiving assistance from the Department of Labor, including programs carried out under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act; crime prevention services and victim assistance programs for older individuals; a program, to be known as “Senior Opportunities and Services”, designed to identify and meet the needs of low-income older individuals in one or more of the following areas: (A) development and provision of new volunteer services; (B) effective referral to existing health (including mental and behavioral health), employment, housing, legal, consumer, transportation, and other services; (C) stimulation and creation of additional services and programs to remedy gaps and deficiencies in presently existing services and programs; and (D) such other services as the Assistant Secretary may determine are necessary or especially appropriate to meet the needs of low-income older individuals and to assure them greater self-sufficiency; services for the prevention of abuse of older individuals in accordance with subpart III of part A of subchapter XI and section 3027(a)(12) of this title , and screening for elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; inservice training and State leadership for legal assistance activities; health and nutrition education services, including information concerning prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of age-related diseases and chronic disabling conditions; services designed to enable mentally impaired older individuals to attain and maintain emotional well-being and independent living through a coordinated system of support services; services designed to support family members and other persons providing voluntary care to older individuals that need long-term care services; services designed to provide information and training for individuals who are or may become guardians or representative payees of older individuals, including information on the powers and duties of guardians and representative payees and on alternatives to guardianships; services to encourage and facilitate regular interaction between students and older individuals, including services for older individuals with limited English proficiency and visits in long-term care facilities, multipurpose senior centers, and other settings; in-home services for frail older individuals, including individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders with neurological and organic brain dysfunction, and their families, including in-home services defined by a State agency in the State plan submitted under section 3027 of this title , taking into consideration the age, economic need, and noneconomic and nonhealth factors contributing to the frail condition and need for services of the individuals described in this paragraph, and in-home services defined by an area agency on aging in the area plan submitted under section 3026 of this title ; services designed to support States, area agencies on aging, and local service providers in carrying out and coordinating activities for older individuals with respect to mental and behavioral health services, including outreach for, education concerning, and screening for such services, and referral to such services for treatment; activities to promote and disseminate information about life-long learning programs, including opportunities for distance learning; services that promote or support social connectedness and reduce negative health effects associated with social isolation; and any other services necessary for the general welfare of older individuals; if such services meet standards prescribed by the Assistant Secretary and are necessary for the general welfare of older individuals. For purposes of paragraph (5), the term “client assessment through case management” includes providing information relating to assistive technology.

(b) Existing facilities The Assistant Secretary shall carry out a program for making grants to States under State plans approved under section 3027 of this title for the acquisition, alteration, or renovation of existing facilities, including mobile units, and, where appropriate, construction or modernization of facilities to serve as multipurpose senior centers. Funds made available to a State under this part may be used for the purpose of assisting in the operation of multipurpose senior centers and meeting all or part of the costs of compensating professional and technical personnel required for the operation of multipurpose senior centers.

(c) Coordination of services with other providers In carrying out the provisions of this part, to more efficiently and effectively deliver services to older individuals, each area agency on aging shall coordinate services described in subsection (a) with other community agencies and voluntary organizations providing the same services. In coordinating the services, the area agency on aging shall make efforts to coordinate the services with agencies and organizations carrying out intergenerational programs or projects, and pursue opportunities for the development of intergenerational shared site models for programs or projects, consistent with the purposes of this chapter.

(d) Relationship to other funding sources Funds made available under this part shall supplement, and not supplant, any Federal, State, or local funds expended by a State or unit of general purpose local government (including an area agency on aging) to provide services described in subsection (a).

(e) “Adult child with a disability” defined In this section, the term “adult child with a disability” means a child who— is age 18 or older; is financially dependent on an older individual who is a parent of the child; and has a disability.

§ 3030d–21 Purposes

The purposes of this part are— to reduce hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition; to promote socialization of older individuals; and to promote the health and well-being of older individuals by assisting such individuals to gain access to nutrition and other disease prevention and health promotion services to delay the onset of adverse health conditions resulting from poor nutritional health or sedentary behavior. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title III, § 330 , as added Pub. L. 109–365, title III, § 312 , Oct. 17, 2006 , 120 Stat. 2547 ; amended Pub. L. 116–131, title I, § 106(2) , Mar. 25, 2020 , 134 Stat. 244 .)

§ 3030e Grants for establishment and operation of nutrition projects

The Assistant Secretary shall carry out a program for making grants to States under State plans approved under section 3027 of this title for the establishment and operation of nutrition projects that— 5 or more days a week (except in a rural area where such frequency is not feasible (as defined by the Assistant Secretary by regulation) and a lesser frequency is approved by the State agency), provide at least one hot or other appropriate meal per day and any additional meals which the recipient of a grant or contract under this subpart may elect to provide; shall be provided in congregate settings, including adult day care facilities and multigenerational meal sites; and provide nutrition education, nutrition counseling, and other nutrition services, as appropriate, based on the needs of meal participants. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title III, § 331 , as added Pub. L. 95–478, title I, § 103(b) , Oct. 18, 1978 , 92 Stat. 1536 ; amended Pub. L. 102–375, title III, § 313 , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1238 ; Pub. L. 103–171, § 3(a)(13) , Dec. 2, 1993 , 107 Stat. 1990 ; Pub. L. 106–501, title III, § 312(c) , Nov. 13, 2000 , 114 Stat. 2252 ; Pub. L. 109–365, title III, § 313 , Oct. 17, 2006 , 120 Stat. 2548 .)

§ 3030f Program authorized

The Assistant Secretary shall establish and carry out a program to make grants to States under State plans approved under section 3027 of this title for the establishment and operation of nutrition projects for older individuals that provide— on 5 or more days a week (except in a rural area where such frequency is not feasible (as defined by the Assistant Secretary by rule) and a lesser frequency is approved by the State agency) at least 1 home delivered meal per day, which may consist of hot, cold, frozen, dried, canned, or fresh foods and, as appropriate, supplemental foods, and any additional meals that the recipient of a grant or contract under this subpart elects to provide; and nutrition education, nutrition counseling, and other nutrition services, as appropriate, based on the needs of meal recipients. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title III, § 336 , as added Pub. L. 95–478, title I, § 103(b) , Oct. 18, 1978 , 92 Stat. 1536 ; amended Pub. L. 102–375, title III, § 314 , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1238 ; Pub. L. 103–171, § 3(a)(13) , Dec. 2, 1993 , 107 Stat. 1990 ; Pub. L. 109–365, title III, § 314 , Oct. 17, 2006 , 120 Stat. 2548 ; Pub. L. 114–144, § 4(h) , Apr. 19, 2016 , 130 Stat. 339 .)

§ 3030g Criteria

The Assistant Secretary, in consultation with recognized experts in the fields of nutrition science, dietetics, meal planning and food service management, and aging, shall develop minimum criteria of efficiency and quality for the furnishing of home delivered meal services for projects described in section 3030f of this title . ( Pub. L. 89–73, title III, § 337 , as added Pub. L. 95–478, title I, § 103(b) , Oct. 18, 1978 , 92 Stat. 1536 ; amended Pub. L. 97–115, § 10(e) , Dec. 29, 1981 , 95 Stat. 1601 ; Pub. L. 100–175, title I, § 182(n) , Nov. 29, 1987 , 101 Stat. 967 ; Pub. L. 102–375, title III, § 315 , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1239 ; Pub. L. 103–171, § 3(a)(13) , Dec. 2, 1993 , 107 Stat. 1990 ; Pub. L. 109–365, title III, § 315 , Oct. 17, 2006 , 120 Stat. 2548 .)

§ 3030g–21 Nutrition

A State that establishes and operates a nutrition project under this chapter 1 shall— utilize the expertise of a dietitian or other individual with equivalent education and training in nutrition science, or if such an individual is not available, an individual with comparable expertise in the planning of nutritional services, and ensure that the project— provides meals that— comply with the most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans, published by the Secretary and the Secretary of Agriculture, and provide to each participating older individual— a minimum of 33⅓ percent of the dietary reference intakes established by the Food and Nutrition Board of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, if the project provides one meal per day, a minimum of 66⅔ percent of the allowances if the project provides two meals per day, and 100 percent of the allowances if the project provides three meals per day, and to the maximum extent practicable, are adjusted to meet any special dietary needs of program participants, including meals adjusted for cultural considerations and preferences and medically tailored meals, provides flexibility to local nutrition providers in designing meals that are appealing to program participants, encourages providers to enter into contracts that limit the amount of time meals must spend in transit before they are consumed, where feasible, encourages joint arrangements with schools and other facilities serving meals to children in order to promote intergenerational meal programs, provides that meals, other than in-home meals, are provided in settings in as close proximity to the majority of eligible older individuals’ residences as feasible, comply 2 with applicable provisions of State or local laws regarding the safe and sanitary handling of food, equipment, and supplies used in the storage, preparation, service, and delivery of meals to an older individual, ensures that meal providers solicit the advice and expertise of— a dietitian or other individual described in paragraph (1), meal participants, and other individuals knowledgeable with regard to the needs of older individuals, ensures that each participating area agency on aging establishes procedures that allow nutrition project administrators the option to offer a meal, on the same basis as meals provided to participating older individuals, to individuals providing volunteer services during the meal hours, and to individuals with disabilities who reside at home with older individuals eligible under this chapter, 1 ensures that nutrition services will be available to older individuals and to their spouses, and may be made available to individuals with disabilities who are not older individuals but who reside in housing facilities occupied primarily by older individuals at which congregate nutrition services are provided, provides for nutrition screening and nutrition education, and nutrition assessment and counseling if appropriate, encourages individuals who distribute nutrition services under subpart II to provide, to homebound older individuals, available medical information approved by health care professionals, such as informational brochures and information on how to get vaccines, including vaccines for influenza, pneumonia, and shingles, in the individuals’ communities, and where feasible, encourages the use of locally grown foods in meal programs and identifies potential partnerships and contracts with local producers and providers of locally grown foods. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title III, § 339 , as added Pub. L. 106–501, title III, § 313 , Nov. 13, 2000 , 114 Stat. 2252 ; amended Pub. L. 109–365, title III, § 316 , Oct. 17, 2006 , 120 Stat. 2548 ; Pub. L. 114–144, § 4(i) , Apr. 19, 2016 , 130 Stat. 339 ; Pub. L. 116–131, title II, § 215 , title VII, § 701(9), Mar. 25, 2020 , 134 Stat. 259 , 271.)

§ 3030g–22 Payment requirement

Payments made by a State agency or an area agency on aging for nutrition services (including meals) provided under part A, B, or C may not be reduced to reflect any increase in the level of assistance provided under section 3030a of this title . ( Pub. L. 89–73, title III, § 339A , as added Pub. L. 102–375, title III, § 317 , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1241 .)

§ 3030g–23 Nutrition services impact study

(a) Study The Assistant Secretary shall perform a study to assess how to measure and evaluate the discrepancy between available services and the demand for such services in the home delivered nutrition services program and the congregate nutrition services program under this part, which shall include assessing various methods (such as those that States use) to measure and evaluate the discrepancy (such as measurement through the length of waitlists). In performing the study, the Assistant Secretary shall— consider means of obtaining information in rural and underserved communities; and consider using existing tools (existing as of the date the Assistant Secretary begins the study) such as the tools developed through the Performance Outcome Measurement Project. The Assistant Secretary shall analyze and determine which methods are the least burdensome and most effective for measuring and evaluating the discrepancy described in paragraph (1).

(b) Recommendations Not later than 3 years after March 25, 2020 , the Assistant Secretary shall prepare recommendations— on how to measure and evaluate, with the least burden and the most effectiveness, the discrepancy described in subsection (a)(1) (such as measurement through the length of waitlists); and about whether studies similar to the study described in subsection (a) should be carried out for programs carried out under this chapter, other than this part. The Assistant Secretary shall issue the recommendations, and make the recommendations available as a notification pursuant to section 3012(a)(34) of this title and to the committees of the Senate and of the House of Representatives with jurisdiction over this chapter, and the Special Committee on Aging of the Senate.

§ 3030m Program authorized

(a) Grants to States The Assistant Secretary shall carry out a program for making grants to States under State plans approved under section 3027 of this title to provide evidence-based disease prevention and health promotion services and information at multipurpose senior centers, at congregate meal sites, through home delivered meals programs, or at other appropriate sites. In carrying out such program, the Assistant Secretary shall provide technical assistance on the delivery of evidence-based disease prevention and health promotion services in different settings and for different populations, and consult with the Directors of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institute on Aging.

(b) Community organizations and agencies The Assistant Secretary shall, to the extent possible, assure that services provided by other community organizations and agencies are used to carry out the provisions of this part.

(c) Improving indoor air quality The Assistant Secretary shall work in consultation with qualified experts to provide information on methods of improving indoor air quality in buildings where older individuals congregate.

§ 3030n Distribution to area agencies on aging

The State agency shall give priority, in carrying out this part, to areas of the State— which are medically underserved; and in which there are a large number of older individuals who have the greatest economic need for such services. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title III, § 362 , as added Pub. L. 100–175, title I, § 143(c) , Nov. 29, 1987 , 101 Stat. 948 ; amended Pub. L. 102–375, title I, § 102(b)(10)(G) , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1202 .)

§ 3030s Definitions

(a) In general In this part: The term “caregiver assessment” means a defined process of gathering information to identify the specific needs, barriers to carrying out caregiving responsibilities, and existing supports of a family caregiver or older relative caregiver, as identified by the caregiver involved, to appropriately target recommendations for support services described in section 3030s–1(b) of this title . Such assessment shall be administered through direct contact with the caregiver, which may include contact through a home visit, the Internet, telephone or teleconference, or in-person interaction. The term “child” means an individual who is not more than 18 years of age. The term “individual with a disability” means an individual with a disability, as defined in section 12102 of this title , who is not less than age 18 and not more than age 59. The term “older relative caregiver” means a caregiver who— is age 55 or older; and lives with, is the informal provider of in-home and community care to, and is the primary caregiver for, a child or an individual with a disability; in the case of a caregiver for a child— is the grandparent, stepgrandparent, or other relative (other than the parent) by blood, marriage, or adoption, of the child; is the primary caregiver of the child because the biological or adoptive parents are unable or unwilling to serve as the primary caregivers of the child; and has a legal relationship to the child, such as legal custody, adoption, or guardianship, or is raising the child informally; and in the case of a caregiver for an individual with a disability, is the parent, grandparent, or other relative by blood, marriage, or adoption, of the individual with a disability.

(b) Rule In providing services under this part, for family caregivers who provide care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders with neurological and organic brain dysfunction, the State involved shall give priority to caregivers who provide care for older individuals with such disease or disorder.

“SECTION 1 SHORT TITLE.

“This Act may be cited as the ‘Recognize, Assist, Include, Support, and Engage Family Caregivers Act of 2017’ or the ‘RAISE Family Caregivers Act’.

“SEC. 2 DEFINITIONS.

“In this Act: The term ‘Advisory Council’ means the Family Caregiving Advisory Council convened under section 4. The term ‘family caregiver’ means an adult family member or other individual who has a significant relationship with, and who provides a broad range of assistance to, an individual with a chronic or other health condition, disability, or functional limitation. The term ‘Secretary’ means the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the Assistant Secretary for Aging. The term ‘Strategy’ means the Family Caregiving Strategy set forth under section 3.

“SEC. 3 FAMILY CAREGIVING STRATEGY.

(“(a) In General.— The Secretary, in consultation with the heads of other appropriate Federal agencies, shall develop jointly with the Advisory Council and submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Special Committee on Aging of the Senate, the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the House of Representatives, and the State agencies responsible for carrying out family caregiver programs, and make publicly available on the internet website of the Department of Health and Human Services, a Family Caregiving Strategy.

(“(b) Contents.— The Strategy shall identify recommended actions that Federal (under existing Federal programs), State, and local governments, communities, health care providers, long-term services and supports providers, and others are taking, or may take, to recognize and support family caregivers in a manner that reflects their diverse needs, including with respect to the following: Promoting greater adoption of person- and family-centered care in all health and long-term services and supports settings, with the person receiving services and supports and the family caregiver (as appropriate) at the center of care teams. Assessment and service planning (including care transitions and coordination) involving family caregivers and care recipients. Information, education and training supports, referral, and care coordination, including with respect to hospice care, palliative care, and advance planning services. Respite options. Financial security and workplace issues. Delivering services based on the performance, mission, and purpose of a program while eliminating redundancies.

(“(c) Duties of the Secretary.— The Secretary, in carrying out subsection (a), shall oversee the following: Collecting and making publicly available information submitted by the Advisory Council under section 4(d) to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Special Committee on Aging of the Senate, the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the House of Representatives, and the State agencies responsible for carrying out family caregiver programs, including evidence-based or promising practices and innovative models (both domestic and foreign) regarding the provision of care by family caregivers or support for family caregivers. Coordinating and assessing existing Federal Government programs and activities to recognize and support family caregivers while ensuring maximum effectiveness and avoiding unnecessary duplication. Providing technical assistance, as appropriate, such as disseminating identified best practices and information sharing based on reports provided under section 4(d), to State or local efforts to support family caregivers.

(“(d) Initial Strategy; Updates.— The Secretary shall— not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act [ Jan. 22, 2018 ], develop, publish, and submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Special Committee on Aging of the Senate, the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the House of Representatives, and the State agencies responsible for carrying out family caregiver programs, an initial Strategy incorporating the items addressed in the Advisory Council’s initial report under section 4(d) and other relevant information, including best practices, for recognizing and supporting family caregivers; and biennially update, republish, and submit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Special Committee on Aging of the Senate, the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the House of Representatives, and the State agencies responsible for carrying out family caregiver programs the Strategy, taking into account the most recent annual report submitted under section 4(d)(1)— to reflect new developments, challenges, opportunities, and solutions; and to review progress based on recommendations for recognizing and supporting family caregivers in the Strategy and, based on the results of such review, recommend priority actions for improving the implementation of such recommendations, as appropriate.

(“(e) Process for Public Input.— The Secretary shall establish a process for public input to inform the development of, and updates to, the Strategy, including a process for the public to submit recommendations to the Advisory Council and an opportunity for public comment on the proposed Strategy.

(“(f) No Preemption.— Nothing in this Act preempts any authority of a State or local government to recognize or support family caregivers.

(“(g) Rule of Construction.— Nothing in this Act shall be construed to permit the Secretary (through regulation, guidance, grant criteria, or otherwise) to— mandate, direct, or control the allocation of State or local resources; mandate the use of any of the best practices identified in the reports required under this Act; or otherwise expand the authority of the Secretary beyond that expressly provided to the Secretary in this Act.

“SEC. 4 FAMILY CAREGIVING ADVISORY COUNCIL.

(“(a) Convening.— The Secretary shall convene a Family Caregiving Advisory Council to advise and provide recommendations, including identified best practices, to the Secretary on recognizing and supporting family caregivers.

(“(b) Membership.— The members of the Advisory Council shall consist of— the appointed members under paragraph (2); and the Federal members under paragraph (3). In addition to the Federal members under paragraph (3), the Secretary shall appoint not more than 15 voting members of the Advisory Council who are not representatives of Federal departments or agencies and who shall include at least 1 representative of each of the following: Family caregivers. Older adults with long-term services and supports needs. Individuals with disabilities. Health care and social service providers. Long-term services and supports providers. Employers. Paraprofessional workers. State and local officials. Accreditation bodies. Veterans. As appropriate, other experts and advocacy organizations engaged in family caregiving. The Federal members of the Advisory Council, who shall be nonvoting members, shall consist of the following: The Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (or the Administrator’s designee). The Administrator of the Administration for Community Living (or the Administrator’s designee who has experience in both aging and disability). The Secretary of Veterans Affairs (or the Secretary’s designee). The heads of other Federal departments or agencies (or their designees), including relevant departments or agencies that oversee labor and workforce, economic, government financial policies, community service, and other impacted populations, as appointed by the Secretary or the Chair of the Advisory Council. The Secretary shall ensure that the membership of the Advisory Council reflects the diversity of family caregivers and individuals receiving services and supports.

(“(c) Meetings.— The Advisory Council shall meet quarterly during the 1-year period beginning on the date of enactment of this Act [ Jan. 22, 2018 ] and at least three times during each year thereafter. Meetings of the Advisory Council shall be open to the public.

(“(d) Advisory Council Annual Reports.— Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Advisory Council shall submit to the Secretary, the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Special Committee on Aging of the Senate, the Committee on Education and the Workforce of the House of Representatives, and the State agencies responsible for carrying out family caregiver programs, and make publicly available on the internet website of the Department of Health and Human Services, a report concerning the development, maintenance, and updating of the Strategy, including a description of the outcomes of the recommendations and any priorities included in the initial report pursuant to paragraph (2), as appropriate. The Advisory Council’s initial report under paragraph (1) shall include— an inventory and assessment of all federally funded efforts to recognize and support family caregivers and the outcomes of such efforts, including analyses of the extent to which federally funded efforts are reaching family caregivers and gaps in such efforts; recommendations— to improve and better coordinate Federal programs and activities to recognize and support family caregivers, as well as opportunities to improve the coordination of such Federal programs and activities with State programs; and to effectively deliver services based on the performance, mission, and purpose of a program while eliminating redundancies, avoiding unnecessary duplication and overlap, and ensuring the needs of family caregivers are met; the identification of challenges faced by family caregivers, including financial, health, and other challenges, and existing approaches to address such challenges; and an evaluation of how family caregiving impacts the Medicare program, the Medicaid program, and other Federal programs.

(“(e) Nonapplicability of FACA.— The Federal Advisory Committee Act ([former] 5 U.S.C. App.) [see 5 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.] shall not apply to the Advisory Council.

“SEC. 5 FUNDING.

“No additional funds are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this Act. This Act shall be carried out using funds otherwise authorized.

“SEC. 6 SUNSET PROVISION.

“The authority and obligations established by this Act shall terminate on the date that is 4 years after the date of enactment of this Act [ Jan. 22, 2018 ].”

§ 3030s–1 Program authorized

(a) In general The Assistant Secretary shall carry out a program for making grants to States with State plans approved under section 3027 of this title , to pay for the Federal share of the cost of carrying out State programs, to enable area agencies on aging, or entities that such area agencies on aging contract with, to provide multifaceted systems of support services— for family caregivers; and for older relative caregivers.

(b) Support services The services provided, which may be informed through the use of caregiver assessments, in a State program under subsection (a), by an area agency on aging, or entity that such agency has contracted with, shall include— information to caregivers about available services; assistance to caregivers in gaining access to the services; individual counseling, organization of support groups, and caregiver training to assist the caregivers in the areas of health, nutrition, and financial literacy, and in making decisions and solving problems relating to their caregiving roles; respite care to enable caregivers to be temporarily relieved from their caregiving responsibilities; and supplemental services, on a limited basis, to complement the care provided by caregivers.

(c) Population served; priority Services under a State program under this part shall be provided to family caregivers, and older relative caregivers, who— are described in paragraph (1) or (2) of subsection (a); and with regard to the services specified in paragraphs (4) and (5) of subsection (b), in the case of a caregiver described in paragraph (1), is providing care to an older individual who meets the condition specified in subparagraph (A)(i) or (B) of section 3002(22) of this title . In providing services under this part, the State, in addition to giving the priority described in section 3030s(b) of this title , shall give priority— to caregivers who are older individuals with greatest social need, and older individuals with greatest economic need (with particular attention to low-income older individuals); and to older relative caregivers of children with severe disabilities, or individuals with disabilities who have severe disabilities.

(d) Use of volunteers In carrying out this part, each area agency on aging shall make use of trained volunteers to expand the provision of the available services described in subsection (b) and, if possible, work in coordination with organizations that have experience in providing training, placement, and stipends for volunteers or participants (such as organizations carrying out Federal service programs administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service), in community service settings.

(e) Best practices Not later than 1 year after March 25, 2020 , and every 5 years thereafter, the Assistant Secretary shall— identify best practices relating to the programs carried out under this section and section 3057k–11 of this title , regarding— the use of procedures and tools to monitor and evaluate the performance of the programs carried out under such sections; the use of evidence-based caregiver support services; and any other issue determined relevant by the Assistant Secretary; and make available, including on the website of the Administration and pursuant to section 3012(a)(34) of this title , best practices described in paragraph (1), to carry out the programs under this section and section 3057k–11 of this title .

(f) Quality standards and mechanisms and accountability The State shall establish standards and mechanisms designed to assure the quality of services provided with assistance made available under this part. The State shall collect data and maintain records relating to the State program in a standardized format specified by the Assistant Secretary. The State shall furnish the records to the Assistant Secretary, at such time as the Assistant Secretary may require, in order to enable the Assistant Secretary to monitor State program administration and compliance, and to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of the State programs. The State shall prepare and submit to the Assistant Secretary reports on the data and records required under paragraph (2), including information on the services funded under this part, and standards and mechanisms, including caregiver assessments used in the State, by which the quality of the services shall be assured. The reports shall describe any mechanisms used in the State to provide to persons who are family caregivers, or older relative caregivers, information about and access to various services so that the persons can better carry out their care responsibilities.

(g) Caregiver allotment From sums appropriated under section 3023(e) of this title for a fiscal year, the Assistant Secretary shall allot amounts among the States proportionately based on the population of individuals 70 years of age or older in the States. In determining the amounts allotted to States from the sums appropriated under section 3023 of this title for a fiscal year, the Assistant Secretary shall first determine the amount allotted to each State under subparagraph (A) and then proportionately adjust such amounts, if necessary, to meet the requirements of paragraph (2). The number of individuals 70 years of age or older in any State and in all States shall be determined by the Assistant Secretary on the basis of the most recent data available from the Bureau of the Census and other reliable demographic data satisfactory to the Assistant Secretary. The amounts allotted under paragraph (1) shall be reduced proportionately to the extent necessary to increase other allotments under such paragraph to achieve the amounts described in subparagraph (B). Each State shall be allotted ½ of 1 percent of the amount appropriated for the fiscal year for which the determination is made. Guam and the Virgin Islands of the United States shall each be allotted ¼ of 1 percent of the amount appropriated for the fiscal year for which the determination is made. American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands shall each be allotted 1 ⁄ 16 of 1 percent of the amount appropriated for the fiscal year for which the determination is made. For the purposes of subparagraph (B)(i), the term “State” does not include Guam, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands of the United States, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

(h) Availability of funds Amounts made available to a State to carry out the State program under this part may be used, in addition to amounts available in accordance with section 3023(c)(1) of this title , for costs of administration of area plans. Notwithstanding section 3024(d)(1)(D) of this title , the Federal share of the cost of carrying out a State program under this part shall be 75 percent. The non-Federal share of the cost shall be provided from State and local sources.

(i) Activities of national significance The Assistant Secretary may award funds authorized under this section to States, public agencies, private nonprofit agencies, institutions of higher education, and organizations, including tribal organizations, for conducting activities of national significance that— promote quality and continuous improvement in the support provided to family caregivers and older relative caregivers through programs carried out under this section and section 3057k–11 of this title ; and include, with respect to such programs, program evaluation, training, technical assistance, and research.

(j) Technical assistance for caregiver assessments Not later than 1 year after March 25, 2020 , the Assistant Secretary, in consultation with stakeholders with appropriate expertise and, as appropriate, informed by the strategy developed under the RAISE Family Caregivers Act ( 42 U.S.C. 3030s note), shall provide technical assistance to promote and implement the use of caregiver assessments. Such technical assistance may include sharing available tools or templates, comprehensive assessment protocols, and best practices concerning— conducting caregiver assessments (including reassessments) as needed; implementing such assessments that are consistent across a planning and service area, as appropriate; and implementing caregiver support service plans, including conducting referrals to and coordination of activities with relevant State services.

§ 3030s–2 Maintenance of effort

Funds made available under this part shall supplement, and not supplant, any Federal, State, or local funds expended by a State or unit of general purpose local government (including an area agency on aging) to provide services described in section 3030s–1 of this title . ( Pub. L. 89–73, title III, § 374 , as added Pub. L. 106–501, title III, § 316(2) , Nov. 13, 2000 , 114 Stat. 2256 ; amended Pub. L. 114–144, § 4(m) , Apr. 19, 2016 , 130 Stat. 341 .)

§ 3031 Purposes

The purposes of this subchapter are— to expand the Nation’s knowledge and understanding of the older population and the aging process; to design, test, and promote the use of innovative ideas and best practices in programs and services for older individuals; to help meet the needs for trained personnel in the field of aging; and to increase awareness of citizens of all ages of the need to assume personal responsibility for their own longevity. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title IV, § 401 , as added Pub. L. 106–501, title IV, § 401 , Nov. 13, 2000 , 114 Stat. 2257 .)

§ 3032 Program authorized

(a) In general For the purpose of carrying out this section, the Assistant Secretary may make grants to and enter into contracts with States, public agencies, private nonprofit agencies, institutions of higher education, and organizations, including tribal organizations, for— education and training to develop an adequately trained workforce to work with and on behalf of older individuals; applied social research, aligned with evidence-based practice, and analysis to improve access to and delivery of services for older individuals; evaluation of the performance of the programs, activities, and services provided under this section; the development of methods and practices to improve the quality and effectiveness of the programs, services, and activities provided under this section; the demonstration of new approaches to design, deliver, and coordinate programs and services for older individuals; technical assistance in planning, developing, implementing, and improving the programs, services, and activities provided under this section; coordination with the designated State agency described in section 101(a)(2)(A)(i) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 ( 29 U.S.C. 721(a)(2)(A)(i) ) to provide services to older individuals who are blind as described in such Act [ 29 U.S.C. 701 et seq.]; the training of graduate level professionals specializing in the mental health needs of older individuals; planning activities to prepare communities for the aging of the population, which activities may include— efforts to assess the aging population; activities to coordinate the activities of State and local agencies in order to meet the needs of older individuals; and training and technical assistance to support States, area agencies on aging, and organizations receiving grants under subchapter X, in engaging in community planning activities; the development, implementation, and assessment of technology-based service models and best practices, to support the use of health monitoring and assessment technologies, communication devices, assistive technologies, and other technologies consistent with section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 ( 29 U.S.C. 794d ) that may remotely connect family and professional caregivers to frail older individuals residing in home and community-based settings or rural areas; conducting activities of national significance to promote quality and continuous improvement in the support provided to family and other informal caregivers of older individuals through activities that include program evaluation, training, technical assistance, and research, including— programs addressing unique issues faced by rural caregivers; programs focusing on the needs of older individuals with cognitive impairment such as Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders with neurological and organic brain dysfunction, and their caregivers; and programs supporting caregivers in the role they play in providing disease prevention and health promotion services; building public awareness of cognitive impairments, such as Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders with neurological and organic brain dysfunction, depression, mental disorders, and traumatic brain injury; in coordination with the Secretary of Labor, the demonstration of new strategies for the recruitment, retention, or advancement of direct care workers, and the soliciting, development, and implementation of strategies— to reduce barriers to entry for a diverse and high-quality direct care workforce, including providing wages, benefits, and advancement opportunities needed to attract or retain direct care workers; and to provide education and workforce development programs for direct care workers that include supportive services and career planning; the establishment and operation of a national resource center that shall— provide training and technical assistance to agencies in the aging network delivering services to older individuals experiencing the long-term and adverse consequences of trauma; share best practices with the aging network; and make subgrants to the agencies best positioned to advance and improve the delivery of person-centered, trauma-informed services for older individuals experiencing the long-term and adverse consequences of trauma; bringing to scale and sustaining evidence-based falls prevention programs that will reduce the number of falls, fear of falling, and fall-related injuries in older individuals, including older individuals with disabilities; bringing to scale and sustaining evidence-based chronic disease self-management programs that empower older individuals, including older individuals with disabilities, to better manage their chronic conditions; continuing support for program integrity initiatives concerning the Medicare program under title XVIII of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1395 et seq.) that train senior volunteers to prevent and identify health care fraud and abuse; projects that address negative health effects associated with social isolation among older individuals; and any other activities that the Assistant Secretary determines will achieve the objectives of this section.

(b) Authorization of appropriations There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out— aging network support activities under this section, $14,514,550forfiscalyear2020,$15,385,423 for fiscal year 2021, $16,308,548forfiscalyear2022,$17,287,061 for fiscal year 2023, and $18,324,285forfiscalyear2024;andelderrightssupportactivitiesunderthissection,$15,613,440 for fiscal year 2020, $16,550,246forfiscalyear2021,$17,543,261 for fiscal year 2022, $18,595,857forfiscalyear2023,and$19,711,608 for fiscal year 2024.

§ 3032a Career preparation for the field of aging

(a) Grants The Assistant Secretary shall make grants to institutions of higher education, including historically Black colleges or universities, Hispanic-serving institutions, and Hispanic Centers of Excellence in Applied Gerontology, to provide education and training that prepares students for careers in the field of aging.

(b) Definitions For purposes of subsection (a): The term “Hispanic Center of Excellence in Applied Gerontology” means an institution of higher education with a program in applied gerontology that— has a significant number of Hispanic individuals enrolled in the program, including individuals accepted for enrollment in the program; has been effective in assisting Hispanic students of the program to complete the program and receive the degree involved; has been effective in recruiting Hispanic individuals to attend the program, including providing scholarships and other financial assistance to such individuals and encouraging Hispanic students of secondary educational institutions to attend the program; and has made significant recruitment efforts to increase the number and placement of Hispanic individuals serving in faculty or administrative positions in the program. The term “historically Black college or university” has the meaning given the term “part B institution” in section 1061(2) of title 20 .

§ 3032b Older individuals’ protection from violence projects

(a) Program authorized The Assistant Secretary shall make grants to States, area agencies on aging, nonprofit organizations, or tribal organizations to carry out the activities described in subsection (b).

(b) Activities A State, an area agency on aging, a nonprofit organization, or a tribal organization that receives a grant under subsection (a) shall use such grant to— support projects in local communities, involving diverse sectors of each community, to coordinate activities concerning intervention in and prevention of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation, including family violence and sexual assault, against older individuals; develop and implement outreach programs directed toward assisting older individuals who are victims of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation (including family violence and sexual assault, against older individuals), including programs directed toward assisting the individuals in senior housing complexes, nursing homes, board and care facilities, and senior centers; expand access to family violence and sexual assault programs (including shelters, rape crisis centers, and support groups), including mental health services, safety planning and legal advocacy for older individuals and encourage the use of senior housing, hotels, or other suitable facilities or services when appropriate as emergency short-term shelters for older individuals who are the victims of elder abuse, including family violence and sexual assault; or promote research on legal, organizational, or training impediments to providing services to older individuals through shelters and other programs, such as impediments to provision of services in coordination with delivery of health care or services delivered under this chapter.

(c) Preference In awarding grants under subsection (a), the Assistant Secretary shall give preference to a State, an area agency on aging, a nonprofit organization, or a tribal organization that has the ability to carry out the activities described in this section and subchapter XI of this chapter.

(d) Coordination The Assistant Secretary shall encourage each State, area agency on aging, nonprofit organization, and tribal organization that receives a grant under subsection (a) to coordinate activities provided under this section with activities provided by other area agencies on aging, tribal organizations, State adult protective service programs, private nonprofit organizations, and by other entities receiving funds under subchapter XI of this chapter.

§ 3032c Health care service demonstration projects in rural areas

(a) Authority The Assistant Secretary, after consultation with the State agency of the State involved, shall make grants to eligible public agencies and nonprofit private organizations to pay part or all of the cost of developing or operating model health care service projects (including related home health care services, adult day health care, mental health services, outreach, and transportation) through multipurpose senior centers that are located in rural areas and that provide nutrition services under section 3030e of this title , to meet the health care needs of medically underserved older individuals residing in such areas.

(b) Eligibility To be eligible to receive a grant under subsection (a), a public agency or nonprofit private organization shall submit to the Assistant Secretary an application containing such information and assurances as the Secretary may require, including— information describing the nature and extent of the applicant’s— experience in providing medical services of the type to be provided in the project for which a grant is requested; and coordination and cooperation with— institutions of higher education having graduate programs with capability in public health, mental health, the medical sciences, psychology, pharmacology, nursing, social work, health education, nutrition, or gerontology, for the purpose of designing and developing such project; and critical access hospitals (as defined in section 1395x(mm)(1) of this title and rural health clinics (as defined in section 1395x(aa)(2) of this title ); assurances that the applicant will carry out the project for which a grant is requested, through a multipurpose senior center located— in a rural area that has a population of less than 5,000; or in a county that has fewer than seven individuals per square mile; and in a State in which— not less than 33⅓ of the population resides in rural areas; and not less than 5 percent of the population resides in counties with fewer than seven individuals per square mile, as defined by and determined in accordance with the most recent data available from the Bureau of the Census; and assurances that the applicant will submit to the Assistant Secretary such evaluations and reports as the Assistant Secretary may require.

(c) Reports The Assistant Secretary shall prepare and submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report that includes summaries of the evaluations and reports required under subsection (b).

§ 3032d Repealed. Pub. L. 114–144, § 5(d), Apr. 19, 2016, 130 Stat. 342

§ 3032e Technical assistance and innovation to improve transportation for older individuals

(a) In general The Secretary may award grants or contracts to nonprofit organizations to improve transportation services for older individuals.

(b) Use of funds A nonprofit organization receiving a grant or contract under subsection (a) shall use the funds received through such grant or contract to carry out a demonstration project, or to provide technical assistance to assist local transit providers, area agencies on aging, senior centers, and local senior support groups, to encourage and facilitate coordination of Federal, State, and local transportation services and resources for older individuals. The organization may use the funds to develop and carry out an innovative transportation demonstration project to create transportation services for older individuals. In carrying out a demonstration project or providing technical assistance under paragraph (1) the organization may carry out activities that include— developing innovative approaches for improving access by older individuals to transportation services, including volunteer driver programs, economically sustainable transportation programs, and programs that allow older individuals to transfer their automobiles to a provider of transportation services in exchange for the services; preparing information on transportation options and resources for older individuals and organizations serving such individuals, and disseminating the information by establishing and operating a toll-free telephone number, call center, website or Internet-based portal, mobile application, or other technological tools; developing models and best practices for providing comprehensive integrated transportation services for older individuals, including services administered by the Secretary of Transportation, by providing ongoing technical assistance to agencies providing services under subchapter III and by assisting in coordination of public and community transportation services; improving the aggregation, availability, and accessibility of information on options for transportation services for older individuals, including information on public transit, on-demand transportation services, volunteer-based transportation services, and other private transportation providers; and providing older individuals with the ability to schedule trips both in advance and on demand, as appropriate; identifying opportunities to share resources and reduce costs of transportation services for older individuals; coordinating individualized trip planning responses to requests from older individuals for transportation services; and providing special services to link older individuals to transportation services not provided under subchapter III.

(c) Economically sustainable transportation In this section, the term “economically sustainable transportation” means demand responsive transportation for older individuals— that may be provided through volunteers; and that the provider will provide without receiving Federal or other public financial assistance, after a period of not more than 5 years of providing the services under this section.

§ 3032f Demonstration, support, and research projects for multigenerational and civic engagement activities

(a) Grants and contracts The Assistant Secretary shall award grants to and enter into contracts with eligible organizations to carry out projects, serving individuals in younger generations and older individuals, to— provide opportunities for older individuals to participate in multigenerational activities and civic engagement activities that contribute to the health and wellness of older individuals and individuals in younger generations by promoting— meaningful roles for participants; reciprocity in relationship building; reduced social isolation and improved participant social connectedness; improved economic well-being for older individuals; increased lifelong learning; or support for caregivers of families by— providing support for older relative caregivers (as defined in section 3030s(a) of this title ) raising children (such as support for kinship navigator programs); or involving volunteers who are older individuals who provide support and information to families who have a child with a disability or chronic illness, or other families in need of such family support; coordinate multigenerational activities and civic engagement activities, including multigenerational nutrition and meal service programs; promote volunteerism, including by providing opportunities for older individuals to become a mentor to individuals in younger generations; and facilitate development of, and participation in, multigenerational activities and civic engagement activities.

(b) Grant and contract periods Each grant awarded and contract entered into under subsection (a) shall be for a period of not less than 36 months.

(c) Use of funds An eligible organization shall use funds made available under a grant awarded, or a contract entered into, under this section to carry out a project described in subsection (a). In awarding grants and entering into contracts under this section, the Assistant Secretary shall ensure that such grants and contracts are for the projects that satisfy each requirement under paragraphs (1) through (4) of subsection (a).

(d) Preference In awarding grants and entering into contracts to carry out a project described in subsection (a), the Assistant Secretary shall give preference to— eligible organizations with a demonstrated record of carrying out, intent to carry out, or intent to partner with local organizations or multiservice organizations to carry out, multigenerational activities or civic engagement activities; eligible organizations proposing multigenerational activity projects that will serve older individuals and communities with the greatest need (with particular attention to low-income minority individuals, older individuals with limited English proficiency, older individuals residing in rural areas, and low-income minority communities); eligible organizations proposing civic engagement projects that will serve communities with the greatest need; eligible organizations with the capacity to develop meaningful roles and assignments that use the time, skills, and experience of older individuals to serve public and nonprofit organizations; and eligible organizations proposing multigenerational activity projects that utilize shared site programs, such as collocated child care and long-term care facilities.

(e) Application To be eligible to receive a grant or enter into a contract under subsection (a), an organization shall submit an application to the Assistant Secretary at such time, in such manner, and accompanied by such information as the Assistant Secretary may reasonably require.

(f) Eligible organizations Organizations eligible to receive a grant or enter into a contract under subsection (a) shall— be a State, an area agency on aging, or an organization that provides opportunities for older individuals to participate in activities described in such subsection; and have the capacity to conduct the coordination, promotion, and facilitation described in such subsection through the use of multigenerational coordinators.

(g) Evaluation Not later than 3 years after March 25, 2020 , the Assistant Secretary shall, through data submitted by organizations carrying out projects through grants or contracts under this section, evaluate the activities supported through such grants and contracts to determine— the effectiveness of such activities; the impact of such activities on the community being served and the organization providing the activities; and the impact of such activities on older individuals participating in such projects. Not later than 6 months after the Assistant Secretary completes the evaluation under paragraph (1), the Assistant Secretary shall prepare and submit to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate a report that assesses such evaluation and contains, at a minimum— the names or descriptive titles of the projects funded under subsection (a); a description of the nature and operation of such projects; the names and addresses of organizations that conducted such projects; a description of the methods and success of such projects in recruiting older individuals as employees and as volunteers to participate in the projects; a description of the success of the projects in retaining older individuals participating in such projects as employees and as volunteers; the rate of turnover of older individuals who are employees or volunteers in such projects; a strategy for disseminating the findings resulting from such projects; and any policy change recommendations relating to such projects.

(h) Definitions As used in this section: The term “multigenerational activity” means an activity that provides an opportunity for interaction between 2 or more individuals of different generations, including activities connecting older individuals and youth in a child care program, a youth day care program, an educational assistance program, an at-risk youth intervention program, a juvenile delinquency treatment program, a before- or after-school program, a library program, or a family support program. The term “multigenerational coordinator” means a person who— builds the capacity of public and nonprofit organizations to develop meaningful roles and assignments, that use the time, skill, and experience of older individuals to serve those organizations; and nurtures productive, sustainable working relationships between— older individuals; and individuals in younger generations.

§ 3032g Native American programs

(a) Establishment The Assistant Secretary shall make grants or enter into contracts with not fewer than two and not more than four eligible entities to establish and operate Resource Centers on Native American Elders (referred to in this section as “Resource Centers”). The Assistant Secretary shall make such grants or enter into such contracts for periods of not less than 3 years. Each Resource Center that receives funds under this section shall— gather information; perform research; provide for the dissemination of results of the research; and provide technical assistance and training to entities that provide services to Native Americans who are older individuals. In conducting the functions described in subparagraph (A), a Resource Center shall focus on priority areas of concern for the Resource Centers regarding Native Americans who are older individuals, which areas shall be— health (including mental health) problems; long-term care, including in-home care; elder abuse; and other problems and issues that the Assistant Secretary determines are of particular importance to Native Americans who are older individuals. In awarding grants and entering into contracts under paragraph (1), the Assistant Secretary shall give preference to institutions of higher education that have conducted research on, and assessments of, the characteristics and needs of Native Americans who are older individuals. In determining the type of information to be sought from, and activities to be performed by, Resource Centers, the Assistant Secretary shall consult with the Director of the Office for American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian Aging and with national organizations with special expertise in serving Native Americans who are older individuals. To be eligible to receive a grant or enter into a contract under paragraph (1), an entity shall be an institution of higher education with experience conducting research and assessment on the needs of older individuals. The Assistant Secretary, with assistance from each Resource Center, shall prepare and submit to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate an annual report on the status and needs, including the priority areas of concern, of Native Americans who are older individuals.

(b) Training grants The Assistant Secretary shall make grants and enter into contracts to provide in-service training opportunities and courses of instruction on aging to Indian tribes through public or nonprofit Indian aging organizations and to provide annually national trainings for directors of programs under this subchapter.

§ 3032h Repealed. Pub. L. 114–144, § 5(d), Apr. 19, 2016, 130 Stat. 342

§ 3032i Demonstration and support projects for legal assistance for older individuals

(a) Program authorized The Assistant Secretary shall make grants and enter into contracts, in order to— provide a national legal assistance support system (operated by one or more grantees or contractors) of activities to State and area agencies on aging for providing, developing, or supporting legal assistance for older individuals, including— case consultations; training; provision of substantive legal advice and assistance; and assistance in the design, implementation, and administration of legal assistance delivery systems to local providers of legal assistance for older individuals; and support demonstration projects to expand or improve the delivery of legal assistance to older individuals with social or economic needs.

(b) Assurances Any grants or contracts made under subsection (a)(2) shall contain assurances that the requirements of section 3027(a)(11) of this title are met.

(c) Assistance To carry out subsection (a)(1), the Assistant Secretary shall make grants to or enter into contracts with nonprofit organizations experienced in providing support and technical assistance on a nationwide basis to States, area agencies on aging, legal assistance providers, ombudsmen, elder abuse prevention programs, and other organizations interested in the legal rights of older individuals.

§ 3032j Repealed. Pub. L. 114–144, § 5(d), Apr. 19, 2016, 130 Stat. 342

§ 3032k Community innovations for aging in place

(a) Definitions In this section: The term “eligible entity”— means a nonprofit health or social service organization, a community-based nonprofit organization, an area agency on aging or other local government agency, a tribal organization, or another entity that— the Assistant Secretary determines to be appropriate to carry out a project under this part; and demonstrates a record of, and experience in, providing or administering group and individual health and social services for older individuals; and does not include an entity providing housing under the congregate housing services program carried out under section 8011 of this title or the multifamily service coordinator program carried out under section 1701q(g) of title 12 . The term “Naturally Occurring Retirement Community” means a community with a concentrated population of older individuals, which may include a residential building, a housing complex, an area (including a rural area) of single family residences, or a neighborhood composed of age-integrated housing— where— 40 percent of the heads of households are older individuals; or a critical mass of older individuals exists, based on local factors that, taken in total, allow an organization to achieve efficiencies in the provision of health and social services to older individuals living in the community; and that is not an institutional care or assisted living setting.

(b) Grants The Assistant Secretary shall make grants, on a competitive basis, to eligible entities to develop and carry out model aging in place projects. The projects shall promote aging in place for older individuals (including such individuals who reside in Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities), in order to sustain the independence of older individuals. A recipient of a grant under this subsection shall identify innovative strategies for providing, and linking older individuals to programs and services that provide, comprehensive and coordinated health and social services to sustain the quality of life of older individuals and support aging in place. The Assistant Secretary shall make the grants for periods of 3 years.

(c) Applications To be eligible to receive a grant under subsection (b) for a project, an entity shall submit an application to the Assistant Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Assistant Secretary may require. The application shall include— a detailed description of the entity’s experience in providing services to older individuals in age-integrated settings; a definition of the contiguous service area and a description of the project area in which the older individuals reside or carry out activities to sustain their well-being; the results of a needs assessment that identifies— existing (as of the date of the assessment) community-based health and social services available to individuals residing in the project area; the strengths and gaps of such existing services in the project area; the needs of older individuals who reside in the project area; and services not being delivered that would promote aging in place and contribute to the well-being of older individuals residing in the project area; a plan for the development and implementation of an innovative model for service coordination and delivery within the project area; a description of how the plan described in subparagraph (D) will enhance existing services described in subparagraph (C)(i) and support the goal of this section to promote aging in place; a description of proposed actions by the entity to prevent the duplication of services funded under a provision of this chapter, other than this section, and a description of how the entity will cooperate, and coordinate planning and services (including any formal agreements), with agencies and organizations that provide publicly supported services for older individuals in the project area, including the State agency and area agencies on aging with planning and service areas in the project area; an assurance that the entity will seek to establish cooperative relationships with interested local entities, including private agencies and businesses that provide health and social services, housing entities, community development organizations, philanthropic organizations, foundations, and other non-Federal entities; a description of the entity’s protocol for referral of residents who may require long-term care services, including coordination with local agencies, including area agencies on aging and Aging and Disability Resource Centers that serve as single points of entry to public services; a description of how the entity will offer opportunities for older individuals to be involved in the governance, oversight, and operation of the project; an assurance that the entity will submit to the Assistant Secretary such evaluations and reports as the Assistant Secretary may require; and a plan for long-term sustainability of the project.

(d) Use of funds An eligible entity that receives a grant under subsection (b) shall use the funds made available through the grant to— ensure access by older individuals in the project area to community-based health and social services consisting of— case management, case assistance, and social work services; health care management and health care assistance, including disease prevention and health promotion services; education, socialization, and recreational activities; and volunteer opportunities for project participants; conduct outreach to older individuals within the project area; and develop and implement innovative, comprehensive, and cost-effective approaches for the delivery and coordination of community-based health and social services, including those identified in subparagraph (A)(iv), which may include mental health services, for eligible older individuals. An eligible entity receiving a grant under subsection (b) for a project shall coordinate activities with organizations providing services funded under subchapter III to support such services for or facilitate the delivery of such services to eligible older individuals served by the project. In carrying out an aging in place project, an eligible entity shall, to the extent practicable, serve a community of low-income individuals and operate or locate the project and services in or in close proximity to a location where a large concentration of older individuals has aged in place and resided, such as a Naturally Occurring Retirement Community. Funds made available to an eligible entity under subsection (b) shall be used to supplement, not supplant, any Federal, State, or other funds otherwise available to the entity to provide health and social services to eligible older individuals.

(e) Competitive grants for technical assistance The Assistant Secretary shall (or shall make a grant, on a competitive basis, to an eligible nonprofit organization, to enable the organization to)— provide technical assistance to recipients of grants under subsection (b); and carry out other duties, as determined by the Assistant Secretary. To be eligible to receive a grant under this subsection, an organization shall be a nonprofit organization (including a partnership of nonprofit organizations), that— has experience and expertise in providing technical assistance to a range of entities serving older individuals and experience evaluating and reporting on programs; and has demonstrated knowledge of and expertise in community-based health and social services. To be eligible to receive a grant under this subsection, an organization (including a partnership of nonprofit organizations) shall submit an application to the Assistant Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Assistant Secretary may require, including an assurance that the organization will submit to the Assistant Secretary such evaluations and reports as the Assistant Secretary may require.

(f) Report The Assistant Secretary shall annually prepare and submit a report to Congress that shall include— the findings resulting from the evaluations of the model projects conducted under this section; a description of recommended best practices regarding carrying out health and social service projects for older individuals aging in place; and recommendations for legislative or administrative action, as the Assistant Secretary determines appropriate.

§ 3033 Payment of grants

(a) Contributions To the extent the Assistant Secretary determines a contribution to be appropriate, the Assistant Secretary shall require the recipient of any grant or contract under this subchapter to contribute money, facilities, or services for carrying out the project for which such grant or contract was made.

(b) Payments Payments under this subchapter pursuant to a grant or contract may be made (after necessary adjustment, in the case of grants, on account of previously made overpayments or underpayments) in advance or by way of reimbursement, and in such installments and on such conditions, as the Assistant Secretary may determine.

(c) Consultation The Assistant Secretary shall make no grant or contract under this subchapter in any State that has established or designated a State agency for purposes of subchapter III unless the Assistant Secretary— consults with the State agency prior to issuing the grant or contract; and informs the State agency of the purposes of the grant or contract when the grant or contract is issued.

§ 3033a Responsibilities of Assistant Secretary

(a) In general The Assistant Secretary shall be responsible for the administration, implementation, and making of grants and contracts under this subchapter and shall not delegate authority under this subchapter to any other individual, agency, or organization.

(b) Report Not later than January 1 following each fiscal year, the Assistant Secretary shall submit, to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate, a report for such fiscal year that describes each project and each program— for which funds were provided under this subchapter; and that was completed in the fiscal year for which such report is prepared. Such report shall contain— the name or descriptive title of each project or program; the name and address of the individual or governmental entity that conducted such project or program; a specification of the period throughout which such project or program was conducted; the identity of each source of funds expended to carry out such project or program and the amount of funds provided by each such source; an abstract describing the nature and operation of such project or program; and a bibliography identifying all published information relating to such project or program.

(c) Evaluations The Assistant Secretary shall establish by regulation and implement a process to evaluate the results of projects and programs carried out under this subchapter. The Assistant Secretary shall— make available to the public the results of each evaluation carried out under paragraph (1); and use such evaluation to improve services delivered, or the operation of projects and programs carried out, under this chapter, including preparing an analysis of such services, projects, and programs, and of how the evaluation relates to improvements in such services, projects, and programs and in the strategic plan of the Administration.

§§ 3041 to 3041f Repealed. Pub. L. 95–478, title V, § 501(a), Oct. 18, 1978, 92 Stat. 1558

§ 3042 Repealed. Pub. L. 95–478, title V, § 501(a), Oct. 18, 1978, 92 Stat. 1558

§§ 3044 to 3044e Repealed. Pub. L. 93–113, title VI, § 604(a), Oct. 1, 1973, 87 Stat. 417

§§ 3045 to 3045i Repealed. Pub. L. 95–478, title V, § 501(a), Oct. 18, 1978, 92 Stat. 1558

§§ 3051 to 3055 Repealed. Pub. L. 93–29, title II, § 202, May 3, 1973, 87 Stat. 36

§ 3056 Older American community service employment program

(a) In general To foster individual economic self-sufficiency and promote useful opportunities in community service activities (which shall include community service employment) for unemployed low-income persons who are age 55 or older, particularly persons who have poor employment prospects, and to increase the number of persons who may enjoy the benefits of unsubsidized employment in both the public and private sectors, the Secretary of Labor (referred to in this subchapter as the “Secretary”) may establish an older American community service employment program. Amounts appropriated to carry out this subchapter shall be used only to carry out the provisions contained in this subchapter.

(b) Grant authority To carry out this subchapter, the Secretary may make grants to public and nonprofit private agencies and organizations, agencies of a State, and tribal organizations to carry out the program established under subsection (a). Such grants may provide for the payment of costs, as provided in subsection (c), of projects developed by such organizations and agencies in cooperation with the Secretary in order to make such program effective or to supplement such program. The Secretary shall make the grants from allotments made under section 3056d of this title , and in accordance with section 3056 l of this title. No payment shall be made by the Secretary toward the cost of any project established or administered by such an organization or agency unless the Secretary determines that such project— will provide community service employment only for eligible individuals except for necessary technical, administrative, and supervisory personnel, and such personnel will, to the fullest extent possible, be recruited from among eligible individuals; will provide community service employment and other authorized activities for eligible individuals in the community in which such individuals reside, or in nearby communities; or if such project is carried out by a tribal organization that receives a grant under this subsection or receives assistance from a State that receives a grant under this subsection, will provide community service employment and other authorized activities for such individuals, including those who are Indians residing on an Indian reservation, as defined in section 3501 of title 25 ; will comply with an average participation cap for eligible individuals (in the aggregate) of— 27 months; or pursuant to the request of a grantee, an extended period of participation established by the Secretary for a specific project area for such grantee, up to a period of not more than 36 months, if the Secretary determines that extenuating circumstances exist relating to the factors identified in section 3056k(a)(2)(E) of this title that justify such an extended period for the program year involved; will employ eligible individuals in service related to publicly owned and operated facilities and projects, or projects sponsored by nonprofit organizations (excluding political parties exempt from taxation under section 501(c)(3) of title 26 ), but excluding projects involving the construction, operation, or maintenance of any facility used or to be used as a place for sectarian religious instruction or worship; will contribute to the general welfare of the community, which may include support for children, youth, and families; will provide community service employment and other authorized activities for eligible individuals; will not reduce the number of employment opportunities or vacancies that would otherwise be available to individuals not participating in the program; will not displace currently employed workers (including partial displacement, such as a reduction in the hours of nonovertime work, wages, or employment benefits); will not impair existing contracts or result in the substitution of Federal funds for other funds in connection with work that would otherwise be performed; and will not employ or continue to employ any eligible individual to perform the same work or substantially the same work as that performed by any other individual who is on layoff; will coordinate activities with training and other services provided under title I of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3111 et seq.], including utilizing the one-stop delivery system of the local workforce development areas involved to recruit eligible individuals to ensure that the maximum number of eligible individuals will have an opportunity to participate in the project; will include such training (such as work experience, on-the-job training, and classroom training) as may be necessary to make the most effective use of the skills and talents of those individuals who are participating, and will provide for the payment of the reasonable expenses of individuals being trained, including a reasonable subsistence allowance equivalent to the wage described in subparagraph (J); will ensure that safe and healthy employment conditions will be provided, and will ensure that participants employed in community service and other jobs assisted under this subchapter will be paid wages that shall not be lower than whichever is the highest of— the minimum wage that would be applicable to such a participant under the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 ( 29 U.S.C. 201 et seq.), if section 6(a)(1) of such Act ( 29 U.S.C. 206(a)(1) ) applied to the participant and if the participant were not exempt under section 13 of such Act ( 29 U.S.C. 213 ); the State or local minimum wage for the most nearly comparable covered employment; or the prevailing rates of pay for individuals employed in similar public occupations by the same employer; will be established or administered with the advice of persons competent in the field of service in which community service employment or other authorized activities are being provided, and of persons who are knowledgeable about the needs of older individuals; will authorize payment for necessary supportive services costs (including transportation costs) of eligible individuals that may be incurred in training in any project funded under this subchapter, in accordance with rules issued by the Secretary; will ensure that, to the extent feasible, such project will serve the needs of minority and Indian eligible individuals, eligible individuals with limited English proficiency, and eligible individuals with greatest economic need, at least in proportion to their numbers in the area served and take into consideration their rates of poverty and unemployment; will prepare an assessment of the participants’ skills and talents and their needs for services, except to the extent such project has, for the participant involved, recently prepared an assessment of such skills and talents, and such needs, pursuant to another employment or training program (such as a program under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act ( 29 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.), the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006 ( 20 U.S.C. 2301 et seq.), or part A of title IV of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 601 et seq.)) and will prepare a related service strategy; will provide training and employment counseling to eligible individuals based on strategies that identify appropriate employment objectives and the need for supportive services, developed as a result of the assessment and service strategy provided for in clause (i), and provide other appropriate information regarding such project; and will provide counseling to participants on their progress in meeting such objectives and satisfying their need for supportive services; will provide appropriate services for participants, or refer the participants to appropriate services, through the one-stop delivery system of the local workforce development areas involved as established under section 121(e) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3151(e) ], and will be involved in the planning and operations of such system pursuant to a memorandum of understanding with the local workforce development board in accordance with section 121(c) of such Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3151(c) ]; will post in such project workplace a notice, and will make available to each person associated with such project a written explanation— clarifying the law with respect to political activities allowable and unallowable under chapter 15 of title 5 applicable to the project and to each category of individuals associated with such project; and containing the address and telephone number of the Inspector General of the Department of Labor, to whom questions regarding the application of such chapter may be addressed; will provide to the Secretary the description and information described in— clauses (ii) and (viii) of paragraph (2)(B), relating to coordination with other Federal programs, of section 102(b) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3112(b) ]; and paragraph (2)(C)(i), relating to implementation of one-stop delivery systems, of section 102(b) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act; and will ensure that entities that carry out activities under the project (including State agencies, local entities, subgrantees, and subcontractors) and affiliates of such entities receive an amount of the administrative cost allocation determined by the Secretary, in consultation with grantees, to be sufficient. The Secretary may establish, issue, and amend such regulations as may be necessary to effectively carry out this subchapter. An assessment and service strategy required by paragraph (1)(N) to be prepared for an eligible individual shall satisfy any condition for an assessment and service strategy or individual employment plan for an adult participant under subtitle B of title I of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3151 et seq.], in order to determine whether such eligible individual also qualifies for career or training services described in section 134(c) of such Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3174(c) ]. An assessment and service strategy or individual employment plan prepared under subtitle B of title I of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3151 et seq.] for an eligible individual may be used to comply with the requirement specified in subparagraph (A).

(c) Federal share and use of funds The Secretary may pay a Federal share not to exceed 90 percent of the cost of any project for which a grant is made under subsection (b), except that the Secretary may pay all of such cost if such project is— an emergency or disaster project; or a project located in an economically depressed area, as determined by the Secretary in consultation with the Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of Health and Human Services. The non-Federal share shall be in cash or in kind. In determining the amount of the non-Federal share, the Secretary may attribute fair market value to services and facilities contributed from non-Federal sources. Of the grant amount to be paid under this subsection by the Secretary for a project, not to exceed 13.5 percent shall be available for any fiscal year to pay the administrative costs of such project, except that— the Secretary may increase the amount available to pay the administrative costs to an amount not to exceed 15 percent of the grant amount if the Secretary determines, based on information submitted by the grantee under subsection (b), that such increase is necessary to carry out such project; and if the grantee under subsection (b) demonstrates to the Secretary that— major administrative cost increases are being incurred in necessary program components, including liability insurance, payments for workers’ compensation, costs associated with achieving unsubsidized placement goals, and costs associated with other operation requirements imposed by the Secretary; the number of community service employment positions in the project or the number of minority eligible individuals participating in the project will decline if the amount available to pay the administrative costs is not increased; or the size of the project is so small that the amount of administrative costs incurred to carry out the project necessarily exceeds 13.5 percent of the grant amount; the Secretary shall increase the amount available for such fiscal year to pay the administrative costs to an amount not to exceed 15 percent of the grant amount. For purposes of this subchapter, administrative costs are the costs, both personnel-related and nonpersonnel-related and both direct and indirect, associated with the following: The costs of performing general administrative functions and of providing for the coordination of functions, such as the costs of— accounting, budgeting, and financial and cash management; procurement and purchasing; property management; personnel management; payroll functions; coordinating the resolution of findings arising from audits, reviews, investigations, and incident reports; audits; general legal services; developing systems and procedures, including information systems, required for administrative functions; preparing administrative reports; and other activities necessary for the general administration of government funds and associated programs. The costs of performing oversight and monitoring responsibilities related to administrative functions. The costs of goods and services required for administrative functions of the project involved, including goods and services such as rental or purchase of equipment, utilities, office supplies, postage, and rental and maintenance of office space. The travel costs incurred for official business in carrying out administrative activities or overall management. The costs of information systems related to administrative functions (such as personnel, procurement, purchasing, property management, accounting, and payroll systems), including the purchase, systems development, and operating costs of such systems. The costs of technical assistance, professional organization membership dues, and evaluating results obtained by the project involved against stated objectives. To the extent practicable, an entity that carries out a project under this subchapter shall provide for the payment of the expenses described in paragraph (4) from non-Federal sources. Amounts made available for a project under this subchapter that are not used to pay for the administrative costs shall be used to pay for the costs of programmatic activities, including the costs of— participant wages, such benefits as are required by law (such as workers’ compensation or unemployment compensation), the costs of physical examinations, compensation for scheduled work hours during which an employer’s business is closed for a Federal holiday, and necessary sick leave that is not part of an accumulated sick leave program, except that no amounts provided under this subchapter may be used to pay the cost of pension benefits, annual leave, accumulated sick leave, or bonuses; participant training (including the payment of reasonable costs of instructors, classroom rental, training supplies, materials, equipment, and tuition), which may be provided prior to or subsequent to placement and which may be provided on the job, in a classroom setting, or pursuant to other appropriate arrangements; job placement assistance, including job development and job search assistance; participant supportive services to enable a participant to successfully participate in a project under this subchapter, which may include the payment of reasonable costs of transportation, health and medical services, special job-related or personal counseling, incidentals (such as work shoes, badges, uniforms, eyeglasses, and tools), child and adult care, temporary shelter, and follow-up services; and outreach, recruitment and selection, intake, orientation, and assessments. From the funds made available through a grant made under subsection (b), a grantee under this subchapter— except as provided in clause (ii), shall use not less than 75 percent of the grant funds to pay the wages, benefits, and other costs described in subparagraph (A)(i) for eligible individuals who are employed under projects carried out under this subchapter; or that obtains approval for a request described in subparagraph (C) may use not less than 65 percent of the grant funds to pay the wages, benefits, and other costs described in subparagraph (A)(i). A grantee may submit to the Secretary a request for approval— to use not less than 65 percent of the grant funds to pay the wages, benefits, and other costs described in subparagraph (A)(i); to use the percentage of grant funds described in paragraph (3) to pay for administrative costs, as specified in that paragraph; to use not more than 10 percent of the grant funds for individual participants to provide activities described in clauses (ii) and (iv) of subparagraph (A), in which case the grantee shall provide (from the funds described in this subclause) the subsistence allowance described in subsection (b)(1)(I) for those individual participants who are receiving training described in that subsection from the funds described in this subclause, but may not use the funds described in this subclause to pay for any administrative costs; and to use the remaining grant funds to provide activities described in clauses (ii) through (v) of subparagraph (A). In submitting the request the grantee shall include in the request— a description of the activities for which the grantee will spend the grant funds described in subclauses (III) and (IV) of clause (i), consistent with those subclauses; an explanation documenting how the provision of such activities will improve the effectiveness of the project, including an explanation concerning whether any displacement of eligible individuals or elimination of positions for such individuals will occur, information on the number of such individuals to be displaced and of such positions to be eliminated, and an explanation concerning how the activities will improve employment outcomes for individuals served, based on the assessment conducted under subsection (b)(1)(N); and a proposed budget and work plan for the activities, including a detailed description of the funds to be spent on the activities described in subclauses (III) and (IV) of clause (i). The grantee shall submit a request described in clause (i) not later than 90 days before the proposed date of implementation contained in the request. Not later than 30 days before the proposed date of implementation, the Secretary shall approve, approve as modified, or reject the request, on the basis of the information included in the request as described in clause (ii). Each grantee under subsection (b) shall annually prepare and submit to the Secretary a report documenting the grantee’s use of funds for activities described in clauses (i) through (v) of subparagraph (A).

(d) Project description Whenever a grantee conducts a project within a planning and service area in a State, such grantee shall conduct such project in consultation with the area agency on aging of the planning and service area and the local workforce development board and shall submit to the State agency, the local workforce development board, and the area agency on aging a description of such project to be conducted in the State, including the location of the project, 90 days prior to undertaking the project, for review and public comment according to guidelines the Secretary shall issue to assure efficient and effective coordination of projects under this subchapter.

(e) Pilot, demonstration, and evaluation projects The Secretary, in addition to exercising any other authority contained in this subchapter, shall use funds reserved under section 3056d(a)(1) of this title to carry out demonstration projects, pilot projects, and evaluation projects, for the purpose of developing and implementing techniques and approaches, and demonstrating the effectiveness of the techniques and approaches, in addressing the employment and training needs of eligible individuals. The Secretary shall enter into such agreements with States, public agencies, nonprofit private organizations, or private business concerns, as may be necessary, to conduct the projects authorized by this subsection. To the extent practicable, the Secretary shall provide an opportunity, prior to the development of a demonstration or pilot project, for the appropriate area agency on aging to submit comments on such a project in order to ensure coordination of activities under this subchapter. Such projects may include— activities linking businesses and eligible individuals, including activities providing assistance to participants transitioning from subsidized activities to private sector employment; demonstration projects and pilot projects designed to— attract more eligible individuals into the labor force; improve the provision of services to eligible individuals under one-stop delivery systems established under section 121(e) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3151(e) ]; enhance the technological skills of eligible individuals; and provide incentives to grantees under this subchapter for exemplary performance and incentives to businesses to promote their participation in the program under this subchapter; demonstration projects and pilot projects, as described in subparagraph (B), for workers who are older individuals (but targeted to eligible individuals) only if such demonstration projects and pilot projects are designed to assist in developing and implementing techniques and approaches in addressing the employment and training needs of eligible individuals; provision of training and technical assistance to support any project funded under this subchapter; dissemination of best practices relating to employment of eligible individuals; and evaluation of the activities authorized under this subchapter. To the extent practicable, entities carrying out projects under this subsection shall consult with appropriate area agencies on aging, with the State workforce development board and local workforce development board, and with other appropriate agencies and entities to promote coordination of activities under this subchapter.

§ 3056a Administration

(a) State plan For a State to be eligible to receive an allotment under section 3056d of this title , the Governor of the State shall submit to the Secretary for consideration and approval, a single State plan (referred to in this subchapter as the “State plan”) that outlines a 4-year strategy for the statewide provision of community service employment and other authorized activities for eligible individuals under this subchapter. The plan shall contain such provisions as the Secretary may require, consistent with this subchapter, including a description of the process used to ensure the participation of individuals described in paragraph (2). Not less often than every 2 years, the Governor shall review the State plan and submit an update to the State plan to the Secretary for consideration and approval. In developing the State plan prior to its submission to the Secretary, the Governor shall seek the advice and recommendations of— individuals representing the State agency and the area agencies on aging in the State, and the State and local workforce development boards established under title I of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3111 et seq.]; individuals representing public and nonprofit private agencies and organizations providing employment services, including each grantee operating a project under this subchapter in the State; and individuals representing social service organizations providing services to older individuals, grantees under subchapter III of this chapter, affected communities, unemployed older individuals, community-based organizations serving the needs of older individuals, business organizations, and labor organizations. Any State plan submitted by the Governor in accordance with paragraph (1) shall be accompanied by copies of public comments relating to the plan received pursuant to paragraph (8), and a summary of the comments. The State plan shall identify and address— the relationship that the number of eligible individuals in each area bears to the total number of eligible individuals, respectively, in the State; the relative distribution of eligible individuals residing in rural and urban areas in the State; and the relative distribution of— eligible individuals who are individuals with greatest economic need; eligible individuals who are minority individuals; eligible individuals who are limited English proficient; eligible individuals who are individuals with greatest social need; and eligible individuals who have been incarcerated within the last 5 years or are under supervision following release from prison or jail within the last 5 years; the current and projected employment opportunities in the State (such as by providing information available under section 49 l –2 of title 29 by occupation), and the type of skills possessed by local eligible individuals; the localities and populations for which projects of the type authorized by this subchapter are most needed; and how the activities of grantees in the State under this subchapter will be coordinated with activities carried out in the State under title I of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act ( 29 U.S.C. 3111 et seq.) and other related programs (referred to in this subparagraph as “WIOA and related activities”), and how the State will reduce unnecessary duplication between the activities carried out under this subchapter and the WIOA and related activities. Before a proposal for a grant under this subchapter for any fiscal year is submitted to the Secretary, the Governor of the State in which projects are proposed to be conducted under such grant shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity to submit to the Secretary— recommendations regarding the anticipated effect of each such proposal upon the overall distribution of enrollment positions under this subchapter in the State (including such distribution among urban and rural areas), taking into account the total number of positions to be provided by all grantees in the State; any recommendations for redistribution of positions to underserved areas as vacancies occur in previously encumbered positions in other areas; and in the case of any increase in funding that may be available for use in the State under this subchapter for the fiscal year, any recommendations for distribution of newly available positions in excess of those available during the preceding year to underserved areas. In lieu of the plan described in paragraph (1), a State may develop and submit a combined State plan in accordance with section 103 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act ( 29 U.S.C. 3113 ). For a State that obtains approval of such a combined State plan, that section 103 shall apply in lieu of this subsection and a reference in any other provision of this subchapter (other than this subsection) to a State plan shall be considered to be a reference to that combined State plan. In developing a plan or considering a recommendation under this subsection, the Governor shall avoid disruptions in the provision of services for participants to the greatest possible extent. In order to effectively carry out this subchapter, each State shall make the State plan available for public comment. The Secretary, in consultation with the Assistant Secretary, shall review the plan and make a written determination with findings and a decision regarding the plan. The Secretary may review, on the Secretary’s own initiative or at the request of any public or private agency or organization or of any agency of the State, the distribution of projects and services under this subchapter in the State, including the distribution between urban and rural areas in the State. For each proposed reallocation of projects or services in a State, the Secretary shall give notice and opportunity for public comment. The grantees that serve eligible individuals who are older Indians or Pacific Island and Asian Americans with funds reserved under section 3056d(a)(3) of this title may not be required to participate in the State planning processes described in this section but shall collaborate with the Secretary to develop a plan for projects and services to eligible individuals who are Indians or Pacific Island and Asian Americans, respectively.

(b) Coordination with other Federal programs The Secretary and the Assistant Secretary shall coordinate the program carried out under this subchapter with programs carried out under other subchapters of this chapter, to increase employment opportunities available to older individuals. The Secretary shall coordinate programs carried out under this subchapter with the program carried out under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, the Community Services Block Grant Act ( 42 U.S.C. 9901 et seq.), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 ( 29 U.S.C. 701 et seq.), the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006 ( 20 U.S.C. 2301 et seq.), the National and Community Service Act of 1990 ( 42 U.S.C. 12501 et seq.), and the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 ( 42 U.S.C. 4950 et seq.). The Secretary shall coordinate the administration of this subchapter with the administration of other subchapters of this chapter by the Assistant Secretary to increase the likelihood that eligible individuals for whom employment opportunities under this subchapter are available and who need services under such subchapters receive such services. Funds appropriated to carry out this subchapter may not be used to carry out any program under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, the Community Services Block Grant Act, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006, the National and Community Service Act of 1990, or the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973. Clause (i) shall not be construed to prohibit carrying out projects under this subchapter jointly with programs, projects, or activities under any Act specified in clause (i), or from carrying out section 3056i of this title . The Secretary shall distribute to grantees under this subchapter, for distribution to program participants, and at no cost to grantees or participants, informational materials developed and supplied by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and other appropriate Federal agencies that the Secretary determines are designed to help participants identify age discrimination and to understand their rights under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 ( 29 U.S.C. 621 et seq.).

(c) Use of services, equipment, personnel, and facilities In carrying out this subchapter, the Secretary may use the services, equipment, personnel, and facilities of Federal and other agencies, with their consent, with or without reimbursement, and on a similar basis cooperate with other public and nonprofit private agencies and organizations in the use of services, equipment, and facilities.

(d) Payments Payments under this subchapter may be made in advance or by way of reimbursement and in such installments as the Secretary may determine.

(e) No delegation of functions The Secretary shall not delegate any function of the Secretary under this subchapter to any other Federal officer or entity.

(f) Compliance The Secretary shall monitor projects for which grants are made under this subchapter to determine whether the grantees are complying with rules and regulations issued to carry out this subchapter (including the statewide planning, consultation, and coordination requirements of this subchapter). Each grantee that receives funds under this subchapter shall comply with the applicable uniform cost principles and appropriate administrative requirements for grants and contracts that are applicable to the type of entity that receives funds, as issued as circulars or rules of the Office of Management and Budget. Each grantee described in paragraph (2) shall prepare and submit a report in such manner and containing such information as the Secretary may require regarding activities carried out under this subchapter. Each grantee described in paragraph (2) shall keep records that— are sufficient to permit the preparation of reports required by this subchapter; are sufficient to permit the tracing of funds to a level of expenditure adequate to ensure that the funds have not been spent unlawfully; and contain any other information that the Secretary determines to be appropriate.

(g) Evaluations The Secretary shall establish by rule and implement a process to evaluate, in accordance with section 3056k of this title , the performance of projects carried out and services provided under this subchapter. The Secretary shall report to Congress, and make available to the public, the results of each such evaluation and shall use such evaluation to improve services delivered by, or the operation of, projects carried out under this subchapter.

§ 3056b Participants not Federal employees

(a) Inapplicability of certain provisions covering Federal employees Eligible individuals who are participants in any project funded under this subchapter shall not be considered to be Federal employees as a result of such participation and shall not be subject to part III of title 5.

(b) Workers’ compensation No grant or subgrant shall be made and no contract or subcontract shall be entered into under this subchapter with an entity who is, or whose employees are, under State law, exempted from operation of the State workers’ compensation law, generally applicable to employees, unless the entity shall undertake to provide either through insurance by a recognized carrier or by self-insurance, as authorized by State law, that the persons employed under the grant, subgrant, contract, or subcontract shall enjoy workers’ compensation coverage equal to that provided by law for covered employment.

§ 3056c Interagency cooperation

(a) Consultation with the Assistant Secretary The Secretary shall consult with and obtain the written views of the Assistant Secretary before issuing rules and before establishing general policy in the administration of this subchapter.

(b) Consultation with heads of other agencies The Secretary shall consult and cooperate with the Secretary of Health and Human Services (acting through officers including the Director of the Office of Community Services), and the heads of other Federal agencies that carry out programs related to the program carried out under this subchapter, in order to achieve optimal coordination of the program carried out under this subchapter with such related programs. Each head of a Federal agency shall cooperate with the Secretary in disseminating information relating to the availability of assistance under this subchapter and in promoting the identification and interests of individuals eligible for employment in projects assisted under this subchapter.

(c) Coordination The Secretary shall promote and coordinate efforts to carry out projects under this subchapter jointly with programs, projects, or activities carried out under other Acts, especially activities provided under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, including activities provided through one-stop delivery systems established under section 121(e) of such Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3151(e) ], that provide training and employment opportunities to eligible individuals. The Secretary shall consult with the Secretary of Education to promote and coordinate efforts to carry out projects under this subchapter jointly with activities in which eligible individuals may participate that are carried out under the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006 ( 20 U.S.C. 2301 et seq.).

§ 3056d Distribution of assistance

(a) Reservations Of the funds appropriated to carry out this subchapter for each fiscal year, the Secretary may first reserve not more than 1.5 percent to carry out demonstration projects, pilot projects, and evaluation projects under section 3056(e) of this title . Of the funds appropriated to carry out this subchapter for each fiscal year, the Secretary shall reserve 0.75 percent, of which— Guam, American Samoa, and the United States Virgin Islands shall each receive 30 percent of the funds so reserved; and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands shall receive 10 percent of the funds so reserved. Of the funds appropriated to carry out this subchapter for each fiscal year, the Secretary shall reserve such amount as may be necessary to make national grants to public or nonprofit national Indian aging organizations with the ability to provide community service employment and other authorized activities for eligible individuals who are Indians and to national public or nonprofit Pacific Island and Asian American aging organizations with the ability to provide community service employment and other authorized activities for eligible individuals who are Pacific Island and Asian Americans.

(b) State allotments The allotment for each State shall be the sum of the amounts allotted for national grants in such State under subsection (d) and for the grant to such State under subsection (e).

(c) Division between national grants and grants to States The funds appropriated to carry out this subchapter for any fiscal year that remain after amounts are reserved under paragraphs (1), (2), and (3) of subsection (a) shall be divided by the Secretary between national grants and grants to States as follows: The Secretary shall reserve the amount of funds necessary to maintain the fiscal year 2000 level of activities supported by grantees that operate under this subchapter under national grants from the Secretary, and the fiscal year 2000 level of activities supported by State grantees under this subchapter, in proportion to their respective fiscal year 2000 levels of activities. If in any fiscal year the funds appropriated to carry out this subchapter are insufficient to satisfy the requirement specified in subparagraph (A), then the amount described in subparagraph (A) shall be reduced proportionally. The amount of funds remaining (if any) after the application of paragraph (1), but not to exceed $35,000,000, shall be divided so that 75 percent shall be provided to State grantees and 25 percent shall be provided to grantees that operate under this subchapter under national grants from the Secretary. The amount of funds remaining (if any) after the application of subparagraph (A) shall be divided so that 50 percent shall be provided to State grantees and 50 percent shall be provided to grantees that operate under this subchapter under national grants from the Secretary.

(d) Allotments for national grants From funds available under subsection (c) for national grants, the Secretary shall allot for public and nonprofit private agency and organization grantees that operate under this subchapter under national grants from the Secretary in each State, an amount that bears the same ratio to such funds as the product of the number of individuals age 55 or older in the State and the allotment percentage of such State bears to the sum of the corresponding products for all States, except as follows: No State shall be provided an amount under this subsection that is less than ½ of 1 percent of the amount provided under subsection (c) for public and nonprofit private agency and organization grantees that operate under this subchapter under national grants from the Secretary in all of the States. If such amount provided under subsection (c) is— equal to or less than the amount necessary to maintain the fiscal year 2000 level of activities, allotments for grantees that operate under this subchapter under national grants from the Secretary in each State shall be proportional to the amount necessary to maintain their fiscal year 2000 level of activities; or greater than the amount necessary to maintain the fiscal year 2000 level of activities, no State shall be provided a percentage increase above the amount necessary to maintain the fiscal year 2000 level of activities for grantees that operate under this subchapter under national grants from the Secretary in the State that is less than 30 percent of the percentage increase above the amount necessary to maintain the fiscal year 2000 level of activities for public and private nonprofit agency and organization grantees that operate under this subchapter under national grants from the Secretary in all of the States. Allotments for States not affected by paragraphs (1) and (2)(B) shall be reduced proportionally to satisfy the conditions in such paragraphs.

(e) Allotments for grants to States From the amount provided for grants to States under subsection (c), the Secretary shall allot for the State grantee in each State an amount that bears the same ratio to such amount as the product of the number of individuals age 55 or older in the State and the allotment percentage of such State bears to the sum of the corresponding products for all States, except as follows: No State shall be provided an amount under this subsection that is less than ½ of 1 percent of the amount provided under subsection (c) for State grantees in all of the States. If such amount provided under subsection (c) is— equal to or less than the amount necessary to maintain the fiscal year 2000 level of activities, allotments for State grantees in each State shall be proportional to the amount necessary to maintain their fiscal year 2000 level of activities; or greater than the amount necessary to maintain the fiscal year 2000 level of activities, no State shall be provided a percentage increase above the amount necessary to maintain the fiscal year 2000 level of activities for State grantees in the State that is less than 30 percent of the percentage increase above the amount necessary to maintain the fiscal year 2000 level of activities for State grantees in all of the States. Allotments for States not affected by paragraphs (1) and (2)(B) shall be reduced proportionally to satisfy the conditions in such paragraphs.

(f) Allotment percentage For purposes of subsections (d) and (e) and this subsection— the allotment percentage of each State shall be 100 percent less that percentage that bears the same ratio to 50 percent as the per capita income of such State bears to the per capita income of the United States, except that— the allotment percentage shall be not more than 75 percent and not less than 33 percent; and the allotment percentage for the District of Columbia and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico shall be 75 percent; the number of individuals age 55 or older in any State and in all States, and the per capita income in any State and in all States, shall be determined by the Secretary on the basis of the most satisfactory data available to the Secretary; and for the purpose of determining the allotment percentage, the term “United States” means the 50 States, 1 and the District of Columbia.

(g) Definitions In this section: The term “cost per authorized position” means the sum of— the hourly minimum wage rate specified in section 206(a)(1) of title 29 , multiplied by the number of hours equal to the product of 21 hours and 52 weeks; an amount equal to 11 percent of the amount specified under subparagraph (A), for the purpose of covering Federal payments for fringe benefits; and an amount determined by the Secretary, for the purpose of covering Federal payments for the remainder of all other program and administrative costs. The term “fiscal year 2000 level of activities” means— with respect to public and nonprofit private agency and organization grantees that operate under this subchapter under national grants from the Secretary, their level of activities for fiscal year 2000; and with respect to State grantees, their level of activities for fiscal year 2000. The term “grants to States” means grants made under this subchapter by the Secretary to the States. The term “level of activities” means the number of authorized positions multiplied by the cost per authorized position. The term “national grants” means grants made under this subchapter by the Secretary to public and nonprofit private agency and organization grantees that operate under this subchapter. The term “State” does not include Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the United States Virgin Islands.

§ 3056e Equitable distribution

(a) Interstate allocation In making grants under section 3056(b) of this title from allotments made under section 3056d of this title , the Secretary shall ensure, to the extent feasible, an equitable distribution of activities under such grants, in the aggregate, among the States, taking into account the needs of underserved States.

(b) Intrastate allocation The amount allocated for projects within each State under section 3056d of this title shall be allocated among areas in the State in an equitable manner, taking into consideration the State priorities set out in the State plan in effect under section 3056a(a) of this title .

§ 3056f Report

To carry out the Secretary’s responsibilities for reporting in section 3056a(g) of this title , the Secretary shall require the State agency for each State that receives funds under this subchapter to prepare and submit a report at the beginning of each fiscal year on such State’s compliance with section 3056e(b) of this title . Such report shall include the names and geographic location of all projects assisted under this subchapter and carried out in the State and the amount allocated to each such project under section 3056d of this title . ( Pub. L. 89–73, title V, § 508 , as added Pub. L. 109–365, title V, § 501 , Oct. 17, 2006 , 120 Stat. 2579 .)

§ 3056g Employment assistance and Federal housing and supplemental nutrition assistance programs

Funds received by eligible individuals from projects carried out under the program established under this subchapter shall not be considered to be income of such individuals for purposes of determining the eligibility of such individuals, or of any other individuals, to participate in any housing program for which Federal funds may be available or for any income determination under the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 ( 7 U.S.C. 2011 et seq.). ( Pub. L. 89–73, title V, § 509 , as added Pub. L. 109–365, title V, § 501 , Oct. 17, 2006 , 120 Stat. 2579 ; amended Pub. L. 110–234, title IV, § 4002(b)(1)(B) , (2)(BB), May 22, 2008 , 122 Stat. 1096 , 1097; Pub. L. 110–246, § 4(a) , title IV, § 4002(b)(1)(B), (2)(BB), June 18, 2008 , 122 Stat. 1664 , 1857, 1859; Pub. L. 113–79, title IV, § 4030(s) , Feb. 7, 2014 , 128 Stat. 815 .)

§ 3056h Eligibility for workforce investment activities

Eligible individuals under this subchapter may be considered by local workforce development boards and one-stop operators established under title I of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3111 et seq.] to satisfy the requirements for receiving services under such title that are applicable to adults. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title V, § 510 , as added Pub. L. 109–365, title V, § 501 , Oct. 17, 2006 , 120 Stat. 2580 ; amended Pub. L. 113–128, title V, § 512(w)(6) , July 22, 2014 , 128 Stat. 1715 .)

§ 3056i Coordination with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act

(a) Partners Grantees under this subchapter shall be one-stop partners as described in subparagraphs (A) and (B)(v) of section 121(b)(1) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3151(b)(1) ] in the one-stop delivery system established under section 121(e) of such Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3151(e) ] for the appropriate local workforce development areas, and shall carry out the responsibilities relating to such partners.

(b) Coordination In local workforce investment areas where more than 1 grantee under this subchapter provides services, the grantees shall— coordinate their activities related to the one-stop delivery systems; and be signatories of the memorandum of understanding established under section 121(c) of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3151(c) ].

§ 3056j Treatment of assistance

Assistance provided under this subchapter shall not be considered to be financial assistance described in section 1255a(h)(1)(A) of title 8 . ( Pub. L. 89–73, title V, § 512 , as added Pub. L. 109–365, title V, § 501 , Oct. 17, 2006 , 120 Stat. 2580 .)

§ 3056k Performance

(a) Measures The Secretary shall establish and implement, after consultation with grantees, subgrantees, and host agencies under this subchapter, States, older individuals, area agencies on aging, and other organizations serving older individuals, core measures of performance for each grantee for projects and services carried out under this subchapter. The core measures of performance shall be applicable to each grantee under this subchapter without regard to whether such grantee operates the program directly or through subcontracts, subgrants, or agreements with other entities. The core measures of performance established by the Secretary in accordance with paragraph (1) shall consist of core indicators of performance specified in subsection (b)(1) and the expected levels of performance applicable to each core indicator of performance. The Secretary and each grantee shall reach agreement on the expected levels of performance for each program year for each of the core indicators of performance specified in subparagraph (A). Funds may not be awarded under the grant until such agreement is reached. At the conclusion of negotiations concerning the levels with all grantees, the Secretary shall make available for public review the final negotiated expected levels of performance for each grantee, including any comments submitted by the grantee regarding the grantee’s satisfaction with the negotiated levels. Each grantee shall reach agreement with the Secretary on levels of performance for each measure described in subparagraph (A)(i), 1 for each of the first 2 program years covered by the grant agreement. In reaching the agreement, the grantee and the Secretary shall take into account the expected levels proposed by the grantee and the factors described in subparagraph (D). The levels agreed to shall be considered to be the expected levels of performance for the grantee for such program years. Each grantee shall reach agreement with the Secretary, prior to the third program year covered by the grant agreement, on levels of performance for each measure described in subparagraph (A), for each of the third and fourth program years so covered. In reaching the agreement, the grantee and the Secretary shall take into account the expected levels proposed by the grantee and the factors described in subparagraph (D). The levels agreed to shall be considered to be the expected levels of performance for the grantee for such program years. In reaching the agreements described in subparagraph (B), each grantee and the Secretary shall— take into account how the levels involved compare with the expected levels of performance established for other grantees; ensure that the levels involved are adjusted, using an objective statistical model based on the model established by the Secretary in accordance with section 3141(a)(3)(A)(viii) 2 of title 29; 3 and take into account the extent to which the levels involved promote continuous improvement in performance accountability on the core measures and ensure optimal return on the investment of Federal funds. The Secretary shall, in accordance with the objective statistical model developed pursuant to subparagraph (D)(ii), adjust the expected levels of performance for a program year for grantees, to reflect the actual economic conditions and characteristics of participants in the corresponding projects during such program year. An agreement to be evaluated on the core measures of performance shall be a requirement for application for, and a condition of, all grants authorized by this subchapter.

(b) Indicators of performance The core indicators of performance described in subsection (a)(2)(A) shall consist of— hours (in the aggregate) of community service employment; the percentage of project participants who are in unsubsidized employment during the second quarter after exit from the project; the percentage of project participants who are in unsubsidized employment during the fourth quarter after exit from the project; the median earnings of project participants who are in unsubsidized employment during the second quarter after exit from the project; indicators of effectiveness in serving employers, host agencies, and project participants; and the number of eligible individuals served, including the number of participating individuals described in subsection (a)(3)(B)(ii) or (b)(2) of section 3056p of this title . The Secretary, after consultation with national and State grantees, representatives of business and labor organizations, and providers of services, shall, by regulation, issue definitions of the indicators of performance described in paragraph (1).

(c) Evaluation The Secretary shall annually evaluate, and publish and make available for public review information on, the actual performance of each grantee with respect to the levels achieved for each of the core indicators of performance, compared to the expected levels of performance established under subsection (a)(2)(B) (including any adjustments to such levels made in accordance with subsection (a)(2)(E)).

(d) Technical assistance and corrective efforts As soon as practicable after July 1, 2016 , the Secretary shall determine if a grantee under this subchapter has, for program year 2016, met the expected levels of performance established under subsection (a)(2)(B) (including any adjustments to such levels made in accordance with subsection (a)(2)(E)) for the core indicators of performance. If the Secretary determines that the grantee, for program year 2016, failed to meet the expected levels of performance described in subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall provide technical assistance to assist the grantee to meet the expected levels of performance. Not later than 120 days after the end of each program year, the Secretary shall determine if a national grantee awarded a grant under section 3056(b) of this title in accordance with section 3056 l of this title has met the expected levels of performance established under subsection (a)(2)(B) (including any adjustments to such levels made in accordance with subsection (a)(2)(E)) for the core indicators of performance described in subsection (b)(1). If the Secretary determines that a national grantee fails to meet the expected levels of performance described in subparagraph (A), the Secretary after each year of such failure, shall provide technical assistance and require such grantee to submit a corrective action plan not later than 160 days after the end of the program year. The plan submitted under clause (i) shall detail the steps the grantee will take to meet the expected levels of performance in the next program year. Any grantee who has failed to meet the expected levels of performance for 4 consecutive years shall not be allowed to compete in the subsequent grant competition under section 3056 l of this title following the fourth consecutive year of failure but may compete in the next such grant competition after that subsequent competition. For purposes of assessing grantee performance under this subparagraph before program year 2017, the Secretary shall use the core indicators of performance in effect at the time of the award and the most recent corresponding expected levels of performance. Not later than 120 days after the end of each program year, the Secretary shall determine if a State grantee allotted funds under section 3056d(e) of this title has met the expected levels of performance established under subsection (a)(2)(B) (including any adjustments to such levels made in accordance with subsection (a)(2)(E)) for the core indicators of performance described in subsection (b)(1). If the Secretary determines that a State fails to meet the expected levels of performance described in subparagraph (A), the Secretary, after each year of such failure, shall provide technical assistance and require the State to submit a corrective action plan not later than 160 days after the end of the program year. The plan submitted under clause (i) shall detail the steps the State will take to meet the expected levels of performance in the next program year. If the Secretary determines that the State fails to meet the expected levels of performance described in subparagraph (A) for 3 consecutive program years, the Secretary shall provide for the conduct by the State of a competition to award the funds allotted to the State under section 3056d(e) of this title for the first full program year following the Secretary’s determination. The Secretary shall implement the core measures of performance described in this section not later than December 31, 2017 .

(e) Impact on grant competition Effective on January 1, 2018 , the Secretary may not publish a notice announcing a grant competition under this subchapter, or solicit proposals for grants, until the day on which the Secretary implements the core measures of performance.

§ 3056l Competitive requirements relating to grant awards

(a) Program authorized From the funds available for national grants under section 3056d(d) of this title , the Secretary shall award grants under section 3056(b) of this title to eligible applicants, through a competitive process that emphasizes meeting performance requirements, to carry out projects under this subchapter for a period of 4 years, except as provided in paragraph (2). The Secretary may not conduct a grant competition under this subchapter until the day described in section 3056k(e) of this title . If the recipient of a grant made under paragraph (1) meets the expected levels of performance described in section 3056k(d)(2)(A) of this title for each year of such 4-year period with respect to a project, the Secretary may award a grant under section 3056(b) of this title to such recipient to continue such project beyond such 4-year period for 1 additional year without regard to such process.

(b) Eligible applicants An applicant shall be eligible to receive a grant under section 3056(b) of this title in accordance with subsections (a), (c), and (d).

(c) Criteria For purposes of subsection (a)(1), the Secretary shall select the eligible applicants to receive grants based on the following: The applicant’s ability to administer a project that serves the greatest number of eligible individuals, giving particular consideration to individuals with greatest economic need, individuals with greatest social need, and individuals described in subsection (a)(3)(B)(ii) or (b)(2) of section 3056p of this title . The applicant’s ability to administer a project that provides employment for eligible individuals in the communities in which such individuals reside, or in nearby communities, that will contribute to the general welfare of the communities involved. The applicant’s ability to administer a project that moves eligible individuals into unsubsidized employment. The applicant’s prior performance, if any, in meeting core measures of performance under this subchapter and the applicant’s ability to address core indicators of performance under this subchapter and under other Federal or State programs in the case of an applicant that has not previously received a grant under this subchapter. The applicant’s ability to move individuals with multiple barriers to employment, including individuals described in subsection (a)(3)(B)(ii) or (b)(2) of section 3056p of this title , into unsubsidized employment. The applicant’s ability to coordinate activities with other organizations at the State and local level. The applicant’s plan for fiscal management of the project to be administered with funds received in accordance with this section. The applicant’s ability to administer a project that provides community service. The applicant’s ability to minimize disruption in services for participants and in community services provided. Any additional criteria that the Secretary considers to be appropriate in order to minimize disruption in services for participants.

(d) Responsibility tests Before final selection of a grantee, the Secretary shall conduct a review of available records to assess the applicant’s overall responsibility to administer Federal funds. As part of the review described in paragraph (1), the Secretary may consider any information, including the applicant’s history with regard to the management of other grants. The failure to satisfy a responsibility test with respect to any 1 factor that is listed in paragraph (4), excluding those listed in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of such paragraph, does not establish that the applicant is not responsible unless such failure is substantial or persists for 2 or more consecutive years. The responsibility tests include review of the following factors: Unsuccessful efforts by the applicant to recover debts, after 3 demand letters have been sent, that are established by final agency action, or a failure to comply with an approved repayment plan. Established fraud or criminal activity of a significant nature within the organization or agency involved. Serious administrative deficiencies identified by the Secretary, such as failure to maintain a financial management system as required by Federal rules or regulations. Willful obstruction of the audit process. Failure to provide services to participants for a current or recent grant or to meet applicable core measures of performance or address applicable indicators of performance. Failure to correct deficiencies brought to the grantee’s attention in writing as a result of monitoring activities, reviews, assessments, or other activities. Failure to return a grant closeout package or outstanding advances within 90 days of the grant expiration date or receipt of the closeout package, whichever is later, unless an extension has been requested and granted. Failure to submit required reports. Failure to properly report and dispose of Government property as instructed by the Secretary. Failure to have maintained effective cash management or cost controls resulting in excess cash on hand. Failure to ensure that a subrecipient complies with its Office of Management and Budget Circular A–133 audit requirements specified at section 667.200(b) of title 20, Code of Federal Regulations. Failure to audit a subrecipient within the required period. Final disallowed costs in excess of 5 percent of the grant or contract award if, in the judgment of the grant officer, the disallowances are egregious. Failure to establish a mechanism to resolve a subrecipient’s audit in a timely fashion. Applicants that are determined to be not responsible shall not be selected as grantees. Interest on disallowed costs shall accrue in accordance with the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996, including the amendments made by that Act.

(e) Grantees serving individuals with barriers to employment In this subsection, the term “individuals with barriers to employment” means minority individuals, Indian individuals, individuals with greatest economic need, eligible individuals who have been incarcerated or are under supervision following release from prison or jail, and individuals described in subsection (a)(3)(B)(ii) or (b)(2) of section 3056p of this title . In areas where a substantial population of individuals with barriers to employment exists, a grantee that receives a national grant in accordance with this section shall, in selecting subgrantees, give special consideration to organizations (including former recipients of such national grants) with demonstrated expertise in serving individuals with barriers to employment.

(f) Minority-serving grantees The Secretary may not promulgate rules or regulations affecting grantees in areas where a substantial population of minority individuals exists, that would significantly compromise the ability of the grantees to serve their targeted population of minority older individuals.

§ 3056m Report on service to minority individuals

(a) In general The Secretary shall annually prepare a report on the levels of participation and performance outcomes of minority individuals served by the program carried out under this subchapter.

(b) Contents Such report shall present information on the levels of participation and the outcomes achieved by such minority individuals with respect to each grantee under this subchapter, by service area, and in the aggregate, beginning with data that applies to program year 2005. The report shall also include a description of each grantee’s efforts to serve minority individuals, based on information submitted to the Secretary by each grantee at such time and in such manner as the Secretary determines to be appropriate. The report shall also include— an assessment of individual grantees based on the criteria established under subsection (c); an analysis of whether any changes in grantees have affected participation rates of such minority individuals; information on factors affecting participation rates among such minority individuals; and recommendations for increasing participation of minority individuals in the program.

(c) Criteria The Secretary shall establish criteria for determining the effectiveness of grantees in serving minority individuals in accordance with the goals set forth in section 3056(a)(1) of title.

(d) Submission The Secretary shall annually submit such a report to the appropriate committees of Congress.

§ 3056n Sense of Congress

It is the sense of Congress that— the older American community service employment program described in this subchapter was established with the intent of placing older individuals in community service positions and providing job training; and placing older individuals in community service positions strengthens the ability of the individuals to become self-sufficient, provides much-needed support to organizations that benefit from increased civic engagement, and strengthens the communities that are served by such organizations. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title V, § 516 , as added Pub. L. 109–365, title V, § 501 , Oct. 17, 2006 , 120 Stat. 2587 .)

§ 3056o Authorization of appropriations

(a) In general There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subchapter $428,000,000forfiscalyear2020,$453,680,000 for fiscal year 2021, $480,900,800forfiscalyear2022,$509,754,848 for fiscal year 2023, and $540,340,139 for fiscal year 2024.

(b) Obligation Amounts appropriated under this section for any fiscal year shall be available for Federal obligation during the annual period that begins on April 1 of the calendar year immediately following the beginning of such fiscal year and that ends on June 30 of the following calendar year. Such amounts obligated to grantees shall be available for obligation and expenditure by grantees during the program year that begins on July 1 of the calendar year immediately following the beginning of the fiscal year in which the amounts are appropriated and that ends on June 30 of the following calendar year. The Secretary may extend the period during which such amounts may be obligated or expended in the case of a particular organization or agency that receives funds under this subchapter if the Secretary determines that such extension is necessary to ensure the effective use of such funds by such organization or agency.

(c) Recapturing funds At the end of the program year, the Secretary may recapture any unexpended funds for the program year, and reobligate such funds within the 2 succeeding program years for— incentive grants to entities that are State grantees or national grantees under section 3056(b) of this title ; technical assistance; or grants or contracts for any other activity under this subchapter.

§ 3056p Definitions and rule

(a) Definitions For purposes of this subchapter: The term “community service” means— social, health, welfare, and educational services (including literacy tutoring), legal and other counseling services and assistance, including tax counseling and assistance and financial counseling, and library, recreational, and other similar services; conservation, maintenance, or restoration of natural resources; community betterment or beautification; antipollution and environmental quality efforts; weatherization activities; economic development; and such other services essential and necessary to the community as the Secretary determines by rule to be appropriate. The term “community service employment” means part-time, temporary employment paid with grant funds in projects described in section 3056(b)(1)(D) of this title , through which eligible individuals are engaged in community service and receive work experience and job skills that can lead to unsubsidized employment. The term “eligible individual” means an individual who is age 55 or older and who has a low income (including any such individual whose income is not more than 125 percent of the poverty line), excluding any income that is unemployment compensation, a benefit received under title XVI of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.), a payment made to or on behalf of veterans or former members of the Armed Forces under the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, or 25 percent of a benefit received under title II of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 401 et seq.), subject to subsection (b). Notwithstanding any other provision of this paragraph, the term “eligible individual” does not include an individual who has participated in projects under this subchapter for a period of 48 months in the aggregate (whether or not consecutive) after July 1, 2007 , unless the period was increased as described in clause (ii). The Secretary shall authorize a grantee for a project to increase the period of participation described in clause (i), pursuant to a request submitted by the grantee, for individuals who— have a severe disability; are frail or are age 75 or older; meet the eligibility requirements related to age for, but do not receive, benefits under title II of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 401 et seq.); live in an area with persistent unemployment and are individuals with severely limited employment prospects; have limited English proficiency or low literacy skills; or have been incarcerated within the last 5 years or are under supervision following release from prison or jail within the last 5 years. In this section, the term “income” means income received during the 12-month period (or, at the option of the grantee involved, the annualized income for the 6-month period) ending on the date an eligible individual submits an application to participate in a project carried out under this subchapter by such grantee. The terms “local workforce development board” and “State workforce development board” have the meanings given the terms “local board” and “State board”, respectively, in section 3 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act ( 29 U.S.C. 3102 ). The term “Pacific Island and Asian Americans” means Americans having origins in any of the original peoples of the Far East, Southeast Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, or the Pacific Islands. The term “program” means the older American community service employment program established under this subchapter. The term “supportive services” means services, such as transportation, child care, dependent care, housing, and needs-related payments, that are necessary to enable an individual to participate in activities authorized under this subchapter, consistent with the provisions of this subchapter. The term “unemployed”, used with respect to a person or individual, means an individual who is without a job and who wants and is available for work, including an individual who may have occasional employment that does not result in a constant source of income.

(b) Rule Pursuant to regulations prescribed by the Secretary, an eligible individual shall have priority for the community service employment and other authorized activities provided under this subchapter if the individual— is 65 years of age or older; or has a disability; has limited English proficiency or low literacy skills; resides in a rural area; is a veteran; has low employment prospects; has failed to find employment after utilizing services provided under title I of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [ 29 U.S.C. 3111 et seq.]; is homeless or at risk for homelessness; or has been incarcerated within the last 5 years or is under supervision following release from prison or jail within the last 5 years.

§ 3057 Statement of purpose

It is the purpose of this subchapter to promote the delivery of supportive services, including nutrition services to American Indians, Alaskan Natives, and Native Hawaiians that are comparable to services provided under subchapter III. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VI, § 601 , as added Pub. L. 100–175, title I, § 171 , Nov. 29, 1987 , 101 Stat. 959 .)

§ 3057a Sense of Congress

It is the sense of the Congress that older individuals who are Indians, older individuals who are Alaskan Natives, and older individuals who are Native Hawaiians are a vital resource entitled to all benefits and services available and that such services and benefits should be provided in a manner that preserves and restores their respective dignity, self-respect, and cultural identities. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VI, § 602 , as added Pub. L. 100–175, title I, § 171 , Nov. 29, 1987 , 101 Stat. 959 ; amended Pub. L. 102–375, title IX, § 904(a)(20) , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1309 .)

§ 3057b Findings

The Congress finds that the older individuals who are Indians of the United States— are a rapidly increasing population; suffer from high unemployment; live in poverty at a rate estimated to be as high as 61 percent; have a life expectancy between 3 and 4 years less than the general population; lack sufficient nursing homes, other long-term care facilities, and other health care facilities; lack sufficient Indian area agencies on aging; frequently live in substandard and over-crowded housing; receive less than adequate health care; are served under this subchapter at a rate of less than 19 percent of the total national population of older individuals who are Indians living on Indian reservations; and are served under subchapter III at a rate of less than 1 percent of the total participants under that subchapter. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VI, § 611 , as added Pub. L. 100–175, title I, § 171 , Nov. 29, 1987 , 101 Stat. 959 ; amended Pub. L. 102–375, title IX, § 904(a)(21) , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1309 ; Pub. L. 116–131, title VII, § 701(10) , Mar. 25, 2020 , 134 Stat. 271 .)

§ 3057c Eligibility

(a) Criteria A tribal organization of an Indian tribe is eligible for assistance under this part only if— the tribal organization represents at least 50 individuals who are 60 years of age or older; and the tribal organization demonstrates the ability to deliver supportive services, including nutritional services.

(b) Limitation An Indian tribe represented by an organization specified in subsection (a) shall be eligible for only one grant under this part for any fiscal year. Nothing in this subsection shall preclude an Indian tribe represented by an organization specified in subsection (a) from receiving a grant under section 3057k–11 of this title .

(c) “Indian tribe” and “tribal organization” defined For the purposes of this part the terms “Indian tribe” and “tribal organization” have the same meaning as in section 5304 of title 25 .

§ 3057d Grants authorized

The Assistant Secretary may make grants to eligible tribal organizations to pay all of the costs for delivery of supportive services and nutrition services for older individuals who are Indians. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VI, § 613 , as added Pub. L. 100–175, title I, § 171 , Nov. 29, 1987 , 101 Stat. 960 ; amended Pub. L. 102–375, title IX, § 904(a)(22) , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1309 ; Pub. L. 103–171, § 3(a)(13) , Dec. 2, 1993 , 107 Stat. 1990 .)

§ 3057e Applications

(a) Approval criteria; provisions and assurances No grant may be made under this part unless the eligible tribal organization submits an application to the Assistant Secretary which meets such criteria as the Assistant Secretary may by regulation prescribe. Each such application shall— provide that the eligible tribal organization will evaluate the need for supportive and nutrition services among older individuals who are Indians to be represented by the tribal organization; provide for the use of such methods of administration as are necessary for the proper and efficient administration of the program to be assisted; provide that the tribal organization will make such reports in such form and containing such information, as the Assistant Secretary may reasonably require, and comply with such requirements as the Assistant Secretary may impose to assure the correctness of such reports; provide for periodic evaluation of activities and projects carried out under the application; establish objectives consistent with the purposes of this part toward which activities under the application will be directed, identify obstacles to the attainment of such objectives, and indicate the manner in which the tribal organization proposes to overcome such obstacles; provide for establishing and maintaining information and assistance services to assure that older individuals who are Indians to be served by the assistance made available under this part will have reasonably convenient access to such services; provide a preference for older individuals who are Indians for full or part-time staff positions wherever feasible; provide assurances that either directly or by way of grant or contract with appropriate entities nutrition services will be delivered to older individuals who are Indians represented by the tribal organization substantially in compliance with the provisions of part C of subchapter III, except that in any case in which the need for nutritional services for older individuals who are Indians represented by the tribal organization is already met from other sources, the tribal organization may use the funds otherwise required to be expended under this paragraph for supportive services; provide that any legal or ombudsman services made available to older individuals who are Indians represented by the tribal organization will be substantially in compliance with the provisions of subchapter III relating to the furnishing of similar services; provide satisfactory assurance that fiscal control and fund accounting procedures will be adopted as may be necessary to assure proper disbursement of, and accounting for, Federal funds paid under this part to the tribal organization, including any funds paid by the tribal organization to a recipient of a grant or contract; and contain assurances that the tribal organization will coordinate services provided under this part with services provided under subchapter III in the same geographical area.

(b) Population statistics development For the purpose of any application submitted under this part, the tribal organization may develop its own population statistics, with approval from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, in order to establish eligibility.

(c) Approval by Assistant Secretary The Assistant Secretary shall approve any application which complies with the provisions of subsection (a). The Assistant Secretary shall provide waivers and exemptions of the reporting requirements of subsection (a)(3) for applicants that serve Indian populations in geographically isolated areas, or applicants that serve small Indian populations, where the small scale of the project, the nature of the applicant, or other factors make the reporting requirements unreasonable under the circumstances. The Assistant Secretary shall consult with such applicants in establishing appropriate waivers and exemptions. The Assistant Secretary shall approve any application that complies with the provisions of subsection (a), except that in determining whether an application complies with the requirements of subsection (a)(8), the Assistant Secretary shall provide maximum flexibility to an applicant that seeks to take into account subsistence needs, local customs, and other characteristics that are appropriate to the unique cultural, regional, and geographic needs of the Indian populations to be served. In determining whether an application complies with the requirements of subsection (a)(11), the Assistant Secretary shall require only that an applicant provide an appropriate narrative description of the geographic area to be served and an assurance that procedures will be adopted to ensure against duplicate services being provided to the same recipients.

(d) Disapproval by Assistant Secretary Whenever the Assistant Secretary determines not to approve an application submitted under subsection (a) the Assistant Secretary shall— state objections in writing to the tribal organization within 60 days after such decision; provide to the extent practicable technical assistance to the tribal organization to overcome such stated objections; and provide the tribal organization with a hearing, under such rules and regulations as the Assistant Secretary may prescribe.

(e) Funds per year Whenever the Assistant Secretary approves an application of a tribal organization under this part, funds shall be awarded for not less than 12 months.

§ 3057e–1 Distribution of funds among tribal organizations

(a) Maintenance of 1991 amounts Subject to the availability of appropriations to carry out this part, the amount of the grant (if any) made under this part to a tribal organization for fiscal year 1992 and for each subsequent fiscal year shall be not less than the amount of the grant made under this part to the tribal organization for fiscal year 1991.

(b) Use of additional amounts appropriated If the funds appropriated to carry out this part in a fiscal year subsequent to fiscal year 1991 exceed the funds appropriated to carry out this part in fiscal year 1991, then the amount of the grant (if any) made under this part to a tribal organization for the subsequent fiscal year shall be— increased by such amount as the Assistant Secretary considers to be appropriate, in addition to the amount of any increase required by subsection (a), so that the grant equals or more closely approaches the amount of the grant made under this part to the tribal organization for fiscal year 1980; or an amount the Assistant Secretary considers to be sufficient if the tribal organization did not receive a grant under this part for either fiscal year 1980 or fiscal year 1991.

(c) Clarification In this subsection, the term “covered year” means fiscal year 2006 or a subsequent fiscal year. If a tribal organization received a grant under this part for fiscal year 1991 as part of a consortium, the Assistant Secretary shall consider the tribal organization to have received a grant under this part for fiscal year 1991 for purposes of subsections (a) and (b), and shall apply the provisions of subsections (a) and (b)(1) (under the conditions described in subsection (b)) to the tribal organization for each covered year for which the tribal organization submits an application under this part, even if the tribal organization submits— a separate application from the remaining members of the consortium; or an application as 1 of the remaining members of the consortium.

§ 3057f Surplus educational facilities

(a) Multipurpose senior centers Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary of the Interior through the Bureau of Indian Affairs shall make available surplus Indian educational facilities to tribal organizations, and nonprofit organizations with tribal approval, for use as multipurpose senior centers. Such centers may be altered so as to provide extended care facilities, community center facilities, nutrition services, child care services, and other supportive services.

(b) Applications; submission; contents Each eligible tribal organization desiring to take advantage of such surplus facilities shall submit an application to the Secretary of the Interior at such time and in such manner, and containing or accompanied by such information, as the Secretary of the Interior determines to be necessary to carry out the provisions of this section.

§ 3057g Findings

The Congress finds the older Native Hawaiians— have a life expectancy 10 years less than any other ethnic group in the State of Hawaii; rank lowest on 9 of 11 standard health indicies 1 for all ethnic groups in Hawaii; are often unaware of social services and do not know how to go about seeking such assistance; and live in poverty at a rate of 34 percent. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VI, § 621 , as added Pub. L. 100–175, title I, § 171 , Nov. 29, 1987 , 101 Stat. 961 .)

§ 3057h Eligibility

A public or nonprofit private organization having the capacity to provide services under this part for Native Hawaiians is eligible for assistance under this part only if— the organization will serve at least 50 individuals who have attained 60 years of age or older; and the organization demonstrates the ability to deliver supportive services, including nutrition services. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VI, § 622 , as added Pub. L. 100–175, title I, § 171 , Nov. 29, 1987 , 101 Stat. 961 .)

§ 3057i Grants authorized

The Assistant Secretary may make grants to public and nonprofit private organizations to pay all of the costs for the delivery of supportive services and nutrition services to older Native Hawaiians. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VI, § 623 , as added Pub. L. 100–175, title I, § 171 , Nov. 29, 1987 , 101 Stat. 962 ; amended Pub. L. 103–171, § 3(a)(13) , Dec. 2, 1993 , 107 Stat. 1990 .)

§ 3057j Application

(a) Approval criteria; provisions and assurances No grant may be made under this part unless the public or nonprofit private organization submits an application to the Assistant Secretary which meets such criteria as the Assistant Secretary may by regulation prescribe. Each such application shall— provide that the organization will evaluate the need for supportive and nutrition services among older Native Hawaiians to be represented by the organization; provide for the use of such methods of administration as are necessary for the proper and efficient administration of the program to be assisted; provide assurances that the organization will coordinate its activities with the State agency on aging and with the activities carried out under subchapter III in the same geographical area; provide that the organization will make such reports in such form and containing such information as the Assistant Secretary may reasonably require, and comply with such requirements as the Assistant Secretary may impose to ensure the correctness of such reports; provide for periodic evaluation of activities and projects carried out under the application; establish objectives, consistent with the purpose of this subchapter, toward which activities described in the application will be directed, identify obstacles to the attainment of such objectives, and indicate the manner in which the organization proposes to overcome such obstacles; provide for establishing and maintaining information and assistance services to assure that older Native Hawaiians to be served by the assistance made available under this part will have reasonably convenient access to such services; provide a preference for Native Hawaiians 60 years of age and older for full or part-time staff positions wherever feasible; provide that any legal or ombudsman services made available to older Native Hawaiians represented by the nonprofit private organization will be substantially in compliance with the provisions of subchapter III relating to the furnishing and similar services; and provide satisfactory assurances that the fiscal control and fund accounting procedures will be adopted as may be necessary to assure proper disbursement of, and accounting for, Federal funds paid under this part to the nonprofit private organization, including any funds paid by the organization to a recipient of a grant or contract.

(b) Approval by Assistant Secretary The Assistant Secretary shall approve any application which complies with the provisions of subsection (a).

(c) Disapproval by Assistant Secretary Whenever the Assistant Secretary determines not to approve an application submitted under subsection (a) the Assistant Secretary shall— state objections in writing to the nonprofit private organization within 60 days after such decision; provide to the extent practicable technical assistance to the nonprofit private organization to overcome such stated objections; and provide the organization with a hearing under such rules and regulations as the Assistant Secretary may prescribe.

(d) Funds per year Whenever the Assistant Secretary approves an application of a nonprofit private or public organization under this part funds shall be awarded for not less than 12 months.

§ 3057j–1 Distribution of funds among organizations

Subject to the availability of appropriations to carry out this part, the amount of the grant (if any) made under this part to an organization for fiscal year 1992 and for each subsequent fiscal year shall be not less than the amount of the grant made under this part to the organization for fiscal year 1991. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VI, § 624A , as added Pub. L. 102–375, title VI, § 604 , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1270 .)

§ 3057k “Native Hawaiian” defined

For the purpose of this part, the term “Native Hawaiian” means any individual any of whose ancestors were natives of the area which consists of the Hawaiian Islands prior to 1778. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VI, § 625 , as added Pub. L. 100–175, title I, § 171 , Nov. 29, 1987 , 101 Stat. 963 .)

§ 3057k–11 Program

(a) In general The Assistant Secretary shall carry out a program for making grants to tribal organizations with applications approved under parts A and B, to pay for the Federal share of carrying out tribal programs, to enable the tribal organizations to provide multifaceted systems of the support services described in section 3030s–1 of this title for caregivers described in section 3030s–1 of this title .

(b) Requirements In providing services under subsection (a), a tribal organization shall meet the requirements specified for an area agency on aging and for a State in the provisions of subsections (c), (d), and (f) of section 3030s–1 of this title and of section 3030s–2 of this title . For purposes of this subsection, references in such provisions to a State program shall be considered to be references to a tribal program under this part.

§ 3057k–21 Program

(a) In general The Assistant Secretary may carry out a competitive demonstration program for making grants to tribal organizations or organizations serving Native Hawaiians with applications approved under parts A and B, to pay for the Federal share of carrying out programs, to enable the organizations described in this subsection to build their capacity to provide a wider range of in-home and community supportive services to enable older individuals to maintain their health and independence and to avoid long-term care facility placement.

(b) Supportive services Subject to paragraph (2), supportive services described in subsection (a) may include any of the activities described in section 3030d(a) of this title . The Assistant Secretary, in making grants under this section, shall give priority to organizations that will use the grant funds for supportive services described in subsection (a) that are for in-home assistance, transportation, information and referral, case management, health and wellness programs, legal services, family caregiver support services, and other services that directly support the independence of the older individuals served. Nothing in this section shall be construed or interpreted to prohibit the provision of supportive services under part A or B.

§ 3057l Administration

In establishing regulations for the purpose of part A the Assistant Secretary shall consult with the Secretary of the Interior. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VI, § 641 , formerly § 631, as added Pub. L. 100–175, title I, § 171 , Nov. 29, 1987 , 101 Stat. 963 ; amended Pub. L. 103–171, § 3(a)(13) , Dec. 2, 1993 , 107 Stat. 1990 ; renumbered § 641, Pub. L. 106–501, title VI, § 604(2) , Nov. 13, 2000 , 114 Stat. 2288 .)

§ 3057m Payments

Payments may be made under this subchapter (after necessary adjustments, in the case of grants, on account of previously made overpayments or underpayments) in advance or by way of reimbursement in such installments and on such conditions, as the Assistant Secretary may determine. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VI, § 642 , formerly § 632, as added Pub. L. 100–175, title I, § 171 , Nov. 29, 1987 , 101 Stat. 963 ; amended Pub. L. 103–171, § 3(a)(13) , Dec. 2, 1993 , 107 Stat. 1990 ; renumbered § 642, Pub. L. 106–501, title VI, § 604(2) , Nov. 13, 2000 , 114 Stat. 2288 .)

§ 3057n Authorization of appropriations

There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subchapter— for parts A and B, $37,102,560forfiscalyear2020,$39,298,714 for fiscal year 2021, $41,626,636forfiscalyear2022,$44,094,235 for fiscal year 2023, and $46,709,889forfiscalyear2024;andforpartC,$10,759,920 for fiscal year 2020, $11,405,515forfiscalyear2021,$12,089,846 for fiscal year 2022, $12,815,237forfiscalyear2023,and$13,584,151 for fiscal year 2024. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VI, § 643 , formerly § 633, as added Pub. L. 100–175, title I, § 171 , Nov. 29, 1987 , 101 Stat. 963 ; amended Pub. L. 102–375, title VI, § 605 , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1270 ; renumbered § 643 and amended Pub. L. 106–501, title VI , §§ 603, 604(2), Nov. 13, 2000 , 114 Stat. 2288 ; Pub. L. 109–365, title VI, § 602 , Oct. 17, 2006 , 120 Stat. 2590 ; Pub. L. 114–144, § 7 , Apr. 19, 2016 , 130 Stat. 346 ; Pub. L. 116–131, title V, § 501(1)(A) , Mar. 25, 2020 , 134 Stat. 267 .)

§ 3057o Funding set aside

Of the funds appropriated under section 3057n(1) for a fiscal year, not more than 5 percent shall be made available to carry out part D for such fiscal year, provided that for such fiscal year— the funds appropriated for parts A and B are greater than the funds appropriated for fiscal year 2019; and the Assistant Secretary makes available for parts A and B no less than the amount of resources made available for fiscal year 2019. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VI, § 644 , as added Pub. L. 116–131, title V, § 501(1)(B) , Mar. 25, 2020 , 134 Stat. 267 .)

§ 3058 Establishment

The Assistant Secretary, acting through the Administration, shall establish and carry out a program for making allotments to States to pay for the cost of carrying out vulnerable elder rights protection activities. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VII, § 701 , as added Pub. L. 102–375, title VII, § 701 , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1271 ; amended Pub. L. 103–171, § 3(a)(13) , Dec. 2, 1993 , 107 Stat. 1990 .)

§ 3058a Authorization of appropriations

(a) Ombudsman program There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out subpart II, $18,066,950forfiscalyear2020,$19,150,967 for fiscal year 2021, $20,300,025forfiscalyear2022,$21,518,027 for fiscal year 2023, and $22,809,108 for fiscal year 2024.

(b) Other programs There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out subparts III and IV, $5,107,110forfiscalyear2020,$5,413,537 for fiscal year 2021, $5,738,349forfiscalyear2022,$6,082,650 for fiscal year 2023, and $6,447,609 for fiscal year 2024.

§ 3058b Allotment

(a) In general In carrying out the program described in section 3058 of this title , the Assistant Secretary shall initially allot to each State, from the funds appropriated under section 3058a of this title for each fiscal year, an amount that bears the same ratio to the funds as the population of older individuals in the State bears to the population of older individuals in all States. After making the initial allotments described in paragraph (1), the Assistant Secretary shall adjust the allotments on a pro rata basis in accordance with subparagraphs (B) and (C). No State shall be allotted less than one-half of 1 percent of the funds appropriated under section 3058a of this title for the fiscal year for which the determination is made. Guam, the United States Virgin Islands, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, shall each be allotted not less than one-fourth of 1 percent of the funds appropriated under section 3058a of this title for the fiscal year for which the determination is made. American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands shall each be allotted not less than one-sixteenth of 1 percent of the sum appropriated under section 3058a of this title for the fiscal year for which the determination is made. No State shall be allotted for a fiscal year, from the funds appropriated under section 3058a of this title and made available to carry out subpart II of this part, less than the amount allotted to the State under section 3024 of this title in fiscal year 2000 to carry out the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman program under subchapter III. No State shall be allotted for a fiscal year, from the funds appropriated under section 3058a of this title and made available to carry out subpart III of this part, less than the amount allotted to the State under section 3024 of this title in fiscal year 2000 to carry out programs with respect to the prevention of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation under subchapter III. For the purposes of this paragraph, the term “State” does not include Guam, American Samoa, the United States Virgin Islands, the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

(b) Reallotment If the Assistant Secretary determines that any amount allotted to a State for a fiscal year under this section will not be used by the State for carrying out the purpose for which the allotment was made, the Assistant Secretary shall make the amount available to a State that the Assistant Secretary determines will be able to use the amount for carrying out the purpose. Any amount made available to a State from an appropriation for a fiscal year in accordance with paragraph (1) shall, for purposes of this part, be regarded as part of the allotment of the State (as determined under subsection (a)) for the year, but shall remain available until the end of the succeeding fiscal year.

(c) Withholding If the Assistant Secretary finds that any State has failed to carry out this subchapter in accordance with the assurances made and description provided under section 3058d of this title , the Assistant Secretary shall withhold the allotment of funds to the State. The Assistant Secretary shall disburse the funds withheld directly to any public or nonprofit private institution or organization, agency, or political subdivision of the State submitting an approved plan containing the assurances and description.

§ 3058c Organization

In order for a State to be eligible to receive allotments under this part— the State shall demonstrate eligibility under section 3025 of this title ; the State agency designated by the State shall demonstrate compliance with the applicable requirements of section 3025 of this title ; and each area agency on aging designated by the State agency and participating in such a program shall demonstrate compliance with the applicable requirements of section 3025 of this title . ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VII, § 704 , as added Pub. L. 102–375, title VII, § 701 , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1273 .)

§ 3058d Additional State plan requirements

(a) Eligibility In order to be eligible to receive an allotment under this part, a State shall include in the State plan submitted under section 3027 of this title — an assurance that the State, in carrying out any subpart of this part for which the State receives funding under this part, will establish programs in accordance with the requirements of the subpart and this subpart; an assurance that the State will hold public hearings, and use other means, to obtain the views of older individuals, area agencies on aging, recipients of grants under subchapter X, and other interested persons and entities regarding programs carried out under this part; an assurance that the State, in consultation with area agencies on aging, will identify and prioritize statewide activities aimed at ensuring that older individuals have access to, and assistance in securing and maintaining, benefits and rights; an assurance that the State will use funds made available under this part for a subpart in addition to, and will not supplant, any funds that are expended under any Federal or State law in existence on the day before September 30, 1992 , to carry out each of the vulnerable elder rights protection activities described in the subpart; an assurance that the State will place no restrictions, other than the requirements referred to in clauses (i) through (iv) of section 3058g(a)(5)(C) of this title , on the eligibility of entities for designation as local Ombudsman entities under section 3058g(a)(5) of this title ; an assurance that, with respect to programs for the prevention of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation under subpart III of this part— in carrying out such programs the State agency will conduct a program of services consistent with relevant State law and coordinated with existing State adult protective service activities for— public education to identify and prevent elder abuse; receipt of reports of elder abuse; active participation of older individuals participating in programs under this chapter through outreach, conferences, and referral of such individuals to other social service agencies or sources of assistance if appropriate and if the individuals to be referred consent; and referral of complaints to law enforcement or public protective service agencies if appropriate; the State will not permit involuntary or coerced participation in the program of services described in subparagraph (A) by alleged victims, abusers, or their households; and all information gathered in the course of receiving reports and making referrals shall remain confidential except— if all parties to such complaint consent in writing to the release of such information; if the release of such information is to a law enforcement agency, public protective service agency, licensing or certification agency, ombudsman program, or protection or advocacy system; or upon court order; and a description of the manner in which the State agency will carry out this subchapter in accordance with the assurances described in paragraphs (1) through (6).

(b) Privilege Neither a State, nor a State agency, may require any provider of legal assistance under this part to reveal any information that is protected by the attorney-client privilege.

§ 3058e Demonstration projects

(a) Establishment From amounts made available under section 3024(d)(1)(C) of this title after September 30, 1992 , each State may provide for the establishment of at least one demonstration project, to be conducted by one or more area agencies on aging within the State, for outreach to older individuals with greatest economic need with respect to— benefits available under title XVI of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.) (or assistance under a State program established in accordance with such title); medical assistance available under title XIX of such Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.); and benefits available under the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 ( 7 U.S.C. 2011 et seq.).

(b) Benefits Each outreach project carried out under subsection (a) shall— provide to older individuals with greatest economic need information and assistance regarding their eligibility to receive the benefits and assistance described in paragraphs (1) through (3) of subsection (a); be carried out in a planning and service area that has a high proportion of older individuals with greatest economic need, relative to the aggregate number of older individuals in such area; and be coordinated with State and local entities that administer benefits under such titles.

§ 3058f Definitions

As used in this subpart: The term “Office” means the office established in section 3058g(a)(1)(A) of this title . The term “Ombudsman” means the individual described in section 3058g(a)(2) of this title . The term “local Ombudsman entity” means an entity designated under section 3058g(a)(5)(A) of this title to carry out the duties described in section 3058g(a)(5)(B) of this title with respect to a planning and service area or other substate area. The term “program” means the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman program established in section 3058g(a)(1)(B) of this title . The term “representative” includes an employee or volunteer who represents an entity designated under section 3058g(a)(5)(A) of this title and who is individually designated by the Ombudsman. The term “resident” means an individual of any age who resides in a long-term care facility. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VII, § 711 , as added Pub. L. 102–375, title VII, § 702 , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1275 ; amended Pub. L. 114–144, § 8(b) , Apr. 19, 2016 , 130 Stat. 347 ; Pub. L. 116–131, title II, § 202(2) , Mar. 25, 2020 , 134 Stat. 254 .)

§ 3058g State Long-Term Care Ombudsman program

(a) Establishment In order to be eligible to receive an allotment under section 3058b of this title from funds appropriated under section 3058a of this title and made available to carry out this subpart, a State agency shall, in accordance with this section— establish and operate an Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman; and carry out through the Office a State Long-Term Care Ombudsman program. The Office shall be headed by an individual, to be known as the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman, who shall be selected from among individuals with expertise and experience in the fields of long-term care and advocacy. The Ombudsman shall be responsible for the management, including the fiscal management, of the Office. The Ombudsman shall serve on a full-time basis, and shall, personally or through representatives of the Office— identify, investigate, and resolve complaints that— are made by, or on behalf of, residents, including residents with limited or no decisionmaking capacity and who have no known legal representative, and if such a resident is unable to communicate consent for an Ombudsman to work on a complaint directly involving the resident, the Ombudsman shall seek evidence to indicate what outcome the resident would have communicated (and, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, shall assume that the resident wishes to have the resident’s health, safety, welfare, and rights protected) and shall work to accomplish that outcome; and relate to action, inaction, or decisions, that may adversely affect the health, safety, welfare, or rights of the residents (including the welfare and rights of the residents with respect to the appointment and activities of guardians and representative payees), of— providers, or representatives of providers, of long-term care services; public agencies; or health and social service agencies; provide services to assist the residents in protecting the health, safety, welfare, and rights of the residents; inform the residents about means of obtaining services provided by providers or agencies described in subparagraph (A)(ii) or services described in subparagraph (B); ensure that the residents have regular, timely, private, and unimpeded access to the services provided through the Office and that the residents and complainants receive timely responses from representatives of the Office to complaints; represent the interests of the residents before governmental agencies and seek administrative, legal, and other remedies to protect the health, safety, welfare, and rights of the residents; provide administrative and technical assistance to entities designated under paragraph (5) to assist the entities in participating in the program; analyze, comment on, and monitor the development and implementation of Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and other governmental policies and actions, that pertain to the health, safety, welfare, and rights of the residents, with respect to the adequacy of long-term care facilities and services in the State; recommend any changes in such laws, regulations, policies, and actions as the Office determines to be appropriate; and facilitate public comment on the laws, regulations, policies, and actions; provide for training representatives of the Office; promote the development of citizen organizations, to participate in the program; and provide technical support for, actively encourage, and assist in the development of resident and family councils to protect the well-being and rights of residents; when feasible, continue to carry out the functions described in this section on behalf of residents transitioning from a long-term care facility to a home care setting; and carry out such other activities as the Assistant Secretary determines to be appropriate. Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the State agency may establish and operate the Office, and carry out the program, directly, or by contract or other arrangement with any public agency or nonprofit private organization. The State agency may not enter into the contract or other arrangement described in subparagraph (A) with— an agency or organization that is responsible for licensing or certifying long-term care services in the State; or an association (or an affiliate of such an association) of long-term care facilities, or of any other residential facilities for older individuals. In carrying out the duties of the Office, the Ombudsman may designate an entity as a local Ombudsman entity, and may designate an employee or volunteer to represent the entity. An individual so designated shall, in accordance with the policies and procedures established by the Office and the State agency— provide services to protect the health, safety, welfare 1 and rights of residents; ensure that residents in the service area of the entity have regular, timely access to representatives of the program and timely responses to complaints and requests for assistance; identify, investigate, and resolve complaints made by or on behalf of residents that relate to action, inaction, or decisions, that may adversely affect the health, safety, welfare, or rights of the residents; represent the interests of residents before government agencies and seek administrative, legal, and other remedies to protect the health, safety, welfare, and rights of the residents; review, and if necessary, comment on any existing and proposed laws, regulations, and other government policies and actions, that pertain to the rights and well-being of residents; and facilitate the ability of the public to comment on the laws, regulations, policies, and actions; support, actively encourage, and assist in the development of resident and family councils; identify, investigate, and resolve complaints described in clause (iii) that are made by or on behalf of residents with limited or no decisionmaking capacity and who have no known legal representative, and if such a resident is unable to communicate consent for an Ombudsman to work on a complaint directly involving the resident, the Ombudsman shall seek evidence to indicate what outcome the resident would have communicated (and, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, shall assume that the resident wishes to have the resident’s health, safety, welfare, and rights protected) and shall work to accomplish that outcome; and carry out other activities that the Ombudsman determines to be appropriate. Entities eligible to be designated as local Ombudsman entities, and individuals eligible to be designated as representatives of such entities, shall— have demonstrated capability to carry out the responsibilities of the Office; be free of conflicts of interest and not stand to gain financially through an action or potential action brought on behalf of individuals the Ombudsman serves; in the case of the entities, be public or nonprofit private entities; and meet such additional requirements as the Ombudsman may specify. The State agency shall establish, in accordance with the Office, policies and procedures for monitoring local Ombudsman entities designated to carry out the duties of the Office. In a case in which the entities are grantees, or the representatives are employees, of area agencies on aging, the State agency shall develop the policies in consultation with the area agencies on aging. The policies shall provide for participation and comment by the agencies and for resolution of concerns with respect to case activity. The State agency shall develop the policies and procedures in accordance with all provisions of this part regarding confidentiality and conflict of interest. Nothing in this paragraph shall be construed as prohibiting the program from providing and financially supporting recognition for an individual designated under subparagraph (A) as a volunteer to represent the Ombudsman program, or from reimbursing or otherwise providing financial support to such an individual for any costs, such as transportation costs, incurred by the individual in serving as such volunteer.

(b) Procedures for access The State shall ensure that representatives of the Office shall have— private and unimpeded access to long-term care facilities and residents; appropriate access to review all files, records, and other information concerning a resident, if— the representative has the permission of the resident, or the legal representative of the resident; or the resident is unable to communicate consent to the review and has no legal representative; or access to the files, records, and information as is necessary to investigate a complaint if— a legal guardian of the resident refuses to give the permission; a representative of the Office has reasonable cause to believe that the guardian is not acting in the best interests of the resident; and the representative obtains the approval of the Ombudsman; access to the administrative records, policies, and documents, to which the residents have, or the general public has access, of long-term care facilities; and access to and, on request, copies of all licensing and certification records maintained by the State with respect to long-term care facilities. The State agency shall establish procedures to ensure the access described in paragraph (1). For purposes of section 264(c) of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (including regulations issued under that section) ( 42 U.S.C. 1320d–2 note), the Ombudsman and a representative of the Office shall be considered a “health oversight agency,” so that release of residents’ individually identifiable health information to the Ombudsman or representative is not precluded in cases in which the requirements of clause (i) or (ii) of paragraph (1)(B), or the requirements of paragraph (1)(D), are otherwise met.

(c) Reporting system The State agency shall establish a statewide uniform reporting system to— collect and analyze data relating to complaints and conditions in long-term care facilities and to residents for the purpose of identifying and resolving significant problems; and submit the data, on a regular basis, to— the agency of the State responsible for licensing or certifying long-term care facilities in the State; other State and Federal entities that the Ombudsman determines to be appropriate; the Assistant Secretary; and the National Ombudsman Resource Center established in section 3012(a)(18) of this title .

(d) Disclosure The State agency shall establish procedures for the disclosure by the Ombudsman or local Ombudsman entities of files, records, and other information maintained by the program, including records described in subsection (b)(1) or (c). The procedures described in paragraph (1) shall— provide that, subject to subparagraph (B), the files, records, and other information described in paragraph (1) may be disclosed only at the discretion of the Ombudsman (or the person designated by the Ombudsman to disclose the files, records, and other information); prohibit the disclosure of the identity of any complainant or resident with respect to whom the Office maintains such files, records, or other information unless— the complainant or resident, or the legal representative of the complainant or resident, consents to the disclosure and the consent is given in writing; the complainant or resident gives consent orally; and the consent is documented contemporaneously in a writing made by a representative of the Office in accordance with such requirements as the State agency shall establish; or the disclosure is required by court order; and notwithstanding subparagraph (B), ensure that the Ombudsman may disclose information as needed in order to best serve residents with limited or no decisionmaking capacity who have no known legal representative and are unable to communicate consent, in order for the Ombudsman to carry out the functions and duties described in paragraphs (3)(A) and (5)(B) of subsection (a).

(e) Consultation In planning and operating the program, the State agency shall consider the views of area agencies on aging, older individuals, and providers of long-term care.

(f) Conflict of interest The State agency shall— ensure that no individual, or member of the immediate family of an individual, involved in the designation of the Ombudsman (whether by appointment or otherwise) or the designation of an entity designated under subsection (a)(5), is subject to a conflict of interest; ensure that no officer or employee of the Office, representative of a local Ombudsman entity, or member of the immediate family of the officer, employee, or representative, is subject to a conflict of interest; and ensure that the Ombudsman— does not have a direct involvement in the licensing or certification of a long-term care facility or of a provider of a long-term care service; does not have an ownership or investment interest (represented by equity, debt, or other financial relationship) in a long-term care facility or a long-term care service; is not employed by, or participating in the management of, a long-term care facility or a related organization, and has not been employed by such a facility or organization within 1 year before the date of the determination involved; does not receive, or have the right to receive, directly or indirectly, remuneration (in cash or in kind) under a compensation arrangement with an owner or operator of a long-term care facility; does not have management responsibility for, or operate under the supervision of an individual with management responsibility for, adult protective services; and does not serve as a guardian or in another fiduciary capacity for residents of long-term care facilities in an official capacity (as opposed to serving as a guardian or fiduciary for a family member, in a personal capacity). The State agency shall comply with subparagraph (B)(i) in a case in which the Office poses an organizational conflict of interest, including a situation in which the Office is placed in an organization that— is responsible for licensing, certifying, or surveying long-term care services in the State; is an association (or an affiliate of such an association) of long-term care facilities, or of any other residential facilities for older individuals; provides long-term care services, including programs carried out under a Medicaid waiver approved under section 1115 of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1315 ) or under subsection (b) or (c) of section 1915 of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1396n ), or under a Medicaid State plan amendment under subsection (i), (j), or (k) of section 1915 of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1396n ); provides long-term care case management; sets rates for long-term care services; provides adult protective services; is responsible for eligibility determinations for the Medicaid program carried out under title XIX of the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.); conducts preadmission screening for placements in facilities described in clause (ii); or makes decisions regarding admission or discharge of individuals to or from such facilities. The State agency may not operate the Office or carry out the program, directly, or by contract or other arrangement with any public agency or nonprofit private organization, in a case in which there is an organizational conflict of interest (within the meaning of subparagraph (A)) unless such conflict of interest has been— identified by the State agency; disclosed by the State agency to the Assistant Secretary in writing; and remedied in accordance with this subparagraph. In a case in which a potential or actual organizational conflict of interest (within the meaning of subparagraph (A)) involving the Office is disclosed or reported to the Assistant Secretary by any person or entity, the Assistant Secretary shall require that the State agency, in accordance with the policies and procedures established by the State agency under subsection (a)(5)(D)(iii)— remove the conflict; or submit, and obtain the approval of the Assistant Secretary for, an adequate remedial plan that indicates how the Ombudsman will be unencumbered in fulfilling all of the functions specified in subsection (a)(3).

(g) Legal counsel The State agency shall ensure that— adequate legal counsel is available, and is able, without conflict of interest, to— provide advice and consultation needed to protect the health, safety, welfare, and rights of residents; and assist the Ombudsman and representatives of the Office in the performance of the official duties of the Ombudsman and representatives; and legal representation is provided to any representative of the Office against whom suit or other legal action is brought or threatened to be brought in connection with the performance of the official duties of the Ombudsman or such a representative; and the Office pursues administrative, legal, and other appropriate remedies on behalf of residents.

(h) Administration The State agency shall require the Office to— prepare an annual report— describing the activities carried out by the Office in the year for which the report is prepared; containing and analyzing the data collected under subsection (c); evaluating the problems experienced by, and the complaints made by or on behalf of, residents; containing recommendations for— improving quality of the care and life of the residents; and protecting the health, safety, welfare, and rights of the residents; analyzing the success of the program including success in providing services to residents of board and care facilities and other similar adult care facilities; and identifying barriers that prevent the optimal operation of the program; and providing policy, regulatory, and legislative recommendations to solve identified problems, to resolve the complaints, to improve the quality of care and life of residents, to protect the health, safety, welfare, and rights of residents, and to remove the barriers; analyze, comment on, and monitor the development and implementation of Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and other government policies and actions that pertain to long-term care facilities and services, and to the health, safety, welfare, and rights of residents, in the State, and recommend any changes in such laws, regulations, and policies as the Office determines to be appropriate; provide such information as the Office determines to be necessary to public and private agencies, legislators, and other persons, regarding— the problems and concerns of individuals residing in long-term care facilities; and recommendations related to the problems and concerns; and make available to the public, and submit to the Assistant Secretary, the chief executive officer of the State, the State legislature, the State agency responsible for licensing or certifying long-term care facilities, and other appropriate governmental entities, each report prepared under paragraph (1); ensure that the Ombudsman or a designee participates in training provided by the National Ombudsman Resource Center established in section 3012(a)(18) of this title ; strengthen and update procedures for the training of the representatives of the Office, including unpaid volunteers, based on model standards established by the Director of the Office of Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs, in consultation with representatives of citizen groups, long-term care providers, and the Office, that— specify a minimum number of hours of initial training; specify the content of the training, including training relating to— Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and policies, with respect to long-term care facilities in the State; investigative techniques; and such other matters as the State determines to be appropriate; and specify an annual number of hours of in-service training for all designated representatives; prohibit any representative of the Office (other than the Ombudsman) from carrying out any activity described in subparagraphs (A) through (G) of subsection (a)(3) unless the representative— has received the training required under paragraph (5); and has been approved by the Ombudsman as qualified to carry out the activity on behalf of the Office; coordinate ombudsman services with the protection and advocacy systems for individuals with developmental disabilities and mental illnesses 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.]; and the Protection and Advocacy for Mentally Ill Individuals Act of 1986 2 ( 42 U.S.C. 10801 et seq.); coordinate, to the greatest extent possible, ombudsman services with legal assistance provided under section 3026(a)(2)(C) of this title , through adoption of memoranda of understanding and other means; coordinate services with State and local law enforcement agencies and courts of competent jurisdiction; and permit any local Ombudsman entity to carry out the responsibilities described in paragraph (1), (2), (3), (7), or (8).

(i) Liability The State shall ensure that no representative of the Office will be liable under State law for the good faith performance of official duties.

(j) Noninterference The State shall— ensure that willful interference with representatives of the Office in the performance of the official duties of the representatives (as defined by the Assistant Secretary) shall be unlawful; prohibit retaliation and reprisals by a long-term care facility or other entity with respect to any resident, employee, or other person for filing a complaint with, providing information to, or otherwise cooperating with any representative of, the Office; and provide for appropriate sanctions with respect to the interference, retaliation, and reprisals.

§ 3058h Regulations

The Assistant Secretary shall issue and periodically update regulations respecting— conflicts of interest by persons described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of section 3058g(f)(1) of this title ; and the relationships described in clauses (i) through (vi) of section 3058g(f)(1)(C) of this title . ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VII, § 713 , as added Pub. L. 102–375, title VII, § 702 , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1282 ; amended Pub. L. 103–171, § 3(a)(13) , Dec. 2, 1993 , 107 Stat. 1990 ; Pub. L. 114–144, § 8(d) , Apr. 19, 2016 , 130 Stat. 351 .)

§ 3058i Prevention of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation

(a) Establishment In order to be eligible to receive an allotment under section 3058b of this title from funds appropriated under section 3058a of this title and made available to carry out this subpart, a State agency shall, in accordance with this section, and in consultation with area agencies on aging, develop and enhance programs to address elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

(b) Use of allotments The State agency shall use an allotment made under subsection (a) to carry out, through the programs described in subsection (a), activities to develop, strengthen, and carry out programs for the prevention, detection, assessment, and treatment of, intervention in, investigation of, and response to elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation, including— providing for public education and outreach to identify and prevent elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; providing for public education and outreach to promote financial literacy and prevent identity theft and financial exploitation of older individuals; ensuring the coordination of services provided by area agencies on aging with services instituted under the State adult protection service program, State and local law enforcement systems, and courts of competent jurisdiction; promoting the development of information and data systems, including elder abuse reporting systems, to quantify the extent of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation in the State; promoting the submission of data on elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation for the appropriate database of the Administration or another database specified by the Assistant Secretary; conducting analyses of State information concerning elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation and identifying unmet service, enforcement, or intervention needs; conducting training for individuals, including caregivers described in part E of subchapter III, professionals, and paraprofessionals, in relevant fields on the identification, prevention, and treatment of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation, with particular focus on prevention and enhancement of self-determination and autonomy; providing technical assistance to programs that provide or have the potential to provide services for victims of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation and for family members of the victims; conducting special and on-going training, for individuals involved in serving victims of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation, on the topics of self-determination, individual rights, State and Federal requirements concerning confidentiality, and other topics determined by a State agency to be appropriate; promoting the development of an elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation system— that includes a State elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation law that includes provisions for immunity, for persons reporting instances of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation, from prosecution arising out of such reporting, under any State or local law; under which a State agency— on receipt of a report of known or suspected instances of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation, shall promptly initiate an investigation to substantiate the accuracy of the report; and on a finding of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation, shall take steps, including appropriate referral, to protect the health and welfare of the abused, neglected, or exploited older individual; that includes, throughout the State, in connection with the enforcement of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation laws and with the reporting of suspected instances of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation— such administrative procedures; such personnel, such as forensic specialists, trained in the special problems of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation prevention and treatment; such training procedures; such institutional and other facilities (public and private); and such related multidisciplinary programs and services, including programs and arrangements that protect against financial exploitation, as may be necessary or appropriate to ensure that the State will deal effectively with elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation cases in the State; that preserves the confidentiality of records in order to protect the rights of older individuals; that provides for the cooperation of law enforcement officials, courts of competent jurisdiction, and State agencies providing human services with respect to special problems of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; that enables an older individual to participate in decisions regarding the welfare of the older individual, and makes the least restrictive alternatives available to an older individual who is abused, neglected, or exploited; and that includes a State clearinghouse for dissemination of information to the general public with respect to— the problems of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; the facilities described in subparagraph (C)(iv); and prevention and treatment methods available to combat instances of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; examining various types of shelters serving older individuals (in this paragraph referred to as “safe havens”), and testing various safe haven models for establishing safe havens (at home or elsewhere), that recognize autonomy and self-determination, and fully protect the due process rights of older individuals; supporting multidisciplinary elder justice activities, such as— supporting and studying team approaches for bringing a coordinated multidisciplinary or interdisciplinary response to elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation, including a response from individuals in social service, health care, public safety, and legal disciplines; establishing a State coordinating council, which shall identify the individual State’s needs and provide the Assistant Secretary with information and recommendations relating to efforts by the State to combat elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; providing training, technical assistance, community outreach and education, and other methods of support to groups carrying out multidisciplinary efforts at the State (referred to in some States as “State Working Groups”); broadening and studying various models for elder fatality and serious injury review teams, to make recommendations about their composition, protocols, functions, timing, roles, and responsibilities, with a goal of producing models and information that will allow for replication based on the needs of States and communities (other than the ones in which the review teams were used); developing best practices, for use in long-term care facilities, that reduce the risk of elder abuse for residents, including the risk of resident-to-resident abuse; and supporting and implementing innovative practices, programs, and materials in communities to develop partnerships across disciplines for the prevention, investigation, and prosecution of abuse, neglect, and exploitation; and addressing underserved populations of older individuals, such as— older individuals living in rural locations; older individuals in minority populations; or low-income older individuals.

(c) Approach In developing and enhancing programs under subsection (a), the State agency shall use a comprehensive approach, in consultation with area agencies on aging, to identify and assist older individuals who are subject to abuse, neglect, and exploitation, including older individuals who live in State licensed facilities, unlicensed facilities, or domestic or community-based settings.

(d) Coordination In developing and enhancing programs under subsection (a), the State agency shall coordinate the programs with other State and local programs and services for the protection of vulnerable adults, particularly vulnerable older individuals, including programs and services such as— area agency on aging programs; adult protective service programs; the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman program established in subpart II of this part; protection and advocacy programs; facility and long-term care provider licensure and certification programs; medicaid fraud and abuse services, including services provided by a State medicaid fraud control unit, as defined in section 1396b(q) of this title ; victim assistance programs; and consumer protection and State and local law enforcement programs, as well as other State and local programs that identify and assist vulnerable older individuals, and services provided by agencies and courts of competent jurisdiction.

(e) Requirements In developing and enhancing programs under subsection (a), the State agency shall— not permit involuntary or coerced participation in such programs by alleged victims, abusers, or members of their households; require that all information gathered in the course of receiving a report described in subsection (b)(10)(B)(i), and making a referral described in subsection (b)(10)(B)(ii), shall remain confidential except— if all parties to such complaint or report consent in writing to the release of such information; if the release of such information is to a law enforcement agency, public protective service agency, licensing or certification agency, ombudsman program, or protection or advocacy system; or upon court order; and make all reasonable efforts to resolve any conflicts with other public agencies with respect to confidentiality of the information described in paragraph (2) by entering into memoranda of understanding that narrowly limit disclosure of information, consistent with the requirement described in paragraph (2).

(f) Designation The State agency may designate a State entity to carry out the programs and activities described in this subpart.

(g) Study and report The Secretary, in consultation with the Department of the Treasury and the Attorney General of the United States, State attorneys general, and tribal and local prosecutors, shall conduct a study of the nature and extent of financial exploitation of older individuals. The purpose of this study would be to define and describe the scope of the problem of financial exploitation of the elderly and to provide an estimate of the number and type of financial transactions considered to constitute financial exploitation faced by older individuals. The study shall also examine the adequacy of current Federal and State legal protections to prevent such exploitation. Not later than 18 months after November 13, 2000 , the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report, which shall include— the results of the study conducted under this subsection; and recommendations for future actions to combat the financial exploitation of older individuals.

(h) Accountability measures The Assistant Secretary shall develop accountability measures to ensure the effectiveness of the activities carried out under this section.

(i) Evaluating programs The Assistant Secretary shall evaluate the activities carried out under this section, using funds made available under section 3017(h) of this title .

(j) Compliance with applicable laws In order to receive funds made available to carry out this section, an entity shall comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and guidelines.

§ 3058j State legal assistance development

A State agency shall provide the services of an individual who shall be known as a State legal assistance developer, and the services of other personnel, sufficient to ensure— State leadership in securing and maintaining the legal rights of older individuals; State capacity for coordinating the provision of legal assistance; State capacity to provide technical assistance, training, and other supportive functions to area agencies on aging, legal assistance providers, ombudsmen, and other persons, as appropriate; State capacity to promote financial management services to older individuals at risk of conservatorship; State capacity to assist older individuals in understanding their rights, exercising choices, benefiting from services and opportunities authorized by law, and maintaining the rights of older individuals at risk of guardianship; and State capacity to improve the quality and quantity of legal services provided to older individuals. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VII, § 731 , as added Pub. L. 106–501, title VII, § 706 , Nov. 13, 2000 , 114 Stat. 2291 .)

§ 3058k Repealed. Pub. L. 106–501, title VII, § 706, Nov. 13, 2000, 114 Stat. 2291

§ 3058aa Native American program

(a) Establishment The Assistant Secretary, acting through the Director of the Office for American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian Aging, shall establish and carry out a program for— assisting eligible entities in prioritizing, on a continuing basis, the needs of the service population of the entities relating to elder rights; making grants to eligible entities to carry out vulnerable elder rights protection activities that the entities determine to be priorities; and enabling the eligible entities to support multidisciplinary elder justice activities, such as— establishing a coordinating council, which shall identify the needs of an individual Indian tribe or other Native American group and provide the Assistant Secretary with information and recommendations relating to efforts by the Indian tribe or the governing entity of the Native American group to combat elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation; providing training, technical assistance, and other methods of support to groups carrying out multidisciplinary efforts for an Indian tribe or other Native American group; and broadening and studying various models for elder fatality and serious injury review teams, to make recommendations about their composition, protocols, functions, timing, roles, and responsibilities, with a goal of producing models and information that will allow for replication based on the needs of Indian tribes and other Native American groups (other than the ones in which the review teams were used).

(b) Application In order to be eligible to receive assistance under this section, an entity shall submit an application to the Assistant Secretary, at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Assistant Secretary may require.

(c) Eligible entity An entity eligible to receive assistance under this section shall be— an Indian tribe; or a public agency, or a nonprofit organization, serving older individuals who are Native Americans.

(d) Authorization of appropriations There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this part such sums as may be necessary for fiscal year 2007, and such sums as may be necessary for subsequent fiscal years.

§ 3058aa–1 Grants to promote comprehensive State elder justice systems

(a) Purpose and authority For each fiscal year, the Assistant Secretary may make grants to States, on a competitive basis, in accordance with this section, to promote the development and implementation, within each such State, of a comprehensive elder justice system, as defined in subsection (b).

(b) Comprehensive elder justice system defined In this section, the term “comprehensive elder justice system” means an integrated, multidisciplinary, and collaborative system for preventing, detecting, and addressing elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation in a manner that— provides for widespread, convenient public access to the range of available elder justice information, programs, and services; coordinates the efforts of public health, social service, and law enforcement authorities, as well as other appropriate public and private entities, to identify and diminish duplication and gaps in the system; provides a uniform method for the standardization, collection, management, analysis, and reporting of data; and provides such other elements as the Assistant Secretary determines appropriate.

(c) Applications To be eligible to receive a grant under this section for a fiscal year, a State shall submit an application to the Assistant Secretary, at such time, in such manner, and containing such information and assurances as the Assistant Secretary determines appropriate.

(d) Amount of grants The amount of a grant to a State with an application approved under this section for a fiscal year shall be such amount as the Assistant Secretary determines appropriate.

(e) Use of funds A State that receives a grant under this section shall use funds made available through such grant to promote the development and implementation of a comprehensive elder justice system by— establishing formal working relationships among public and private providers of elder justice programs, service providers, and stakeholders in order to create a unified elder justice network across such State to coordinate programmatic efforts; facilitating and supporting the development of a management information system and standard data elements; providing for appropriate education (including educating the public about the range of available elder justice information, programs, and services), training, and technical assistance; and taking such other steps as the Assistant Secretary determines appropriate. Funds made available to States pursuant to this section shall be used to supplement and not supplant other Federal, State, and local funds expended to support activities described in paragraph (1).

§ 3058bb Definitions

As used in this subchapter: The term “elder right” means a right of an older individual. The term “vulnerable elder rights protection activity” means an activity funded under part A. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VII, § 761 , as added Pub. L. 102–375, title VII, § 707 , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1291 ; amended Pub. L. 106–501, title VIII, § 801(e)(4) , Nov. 13, 2000 , 114 Stat. 2293 .)

§ 3058cc Administration

A State agency may carry out vulnerable elder rights protection activities either directly or through contracts or agreements with public or nonprofit private agencies or organizations, such as— other State agencies; area agencies on aging; county governments; institutions of higher education; Indian tribes; or nonprofit service providers or volunteer organizations. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VII, § 762 , as added Pub. L. 102–375, title VII, § 707 , Sept. 30, 1992 , 106 Stat. 1291 ; amended Pub. L. 106–501, title VIII, § 801(e)(5) , Nov. 13, 2000 , 114 Stat. 2293 .)

§ 3058dd Technical assistance

(a) Other agencies In carrying out the provisions of this subchapter, the Assistant Secretary may request the technical assistance and cooperation of such Federal entities as may be appropriate.

(b) Assistant Secretary The Assistant Secretary shall provide technical assistance and training (by contract, grant, or otherwise) to persons and entities that administer programs established under this subchapter.

§ 3058ee Audits

(a) Access The Assistant Secretary, the Comptroller General of the United States, and any duly authorized representative of the Assistant Secretary or the Comptroller shall have access, for the purpose of conducting an audit or examination, to any books, documents, papers, and records that are pertinent to financial assistance received under this subchapter.

(b) Limitation State agencies and area agencies on aging shall not request information or data from providers that is not pertinent to services furnished under this subchapter or to a payment made for the services.

§ 3058ff Rule of construction

Nothing in this subchapter shall be construed to interfere with or abridge the right of an older individual to practice the individual’s religion through reliance on prayer alone for healing, in a case in which a decision to so practice the religion— is contemporaneously expressed by the older individual— either orally or in writing; with respect to a specific illness or injury that the older individual has at the time of the decision; and when the older individual is competent to make the decision; is set forth prior to the occurrence of the illness or injury in a living will, health care proxy, or other advance directive document that is validly executed and applied under State law; or may be unambiguously deduced from the older individual’s life history. ( Pub. L. 89–73, title VII, § 765 , as added Pub. L. 109–365, title VII, § 705 , Oct. 17, 2006 , 120 Stat. 2594 .)