Division F—Administrative Provisions
§12631. Family and medical leave
(a) Participants in private, State, and local projects
For purposes of title I of the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 [
(1) a participant has provided service for the period required by section 101(2)(A)(i) (
(2) the service sponsor of the project is an employer described in section 101(4) of such Act (other than an employing agency within the meaning of subchapter V of
the participant shall be considered to be an eligible employee of the service sponsor.
(b) Participants in Federal projects
For purposes of subchapter V of
(1) a participant has provided service for the period required by section 6381(1)(B) of such title with respect to a project; and
(2) the service sponsor of the project is an employing agency within the meaning of such subchapter,
the participant shall be considered to be an employee of the service sponsor.
(c) Treatment of absence
The period of any absence of a participant from a service position pursuant to title I of the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 [
(
Editorial Notes
References in Text
The Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, referred to in subsecs. (a) and (c), is
Amendments
2009—Subsec. (a)(1).
1993—
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2009 Amendment
Amendment by
Effective Date of 1993 Amendment
Amendment by
§12632. Reports
(a) State reports
(1) In general
Each State receiving assistance under this subchapter shall prepare and submit, to the Corporation, an annual report concerning the use of assistance provided under this subchapter and the status of the national and community service programs that receive assistance under such subchapter in such State.
(2) Local grantees
Each State may require local grantees that receive assistance under this subchapter to supply such information to the State as is necessary to enable the State to complete the report required under paragraph (1), including a comparison of actual accomplishments with the goals established for the program, the number of participants in the program, the number of service hours generated, and the existence of any problems, delays or adverse conditions that have affected or will affect the attainment of program goals.
(3) Report demonstrating compliance
(A) In general
Each State receiving assistance under this subchapter shall include information in the report required under paragraph (1) that demonstrates the compliance of the State with the provisions of this chapter, including
(B) Local grantees
Each State may require local grantees to supply such information to the State as is necessary to enable the State to comply with the requirement of paragraph (1).
(4) Availability of report
Reports submitted under paragraph (1) shall be made available to the public on request.
(b) Report to Congress by Corporation
(1) In general
Not later than 120 days after the end of each fiscal year, the Corporation shall prepare and submit, to the authorizing committees, the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives, and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate, a report concerning the programs that receive assistance under the national service laws.
(2) Content
Reports submitted under paragraph (1) shall contain a summary of the information contained in the State reports submitted under subsection (a), and shall reflect the findings and actions taken as a result of any evaluation conducted by the Corporation.
(
Editorial Notes
References in Text
This chapter, referred to in subsec. (a)(3)(A), was in the original "this Act", meaning
Amendments
2011—Subsec. (c).
"(1)
"(2)
2009—Subsec. (b)(1).
Subsec. (c)(2).
1993—Subsec. (a)(1).
Subsec. (a)(3)(A).
Subsec. (b).
Subsec. (b)(1).
Subsec. (b)(2).
Subsec. (c).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2009 Amendment
Amendment by
Effective Date of 1993 Amendment
Amendment by section 114 of
Amendment by section 402(b)(1) of
§12633. Supplementation
(a) In general
Assistance provided under this subchapter shall be used to supplement the level of State and local public funds expended for services of the type assisted under this subchapter in the previous fiscal year.
(b) Aggregate expenditure
Subsection (a) shall be satisfied, with respect to a particular program, if the aggregate expenditure for such program for the fiscal year in which services are to be provided will not be less than the aggregate expenditure for such program in the previous fiscal year, excluding the amount of Federal assistance provided and any other amounts used to pay the remainder of the costs of programs assisted under this subchapter.
(
§12634. Prohibition on use of funds
(a) Prohibited uses
No assistance made available under a grant under this subchapter shall be used to provide religious instruction, conduct worship services, or engage in any form of proselytization.
(b) Political activity
Assistance provided under this subchapter shall not be used by program participants and program staff to—
(1) assist, promote, or deter union organizing; or
(2) finance, directly or indirectly, any activity designed to influence the outcome of an election to Federal office or the outcome of an election to a State or local public office.
(c) Contracts or collective bargaining agreements
A program that receives assistance under this subchapter shall not impair existing contracts for services or collective bargaining agreements.
(d) Referrals for Federal assistance
A program may not receive assistance under the national service laws for the sole purpose of referring individuals to Federal assistance programs or State assistance programs funded in part by the Federal Government.
(
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2009—Subsec. (d).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2009 Amendment
Amendment by
§12635. Nondiscrimination
(a) In general
(1) Basis
An individual with responsibility for the operation of a project that receives assistance under this subchapter shall not discriminate against a participant in, or member of the staff of, such project on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or political affiliation of such participant or member, or on the basis of disability, if the participant or member is a qualified individual with a disability.
(2) "Qualified individual with a disability" defined
As used in paragraph (1), the term "qualified individual with a disability" has the meaning given the term in
(b) Federal financial assistance
Any assistance provided under this subchapter shall constitute Federal financial assistance for purposes of title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (
(c) Religious discrimination
(1) In general
Except as provided in paragraph (2), an individual with responsibility for the operation of a project that receives assistance under this subchapter shall not discriminate on the basis of religion against a participant in such project or a member of the staff of such project who is paid with funds received under this subchapter.
(2) Exception
Paragraph (1) shall not apply to the employment, with assistance provided under this subchapter, of any member of the staff, of a project that receives assistance under this subchapter, who was employed with the organization operating the project on the date the grant under this subchapter was awarded.
(d) Rules and regulations
The Chief Executive Officer shall promulgate rules and regulations to provide for the enforcement of this section that shall include provisions for summary suspension of assistance for not more than 30 days, on an emergency basis, until notice and an opportunity to be heard can be provided.
(
Editorial Notes
References in Text
The Civil Rights Act of 1964, referred to in subsec. (b), is
The Education Amendments of 1972, referred to in subsec. (b), is
The Age Discrimination Act of 1975, referred to in subsec. (b), is title III of
Amendments
1993—
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1993 Amendment
Amendment by
§12636. Notice, hearing, and grievance procedures
(a) In general
(1) Suspension of payments
The Corporation may in accordance with the provisions of this subchapter, suspend or terminate payments under a contract or grant providing assistance under this subchapter, or revoke the designation of positions, related to the grant or contract, as approved national service positions, whenever the Corporation determines there is a material failure to comply with this subchapter or the applicable terms and conditions of any such grant or contract issued pursuant to this subchapter.
(2) Procedures to ensure assistance
The Corporation shall prescribe procedures to ensure that—
(A) assistance provided under this subchapter shall not be suspended for failure to comply with the applicable terms and conditions of this subchapter except, in emergency situations, a suspension may be granted for 1 or more periods of 30 days not to exceed a total of 90 days; and
(B) assistance provided under this subchapter shall not be terminated or revoked for failure to comply with applicable terms and conditions of this subchapter unless the recipient of such assistance has been afforded reasonable notice and opportunity for a full and fair hearing.
(b) Hearings
Hearings or other meetings that may be necessary to fulfill the requirements of this section shall be held at locations convenient to the recipient of assistance under this subchapter.
(c) Transcript or recording
A transcript or recording shall be made of a hearing conducted under this section and shall be available for inspection by any individual.
(d) State legislation
Nothing in this subchapter shall be construed to preclude the enactment of State legislation providing for the implementation, consistent with this subchapter, of the programs administered under this subchapter.
(e) Construction
Nothing in this subchapter shall be construed to link performance of service with receipt of Federal student financial assistance, other than assistance provided pursuant to this chapter.
(f) Grievance procedure
(1) In general
An entity that receives assistance under this subchapter shall establish and maintain a procedure for the filing and adjudication of grievances from participants, labor organizations, and other interested individuals concerning projects that receive assistance under this subchapter, including grievances regarding proposed placements of such participants in such projects.
(2) Deadline for grievances
Except for a grievance that alleges fraud or criminal activity, a grievance shall be made not later than 1 year after the date of the alleged occurrence of the event that is the subject of the grievance.
(3) Deadline for hearing and decision
(A) Hearing
A hearing on any grievance conducted under this subsection shall be conducted not later than 30 days after the filing of such grievance.
(B) Decision
A decision on any such grievance shall be made not later than 60 days after the filing of such grievance.
(4) Arbitration
(A) In general
(i) Jointly selected arbitrator
In the event of a decision on a grievance that is adverse to the party who filed such grievance, or 60 days after the filing of such grievance if no decision has been reached, such party shall be permitted to submit such grievance to binding arbitration before a qualified arbitrator who is jointly selected and independent of the interested parties.
(ii) Appointed arbitrator
If the parties cannot agree on an arbitrator, the Chief Executive Officer shall appoint an arbitrator from a list of qualified arbitrators within 15 days after receiving a request for such appointment from one of the parties to the grievance.
(B) Deadline for proceeding
An arbitration proceeding shall be held not later than 45 days after the request for such arbitration proceeding, or, if the arbitrator is appointed by the Chief Executive Officer in accordance with subparagraph (A)(ii), not later than 30 days after the appointment of such arbitrator.
(C) Deadline for decision
A decision concerning a grievance shall be made not later than 30 days after the date such arbitration proceeding begins.
(D) Cost
(i) In general
Except as provided in clause (ii), the cost of an arbitration proceeding shall be divided evenly between the parties to the arbitration.
(ii) Exception
If a participant, labor organization, or other interested individual described in paragraph (1) prevails under a binding arbitration proceeding, the State or local applicant described in paragraph (1) that is a party to such grievance shall pay the total cost of such proceeding and the attorneys' fees of such participant, labor organization, or individual, as the case may be.
(5) Proposed placement
If a grievance is filed regarding a proposed placement of a participant in a project that receives assistance under this subchapter, such placement shall not be made unless the placement is consistent with the resolution of the grievance pursuant to this subsection.
(6) Remedies
Remedies for a grievance filed under this subsection include—
(A) suspension of payments for assistance under this subchapter;
(B) termination of such payments;
(C) prohibition of the placement described in paragraph (5);
(D) in a case in which the grievance is filed by an individual applicant or participant—
(i) the applicant's selection or the participant's reinstatement, as the case may be; and
(ii) other changes in the terms and conditions of service applicable to the individual; and
(E) in a case in which the grievance involves a violation of subsection (a) or (b) of
(i) reinstatement of the displaced employee to the position held by such employee prior to displacement;
(ii) payment of lost wages and benefits of the displaced employee;
(iii) reestablishment of other relevant terms, conditions, and privileges of employment of the displaced employee; and
(iv) such equitable relief as is necessary to correct any violation of subsection (a) or (b) of
(7) Enforcement
Suits to enforce arbitration awards under this section may be brought in any district court of the United States having jurisdiction of the parties, without regard to the amount in controversy and without regard to the citizenship of the parties.
(
Editorial Notes
References in Text
This chapter, referred to in subsec. (e), was in the original "this Act", meaning
Amendments
2009—Subsec. (a)(2)(A).
Subsec. (f)(1).
Subsec. (f)(6)(D), (E).
1993—Subsec. (a)(1).
Subsec. (a)(2).
Subsec. (a)(2)(B).
Subsec. (e).
Subsec. (f).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2009 Amendment
Amendment by
Effective Date of 1993 Amendment
Amendment by section 116 of
Amendment by section 402(b)(1) of
§12637. Nonduplication and nondisplacement
(a) Nonduplication
(1) In general
Assistance provided under the national service laws shall be used only for a program that does not duplicate, and is in addition to, an activity otherwise available in the locality of such program.
(2) Private nonprofit entity
Assistance made available under the national service laws shall not be provided to a private nonprofit entity to conduct activities that are the same or substantially equivalent to activities provided by a State or local government agency that such entity resides in, unless the requirements of subsection (b) are met.
(b) Nondisplacement
(1) In general
An employer shall not displace an employee, position, or volunteer (other than a participant under the national service laws), including partial displacement such as reduction in hours, wages, or employment benefits, as a result of the use by such employer of a participant in a program receiving assistance under the national service laws.
(2) Service opportunities
A service opportunity shall not be created under the national service laws that will infringe in any manner on the promotional opportunity of an employed individual.
(3) Limitation on services
(A) Duplication of services
A participant in a program receiving assistance under the national service laws shall not perform any services or duties or engage in activities that would otherwise be performed by an employee as part of the assigned duties of such employee.
(B) Supplantation of hiring
A participant in any program receiving assistance under the national service laws shall not perform any services or duties, or engage in activities, that—
(i) will supplant the hiring of employed workers; or
(ii) are services, duties, or activities with respect to which an individual has recall rights pursuant to a collective bargaining agreement or applicable personnel procedures.
(C) Duties formerly performed by another employee
A participant in any program receiving assistance under the national service laws shall not perform services or duties that have been performed by or were assigned to any—
(i) presently employed worker;
(ii) employee who recently resigned or was discharged;
(iii) employee who—
(I) is subject to a reduction in force; or
(II) has recall rights pursuant to a collective bargaining agreement or applicable personnel procedures;
(iv) employee who is on leave (terminal, temporary, vacation, emergency, or sick); or
(v) employee who is on strike or who is being locked out.
(c) Labor market information
The Secretary of Labor shall make available to the Corporation and to any program agency under this subchapter such labor market information as is appropriate for use in carrying out the purposes of this subchapter.
(d) Treatment of benefits
Allowances, earnings, and payments to individuals participating in programs that receive assistance under this subchapter shall not be considered to be income for the purposes of determining eligibility for and the amount of income transfer and in-kind aid furnished under any Federal or federally assisted program based on need, other than as provided under the Social Security Act (
(e) Standards of conduct
Programs that receive assistance under this subchapter shall establish and stringently enforce standards of conduct at the program site to promote proper moral and disciplinary conditions.
(f) Parental involvement
(1) In general
Programs that receive assistance under the national service laws shall consult with the parents or legal guardians of children in developing and operating programs that include and serve children.
(2) Parental permission
Programs that receive assistance under the national service laws shall, before transporting minor children, provide the children's parents with the reason for the transportation and obtain the parents' written permission for such transportation, consistent with State law.
(
Editorial Notes
References in Text
The Social Security Act, referred to in subsec. (d), is act Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531,
Amendments
2009—Subsec. (a)(1), (2).
Subsec. (b)(1).
Subsec. (b)(2), (3).
Subsec. (f).
1998—Subsec. (d).
1993—Subsec. (b)(3)(B).
Subsec. (b)(3)(C)(iii).
Subsec. (c).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2009 Amendment
Amendment by
Effective Date of 1993 Amendment
Amendment by section 117 of
Amendment by section 402(b)(1) of
§12638. State Commissions on National and Community Service
(a) Existence required
(1) State Commission
Except as provided in paragraph (2), to be eligible to receive a grant or allotment under division B or C or to receive a distribution of approved national service positions under division C, a State shall maintain a State Commission on National and Community Service that satisfies the requirements of this section.
(2) Alternative administrative entity
The chief executive officer of a State may apply to the Corporation for approval to use an alternative administrative entity to carry out the duties otherwise entrusted to a State Commission under this chapter. The chief executive officer shall ensure that any alternative administrative entity used in lieu of a State Commission provides for the individuals described in paragraph (1), and some of the individuals described in paragraph (2), of subsection (c) to play a significant policymaking role in carrying out the duties otherwise entrusted to a State Commission, including the submission of applications on behalf of the State under
(b) Appointment and size
Except as provided in subsection (c)(3), the members of a State Commission for a State shall be appointed by the chief executive officer of the State. A State Commission shall consist of not fewer than 15, and not more than 25, voting members, and any ex officio nonvoting members, as described in paragraph (3) or (4) of subsection (c).
(c) Composition and membership
(1) Required members
The State Commission for a State shall include as voting members at least one of each of the following individuals:
(A) An individual with expertise in the educational, training, and development needs of youth, particularly disadvantaged youth.
(B) An individual with experience in promoting the involvement of older adults in service and voluntarism.
(C) A representative of community-based agencies or community-based organizations within the State.
(D) The head of the State educational agency.
(E) A representative of local governments in the State.
(F) A representative of local labor organizations in the State.
(G) A representative of business.
(H) An individual between the ages of 16 and 25 who is a participant or supervisor in a program.
(I) A representative of a national service program described in subsection (a), (b), or (c) of
(J) A representative of the volunteer sector.
(2) Sources of other members
The State Commission for a State may include as voting members the following individuals:
(A) Members selected from among local educators.
(B) Members selected from among experts in the delivery of human, educational, environmental, or public safety services to communities and persons.
(C) Representatives of Indian tribes.
(D) Members selected from among out-of-school youth or other at-risk youth.
(E) Representatives of entities that receive assistance under the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 (
(3) Corporation representative
The representative of the Corporation designated under
(4) Ex officio State representatives
The chief executive officer of a State may appoint, as ex officio nonvoting members of the State Commission for the State, representatives selected from among officers and employees of State agencies operating community service, youth service, education, social service, senior service, and job training programs.
(5) Limitation on number of State employees as members
The number of voting members of a State Commission selected under paragraph (1) or (2) who are officers or employees of the State may not exceed 25 percent (reduced to the nearest whole number) of the total membership of the State Commission.
(d) Miscellaneous matters
(1) Membership balance
The chief executive officer of a State shall ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that the membership of the State Commission for the State is diverse with respect to race, ethnicity, age, gender, and disability characteristics. Not more than 50 percent of the voting members of a State Commission, plus one additional member, may be from the same political party.
(2) Terms
Each member of the State Commission for a State shall serve for a term of 3 years, except that the chief executive officer of a State shall initially appoint a portion of the members to terms of 1 year and 2 years.
(3) Vacancies
If a vacancy occurs on a State Commission, a new member shall be appointed by the chief executive officer of the State and serve for the remainder of the term for which the predecessor of such member was appointed. The vacancy shall not affect the power of the remaining members to execute the duties of the State Commission.
(4) Compensation
A member of a State Commission or alternative administrative entity shall not receive any additional compensation by reason of service on the State Commission or alternative administrative entity, except that the State may authorize the reimbursement of travel expenses, including a per diem in lieu of subsistence, in the same manner as other employees serving intermittently in the service of the State.
(5) Chairperson
The voting members of a State Commission shall elect one of the voting members to serve as chairperson of the State Commission.
(6) Limitation on member participation
(A) General limitation
Except as provided in subparagraph (B), a voting member of the State Commission (or of an alternative administrative entity) shall not participate in the administration of the grant program (including any discussion or decision regarding the provision of assistance or approved national service positions, or the continuation, suspension, or termination of such assistance or such positions, to any program or entity) described in subsection (e)(9) if—
(i) a grant application relating to such program is pending before the Commission (or such entity); and
(ii) the application was submitted by a program or entity of which such member is, or in the 1-year period before the submission of such application was, an officer, director, trustee, full-time volunteer, or employee.
(B) Exception
If, as a result of the operation of subparagraph (A), the number of voting members of the Commission (or of such entity) is insufficient to establish a quorum for the purpose of administering such program, then voting members excluded from participation by subparagraph (A) may participate in the administration of such program, notwithstanding the limitation in subparagraph (A), to the extent permitted by regulations issued under
(C) Rule of construction
Subparagraph (A) shall not be construed to limit the authority of any voting member of the Commission (or of such entity) to participate in—
(i) discussion of, and hearing and forums on—
(I) the general duties, policies, and operations of the Commission (or of such entity); or
(II) the general administration of such program; or
(ii) similar general matters relating to the Commission (or such entity).
(e) Duties of a State Commission
The State Commission or alternative administrative entity for a State shall be responsible for the following duties:
(1) Preparation of a national service plan for the State that—
(A) is developed, through an open and public process (such as through regional forums, hearings, and other means) that provides for maximum participation and input from the private sector, organizations, and public agencies, using service and volunteerism as strategies to meet critical community needs, including service through programs funded under the national service laws;
(B) covers a 3-year period, the beginning of which may be set by the State;
(C) is subject to approval by the chief executive officer of the State;
(D) includes measurable goals and outcomes for the State national service programs in the State consistent with the performance levels for national service programs as described in
(E) ensures outreach to diverse community-based agencies that serve underrepresented populations, through established networks and registries at the State level, or through the development of such networks and registries;
(F) provides for effective coordination of funding applications submitted by the State and other organizations within the State under the national service laws;
(G) is updated annually, reflecting changes in practices and policies that will improve the coordination and effectiveness of Federal, State, and local resources for service and volunteerism within the State;
(H) ensures outreach to, and coordination with, municipalities (including large cities) and county governments regarding the national service laws; and
(I) contains such information as the State Commission considers to be appropriate or as the Corporation may require.
(2) Preparation of the applications of the State under
(3) Assistance in the preparation of the application of the State educational agency for assistance under
(4) Preparation of the application of the State under
(5) Make recommendations to the Corporation with respect to priorities for programs receiving assistance under the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 (
(6) Make technical assistance available to enable applicants for assistance under
(A) to plan and implement service programs; and
(B) to apply for assistance under the national service laws using, if appropriate, information and materials available through a clearinghouse established under section 12653a 1 of this title.
(7) Assistance in the provision of health care and child care benefits under
(8) Development of a State system for the recruitment and placement of participants in programs that receive assistance under the national service laws and dissemination of information concerning national service programs that receive such assistance or approved national service positions.
(9) Administration of the grant program in support of national service programs that is conducted by the State using assistance provided to the State under
(10) Development of projects, training methods, curriculum materials, and other materials and activities related to national service programs that receive assistance directly from the Corporation (to be made available in a case in which such a program requests such a project, method, material, or activity) or from the State using assistance provided under
(f) Relief from administrative requirements
Upon approval of a State plan submitted under subsection (e)(1), the Chief Executive Officer may waive for the State, or specify alternatives for the State to, administrative requirements (other than statutory provisions) otherwise applicable to grants made to States under the national service laws, including those requirements identified by the State as impeding the coordination and effectiveness of Federal, State, and local resources for service and volunteerism within the State.
(g) State service plan for adults age 55 or older
(1) In general
Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, to be eligible to receive a grant or allotment under division B or C or to receive a distribution of approved national service positions under division C, a State shall work with appropriate State agencies and private entities to develop a comprehensive State service plan for service by adults age 55 or older.
(2) Matters included
The State service plan shall include—
(A) recommendations for policies to increase service for adults age 55 or older, including how to best use such adults as sources of social capital, and how to utilize their skills and experience to address community needs;
(B) recommendations to the State agency (as defined in
(i) a marketing outreach plan to businesses; and
(ii) outreach to—
(I) nonprofit organizations;
(II) the State educational agency;
(III) institutions of higher education; and
(IV) other State agencies;
(C) recommendations for civic engagement and multigenerational activities, such as—
(i) early childhood education and care, family literacy, and after school programs;
(ii) respite services for adults age 55 or older and caregivers; and
(iii) transitions for older adults age 55 or older to purposeful work in their post-career lives; and
(D) recommendations for encouraging the development of Encore service programs in the State.
(3) Knowledge base
The State service plan shall incorporate the current knowledge base (as of the time of the plan) regarding—
(A) the economic impact of the roles of workers age 55 or older in the economy;
(B) the social impact of the roles of such workers in the community; and
(C) the health and social benefits of active engagement for adults age 55 or older.
(4) Publication
The State service plan shall be made available to the public and be transmitted to the Chief Executive Officer.
(h) Activity ineligible for assistance
A State Commission or alternative administrative entity may not directly carry out any national service program that receives assistance under
(i) Delegation
Subject to such requirements as the Corporation may prescribe, a State Commission may delegate nonpolicymaking duties to a State agency or public or private nonprofit organization.
(j) Approval of State Commission or alternative
(1) Submission to Corporation
The chief executive officer for a State shall notify the Corporation of the establishment or designation of the State Commission or use of an alternative administrative entity for the State. The notification shall include a description of—
(A) the composition and membership of the State Commission or alternative administrative entity; and
(B) the authority of the State Commission or alternative administrative entity regarding national service activities carried out by the State.
(2) Approval of alternative administrative entity
Any designation of a State Commission or use of an alternative administrative entity to carry out the duties of a State Commission shall be subject to the approval of the Corporation, which shall not be unreasonably withheld. The Corporation shall approve an alternative administrative entity if such entity provides for individuals described in paragraph (1), and some of the individuals described in paragraph (2), of subsection (c) to play a significant policymaking role in carrying out the duties otherwise entrusted to a State Commission, including the duties described in paragraphs (1) through (4) of subsection (e).
(3) Rejection
The Corporation may reject a State Commission if the Corporation determines that the composition, membership, or duties of the State Commission do not comply with the requirements of this section. The Corporation may reject a request to use an alternative administrative entity in lieu of a State Commission if the Corporation determines that the entity does not provide for the individuals described in paragraph (1), and some of the individuals described in paragraph (2), of subsection (c) to play a significant policymaking role as described in paragraph (2). If the Corporation rejects a State Commission or alternative administrative entity under this paragraph, the Corporation shall promptly notify the State of the reasons for the rejection.
(4) Resubmission and reconsideration
The Corporation shall provide a State notified under paragraph (3) with a reasonable opportunity to revise the rejected State Commission or alternative administrative entity. At the request of the State, the Corporation shall provide technical assistance to the State as part of the revision process. The Corporation shall promptly reconsider any resubmission of a notification under paragraph (1) or application to use an alternative administrative entity under paragraph (2).
(5) Subsequent changes
This subsection shall also apply to any change in the composition or duties of a State Commission or an alternative administrative entity made after approval of the State Commission or the alternative administrative entity.
(6) Rights
An alternative administrative entity approved by the Corporation under this subsection shall have the same rights as a State Commission.
(k) Coordination
(1) Coordination with other State agencies
The State Commission or alternative administrative entity for a State shall coordinate the activities of the Commission or entity under this chapter with the activities of other State agencies that administer Federal financial assistance programs under the Community Services Block Grant Act (
(2) Coordination with volunteer service programs
(A) In general
The State Commission or alternative administrative entity for a State shall coordinate functions of the Commission or entity (including recruitment, public awareness, and training activities) with such functions of any division of the Corporation that carries out volunteer service programs in the State.
(B) Agreement
In coordinating functions under this paragraph, such Commission or entity, and such division, may enter into an agreement to—
(i) carry out such a function jointly;
(ii) to 2 assign responsibility for such a function to the Commission or entity; or
(iii) to 2 assign responsibility for such a function to the division.
(C) Information
The State Commission or alternative entity for a State, and the head of any such division, shall exchange information about—
(i) the programs carried out in the State by the Commission, entity, or division, as appropriate; and
(ii) opportunities to coordinate activities.
(l) Liability
(1) Liability of State
Except as provided in paragraph (2)(B), a State shall agree to assume liability with respect to any claim arising out of or resulting from any act or omission by a member of the State Commission or alternative administrative entity of the State, within the scope of the service of the member on the State Commission or alternative administrative entity.
(2) Other claims
(A) In general
A member of the State Commission or alternative administrative entity shall have no personal liability with respect to any claim arising out of or resulting from any act or omission by such person, within the scope of the service of the member on the State Commission or alternative administrative entity.
(B) Limitation
This paragraph shall not be construed to limit personal liability for criminal acts or omissions, willful or malicious misconduct, acts or omissions for private gain, or any other act or omission outside the scope of the service of such member on the State Commission or alternative administrative entity.
(3) Effect on other law
This subsection shall not be construed—
(A) to affect any other immunities and protections that may be available to such member under applicable law with respect to such service;
(B) to affect any other right or remedy against the State under applicable law, or against any person other than a member of the State Commission or alternative administrative entity; or
(C) to limit or alter in any way the immunities that are available under applicable law for State officials and employees not described in this subsection.
(
Editorial Notes
References in Text
This chapter, referred to in subsecs. (a)(2) and (k)(1), was in the original "this Act", meaning
The Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973, referred to in subsecs. (c)(2)(E) and (e)(5), is
The Community Services Block Grant Act, referred to in subsec. (k)(1), is subtitle B (§671 et seq.) of title VI of
Prior Provisions
A prior section 12638,
Amendments
2009—Subsec. (a)(2).
Subsec. (c)(1)(I).
Subsec. (c)(1)(J).
Subsec. (c)(3).
Subsec. (d)(6)(B).
Subsec. (e)(1).
Subsec. (e)(2).
Subsecs. (f) to (l).
1993—Subsec. (i)(2)(A).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2009 Amendment
Amendment by
Effective Date of 1993 Amendment
Amendment by section 405(p)(1) of
Effective Date
Transitional Provisions
"(1)
"(2)
1 See References in Text note below.
2 So in original. The word "to" probably should not appear.
§12639. Evaluation
(a) In general
The Corporation shall provide, directly or through grants or contracts, for the continuing evaluation of programs that receive assistance under the national service laws, including evaluations that measure the impact of such programs, to determine—
(1) the effectiveness of programs receiving assistance under the national service laws in achieving stated goals and the costs associated with such programs, including an evaluation of each such program's performance based on the performance levels established under subsection (k); and
(2) the effectiveness of the structure and mechanisms for delivery of services, such as the effective utilization of the participants' time, the management of the participants, and the ease with which recipients were able to receive services, to maximize the cost effectiveness and the impact of such programs.
(b) Comparisons
The Corporation shall provide for inclusion in the evaluations required under subsection (a), where appropriate, comparisons of participants in such programs with individuals who have not participated in such programs.
(c) Conducting evaluations
Evaluations of programs under subsection (a) shall be conducted by individuals who are not directly involved in the administration of such program.
(d) Standards
The Corporation shall develop and publish general standards for the evaluation of program effectiveness in achieving the objectives of the national service laws.
(e) Community participation
In evaluating a program receiving assistance under the national service laws, the Corporation shall consider the opinions of participants and members of the communities where services are delivered concerning the strengths and weaknesses of such program.
(f) Comparison of program models
The Corporation shall evaluate and compare the effectiveness of different program models in meeting the program objectives described in subsection (g) including full- and part-time programs, programs involving different types of national service, programs using different recruitment methods, programs offering alternative voucher or post-service benefit options, and programs utilizing individual placements and teams.
(g) Program objectives
The Corporation shall ensure that programs that receive assistance under division C are evaluated to determine their effectiveness in—
(1) recruiting and enrolling diverse participants in such programs, consistent with the requirements of section 12575 1 of this title, based on economic background, race, ethnicity, age, marital status, education levels, and disability;
(2) promoting the educational achievement of each participant in such programs, based on earning a high school diploma or the equivalent of such diploma and the future enrollment and completion of increasingly higher levels of education;
(3) encouraging each participant to engage in public and community service after completion of the program based on career choices and service in other service programs such as the Volunteers in Service to America Program and National Senior Service Corps programs established under the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 (
(4) promoting of positive attitudes among each participant regarding the role of such participant in solving community problems based on the view of such participant regarding the personal capacity of such participant to improve the lives of others, the responsibilities of such participant as a citizen and community member, and other factors;
(5) enabling each participant to finance a lesser portion of the higher education of such participant through student loans;
(6) providing services and projects that benefit the community;
(7) supplying additional volunteer assistance to community agencies without overloading such agencies with more volunteers than can effectively be utilized;
(8) providing services and activities that could not otherwise be performed by employed workers and that will not supplant the hiring of, or result in the displacement of, employed workers or impair the existing contracts of such workers; and
(9) attracting a greater number of citizens to engage in service that benefits the community.
(h) Obtaining information
(1) In general
In conducting the evaluations required under this section, the Corporation may require each program participant and State or local applicant to provide such information as may be necessary to carry out the requirements of this section.
(2) Confidentiality
(A) In general
The Corporation shall maintain the confidentiality of information acquired under this subsection regarding individual participants.
(B) Disclosure
(i) Consent
The content of any information described in subparagraph (A) may be disclosed with the prior written consent of the individual participant with respect to whom the information is maintained.
(ii) Aggregate information
The Corporation may disclose information about the aggregate characteristics of such participants.
(i) Independent evaluation and report of demographics of national service participants and communities
(1) Independent evaluation
(A) In general
The Corporation shall, on an annual basis, arrange for an independent evaluation of the programs assisted under division C.
(B) Participants
(i) In general
The entity conducting such evaluation shall determine the demographic characteristics of the participants in such programs.
(ii) Characteristics
The entity shall determine, for the year covered by the evaluation, the total number of participants in the programs, and the number of participants within the programs in each State, by sex, age, economic background, education level, ethnic group, disability classification, and geographic region.
(iii) Categories
The Corporation shall determine appropriate categories for analysis of each of the characteristics referred to in clause (ii) for purposes of such an evaluation.
(C) Communities
In conducting the evaluation, the entity shall determine the amount of assistance provided under
(2) Report
The entity conducting the evaluation shall submit a report to the President, the authorizing committees, the Corporation, and each State Commission containing the results of the evaluation—
(A) with respect to the evaluation covering the year beginning on September 21, 1993, not later than 18 months after September 21, 1993; and
(B) with respect to the evaluation covering each subsequent year, not later than 18 months after the first day of each such year.
(j) Reserved program funds for accountability
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, in addition to amounts appropriated to carry out this section, the Corporation may reserve not more than 1 percent of the total funds appropriated for a fiscal year under
(k) Performance levels
The Corporation shall, in consultation with each recipient of assistance under the national service laws, establish performance levels for such recipient to meet during the term of the assistance. The performance levels may include, for each national service program carried out by the recipient, performance levels based on the following performance measures:
(1) Number of participants enrolled in the program and completing terms of service, as compared to the stated participation and retention goals of the program.
(2) Number of volunteers recruited from the community in which the program was implemented.
(3) If applicable based on the program design, the number of individuals receiving or benefitting from the service conducted.
(4) Number of disadvantaged and underrepresented youth participants.
(5) Measures of the sustainability of the program and the projects supported by the program, including measures to ascertain the level of community support for the program or projects.
(6) Measures to ascertain the change in attitude toward civic engagement among the participants and the beneficiaries of the service.
(7) Other quantitative and qualitative measures as determined to be appropriate by the recipient of assistance and the Corporation.
(l) Corrective action plans
(1) In general
A recipient of assistance under the national service laws that fails, as determined by the Corporation, to meet or exceed the performance levels agreed upon under subsection (k) for a national service program, shall reach an agreement with the Corporation on a corrective action plan to meet such performance levels.
(2) Assistance
(A) New program
For a program that has received assistance under the national service laws for less than 3 years and for which the recipient is failing to meet or exceed the performance levels agreed upon under subsection (k), the Corporation shall—
(i) provide technical assistance to the recipient to address targeted performance problems relating to the performance levels for the program; and
(ii) require the recipient to submit quarterly reports on the program's progress toward meeting the performance levels for the program to the—
(I) appropriate State, territory, or Indian tribe; and
(II) the Corporation.
(B) Established programs
For a program that has received assistance under the national service laws for 3 years or more and for which the recipient is failing to meet or exceed the performance levels agreed upon under subsection (k), the Corporation shall require the recipient to submit quarterly reports on the program's progress toward the performance levels for the program to—
(i) the appropriate State, territory, or Indian tribe; and
(ii) the Corporation.
(m) Failure to meet performance levels
If, after a period for correction as approved by the Corporation in accordance with subsection (l), a recipient of assistance under the national service laws fails to meet or exceed the performance levels for a national service program, the Corporation shall—
(1) reduce the annual amount of the assistance received by the underperforming recipient by at least 25 percent, for each remaining year of the grant period for that program; or
(2) terminate assistance to the underperforming recipient for that program, in accordance with
(n) Reports
The Corporation shall submit to the authorizing committees not later than 2 years after April 21, 2009, and annually thereafter, a report containing information on the number of—
(1) recipients of assistance under the national service laws implementing corrective action plans under subsection (l)(1);
(2) recipients for which the Corporation provides technical assistance for a program under subsection (l)(2)(A)(i);
(3) recipients for which the Corporation terminates assistance for a program under subsection (m);
(4) entities whose application for assistance under a national service law was rejected; and
(5) recipients meeting or exceeding their performance levels under subsection (k).
(
Editorial Notes
References in Text
The Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973, referred to in subsec. (g)(3), is
The Peace Corps Act, referred to in subsec. (g)(3), is
Amendments
2009—Subsec. (a).
Subsec. (g)(3).
Subsec. (g)(9).
Subsec. (i)(2).
Subsecs. (j) to (n).
1996—Subsec. (a)(2)(C).
1993—Subsec. (a).
Subsec. (a)(2).
Subsec. (a)(2)(A).
Subsec. (a)(2)(B).
Subsec. (b).
Subsec. (d).
Subsec. (e).
Subsec. (f).
Subsec. (g).
Subsec. (g)(3), (9).
Subsec. (h)(1), (2)(A), (B)(ii).
Subsecs. (i), (j).
1992—Subsec. (a)(2).
Subsec. (d).
Subsec. (f).
Subsec. (h)(1).
Subsec. (h)(2).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2009 Amendment
Amendment by
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
Amendment by
Effective Date of 1993 Amendment
Amendment by section 118 of
Amendment by section 203(a)(1)(A) of
Amendment by section 402(b)(1) of
1 See References in Text note below.
§12639a. Civic Health Assessment and volunteering research and evaluation
(a) Definition of partnership
In this section, the term "partnership" means the Corporation, acting in conjunction with (consistent with the terms of an agreement entered into between the Corporation and the National Conference) the National Conference on Citizenship referred to in
(b) In general
The partnership shall facilitate the establishment of a Civic Health Assessment by—
(1) after identifying public and private sources of civic health data, selecting a set of civic health indicators, in accordance with subsection (c), that shall comprise the Civic Health Assessment;
(2) obtaining civic health data relating to the Civic Health Assessment, in accordance with subsection (d); and
(3) conducting related analyses, and reporting the data and analyses, as described in paragraphs (4) and (5) of subsection (d) and subsections (e) and (f).
(c) Selection of indicators for Civic Health Assessment
(1) Identifying sources
The partnership shall select a set of civic health indicators that shall comprise the Civic Health Assessment. In making such selection, the partnership—
(A) shall identify public and private sources of civic health data;
(B) shall explore collaborating with other similar efforts to develop national indicators in the civic health domain; and
(C) may sponsor a panel of experts, such as one convened by the National Academy of Sciences, to recommend civic health indicators and data sources for the Civic Health Assessment.
(2) Technical advice
At the request of the partnership, the Director of the Bureau of the Census and the Commissioner of Labor Statistics shall provide technical advice to the partnership on the selection of the indicators for the Civic Health Assessment.
(3) Updates
The partnership shall periodically evaluate and update the Civic Health Assessment, and may expand or modify the indicators described in subsection (d)(1) as necessary to carry out the purposes of this section.
(d) Data on the indicators
(1) Sponsored data collection
In identifying the civic health indicators for the Civic Health Assessment, and obtaining data for the Assessment, the partnership may sponsor the collection of data for the Assessment or for the various civic health indicators being considered for inclusion in the Assessment, including indicators related to—
(A) volunteering and community service;
(B) voting and other forms of political and civic engagement;
(C) charitable giving;
(D) connecting to civic groups and faith-based organizations;
(E) interest in employment, and careers, in public service in the nonprofit sector or government;
(F) understanding and obtaining knowledge of United States history and government; and
(G) social enterprise and innovation.
(2) Data from statistical agencies
The Director of the Bureau of the Census and the Commissioner of Labor Statistics shall collect annually, to the extent practicable, data to inform the Civic Health Assessment, and shall report data from such collection to the partnership. In determining the data to be collected, the Director and the Commissioner shall examine privacy issues, response rates, and other relevant issues.
(3) Sources of data
To obtain data for the Civic Health Assessment, the partnership shall consider—
(A) data collected through public and private sources; and
(B) data collected by the Bureau of the Census, through the Current Population Survey, or by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in accordance with paragraph (2).
(4) Demographic characteristics
The partnership shall seek to obtain data for the Civic Health Assessment that will permit the partnership to analyze the data by age group, race and ethnicity, education level, and other demographic characteristics of the individuals involved.
(5) Other issues
In obtaining data for the Civic Health Assessment, the partnership may also obtain such information as may be necessary to analyze—
(A) the role of Internet technology in strengthening and inhibiting civic activities;
(B) the role of specific programs in strengthening civic activities;
(C) the civic attitudes and activities of new citizens and immigrants; and
(D) other areas related to civic activities.
(e) Reporting of data
(1) In general
The partnership shall, not less often than once each year, prepare a report containing—
(A) detailed data obtained under subsection (d), including data on the indicators comprising the Civic Health Assessment; and
(B) the analyses described in paragraphs (4) and (5) of subsection (d), to the extent practicable based on the data the partnership is able to obtain.
(2) Aggregation and presentation
The partnership shall, to the extent practicable, aggregate the data on the civic health indicators comprising the Civic Health Assessment by community, by State, and nationally. The report described in paragraph (1) shall present the aggregated data in a form that enables communities and States to assess their civic health, as measured on each of the indicators comprising the Civic Health Assessment, and compare those measures with comparable measures of other communities and States.
(3) Submission
The partnership shall submit the report to the authorizing committees, and make the report available to the general public on the Corporation's website.
(f) Public input
The partnership shall—
(1) identify opportunities for public dialogue and input on the Civic Health Assessment; and
(2) hold conferences and forums to discuss the implications of the data and analyses reported under subsection (e).
(g) Volunteering research and evaluation
(1) Research
The partnership shall provide for baseline research and tracking of domestic and international volunteering, and baseline research and tracking related to relevant data on the indicators described in subsection (d). In providing for the research and tracking under this subsection, the partnership shall consider data from the Supplements to the Current Populations Surveys conducted by the Bureau of the Census for the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and data from other public and private sources, including other data collected by the Bureau of the Census and the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
(2) Impact research and evaluation
The partnership shall sponsor an independent evaluation of the impact of domestic and international volunteering, including an assessment of best practices for such volunteering, and methods of improving such volunteering through enhanced collaboration among—
(A) entities that recruit, manage, support, and utilize volunteers;
(B) institutions of higher education; and
(C) research institutions.
(h) Database prohibition
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to authorize the development, implementation, or maintenance of a Federal database of personally identifiable information on individuals participating in data collection for sources of information under this section.
(
Editorial Notes
References in Text
This chapter, referred to in subsec. (h), was in the original "this Act", meaning
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date
Section effective Oct. 1, 2009, see section 6101(a) of
§12640. Engagement of participants
A State shall not engage a participant to serve in any program that receives assistance under this subchapter unless and until amounts have been appropriated under
(
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1993—
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1993 Amendment
Amendment by
§12641. Contingent extension
(
Editorial Notes
References in Text
This chapter, referred to in text, was in the original "this Act", meaning
Amendments
2009—
1993—
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2009 Amendment
Amendment by
Effective Date of 1993 Amendment
Amendment by
§12642. Partnerships with schools
The head of each Federal agency and department shall design and implement a comprehensive strategy to involve employees of such agencies and departments in partnership programs with elementary schools and secondary schools. Such strategy shall include—
(1) a review of existing programs to identify and expand the opportunities for such employees to be adult volunteers in schools and for students and out-of-school youth;
(2) the designation of a senior official in each such agency and department who will be responsible for establishing partnership and youth service programs in each such agency and department and for developing partnership and youth service programs;
(3) the encouragement of employees of such agencies and departments to participate in partnership programs and other service projects;
(4) the annual recognition of outstanding service programs operated by Federal agencies; and
(5) the encouragement of businesses and professional firms to include community service among the factors considered in making hiring, compensation, and promotion decisions.
(
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2014—
2009—Subsec. (b).
1993—Subsec. (a)(2), (3).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2009 Amendment
Amendment by
Effective Date of 1993 Amendment
Amendment by
§12643. Rights of access, examination, and copying
(a) Comptroller General
Consistent with otherwise applicable law, the Comptroller General, or any of the duly authorized representatives of the Comptroller General, shall have access to, and the right to examine and copy, any books, documents, papers, records, and other recorded information in any form—
(1) within the possession or control of the Corporation or any State or local government, territory, Indian tribe, or public or private nonprofit organization receiving assistance directly or indirectly under this chapter; and
(2) that the Comptroller General, or his representative, considers necessary to the performance of an evaluation, audit, or review.
(b) Chief Financial Officer
Consistent with otherwise applicable law, the Chief Financial Officer of the Corporation shall have access to, and the right to examine and copy, any books, documents, papers, records, and other recorded information in any form—
(1) within the possession or control of the Corporation or any State or local government, territory 1 Indian tribe, or public or private nonprofit organization receiving assistance directly or indirectly under this chapter; and
(2) that relates to the duties of the Chief Financial Officer.
(c) Inspector General
Consistent with otherwise applicable law, the Inspector General of the Corporation shall have access to, and the right to examine and copy, any books, documents, papers, records, and other recorded information in any form—
(1) within the possession or control of the Corporation or any State or local government, territory, Indian tribe, or public or private nonprofit organization receiving assistance directly or indirectly under the national service laws; and
(2) that relates to—
(A) such assistance; and
(B) the duties of the Inspector General under
(
Editorial Notes
References in Text
This chapter, referred to in subsecs. (a)(1) and (b)(1), was in the original "this Act", meaning
Amendments
2022—Subsec. (c)(2)(B).
2009—Subsec. (a).
Subsec. (b).
Subsec. (c).
1993—
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2009 Amendment
Amendment by
Effective Date of 1993 Amendment
Amendment by
1 So in original. Probably should be followed by a comma.
§12644. Drug-free workplace requirements
All programs receiving grants under this subchapter shall be subject to the Drug-Free Workplace Requirements for Federal Grant Recipients under
(
Editorial Notes
Codification
In text, "
§12644a. Availability of assistance
A reference in division C, D, E, or H of this subchapter regarding an entity eligible to receive direct or indirect assistance to carry out a national service program shall include a non-profit organization promoting competitive and non-competitive sporting events involving individuals with disabilities (including the Special Olympics), which enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
(
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date
Section effective Oct. 1, 2009, see section 6101(a) of
§12644b. Consolidated application and reporting requirements
(a) In general
To promote efficiency and eliminate duplicative requirements, the Corporation shall consolidate or modify application procedures and reporting requirements for programs, projects, and activities funded under the national service laws.
(b) Report to Congress
Not later than 18 months after the effective date of the Serve America Act, the Corporation shall submit to the authorizing committees a report containing information on the actions taken to consolidate or modify the application procedures and reporting requirements for programs, projects, and activities funded under the national service laws, including a description of the procedures for consultation with recipients of the funding.
(
Editorial Notes
References in Text
For the effective date of the Serve America Act, referred to in subsec. (b), as Oct. 1, 2009, see section 6101(a) of
Prior Provisions
A prior section 185 of
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date
Section effective Oct. 1, 2009, see section 6101(a) of
§12645. Sustainability
The Corporation, after consultation with State Commissions and recipients of assistance, may set sustainability goals for projects or programs under the national service laws, so that recipients of assistance under the national service laws are carrying out sustainable projects or programs. Such sustainability goals shall be in writing and shall be used—
(1) to build the capacity of the projects or programs that receive assistance under the national service laws to meet community needs;
(2) in providing technical assistance to recipients of assistance under the national service laws regarding acquiring and leveraging non-Federal funds for support of the projects or programs that receive such assistance; and
(3) to determine whether the projects or programs, receiving such assistance, are generating sufficient community support.
(
Editorial Notes
Prior Provisions
A prior section 12645,
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date
Section effective Oct. 1, 2009, see section 6101(a) of
§12645a. Grant periods
Unless otherwise specifically provided, the Corporation has authority to award a grant or contract, or enter into a cooperative agreement, under the national service laws for a period of 3 years.
(
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date
Section effective Oct. 1, 2009, see section 6101(a) of
§12645b. Generation of volunteers
In making decisions on applications for assistance or approved national service positions under the national service laws, the Corporation shall take into consideration the extent to which the applicant's proposal will increase the involvement of volunteers in meeting community needs. In reviewing the application for this purpose, the Corporation may take into account the mission of the applicant.
(
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date
Section effective Oct. 1, 2009, see section 6101(a) of
§12645c. Limitation on program grant costs
(a) Limitation on grant amounts
Except as otherwise provided by this section, the amount of funds approved by the Corporation for a grant to operate a program authorized under the national service laws, for supporting individuals serving in approved national service positions, may not exceed $18,000 per full-time equivalent position.
(b) Costs subject to limitation
The limitation under subsection (a), and the increased limitation under subsection (e)(1), shall apply to the Corporation's share of the member support costs, staff costs, and other costs to operate a program authorized under the national service laws incurred,1 by the recipient of the grant.
(c) Costs not subject to limitation
The limitation under subsection (a), and the increased limitation under subsection (e)(1), shall not apply to expenses under a grant authorized under the national service laws to operate a program that are not included in the grant award for operating the program.
(d) Adjustments for inflation
The amounts specified in subsections (a) and (e)(1) shall be adjusted each year after 2008 for inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers published by the Secretary of Labor.
(e) Waiver authority and reporting requirement
(1) Waiver
The Chief Executive Officer may increase the limitation under subsection (a) to not more than $19,500 per full-time equivalent position if necessary to meet the compelling needs of a particular program, such as—
(A) exceptional training needs for a program serving disadvantaged youth;
(B) the need to pay for increased costs relating to the participation of individuals with disabilities;
(C) the needs of tribal programs or programs located in the territories; and
(D) the need to pay for start-up costs associated with a first-time recipient of assistance under a program of the national service laws.
(2) Reports
The Chief Executive Officer shall report to the authorizing committees annually on all limitations increased under this subsection, with an explanation of the compelling needs justifying such increases.
(
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date
Section effective Oct. 1, 2009, see section 6101(a) of
1 So in original. The comma probably should not appear.
§12645d. Matching funds for severely economically distressed communities
(a) In general
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a severely economically distressed community that receives assistance from the Corporation for any program under the national service laws shall not be subject to any requirements to provide matching funds for any such program, and the Federal share of such assistance for such a community may be 100 percent.
(b) Severely economically distressed community
For the purposes of this section, the term "severely economically distressed community" means—
(1) an area that has a mortgage foreclosure rate, home price decline, and unemployment rate all of which are above the national average for such rates or level, for the most recent 12 months for which satisfactory data are available; or
(2) a residential area that lacks basic living necessities, such as water and sewer systems, electricity, paved roads, and safe, sanitary housing.
(
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date
Section effective Oct. 1, 2009, see section 6101(a) of
§12645e. Audits and reports
The Corporation shall comply with applicable audit and reporting requirements as provided in the Chief Financial Officers Act of 1990 (
(
Editorial Notes
References in Text
The Chief Financial Officers Act of 1990, referred to in text, is
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date
Section effective Oct. 1, 2009, see section 6101(a) of
§12645f. Restrictions on Federal Government and use of Federal funds
(a) General prohibition
Nothing in the national service laws shall be construed to authorize an officer or employee of the Federal Government to mandate, direct, or control a State, local educational agency, or school's curriculum, program of instruction, or allocation of State or local resources, or mandate a State or any subdivision thereof to spend any funds or incur any costs not paid for under this chapter.
(b) Prohibition on endorsement of curriculum
Notwithstanding any other prohibition of Federal law, no funds provided to the Corporation under this chapter may be used by the Corporation to endorse, approve, or sanction any curriculum designed to be used in an elementary school or secondary school.
(c) Prohibition on requiring Federal approval or certification standards
Notwithstanding any other provision of Federal law, not 1 State shall be required to have academic content or student academic achievement standards approved or certified by the Federal Government, in order to receive assistance under this chapter.
(
Editorial Notes
References in Text
This chapter, referred to in text, was in the original "this Act", meaning
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date
Section effective Oct. 1, 2009, see section 6101(a) of
1 So in original. Probably should be "no".
§12645g. Criminal history checks
(a) In general
Each entity selecting individuals to serve in a position in which the individuals receive a living allowance, stipend, national service educational award, or salary through a program receiving assistance under the national service laws, shall, subject to regulations and requirements established by the Corporation, conduct criminal history checks for such individuals.
(b) Requirements
A criminal history check under subsection (a) shall, except in cases approved for good cause by the Corporation, include—
(1) a name-based search of the National Sex Offender Registry established under the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006 (
(2)(A) a search of the State criminal registry or repository in the State in which the program is operating and the State in which the individual resides at the time of application; or
(B) submitting fingerprints to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for a national criminal history background check.
(c) Eligibility prohibition
An individual shall be ineligible to serve in a position described under subsection (a) if such individual—
(1) refuses to consent to the criminal history check described in subsection (b);
(2) makes a false statement in connection with such criminal history check;
(3) is registered, or is required to be registered, on a State sex offender registry or the National Sex Offender Registry established under the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006 (
(4) has been convicted of murder, as described in
(d) Special rule for individuals working with vulnerable populations
(1) In general
Notwithstanding subsection (b), on and after the date that is 2 years after April 21, 2009, a criminal history check under subsection (a) for each individual described in paragraph (2) shall, except for an entity described in paragraph (3), include—
(A) a name-based search of the National Sex Offender Registry established under the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006 (
(B) a search of the State criminal registry or repository in the State in which the program is operating and the State in which the individual resides at the time of application; and
(C) submitting fingerprints to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for a national criminal history background check.
(2) Individuals with access to vulnerable populations
An individual described in this paragraph is an individual age 18 or older who—
(A) serves in a position in which the individual receives a living allowance, stipend, national service educational award, or salary through a program receiving assistance under the national service laws; and
(B) as a result of such individual's service in such position, has or will have access, on a recurring basis, to—
(i) children age 17 years or younger;
(ii) individuals age 60 years or older; or
(iii) individuals with disabilities.
(3) Exceptions
The provisions of this subsection shall not apply to an entity—
(A) where the service provided by individuals serving with the entity to a vulnerable population described in paragraph (2)(B) is episodic in nature or for a 1-day period;
(B) where the cost to the entity of complying with this subsection is prohibitive;
(C) where the entity is not authorized, or is otherwise unable, under State law, to access the national criminal history background check system of the Federal Bureau of Investigation;
(D) where the entity is not authorized, or is otherwise unable, under Federal law, to access the national criminal history background check system of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; or
(E) to which the Corporation otherwise provides an exemption from this subsection for good cause.
(
Editorial Notes
References in Text
The Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006, referred to in subsecs. (b)(1), (c)(3), and (d)(1)(A), is
Amendments
2009—
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date
Enactment and amendment by