42 USC 15063 - Purpose and scope of activities

U.S Code last checked for updates: Nov 22, 2024

§ 15063.

Purpose and scope of activities

(a)

National network of University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service

(1)

In general

(2)

Core functions

The core functions referred to in paragraph (1) shall include the following:

(A)

Provision of interdisciplinary pre-service preparation and continuing education of students and fellows, which may include the preparation and continuing education of leadership, direct service, clinical, or other personnel to strengthen and increase the capacity of States and communities to achieve the purpose of this subchapter.

(B)

Provision of community services—

(i)

that provide training or technical assistance for individuals with developmental disabilities, their families, professionals, paraprofessionals, policymakers, students, and other members of the community; and

(ii)

that may provide services, supports, and assistance for the persons described in clause (i) through demonstration and model activities.

(C)

Conduct of research, which may include basic or applied research, evaluation, and the analysis of public policy in areas that affect or could affect, either positively or negatively, individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

(D)

Dissemination of information related to activities undertaken to address the purpose of this subchapter, especially dissemination of information that demonstrates that the network authorized under this part is a national and international resource that includes specific substantive areas of expertise that may be accessed and applied in diverse settings and circumstances.

(b)

National training initiatives on critical and emerging needs

(1)

Supplemental grants

(2)

Establishment of consultation process by the Secretary

(c)

Technical assistance

In order to strengthen and support the national network of Centers, the Secretary may enter into 1 or more cooperative agreements or contracts to—

(1)

assist in national and international dissemination of specific information from multiple Centers and, in appropriate cases, other entities whose work affects the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities;

(2)

compile, analyze, and disseminate state-of-the-art training, research, and demonstration results policies, and practices from multiple Centers and, in appropriate cases, other entities whose work affects the lives of persons with developmental disabilities;

(3)

convene experts from multiple Centers to discuss and make recommendations with regard to national emerging needs of individuals with developmental disabilities;

(4)

(A)

develop portals that link users with every Center’s website; and

(B)

facilitate electronic information sharing using state-of-the-art Internet technologies such as real-time online discussions, multipoint video conferencing, and web-based audio/video broadcasts, on emerging topics that impact individuals with disabilities and their families;

(5)

serve as a research-based resource for Federal and State policymakers on information concerning and issues impacting individuals with developmental disabilities and entities that assist or serve those individuals; or

(6)

undertake any other functions that the Secretary determines to be appropriate;

to promote the viability and use of the resources and expertise of the Centers nationally and internationally.

(Pub. L. 106–402, title I, § 153, Oct. 30, 2000, 114 Stat. 1720.)

cite as: 42 USC 15063