## NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY

### 

### An Independent Federal Agency

#### FISCAL YEAR 2009 BUDGET JUSTIFICATION

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**National Council on Disability** (202) 272-2004 Voice

1331 F Street, NW, Suite 850 (202) 272-2074 TTY

Washington, DC 20004 (202) 272-2022 Fax

http://www.ncd.gov

# NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY

##### FY 2009 Budget Justification

Introduction 3

Executive Summary 6

Authorizing Legislation 6

Organizational Chart 9

Proposed Appropriations Language 10

Analysis of Language Provisions and Changes 10

Budget Authority and Staffing by Activity 11

Amounts Available for Obligation 11

Appropriations History 12

Financial Summary 13

Congressional Directives 14

Narrative Justification 15

Members of the National Council on Disability 28

#   {#section-1 .unnumbered}

# INTRODUCTION

Following is the National Council on Disability's (NCD) budget
justification for Fiscal Year (FY) 2009. NCD is requesting a total
budget authority of \$ 3,205,937. The funding requested for FY 2009 will
provide NCD with resources to carry out our specifically mandated
responsibilities including to:

1\. Hold quarterly Council meetings;

2\. Prepare, for the President and Congress, the annual report entitled
*National Disability Policy: A Progress Report;*

3\. Carry out nine responsibilities with the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator as prescribed in 6 U.S.C. 321b; 

4\. Provide compensation and travel reimbursement to Council members for
each day they are engaged in the performance of their duties as members
of the National Council on Disability;

5\. Gather information about the implementation, effectiveness, and
impact of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101
et seq.);

6\. Make recommendations to the President, the Congress and other
officials of federal agencies or other federal entities, regarding ways
to better promote the policies set forth in section 400(a)(2) of the
enabling legislation;

7\. Provide to the Congress on a continuing basis advice,
recommendations, legislative proposals, and any additional information
that the National Council on Disability or the Congress deems
appropriate;

8\. Conduct research and studies in order to review and evaluate the
policies and programs of various federal agencies providing services to
people with disabilities; and

9\. Support the contractual obligations of NCD that fund its operational
activities (i.e., salaries, benefits, legal services, administrative and
technical support leased office space, etc.) pursuant to the mission of
the agency.

Despite the creation of several federal work incentive programs during
the last decade, about 63 percent of working age Americans with
significant disabilities remain unemployed according to the U.S. Census
Bureau ( 2003). Our society needs to continue to seek out the best
solutions for reducing reliance on benefit programs for those who should
be employed, and also needs to enhance the ability to live independently
so higher-cost "institutional" care can be avoided in every stage of
life. NCD research into such issues will continue to identify and
improve the programs that can make such improvements a reality. In
addition, as related below, NCD has been given substantial
responsibilities for disability-related issues in the nationwide effort
to improve emergency preparedness and enhance homeland security.

The Administration's NCD FY 2009 budget request of \$3,205,937 is a
\$147,321 or 4.6% increase over the FY 2008 funding level of
\$3,058,616. The additional funds requested for FY 2009 will allow NCD
to sustain its statutory mandates to collect and evaluate information on
federal disability policy and programs and to develop advice and
recommendations to the President and Congress in promoting the full
integration, independence, and productivity of individuals with
disabilities.

Under President Bush, NCD has been prolific in producing timely
information critical to improving the delivery of programs to people
with disabilities. Our series of research reports involving *New Freedom
Initiative* (NFI) programs has resulted in or documented ongoing changes
to many of the critical services needed to sustain the health and
independence of our most vulnerable citizens.
(http://www.ncd.gov/newsroom/publications/index.htm)

Like many federal agencies, NCD has been impacted by increased costs
related to our mission. Unlike some larger agencies, NCD has limited
opportunity to reduce such costs without hampering our ability to
fulfill Congressional mandates as outlined in our authorizing
legislation. An example of this situation can be found in the
requirement that NCD meets a minimum of four times per year. During FY
2007, as part of a strategic refocusing by NCD to require more
participation by appointed Council members in policy development and
agency matters, NCD has incurred increased costs for member salaries,
travel and meeting-related expenses. This level of investment in our
mission has resulted in a dramatic increase in the levels of public
participation and valuable feedback received at our public hearings and
meetings held around the country. Consequently, NCD's expectation that
costs related to meetings would increase have proven true, but have been
offset by the value of public participation in agency processes,
although that value is impossible to quantify.

Over the last several years, NCD has provided extensive and wide-ranging
outreach to people with disabilities and members of their communities,
closely consulting with them as key informants to NCD's policy work.
Many NCD publications have resulted in repeated invitations to present
their findings through conference presentations, Internet web casts, and
policy briefings.

In 2009, NCD is scheduled to continue conducting research on several
issues critical to people with disabilities. As a result of new duties
for the Council that were assigned in the Homeland Security
Appropriations bill (H.R. 5441) signed by President Bush on October 4,
2006, NCD continues to play a significant role in the many
disability-related activities and issues related to homeland security.
That role is described in more detail in the listing of Program
Contracts to be accomplished in FY 2009.

In an environment where the needs of the community are changing, along
with the fiscal pressures accompanying these changes, NCD must be
well-situated to conduct research activities that will enable it to
assist the nation in charting its course in addressing these needs. In
2009, NCD is committed to a set of comprehensive projects focused on
improving the lives of people with disabilities and increasing the
public's awareness of the value of the programs that serve this
"community." The policy issues to be examined (listed separately) will
be studied from the vantage point of the vision of NCD's 15 members
appointed by President Bush, and reflect the President's New Freedom
Initiative targeted at people with disabilities.

Increased fixed costs have forced NCD to postpone or reduce in scope
several critical research projects, including those involving poverty,
asset accumulation and a project involving health care. NCD's FY 2009
initiatives capitalize upon our agency's ability to play a unique and
valuable role in the federal policy process. With this requested
increase, NCD will continue to strengthen the linkage between the
Administration, Congress, and the growing but often overlooked
constituency of people with disabilities.

# EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

####### History

Established in 1978 as an advisory board within the Department of
Education (Public Law 95-602), NCD was transformed into an independent
federal agency by the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1984 (Public Law
98-221). NCD consists of 15 members appointed by the President of the
United States and confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

**Authorization**

NCD was initially established in 1978 as an advisory board within the
Department of Education (Public Law 95-602). The Rehabilitation Act
Amendments of 1984 (Public Law 98-221) transformed NCD into an
independent agency and required NCD to provide expert advice to Congress
and the Administration. Changes were made to NCD's statutory mandate by
the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1992 and 1998 and the Education of
the Deaf Act Technical Amendments of 1993.

####### Mission Statement

The mission of NCD is to promote the full inclusion, independent living,
and economic self-sufficiency of people with disabilities of all ages
and backgrounds by providing advice, analysis, and recommendations on
disability policy to the President, Congress, and other federal
agencies.

**Vision**

Disability touches everyone. In 2004, 51.2 million Americans reported
some level of disability. All Americans have some experience with
disability through their own daily experience or contact with relatives,
colleagues or friends. At some point, most Americans will experience
some form of functional incapacity or limitation as a normal part of
aging.

Americans with disabilities represent a diverse group which includes
individuals with physical, sensory and intellectual disabilities.
Disabilities vary in terms of severity, longevity, cause and
consequences. Some disabilities remain static throughout a person\'s
life while others may have periods of remission or regression.

Through its outreach efforts, in various community venues, and at its
quarterly meetings, NCD has continually learned about the impact of
disability on individuals, families, and their communities. There are
consistent messages being shared about NCD findings through
comprehensive research reports, policy briefs, media outreach, our
award-winning Internet website (http://www.ncd.gov/index.html), and a
monthly newsletter that receives worldwide attention.

Despite their diverse profile, Americans with disabilities share many
common concerns. They face personal, social and economic disadvantages
and barriers that prevent access to the same opportunities as Americans
without disabilities. People with disabilities continue, for example, to
have lower education levels and to be socially isolated and
discriminated against in the workplace. They often face economic
hardship in their daily lives and far too many live below the poverty
line. Women and people with disabilities from diverse cultures, in
particular, experience greater disadvantages, reporting higher
incidences of unemployment and poverty.

Americans with disabilities share many common aspirations for themselves
and for their country. They want a nation which demonstrates leadership
with respect to disability issues. Persons with disabilities desire a
country which is sensitive to individual needs and ensures that
Americans with disabilities have input into the policies, programs and
decisions that affect them. They seek a country which makes it possible
to achieve a decent standard of living and support an approach to
disability issues that is common to all jurisdictions but sensitive to
regional differences and needs. Persons with disabilities want a nation
that uses legal and other measures to promote social and economic equity
and equality of outcomes.

In light of these views, and in keeping with its Congressional mandate,
NCD is currently working on a series of reports known a*s Investing in
Independence,* which interrelate with centerpiece initiatives presented
in President Bush\'s [New Freedom
Initiative](http://www.whitehouse.gov/infocus/newfreedom/). These
reports focus on access to quality health care services, improving
postsecondary transitions and vocational rehabilitation, financial
incentives related to employment and living independently, modernizing
disability indicators and quality of life data, effective educational
services and outcomes, and an annual disability progress report. In
addition, NCD is working on a new Congressional mandate, articulated in
6 U.S.C. 321b, involving the coordination of key homeland security tasks
with the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Throughout all of its work, and in conjunction with its federal
partners, NCD aims to foster and support the production, dissemination
and application of unique information and sound advice leading to
policies that enhance the lives of people with disabilities.

Highlights of NCD FY 2009 Budget Submission

The budget proposed for NCD in FY 2009 supports critical activities of
importance to people with disabilities, while reflecting the commitment
of NCD leadership to control costs and increase efficiency of agency
operations wherever possible. As a small independent agency, it is
necessary for NCD to contract with larger support agencies or
contractors for functions accomplished by staff in larger agencies.
Those support entities have saved NCD approximately \$145,000 annually
in personnel and related expenses. The result has been the reallocation
of financial resources to several important research projects during the
past three years.

Maintaining a stable level of fixed costs has positively affected the
agency's ability to carry out its programs in support of the President
and Congress' objectives that strive to enhance the independence and
economic self-sufficiency for more than 51 million Americans with
disabilities and their families. We believe there are several reasons
why our mission should be supported at the requested level.

It is important to note that this NCD budget request includes a
reduction in the number of staff, and rent that is \$60,000 or 19% less
than the FY 2007 lease amount due to a reduction in the square footage
of our office space. Additional savings are anticipated for printing,
mailing and office equipment, and we continue to analyze internal
processes to identify other potential improvements or savings.

There are increases in two line items that reflect the active
involvement of NCD members in all aspects of agency operations, and
their commitment to increased public outreach and input at quarterly
meetings. These costs are reflected in increased member salaries and
travel, and it is important that this level of involvement continues to
be supported. The NCD investment in Program Contracts has been increased
slightly in this budget, with about \$47,000 added to support priority
research.

One of the items listed in Program Contracts is an enhancement that
represents a top priority for the Council. \$150,000 is requested to
support a national conference on disability, which will expand on a
similar event that NCD supported in 1996. Detailed information about the
requested enhancement is available in the Program Contracts section of
this budget.

NCD staff and council members have continued to be responsible stewards
of taxpayer funds dedicated to improving policies and programs that
support and protect people with disabilities. NCD has consistently
completed each fiscal year at or near projected budget levels. FY 2008
expenditures will continue that trend.

**ORGANIZATION CHART**

**PROPOSED APPROPRIATIONS LANGUAGE**

###### National Council on Disability

###### Salaries and Expenses

For expenses necessary for the National Council on Disability as
authorized by Title IV of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended,
\$3,205,937(Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and
Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2008; Public Law
110-161)

# ANALYSIS OF LANGUAGE PROVISIONS AND CHANGES

There are no proposed changes in the appropriations language.

# BUDGET AUTHORITY AND STAFFING BY ACTIVITY

###### Salaries and Expenses

> [FY 2007]{.underline} [FY 2008]{.underline} [FY
> 2009(reqst)]{.underline}

Budget Authority 3,112,560 3,058,616 3,205,937

FTE 14 12 12

Positions (FTP) 13 12 12

# AVAILABLE FOR OBLIGATION

> [FY 2008]{.underline} [FY 2009]{.underline} [Net Change]{.underline}

[Request]{.underline}

Budget Authority 3,058,616 3,205,937 \$147,321

Outlays 3,058,616 3,205,937 \$147,321

FTE 12 12 0

Positions (FTP) 12 12 0

# APPROPRIATIONS HISTORY

Salaries and Expense Account

(Amounts in thousands of dollars)

[Fiscal Year]{.underline} [Budget Authority]{.underline} [Fiscal
Year]{.underline} [Budget Authority]{.underline}

1980 25 2005 3,344(f)

1981 205 2006 3,144(g)

1982 197 2007 3,125(h)

1983 198 2008 3,059(i)

1984 500 2009 3,205 (req)

1985 750

1986 732

1987 860

1988 871(a)

1989 1,160

1990 1,540

1991 1,439

1992 1,569

1993 1,541

1994 1,690

1995 1,793

1996 1,793

1997 1,791

1998 1,793

1999 2,344

2000 2,391(b)

2001 2,615

2002 2,829(c)

2003 2,839(d)

2004 3,021(e)

FY 1988 amount reflects reductions pursuant to Public Law 100-436.(a)

FY 2000 amount reflects reductions pursuant to Public Law 106-113.(b)

FY 2002 amount reflects reductions pursuant to Public Law 107-206.(c)

FY 2003 amount reflects reductions pursuant to Public Law 108-7.(d)

FY 2004 amount reflects reductions pursuant to Public Law 108-199.(e)

FY 2005 amount reflects reductions pursuant to Public Law 108-447.(f)

FY 2006 amount reflects reductions pursuant to Public Law 109-148.(g)

FY 2007 amount reflects reductions pursuant to Public Law 110-5.(h)

FY 2008 amount reflects reduction pursuant to Public Law 110-161.(i)

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**CONGRESSIONAL DIRECTIVES**

H.R.2206, the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans\' Care, Katrina Recovery,
and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act of 2007, provided NCD with an
additional amount for \`Salaries and Expenses\' (\$300,000), to remain
available until expended for necessary expenses related to the
requirements of the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006
as enacted by the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act of
2007 (Public Law 109-295).This legislation required NCD to accomplish
specific activities related to homeland security as currently reflected
in 6 U.S.C. 321b.

**NARRATIVE JUSTIFICATION**

The National Council on Disability's (NCD) Budget Request for FY 2009 is
in the amount of **\$** **3,205,937**. A detailed breakdown and
justification of this request follows:

####### OBJECT CLASS 11: PERSONNEL

**A. [FTEs]{.underline}**

For FY 2009, NCD requests 12.0 FTEs. This request includes eleven
full-time employees (permanent) and the executive director. Please note
that NCD has voluntarily reduced one FTE since FY 2007 and will be
refilling two vacant positions at lower salary grades in an effort to
conserve resources.

At the present time, the chairperson and members of NCD are involved in
a number of interagency working groups and advisory committees that
require their participation and frequent attendance at meetings in
Washington, D.C. Some of these advisory groups and committees include:
the Office of Disability Employment Policy; the Office of Special
Education and Rehabilitative Services; the National Center for Medical
Rehabilitation Research; the Center for Disease Control and Prevention;
and the White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

In addition to standing committees and working groups, NCD members are
requested to serve on many disability-related task forces established by
other agencies and private entities as a result of the enactment of the
Americans with Disabilities Act and NCD's congressionally mandated
monitoring role regarding the implementation of this important
legislation.

Seven policy positions comprise the majority of NCD staffing. Two
positions, senior attorney advisors, are responsible for research and
analysis of regulations, case law, precedent and other legal
documentation relating to disability civil rights laws, monitoring and
advising on the legal implications of proposed statutory and regulatory
changes, drafting legislation, interpreting the Board's statute, and
advising on the legal implications of proposed policies and procedures.
Two other positions are a policy analyst and a director of research who
conduct ongoing inquiries into the most pressing problems facing people
with disabilities, produce policy reports and draft recommendations,
track important legislative and policy issues, maintain and expand
interagency relations regarding the development and evaluation of
well-coordinated disability policy, and provide programmatic information
and referral services. The fifth position is a congressional liaison to
help guide and support NCD's advisory work both with various
Congressional committees, subcommittees, and caucuses, as well as
Executive Branch departments and agencies.

The sixth position is a director of external affairs responsible for
monitoring all media coverage of issues impacting people with
disabilities, developing and producing informational materials for the
public, developing an agency communications plan, arranging interviews
between the media and NCD members, and handling publicity regarding NCD
events (such as quarterly meetings, research report releases and
hearings) to promote a high degree of public participation in NCD
activities. The seventh position is the executive director, who
coordinates the activities of all staff, participates in key meetings
with federal partners and disability stakeholders at the national level,
and approves work products of the Council.

The operational or support staff members include a special assistant who
coordinates all administrative processes, an executive assistant, staff
assistant, and an office automation clerk. Their responsibilities
include processing member and staff travel expense claims, making travel
and hotel reservations for meetings, recording and forwarding financial
documents after management approval, typing and filing, editing reports,
answering telephones and directing callers to the appropriate staff, as
well as record-keeping and administrative support across all areas of
NCD.

During FY 2007, NCD began contracting with the General Services
Administration (GSA) for the fiscal services previously under the
direction of an NCD financial officer. While this contractual
arrangement has increased administrative contract costs, it provides an
excellent opportunity to obtain continuous control agency input on the
financial transactions of NCD.

**B. [FULL-TIME POSITIONS]{.underline}**

For FY 2009, NCD requests a budget of **\$1,260,170** for salary
expenses associated with full-time employees. This amount represents the
projected cost for a total of 12 full-time positions including annual
civil service salary increases, step increases and promotions.

**C. [OTHER THAN FULL-TIME POSITIONS]{.underline}**

For FY 2009, **\$200,000** is budgeted for compensation of NCD council
members. NCD members are paid at an Executive Level IV rate as required
by statute. This budgeted amount reflects the prior level of
expenditures during FY 2007 and is an indicator of members being
actively involved and familiar with the activities and affairs of NCD.

**D. [SALARY OVERTIME/AWARDS]{.underline}**

A total of **\$25,203** is budgeted for overtime and awards for staff.

**E. [OTHER PERSONNEL COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS]{.underline}**

A total of **\$378,051** is budgeted for other personnel compensation
and benefits during FY 2009. Personnel benefits are a direct function of
the amount of budgeted salary/wages and inclusive of transit subsidy.

**OBJECT CLASS 21: TRAVEL**

**A. [NCD MEMBERS]{.underline}**

The 15 NCD members receive, by law, reimbursement of travel expenses
associated with the four meetings required annually and with other
meetings that NCD may schedule. NCD members are also reimbursed for
travel to meetings, consumer forums, professional conferences, and other
official functions where they represent NCD. Because most NCD members
are people with disabilities, it is important to note that additional
travel costs may be required for personal assistants. The amount of
**\$170,000** is budgeted for travel by NCD members in FY 2009.

**B. [STAFF]{.underline}**

Staff travel is budgeted at **\$25,000** for FY 2009. Some staff members
travel to NCD meetings, the majority of which are scheduled to be held
outside of the District of Columbia. Additionally, staff members will
also participate in various professional meetings and conferences, and
make site visits to programs serving people with disabilities, which are
supported with federal funds. As was previously mentioned under NCD
members' travel, staff members also include people with disabilities who
may incur additional travel costs for personal assistants.

**C. [COUNCIL ADVISORS/ASSISTANTS]{.underline}**

NCD is committed to involving leaders in disability policy and research
from across the nation as advisors to participate with NCD in many
roles. NCD plans to involve a select number of advisors in its scheduled
meetings and consumer forums and hearings during FY 2009. NCD will
reimburse participants at these meetings for travel and per diem only.
No funds will be used to pay salaries for advisors in these meetings,
but **\$25,000** is budgeted for travel of NCD advisors/assistants in FY
2009.

**OBJECT CLASS 23: RENTAL PAYMENTS TO GSA**

NCD currently occupies office space at 1331 F Street, NW, in Washington,
D.C. Leasing arrangements are coordinated for NCD through the General
Services Administration. During FY 2009 NCD expects to be responsible
for **\$277,203** in rental payments through its lease, inclusive of any
unexpected increases due to tax adjustments.

**OBJECT CLASS 23: COMMUNICATIONS, UTILITIES, AND MISCELLANEOUS
CHARGES**

**A. [TELEPHONES]{.underline}**

NCD's budget includes an estimated **\$20,000** for telephone service
and maintenance during FY 2009. This estimate is based on historical
data as well as costs associated with NCD's need to maintain
responsibility for its total telephone expenditures. This amount also
includes the cost of conference calls for Council committees, a much
more cost-effective method for conducting interim business than bringing
various committee members together for face-to-face meetings.

NCD's operations require the use of telephones and text telephones for
both local and long distance calling to maintain communications with NCD
members, advisors, other agencies, private organizations, and members of
the public. The staff and members provide outreach, information, and
referral services.

**B. [POSTAGE AND DELIVERY]{.underline}**

NCD maintains regular communications with people with disabilities,
agencies, organizations, and with private provider organizations serving
people with disabilities. Frequent mailings are also made to NCD
members, advisors, and people interested in disability issues
nationwide. NCD distributes its monthly newsletter to approximately
2,100+ individuals and organizations nationwide. Postage is also needed
for the dissemination of NCD's reports. In addition, NCD business
practices require the use of local delivery and messenger services to
ensure prompt and safe delivery of documents to other agencies located
in Washington, D.C. NCD is requesting **\$30,000** for this purpose in
FY 2009.

**OBJECT CLASS 24: PRINTING AND REPRODUCTION**

NCD has budgeted **\$30,000** in FY 2009 for printing costs. These costs
will include: a) printing a monthly bulletin that is sent to more than
9,000 people with disabilities, professionals, and organizations
interested in disability issues nationwide; b) printing a statutorily
mandated special report on the status of disability policy to the
President and Congress; and c) other public information materials and
monographs as required. Several of NCD's research activities will
generate reports that will require publishing. In addition, it is NCD
policy to produce, upon request, materials in braille, large print,
compact disc, diskette and on cassette tape to accommodate members of
the public who are visually impaired or hearing impaired. Some NCD
documents are printed in languages other than English in order to ensure
the information is reaching the diverse populations of this country. NCD
will also be investigating the cost-effectiveness of increasing the use
of emerging technologies for dissemination of information (especially
NCD reports) to people with disabilities throughout the world.

**OBJECT CLASS 25: OTHER SERVICES**

**[A. ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT SERVICE CONTRACTS]{.underline}**

As a small independent agency, NCD must contract with multiple agencies
or private vendors for many of the services performed in-house by staff
at larger agencies. These contracts cover items such as payroll,
accounting, budgeting, human resources, interpreting services, real-time
captioning, printing, personal assistance services, information
technology, web hosting, news services, mailing house and auditing.
These services will cost NCD **\$300,000** in FY 2009**.**

**[B. RESEARCH AND CONTRACTUAL SERVICES]{.underline}**

NCD has budgeted **\$442,810** for program contracts. All proposed
contracts in this category are described below.

NCD's priorities are based upon recommendations developed by NCD Board
members and stakeholders and are based upon the goals and objectives
outlined in NCD's strategic planning process. Research studies and
projects are commissioned by NCD when it is necessary to enlist the
support of outside individuals and groups who possess expertise not
available within NCD itself. Given the limited size of our agency, the
judicious use of external research studies and projects substantially
enhances our capability to meet our basic mandate "to provide expert
advice" to the Administration and Congress on disability policy issues.

In proposing the *New Freedom* *Initiative* (NFI), President George W.
Bush and his Administration gave their immediate and firm commitment to
moving forward with initiatives aimed at achieving independence and full
integration of Americans with disabilities. FY 2009 NCD studies
interrelate with centerpiece initiatives presented in President Bush's
NFI and the findings and recommendations of these research studies will
help guide Congress and the Bush Administration's implementation of the
NFI.

NCD has a number of projects proposed for completion in FY 2009 that
reflect the interests and concerns that thousands of people with
disabilities have brought to the agency's attention. NCD's FY 2009
initiatives relate to its *Investing in Independence* series of reports,
capitalizing upon NCD's ability to play a unique and valuable role in
the federal policy process. With the requested budget, NCD will carry
out the following proposed projects:

**Program Contracts**

**Proposed Project(s) for FY 2009 NCD Budget**

**1) [National Conference on Disability]{.underline}**

The purpose of a national conference is to take stock nationally of
"disability" related achievements in the areas of legislation, best
practices, poverty alleviation, civic participation, and asset building,
to name a few; examining the effect democracy has had on people with
disability, with particular focus on progress since the National Council
on Disability's (NCD) 1996 leadership summit. The national conference is
designed to highlight legislative, educational, employment, housing,
technological, economic, political, and social policies and programs
designed to enhance the quality of life of all Americans with
disabilities. A facilitation methodology will be used in all large and
small group activities, whenever appropriate, in which to engage
conference attendees in identifying best practices and achievements and
in determining the way forward.

In addition, and throughout the conference, people with and without
disabilities will be invited to: (a) seek out and inquire into that
which is best practice; (b) present, provide information and share
stories about that which is best practice; (c) to explore hopes and a
common vision for the future; and (d) explore strategies for
transforming America's current approach to building and maintaining
livable communities for Americans with disabilities. NCD expects that
this conference framework will release a positive energy and innovative
insight that is greatly superior to the kind of energy and insight
achieved through the negation, criticism, and "blame placing" often
associated with problem- and deficit-based approaches to change which
often typify national conferences or summits.

As an independent agency, NCD is uniquely positioned to bring the
various disability-related government agencies, non-profit stakeholders
and professional entities together to address this important topic, and
it is our Council's unanimous recommendation that NCD needs to convene a
national summit during the 20th year since the passage of the Americans
with Disabilities Act (ADA).

This conference is the Council's top priority. The investment by NCD
will be leveraged to solicit support and partnerships from many federal
agencies and the national organizations involved in disability-related
services or policy.

**2) [Annual Progress Report to Congress]{.underline}**

In compliance with its authorizing statute, NCD will prepare and submit
to the President and the appropriate committees of the Congress a report
entitled *National Disability Policy: A Progress Report.* The report
will assess the status of the Nation, with particular focus on new and
emerging issues impacting the lives of people with disabilities. The
report will also present, as appropriate, available data on health,
housing, employment, insurance, transportation, recreation, training,
prevention, early intervention, and education. Finally, the report will
include recommendations for policy change. In determining the issues to
focus on and the findings, conclusions, and recommendations to include
in the report, the National Council will seek input from the public,
particularly people with disabilities and their families,
representatives of organizations representing a broad range of
individuals with disabilities, and organizations and agencies interested
in disability issues.

**3) [Homeland Security]{.underline}**

**NCD's FY 2009 Homeland Security Work **

As a result of NCD's expertise and concern about the lack of disability
involvement in planning or response systems related to emergency
preparedness and homeland security, in FY 2007 Congress appropriated
\$300,000 to NCD for accomplishing specific activities that will enhance
the ability of the emergency preparedness and response network to meet
the needs of people with disabilities in future disasters. Congress
initially assigned NCD to carry out nine specific responsibilities to be
accomplished with the cooperation of the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA). During FY 2009 NCD will continue its implementation of
congressionally mandated responsibilities under Public Law 109-295.
These responsibilities involve the Administrator of FEMA working with
NCD and others (e.g., a national advisory council) on at least nine (9)
major tasks, including:

1.  Appointing a Disability Coordinator;

2.  Interacting regarding the needs of individuals with disabilities in
    emergency planning requirements and relief efforts in the event of a
    natural disaster, act of terrorism, or other man-made disaster;

3.  Completing, revising, and updating, as necessary, guidelines to
    define risk-based target capabilities for federal, state, local, and
    tribal government preparedness that will enable the nation to
    prevent, respond to, recover from, and mitigate against all hazards,
    including natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and others;

4.  Carrying out a national training program to implement the national
    preparedness goal, National Incident Management System, National
    Response Plan, and other related plans and strategies;

5.  Carrying out a national exercise program to test and evaluate the
    national preparedness goal, National Incident Management System,
    National Response Plan, and other related plans and strategies;

6.  Establishing a comprehensive system to assess, on an ongoing basis,
    the Nation\'s prevention capabilities and overall preparedness,
    including operational readiness;

7.  Establishing a remedial action management program to: (1) analyze
    training, exercises, and real-world events to identify and
    disseminate lessons learned and best practices; (2) generate and
    disseminate, as appropriate, after action reports to participants in
    exercises and real-world events; and (3) conduct remedial action
    tracking and long-term trend analysis;

8.  Developing, coordinating, and maintaining a National Disaster
    Housing Strategy; and

9.  Developing guidelines to accommodate individuals with disabilities,
    which shall include guidelines for: (1) the accessibility of
    communications and programs in, shelters, recovery centers, and
    other facilities; and (2) the accessibility of devices used in
    connection with disaster operations, including first aid stations,
    mass feeding areas, portable payphone stations, portable toilets,
    and temporary housing.

Beginning in January, 2007 we have been fulfilling our HR 5441 duties
and have learned some key lessons. First, these tasks require the
full-time attention of a professional staff member who is familiar with
the complexities of FEMA and Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
operations across the various levels of government. Second, NCD needs to
continue to be proactive in pursuit of its Congressional
responsibilities.

As part of our proactive stance to fulfilling our HR 5441 duties, we
will undertake a number of activities.

-   NCD will gather and share information and best practices about
    emergency preparation, disaster management, recovery and relief,
    particularly, but not exclusively, in incidents that are deemed
    national emergencies. NCD will routinely contact local disability
    organizations and emergency personnel to ask how specific disaster
    and emergency responses impacted people with disabilities and what
    were the lessons. NCD will also identify via media or other methods,
    people with disabilities in disasters and contact them for input. As
    part of this effort, NCD will request and work with the network of
    federally funded ADA & Information Technology Centers in an effort
    to gather and supply information about state policies regarding ADA
    compliance and promising practices in serving people with
    disabilities during and after disasters;

-   NCD will hold field hearings at the NCD 2008 Board Meeting in New
    Orleans on key issues, framed generally by NCD\'s work and
    Post-Katrina Act responsibilities, and will invite representatives
    from nearby states;

-   NCD will devote time at its quarterly meetings in Boston, New
    Orleans (discussed above), Arlington, VA and Seattle to gain
    targeted information from local and regional disability and
    emergency communities regarding serving people with disabilities in
    disasters;

 

-   NCD will incorporate homeland security issues (i.e., Post-Katrina
    Act task defined issues) as a \"strand\" within all applicable NCD
    research and reports including the NCD Annual Progress Report.
    Examples include reports scheduled to be completed in 2008 regarding
    infrastructure and housing;

 

> NCD will work with the American Red Cross and other National Volunteer
> Organizations Assisting in Disasters (NVOAD) members to
> establish/confirm ADA and Section 504 policies and practices. Similar
> responses will be solicited from the other 29 NVOAD organizations. NCD
> will then compile results and disseminate to the entire coalition of
> response organizations, soliciting improvement as they prepare for
> future disasters; and 

-   NCD will continue its interaction with national disability
    organizations (e.g., Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities
    Homeland Security Task Force) encouraging these organizations to
    gather information from constituents and sharing progress.

To ensure that NCD is able to complete the required HR 5441
responsibilities and the above-listed 'proactive' activities, NCD will
need to hire/contract for a full-time professional with the necessary
technical expertise.

**4) [Healthcare - Access to Finances for Health Care]{.underline}**

People with disabilities face serious challenges because of their often
substantial health care needs, their reliance on a wide range of
services and supports, and their often low and fixed incomes. Despite
these challenges and the need to navigate a complex system of public and
private sources of health care coverage and assistance, little is known
about the services and supports people with disabilities need to live
independently in the community, the extent to which their needs are
being met by the health care system, and how this varies by source of
insurance and other personal characteristics.\
\
This study will examine the role of health insurance for people with
disabilities, with a particular emphasis on Medicare and Medicaid.
Together, these two programs provide coverage to more than 10 million
non-elderly people (under age 65) living with disabilities. Given the
size of the population affected, the substantial commitment in public
dollars, and the challenges inherent in living with a disability, it is
important to understand how well these programs are meeting people's
needs and the extent to which gaps in coverage create barriers to needed
care.\
\
This project will highlight key issues, including the diversity of the
population, the major health care challenges they face, how their
experiences vary by insurance type, and the extent to which specific
sources of coverage are associated with access- and cost-related
problems. The project report will include a range of policy options that
could be considered in an effort to address the challenges identified.

**[5) Transition  From School to Adulthood]{.underline}**

This research report will expand upon the FY 2007 NCD study of
transition within the vocational rehabilitation system to explore the
other factors which influence the successful transition of youth with
disabilities from school to work or higher education.

The conditions and realities of youth with disabilities are changing.
Adolescents are entering adulthood via more complex pathways as a result
of socio-economic and demographic pressures. Traditional progressions
from school, to work, or to independent living and family formation
rarely apply. It is now common for youth to pursue work and school at
the same time, go back and forth between training and work, change
training paths, or leave and return to the parental home and independent
life.

The transition to adulthood can be a particularly risky and
unpredictable period, especially for those who face competitive
disadvantages at school or in the workplace, who do not have access to
resources to support prolonged transitions, or who face a series of
environmental problems in the family, school and community. As a result,
new perspectives and tools are needed for framing transition issues for
public policy, including an emphasis on effective best-practice
approaches to better reflect the interrelated aspects of the lives of
young people with disabilities.

The project will examine the changing realities, issues and challenges
of today's youth with disabilities, including implications for public
policy. It will help develop a knowledge-base and policy/program
framework for supporting effective funding, analysis, measurement, and
responses to transition issues in the United States.

**[6) Comprehensive Review of Mental Health Systems]{.underline}**

The World Health Organization predicts that, by 2020, depression will be
the world's leading cause of disability. In the United States today,
estimates are that one in five people has some type of mental health
problem. In addition to the personal hardship caused by poor mental
health, the economic costs to the individual and our nation's formal
care systems can be high.

Because of both the increasing importance of mental health services and
supports, as well as the growing number of people who rely on those
services and supports, the NCD has decided to conduct a comprehensive
review of mental health services in the nation. We will review the
quality of mental health services and supports being provided: in local
communities; in VA hospitals and community outreach centers; and, in
specialist hospitals and clinics. People with poor mental health often
face discrimination and social isolation. They also experience physical
ill health because of their condition, which may partly be due to poor
diet, smoking, inadequate housing, self-neglect and the side effects of
the medicines they may be taking.

While not always acknowledged as such, mental health services are a very
important part of modern healthcare. The mental health care that is
provided in the community is supposed to be different from traditional
care because it treats people outside the hospital setting, around their
own schedule, and with their personal needs in mind.

The effectiveness of the various community-based programs will be
evaluated in this report. We will ask people who use these services and
supports what they think is important to ensure that they receive the
highest quality of service and care. We will also look at whether the
services and/or supports that are being provided are actually helping
people to recover and to become part of their local community again.
Finally, we will look at the impact of various configurations of mental
health services and supports on the neighborhoods and communities within
which they are located.

**[C. READERS, INTERPRETERS, PERSONAL ASSISTANTS, AND MEETING
SUPPORT]{.underline}**

In addition to using expert contractors to develop specific data and
background information, NCD, in accordance with the Rehabilitation Act,
provides interpreters for people who are deaf and hard of hearing,
readers for people with visual impairments, and personal care assistants
for members and staff with significant disabilities. The temporary
employment, by contract, of such providers is directly related to the
nature of the work performed by NCD and to the explicitly stated policy
of affirmative action and outreach to which NCD subscribes.

Accessible space and public address systems for meetings held outside of
NCD are secured on a contractual basis. The estimated cost for meeting
space rental, readers, interpreters, (CART), personal assistants, and
other meeting support costs such as taping services and assistive
communication services is **\$150,000** for FY 2009.

**[D. TRAINING]{.underline}**

In order for NCD staff to stay current with critical issues facing
people with disabilities and to improve their technical skills,
participation in training programs is necessary. After training needs
are identified in individual staff development plans, training is
provided in appropriate content areas such as contract management,
computer technology, financial management, supervision, management, and
other areas. The sum of **\$15,000** has been budgeted for that purpose
in FY 2009.

**OBJECT CLASS 26: SUPPLIES, MATERIALS AND PUBLICATIONS**

NCD's budget includes **\$20,000** for the purchase of supplies,
materials and publications for FY 2009. The amount includes supplies for
mailing, copying, and ordinary office supplies such as paper, pens, and
pencils. Also budgeted are funds for the purchase of computer software,
library materials, and for subscriptions to relevant scientific,
technical, and policy-oriented publications. NCD subscribes to various
electronic information services in order to provide members and staff
current technical information. The cost for these services is included
in this category.

**OBJECT CLASS 31: EQUIPMENT**

As the only independent agency in the federal government with sole
responsibility to provide expert advice on disability policy, it is
essential that NCD serve as a model for others by ensuring that all of
our work is accessible to people with any type of disability. In order
to ensure full access for Council members and staff with disabilities,
we are requesting **\$2,500** under this category in FY 2009 to replace
or purchase any equipment used for accommodations needed by staff or
members.

**Public Participation at NCD Quarterly Meetings**

Public participation at NCD quarterly meetings has risen dramatically
during FY 2007 and the beginning of FY 2008. Three participants attended
NCD's first quarterly meeting in October 2006 (Washington, DC) with one
person delivering public comments. At a recent quarterly meeting in July
(Chicago), there were 130 participants and 32 public comments. Another
100 of our stakeholders in the disability community participated in an
NCD-sponsored reception for leaders in the local disability community.

This reaching out to local disability communities was accomplished by
the redirection of our budget to conduct meetings around the country so
we can carry out our mandate to get public comment and input to identify
emerging trends in the disability arena so appropriate public policy can
be developed. Our three-day quarterly meetings held in different regions
included local panel presentations to the council, to enable us to carry
out our primary mandate to identify and promote the best practices,
policies and programs that benefit people with disabilities.

**NCD QUARTERLY MEETINGS**

As required by Section 400(3)(c) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as
amended, NCD met on four occasions during FY 2007:

Washington, DC

San Diego, CA

Atlanta, GA

Chicago, IL

Plus two teleconference meetings of the full Council.

Meetings are scheduled for FY 2008 in:

Boston, MA

New Orleans, LA

Arlington, VA

Seattle, WA

Two additional teleconferences will also be held, but are not scheduled
yet.

**NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY**

**Members**

(as of January 31, 2008)

[Name]{.underline} [Confirmation]{.underline} [Expiration]{.underline}
[Reappointed]{.underline} [Expiration]{.underline}

1\. John R. Vaughn, Chairperson 8-3-06 9-17-07

2\. Patricia Pound, Vice Chairperson 7-26-02 9-17-02 11-14-02 9-17-05

3\. Milton Aponte, J.D. 9-26-02 9-17-03 11-20-04 9-17-06

4\. Robert R. Davila, Ph.D. 7-29-02 9-17-03 11-20-04 9-17-06

5\. Victoria Ray Carlson 8-3-06 9-17-07

6\. Chad Colley, Vice Chairperson 8-3-06 9-17-07

7\. Graham Hill 9-26-02 9-17-02 9-26-02 9-17-05

8\. Marylyn Howe 6-22-07 9-17-08

9\. Young Woo Kang, Ph.D. 7-26-02 9-17-03 11-20-04 9-17-06

10\. Kathleen Martinez 7-26-02 9-17-03 11-20-04 9-17-06

11\. Lisa Mattheiss 8-3-06 9-17-07

12\. Lonnie Moore 6-22-07 9-17-08

13\. Anne M. Rader 6-19-03 9-17-04

14\. Cynthia Wainscott 5-25-07 9-17-08

15\. Linda Wetters 11-14-02 9-17-03 11-20-04 9-17-06