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Federal Funding: Department of Education |
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"The purposes of S. 2432, the Assistive Technology Act of 1998 (ATA) are to: (1) support States in sustaining and strengthening their capacity to address the assistive technology needs of individuals with disabilities; (2) focus, across Federal agencies and departments, the investment in technology that could benefit individuals with disabilities; and (3) support micro-loan programs to provide assistance to individuals who desire to purchase assistive technology devices or assistive technology services.
" Title I authorizes funding for multiple grant programs from fiscal years 1999 through 2004: continuity grants, challenge grants, millennium grants, and grants to protection and advocacy systems, as well as for a technical assistance program.
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"Title III authorizes a program of grants to States and outlying areas to establish (or expand) a program of alternative financing for individuals with disabilities and their authorized representatives to access and to purchase assistive technology devices and assistive technology services." Senate Report
"Program funds may be used for a number of activities related to center start-up or expansion such as supporting a center coofrdinator and staff, acquiring equipment or networking capabilities, and developing or providing an array of learning services using the technology. It is important to note that competitive projects will be those in which the federal funding leverages other community resources. Funding may be used for renovation. Cost principles address "Rearrangement and alteration costs." Special rearrangement and alteration costs incurred specifically for the project are allowable with the prior approval of the Department. Physical changes are permitted that enable a room, lab, or facility to be wired or rewired for computer and Internet access. Renovations to make a room or set of rooms suitable for use as a computer lab are also permitted. Funds may be used to lease a building or to cover rent. There are no caps on the amount of CTC grant funds that can be used for administration, as long as the cost is reasonable and necessary." Questions and Answers.