Strengthening Labor Law Compliance in the Agricultural Sector in Central America and the Dominican Republic, 975-995 [E6-22456]

Agencies

• Office of the Secretary
• DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

[Federal Register Volume 72, Number 5 (Tuesday, January 9, 2007)]
[Notices]
[Pages 975-995]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E6-22456]


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DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

Office of the Secretary


Strengthening Labor Law Compliance in the Agricultural Sector in 
Central America and the Dominican Republic

AGENCY: Bureau of International Labor Affairs, Department of Labor.

    Announcement Type: New. Notice of Availability of Funds and 
Solicitation for Cooperative Agreement Applications.
    Funding Opportunity Number: SGA XX-XX.
    Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number: Not 
applicable.
    Key Dates: The closing date for receipt of applications is 
February 23, 2007. Applications must be received by 4:45 p.m. 
(Eastern Time) at the address below.

ADDRESSES: Application forms will not be mailed. They are published as 
part of this Federal Register notice and in the Federal Register, which 
may be obtained from your nearest U.S. Government office or public 
library or online at https://www.archives.gov/federal_register/
index.html. Applications must be delivered to: U.S. Department of 
Labor, Procurement Services Center, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW., Room 
N-5416,Attention: Lisa Harvey, Reference: SGA XX-XX, Washington, DC 
20210.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: This notice contains all of the necessary 
information and forms needed to apply for grant funding. The U.S. 
Department of Labor, Bureau of International Labor Affairs, announces 
the availability of funds to be granted by cooperative agreement to one 
or more qualifying organizations. The Department will award up to U.S. 
$2.5 million through one or more grants to an organization or 
organizations to improve labor law compliance in the agricultural 
sector in Central America (Nicaragua and either Honduras or Guatemala) 
and the Dominican Republic, with particular emphasis on safety and 
health standards. Partnerships and Associations between more than one 
organization are also eligible and encouraged, in particular with 
qualified, regionally-based organizations in order to build local 
capacity. In such a case, a lead organization must be identified. The 
award of any subaward will be subject to the Department's policies and 
procedures.

1. Funding Opportunity Description

    The U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL), Bureau of International Labor 
Affairs (ILAB), announces the availability of funds to be awarded by 
Cooperative Agreement (hereinafter referred to as ``grant'' or 
``Cooperative Agreement'') to one or more qualifying organizations for 
the purpose of improving labor law compliance in the agricultural 
sector in Central America (Nicaragua and either Honduras or Guatemala) 
and the Dominican Republic, with particular emphasis on safety and 
health standards. ILAB is authorized to award and administer this 
program by the Foreign Operations, Export Financing and Related 
Programs Appropriations Act, 2006, Pub. L. 109-102, 119 Stat. 2172 
(2005) and U.S.C. 2392(a). Cooperative Agreements awarded under this 
initiative will be managed by ILAB's Office of Trade and Labor Affairs. 
The duration of the projects funded by this solicitation is four years. 
The start date of program activities will be negotiated upon award of 
the Cooperative Agreement.

Statement of Work

    USDOL is seeking qualified organizations that will implement a 
project, in cooperation with USDOL, to improve labor law compliance in 
the agricultural sector in the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua and either 
Honduras or Guatemala, with particular emphasis on safety and health 
standards. Specific project objectives are identified in this section. 
Applicants should submit proposals that are regional in scope and 
demonstrate the organization's capabilities to implement a project in 
accordance with the Statement of Work and the selection criteria. USDOL 
encourages applicants to be creative in proposing innovative and cost-
effective interventions that will produce a demonstrable and 
sustainable impact.


    Note: Selection of an organization as a grantee does not 
constitute approval of the

[[Page 976]]

grant application as submitted. Before the actual grant is awarded, 
USDOL may enter into negotiations about such items as program 
components, funding levels, and administrative systems in place to 
support grant implementation. If the negotiations do not result in 
an acceptable submission, the Grant Officer reserves the right to 
terminate the negotiation and decline to fund the application.

A. Background and Problem Statement

    The Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) between the 
United States and five Central American countries (Costa Rica, El 
Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua) and the Dominican Republic 
obligates each country to effectively enforce its labor laws. The 
countries also reaffirm their obligations as members of the 
International Labor Organization (ILO) and their commitments under the 
ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work and its 
Follow-Up (1998).
    In the Department of State's FY2006 budget, Congress provided 
funding for labor and environmental capacity building activities in 
support of CAFTA-DR. A portion of these funds were transferred to USDOL 
to administer projects related to labor capacity building in CAFTA-DR 
countries. This project provides assistance to improve the effective 
enforcement of labor laws in the agricultural sector by training 
workers and employers about national labor laws and improving the 
ability of workers to exercise their rights. This strategy addresses 
concerns identified in the April 2005 ``White Paper'' of the Working 
Group of the Vice Ministers Responsible for Trade and Labor in the 
countries of Central America and the Dominican Republic.
    Numerous initiatives are currently underway in these countries to 
support efforts by the Ministries of Labor to improve labor law 
compliance and provide information and assistance to workers and 
employers regarding the effective compliance with national and 
international labor laws and standards. Most of these efforts have 
focused on the more populated urban areas. However, nearly half the 
population in Central America lives in rural areas and relies on 
agriculture for its livelihood. Agricultural activities include the 
production of exports such as sugar, bananas, coffee, and tobacco. 
There is a great need to expand public awareness campaigns and outreach 
efforts on labor rights to include the difficult to reach agricultural 
sectors.
    Given the geographic isolation of the agricultural workers, many 
workers are unaware of their labor rights and/or are unable to exercise 
those rights. Ministries of Labor face significant financial and 
personnel constraints impacting their ability to reach many of these 
workers.. Examples of common labor violations include failure to 
provide proper wages, poor occupational safety and health standards, 
illegal use of child labor, denial of freedom of association, and 
discrimination. Poor occupational safety and health conditions are 
particularly common and result in significant lost wages and 
productivity for the employer and workers. Many workers and employers 
lack training in how to minimize the risk of injury for the workers 
while implementing better production techniques.
    Given the limited number of labor inspectors and the wide 
geographic expanse of the agricultural sector, there is a need to reach 
out to local organizations that can provide direct assistance and 
training to workers on understanding and exercising their labor rights. 
These organizations can support the Ministries of Labor by ensuring 
that workers and employers receive accurate information and training on 
workers' and employers' labor rights and obligations, and how workers 
can effectively exercise their rights. If and when it becomes necessary 
to file a complaint with the Ministry of Labor, the organizations can 
help the workers appropriately document the alleged labor violations 
and provide innovative links to the Ministry of Labor's enforcement 
mechanisms.
    This project builds on the significant work already being 
undertaken on raising workers' awareness about their rights and ability 
to exercise their rights. Given the multiple labor compliance projects 
in Central American and the Dominican Republic that are underway or 
soon to be launched, close coordination among donors, implementing 
organizations, and government and non-government stakeholders will be 
critical to ensure that there is no duplication of efforts and that 
resources are being utilized as effectively as possible.

B. Target Population

    The Grantee(s) must target workers and employers in targeted 
agricultural communities (including indigenous populations where 
relevant), local community-based organizations, and other local 
stakeholders. Grantee and/or subawardees are expected to consult with 
the Ministries of Labor as much as possible to share information on a 
regular basis, receive legal information from the Ministries, and 
review priority issues for the workers.

C. Objectives

    The Grantee(s) must implement, in cooperation with USDOL, a project 
whose overarching objective is to improve labor law compliance in 
targeted areas in the agricultural sector in the Dominican Republic, 
Nicaragua and either Honduras or Guatemala. Intermediate objectives 
include:
    i. Increased awareness among workers and employers in targeted 
agricultural communities about national labor laws, with particular 
emphasis on safety and health regulations.
    ii. Increased ability of workers in targeted agricultural 
communities to exercise their labor rights.

D. Relationship to USDOL Program Strategy

    By helping to improve labor law compliance in the agricultural 
sector in the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua and either Honduras or 
Guatemala, the proposed project supports achievement of USDOL's 
Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) goal (2k), ``promote 
internationally recognized workers rights and labor standards, 
including those related to the elimination of exploitive child labor, 
in the global community.''
    Activities with regard to the elimination of child labor are being 
funded separately through USDOL's Office of Child Labor, Forced Labor, 
and Trafficking. Grantees are not expected to develop strategies 
specific to child labor; however, they are expected to coordinate with 
USDOL's child labor projects, where applicable.

E. Type of Work To Be Performed/Activities

    Applicants are responsible for developing a strategy for 
successfully achieving the above-stated objectives and addressing the 
problem(s) identified in the Background and Problem Statement (Section 
I.A), developing and implementing the major tasks and activities to be 
accomplished as part of that strategy, tracking and reporting on 
progress in achieving the stated objectives, and providing any 
necessary services. The project strategy(s) must consider the diverse 
needs and environment of each country.
    In developing the strategy, applicants should take into 
consideration the following issues:
     The level of technical assistance that Central American 
Ministries of Labor have received in the past five (5) years and 
continue to receive from bilateral donors and international

[[Page 977]]

organizations and the need to ensure that any effort builds on and 
complements previous and current work without duplication;
     The need to ensure that the project strategy is consistent 
with any national strategy to increase labor law compliance;
     The need to sustain project improvements, including 
retaining the new knowledge and practices of institutions and 
individuals trained by the project;
     The need to engage key stakeholders of the project, 
including Ministries of Labor, employer associations, trade unions, and 
local community organizations in the design and implementation of the 
project strategy.
    In order to ensure achievement of these project objectives and 
respect the most effective use of the Labor Ministries' time, the 
Grantee(s) must first coordinate with the U.S. Government (USG) and 
other projects in the region to avoid any duplication of efforts and 
ensure input from Labor Ministries on project designs. In addition, the 
Grantee(s) must meet with key local stakeholders to further develop the 
project strategy and Work plan. This strategy must be implemented with 
local stakeholder guidance.
    The project is required to utilize existing training and public 
awareness materials produced by other USG-funded projects, particularly 
the USDOL funded ``Cumple y Gana'' project. USDOL will consider the 
production of new materials if the Grantee(s) can demonstrate that the 
existing materials are not sufficient or appropriate for the activity 
being carried out.
    An outline of illustrative activities under each objective could 
include the following:
    Intermediate Objective 1: Increased awareness among workers and 
employers in targeted agricultural communities about national labor 
laws, with particular emphasis on safety and health regulations.
     Coordinate with the USG and other projects in the region 
to avoid any duplication of efforts.
     Ensure input from Labor Ministries on project designs.
     Meet with relevant stakeholders in target communities and 
further define the project strategy and Work plan.
     Develop relationships with key agricultural producers, 
agricultural communities and other local organizations.
     Conduct a baseline survey of workers in target communities 
to measure their understanding of their rights.
     Develop and implement outreach strategies to effectively 
reach workers and employers and to address the most prevalent labor law 
compliance concerns.
     Develop the capacity of local organizations to train 
workers in target communities on labor laws, including a particular 
emphasis on occupational safety and health practices.
     Explore/develop innovative links for workers and local 
communities to the Ministry of Labor's enforcement mechanisms.
     If developing new outreach or training materials, 
coordinate with Ministries of Labor to ensure that the materials 
accurately reflect the labor laws.
     Implement training programs for workers that address the 
worker's most prevalent labor rights concerns, including a particular 
emphasis on occupational safety and health practices.
     Develop a network of organizations to further develop and 
implement outreach strategies in additional communities.
    Intermediate Objective 2: Increased ability of workers in targeted 
agricultural communities to exercise their labor rights.
     Develop and/or strengthen coordination mechanisms between 
the Ministries of Labor and other relevant government entities and 
local community organizations providing services to workers.
     Train local community organizations to assist workers in 
exercising their rights, including helping the workers appropriately 
document and process alleged labor violations.
     Support the outreach efforts of the Ministries of Labors' 
mobile inspection units and/or regional offices (where applicable) by 
promoting Ministry of Labor services and helping workers to access 
them.

F. Expected Outcomes/Project Outputs

     Improved awareness among workers and employers about labor 
laws in targeted agricultural areas.
     Workers in targeted agricultural areas better understand, 
and are able to exercise their labor rights.
     Improved compliance with labor laws in targeted 
agricultural communities.
     Improved occupational safety and health conditions in 
targeted agricultural communities.
     Local organizations in targeted areas are able to assist 
workers in exercising their labor rights.
     Strengthened coordination mechanisms between local 
organizations in the agricultural sector and Ministries of Labor and 
other relevant government entities.

G. Conditions Precedent

    Applicants are requested to indicate in their technical proposal 
the proposed organizations with which they will work to implement their 
strategy and the merits of these organizations, and to describe their 
relationship with the different stakeholders. Award agreements entered 
into after the Cooperative Agreement is signed, and not proposed in the 
application, must be awarded through a formal competitive bidding 
process, unless prior written approval is obtained from USDOL.

II. Award Information

    Type of Assistance Instrument: Cooperative Agreement. USDOL's 
involvement in project implementation and oversight is outlined in 
Section VI.3. The duration of the project(s) funded by this 
solicitation is up to four (4) years. The start date of program 
activities will be negotiated upon awarding of the Cooperative 
Agreement, but will be no later than September 30, 2007.
    Up to U.S. $2.5 million will be awarded under this solicitation. 
USDOL may award more than one Cooperative Agreement to one, several, or 
a partnership or Association (see Section III) of more than one 
organization(s) that may apply to implement the program. A Grantee must 
obtain prior USDOL approval for any subawardee not proposed in the 
application. See Section IV.E.3 for further information on subawards.

III. Eligibility Information

A. Eligible Applicants

    Any commercial, international, educational, or non-profit 
organization(s), including any faith-based, community-based, or public 
international organization(s) with experience in effectively 
implementing projects in the relevant technical field(s) and working 
with foreign national government ministries, regional and local 
government entities, employers and employer organizations, workers and 
labor organizations, and non-governmental and community-based 
organizations is eligible for this grant(s). Neutral, non-religious 
criteria that neither favor nor disfavor religion will be employed in 
the selection of Cooperative Agreement recipients. Applications from 
foreign government and quasi-government agencies will not

[[Page 978]]

be considered. An applicant must demonstrate a country presence, 
independently or through a relationship with another organization(s) 
with country presence, which gives it the ability to initiate program 
activities upon award of the Cooperative Agreement. See Section V 
(Institutional Qualifications/Past Performance).
    If it is deemed the most effective and efficient strategy for 
achieving the goals outlined in the Scope of Work, USDOL may award one 
or more Cooperative Agreements to a partnership of more than one 
organization. If two or more applicants, who do not constitute a single 
legal entity (hereinafter referred to as ``Associations''), join in 
applying for an award, each member of the Association (hereinafter 
referred to as an ``Associate'') must be individually eligible for 
award. All references to ``the applicant'' refer to Associations as 
well as individual applicants. All Associates must sign, and agree to 
be bound jointly and severally by, the awarded Cooperative Agreement, 
and all must designate one Associate as the ``Lead.'' Any such 
Association must submit to USDOL, as an attachment to the application, 
an Association agreement, reflecting an appropriate joint venture, 
partnership, or other contractual agreement and outlining the 
deliverables, activities, and corresponding timeline for which each 
Associate will be responsible. Copies of such agreements will not count 
toward the page limit.
    If any entity identified in the application as an Associate does 
not sign the Cooperative Agreement, the Lead must provide, within 60 
days of award, either a written subaward agreement with such entity, 
acceptable to USDOL, or an explanation as to why that entity will not 
be participating in the Cooperative Agreement. USDOL reserves the right 
to re-evaluate the award of the Cooperative Agreement in light of any 
such change in an entity's status, and may terminate the award if USDOL 
deems appropriate.
    For the purposes of this proposal and the Cooperative Agreement 
award, the Lead will be: (1) The primary point of contact with USDOL to 
receive and respond to all inquiries, communications and orders under 
the project; (2) the only entity with authority to withdraw or draw 
down funds through the HHS system; (3) responsible for submitting to 
USDOL all deliverables, including all technical and financial reports 
related to the project, regardless of which Associate performed the 
work; (4) the sole entity to request or agree to a revision or 
amendment of the award or the project document; and (5) responsible for 
working with USDOL to close out the project. Note, however, that each 
Associate is ultimately responsible for overall project performance, 
regardless of any assignment of specific tasks, but Associates may 
agree, among themselves only, to apportion the liability for such 
performance. Each Associate must comply with all applicable federal 
regulations, and is individually subject to audit.
    In accordance with 29 CFR Part 98, entities that are debarred or 
suspended from receiving federal contracts or grants shall be excluded 
from Federal financial assistance and are ineligible to receive funding 
under this solicitation.

B. Cost Sharing or Matching Funds

    This solicitation does not require applicants to share costs or 
provide matching funds. However, the leveraging of resources and in-
kind contributions is strongly encouraged and is a rating factor worth 
up to five (5) additional points. See Section V (Leveraging of Grant 
Funds).

C. Dun and Bradstreet Number

    The organizational unit section of Block 8 of the SF-424 must 
contain the Dun and Bradstreet Number (DUNS) of the applicant. 
Beginning October 1, 2003, all applicants for Federal grant funding 
opportunities are required to include a DUNS number with their 
application. See OMB Notice of Final Policy Issuance, 68 Federal 
Register 38402 (June 27, 2003). Applicants' DUNS number is to be 
entered into Block 8 of SF-424. The DUNS number is a nine-digit 
identification number that uniquely identifies business entities. There 
is no charge for obtaining a DUNS number. To obtain a DUNS number call 
1-866-705-5711 or access the following Web site: https://
www.dunandbradstreet.com/
 Requests for exemption from the DUNS number requirement must be 
made to the Office of Management and Budget. If no DUNS number is 
provided without such an exemption then the grant application will be 
considered non-responsive.
    After receiving a DUNS number, all grant applications must also 
register as a vendor with the Central Contractor Registration (CCR) 
through the following Web site: https://www.ccr.gov or by phone at 1-
888-227-2423. CCR registration should become active within 24 hours of 
completion. If grant applicants have questions regarding registration, 
please contact the CCR Assistance Center at 1-888-227-2423. After 
registration, grant applicants will receive a confirmation number. The 
Grantee listed as the Point of Contact will receive a Trader 
Partnership Identification Number (TPIN) via mail. The TPIN is, and 
should remain, a confidential password.

IV. Application and Submission Information

A. Application Package

    This solicitation contains all of the necessary information and 
forms needed to apply for Cooperative Agreement funding. This 
solicitation is published as part of this Federal Register notice. 
Additional copies of the Federal Register may be obtained from your 
nearest U.S. Government office or public library or online at https://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/.

B. Content and Form of Application Submission

    Applicants must submit one (1) blue ink-signed original, complete 
application in English plus two (2) copies of the application to the 
U.S. Department of Labor, Procurement Services Center, 200 Constitution 
Avenue, NW., Room N-5416, Washington, DC 20210, no later than 4:45 p.m. 
Eastern Time on the established due date. To aid with review of 
applications, applicants may elect to submit three (3) additional paper 
copies of the application (five total). Applicants who do not provide 
additional copies will not be penalized.
    The application must consist of two (2) separate parts. Part I of 
the application must contain the Standard Form (SF) 424, ``Application 
for Federal Assistance'' and sections A-F of the Budget Information 
Form SF 424A (see Appendix A). These forms are also available at http:/
/www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants. Part II must contain a technical 
proposal that demonstrates capabilities in accordance with the 
statement of work (Section I) and the selection criteria (Section V). 
The application should include the name, address, telephone and fax 
numbers, and e-mail address (if applicable) of a key contact person at 
the applicant's organization in case questions should arise.
    To be considered responsive to this solicitation, the application 
must consist of the above-mentioned separate sections with Part II not 
to exceed 45 single-sided (8\1/2\'' x 11'' or A4), double-spaced, 12-
point font, typed pages. Major sections and sub-sections of the 
application should be divided and clearly identified (e.g., with tab 
dividers), and all pages must be numbered. Applicants are required to

[[Page 979]]

propose that a project address the project objectives identified in the 
Statement of Work in Section I. Any applications that do not conform to 
these standards may be deemed non-responsive to this solicitation and 
may not be evaluated. The application must include a table of contents 
and an abstract summarizing the application in not more than two (2) 
pages. Standard forms, attachments, r[eacute]sum[eacute]s, exhibits, 
letters of support, and the abstract are not counted towards the page 
limit. If an applicant exceeds the stated page limit, the review panel 
has the discretion to deduct 10 points.
    Upon completion of negotiations, the individual signing the SF 424 
on behalf of the applicant must be authorized to bind the applicant.

C. Submission Dates, Times, and Address

    The grant application package must be received at the designated 
place by February 23, 2007, or it will not be considered. Applications 
sent by e-mail, telegram, or facsimile (FAX) will not be accepted. 
Applications sent by other delivery services, such as Federal Express, 
UPS, etc., will be accepted; the applicant, however, bears the 
responsibility for timely submission. Applications that do not meet the 
conditions set forth in this notice will not be honored. No exceptions 
to the mailing, delivery, and hand-delivery conditions set forth in 
this notice will be granted.
    Any application received at the Office of Procurement Services 
after 4:45 pm Eastern Time on February 23, 2007 will not be considered 
unless it is received before the award is made and:
     It was sent by registered or certified mail no later than 
the fifth calendar day before the closing date; or
     It was sent by U.S. Postal Service Express Mail/Next Day 
Service from the post office to the addressee no later than 5 p.m. at 
the place of mailing two (2) working days (excluding weekends and 
Federal holidays), prior to the closing date; or
     It is determined by the USG that the late receipt was due 
solely to mishandling by the USG after receipt at the U.S. Department 
of Labor at the address indicated.
    The only acceptable evidence to establish the date of mailing of a 
late application sent by registered or certified mail is the U.S. 
Postal Service postmark on the envelope or wrapper and on the original 
receipt from the U.S. Postal Service. If the postmark is not legible, 
an application received after the above closing time and date shall be 
processed as if mailed late. ``Postmark'' means a printed, stamped, or 
otherwise placed impression (not a postage meter machine impression) 
that is readily identifiable without further action as having been 
applied and affixed by an employee of the U.S. Postal Service on the 
date of mailing. Therefore, applicants should request that the postal 
clerk place a legible hand cancellation ``bull's-eye'' postmark on both 
the receipt and the envelope or wrapper.
    The only acceptable evidence to establish the date of mailing of a 
late application sent by U.S. Postal Service Express Mail/Next Day 
Service from the post office to the addressee is the date entered by 
the Post Office receiving clerk on the ``Express Mail/Next Day 
Service--Post Office to Addressee'' label and the postmark on the 
envelope or wrapper on the original receipt from the U.S. Postal 
Service. ``Postmark'' has the same meaning as defined above. Therefore, 
applicants should request that the postal clerk place a legible hand 
cancellation ``bull's-eye'' postmark on both the receipt and the 
envelope or wrapper.
    The only acceptable evidence to establish the time of receipt at 
the USDOL is the date/time stamp of the Procurement Service Center on 
the application wrapper or other documentary evidence or receipt 
maintained by that office.
    All applicants are advised that U.S. mail delivery in the 
Washington DC area has been slow and erratic due to concerns involving 
anthrax contamination. Applicants must take this into consideration 
when preparing to meet the application deadline. It is recommended that 
you confirm receipt of your application with your delivery service from 
Lisa Harvey (see Section VII for contact information).
    Applicants may also apply online at www.grants.gov. Applicants 
submitting proposals online are requested to refrain from mailing a 
hard copy application as well. It is strongly recommended that 
applicants using www.grants.gov immediately initiate and complete the 
``Get Started'' registration steps at https://www.grants.gov/GetStarted. 
These steps may take multiple days to complete, and this time should be 
factored into plans for electronic submission in order to avoid facing 
unexpected delays that could result in the rejection of an application. 
If submitting electronically through www.grants.gov, the applicants 
must save application document as a .doc, .pdf, .txt or .xls file.
    Any application received on grants.gov after the deadline will be 
considered as non-responsive and will not be evaluated.

D. Intergovernmental Review

    This funding opportunity is not subject to Executive Order 12372, 
``Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs.''

E. Funding Restrictions, Unallowable Activities, and Specific 
Prohibitions

    In addition to those specified under OMB Circular A-122, the 
following costs and activities are also unallowable or contain specific 
restrictions:
1. Pre-award Costs
    Pre-award costs are not reimbursable.
2. Alternative Income-Generating Activities
    USDOL funds awarded under all USDOL Cooperative Agreements may not 
be used to provide micro-credits, revolving funds, or loan guarantees. 
Permissible costs related to alternative income-generating activities 
for workers may include, but are not limited to, vocational or skills 
training, incidental tools and equipment, guides, manuals, and market 
feasibility studies. USDOL reserves the right to negotiate the exact 
nature, form, or scope of alternative income-generating activities and 
to approve or disapprove these activities at any time after award of 
the Cooperative Agreement.
3. Subawards to Organizations, Groups, and/or Persons
    Grantees may procure sub-contracts or sub-grants with other 
organizations to fulfill the purpose and activities of the Cooperative 
Agreement award. Subawards may be included as a budget line item. 
Subawards must be awarded in accordance with 29 CFR 95.40-48 and are 
subject to audit, in accordance with the requirements of 29 CFR 
95.26(d). Subawards awarded after the Cooperative Agreement is signed, 
and not proposed in the application, must be awarded through a formal 
competitive bidding process, unless prior written approval is obtained 
from USDOL. In addition, all subawards are subject to the restrictions 
and prohibitions related to prostitution, inherently religious 
activities, and terrorism as outlined in this section (6-8). Detailed 
information on subawards should be provided during the project document 
review process. Copies of all subawards above $100,000 must be provided 
to USDOL prior to implementation of the contract.
4. Lobbying or Fund-raising the U.S. Government With Federal Funds
    Under the Cooperative Agreements, no activity, including awareness 
raising and advocacy activities may include fund-raising, or lobbying 
of all

[[Page 980]]

Government entities (see OMB Circular A-122). Cooperative Agreement 
Applicants classified under the internal revenue code as A 501(c)(4) 
entity (see 26 U.S.C. 501(c)(4)), may not engage in lobbying 
activities. According to the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995, as 
codified at 2 U.S.C. 1611, an organization, as described in Section 
501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, that engages in 
lobbying activities directed toward the USG will not be eligible for 
the receipt of Federal funds constituting an award, grant, Cooperative 
Agreement, or loan.
5. Funds To Host Country Governments
    USDOL funds awarded under this solicitation are not intended to 
duplicate or substitute for host-country government efforts or 
resources. Therefore, in general, Grantees may not provide any of the 
funds obligated under the Cooperative Agreement to foreign government 
entities, ministries, officials, or political parties. However, 
subcontracts with foreign government agencies may be awarded to provide 
direct services or undertake project activities subject to applicable 
laws and only after a competitive procurement process has been 
conducted and no other entity in the country is able to provide these 
services. Grantees must receive prior USDOL approval before 
subcontracting to foreign government agencies for the provision of 
direct educational services.
6. Prostitution
    The USG is opposed to prostitution and related activities, which 
are inherently harmful and dehumanizing, and contribute to the 
phenomenon of trafficking in persons. U.S. non-governmental 
organizations, and their subawardees, cannot use USG funds to lobby 
for, promote or advocate the legalization or regulation of prostitution 
as a legitimate form of work. Foreign non-governmental organizations, 
and their subawardees, that receive USG funds cannot lobby for, promote 
or advocate the legalization or regulation of prostitution as a 
legitimate form of work; this includes organizations receiving both 
general and trafficking-related grants. It is the responsibility of the 
Grantee(s) to ensure its subawardees meet these criteria.
7. Inherently Religious Activities
    The USG is generally prohibited from providing direct financial 
assistance for inherently religious activities. Federal funds provided 
under a USDOL-awarded Cooperative Agreement may not be used for 
religious instruction, worship, prayer, proselytizing or other 
inherently religious activities. Neutral, non-religious criteria that 
neither favor nor disfavor religion must be employed by the Grantee in 
the selection of subawardees. This provision must be included in all 
subawards issued under the Cooperative Agreement.
8. Terrorism
    Applicants are reminded that U.S. Executive Orders and U.S. law 
prohibit transactions with, and the provision of resources and support 
to, individuals and organizations associated with terrorism. It is the 
legal responsibility of Grantees to ensure compliance with these 
Executive Orders and laws. This provision must be included in all 
subawards issued under the Cooperative Agreement.

V. Application Review Information

    USDOL will screen all applications to determine whether all 
required elements are present and clearly identifiable, including the 
technical proposal, cost proposal, recent audits, partnership 
agreements where applicable, the Curricula Vitae of key personnel, and 
personnel agreements. A Technical Panel will objectively rate each 
complete application against the criteria described in this 
announcement. The panel recommendations to the Grant Officer are 
advisory in nature. The Grant Officer may elect to select one or more 
Grantees on the basis of the initial proposal submission, or the Grant 
Officer may establish a competitive or technically acceptable range for 
the purpose of selecting qualified applicants. If deemed appropriate, 
following the Grant Officer's call for the preparation and receipt of 
final revisions of proposals, the evaluation process described above 
will be repeated to consider such revisions. The Grant Officer will 
make a final selection determination based on what is most advantageous 
to the USG, considering factors such as panel findings based on the 
criteria listed below and the best value to the government, cost, and 
other factors. The Grant Officer's determination for award under this 
SGA is final.

A. The Review Process

    The criteria below will serve as the basis upon which submitted 
applications will be evaluated. Technical aspects of the application 
will constitute 100 points of the total evaluation. Up to five (5) 
additional points will be given for leveraging non-Federal resources.
    In order to assist USDOL in assessing the efficient and effective 
allocation of project funding, the applicants must submit a project 
budget that clearly details the costs for performing all of the 
requirements presented in this solicitation, including producing all 
deliverables, reporting on implementation and progress, and monitoring 
progress. The budget does not count against the page limit. Applicants 
are reminded to budget for compliance with the administrative 
requirements set forth (copies of all regulations referenced in this 
solicitation are available at no cost, on-line, at https://www.dol.gov). 
This includes the costs of performing activities such as travel to 
Washington, DC to meet with USDOL/ILAB, financial audit, project 
closeout, project evaluation, document preparation (e.g., progress 
reports, project document), and ensuring compliance with procurement 
and property standards. The Project Budget must identify administrative 
costs separately from programmatic costs. In addition to the costs 
identified previously, administrative costs include indirect costs from 
the costs pool and the cost of activities, materials (e.g., project 
car), and personnel (e.g., administrative assistants, office drivers) 
that support the management and administration of the project, but do 
not provide direct services to project beneficiaries. See Annex I for a 
sample budget.
Technical Approach--65 points
    The extent to which the application sets forth a clear and 
supportable course of action to improve labor law compliance in Central 
America, in particular those laws that address the issues raised in the 
Statement of Work by strengthening the capacity of local organizations 
to improve labor law compliance in the agricultural sector through A) 
Increased awareness among workers and employers in targeted 
agricultural communities about national labor laws, with particular 
emphasis on safety and health regulations; and B) Increased ability of 
workers in targeted agricultural communities to exercise their labor 
rights.
    In developing the strategy, applicants are expected to take into 
consideration the following issues:
     The level of technical assistance that Central American 
Ministries of Labor have received in the past five (5) years and 
continue to receive from bilateral donors and international 
organizations;
     The need to ensure that the project strategy is consistent 
with any national strategy to increase labor law compliance.
     The need to sustain project improvements, including 
retaining the

[[Page 981]]

new knowledge and practices of project-trained local staff.
     The need to engage local stakeholders in the design and 
implementation of the project strategy.
     The need for information exchange with the Ministries of 
Labor.
Points
    Applicants will be evaluated on the clear identification and 
description of the specific strategy(s) the applicant proposes to use, 
and the effectiveness and attainability of project objectives by the 
end of the grant period. Proposals should include Work plans that are 
practical, manageable, and can achieve project results. Applicants must 
include an implementation plan that lists a schedule of activities and 
list of deliverables that would be completed by the Grantee each 
quarter. The strategy must include a sustainability plan outlining 
clearly how the project activities will be sustained when the project 
has been completed. (15 points)
    Demonstrated familiarity with the major issues related to the 
components being addressed (e.g., labor laws, providing assistance to 
workers, with particular emphasis on the agricultural sector, 
conducting training, building networks, outreach and informational 
campaigns), key problems and/or needs in the relevant country/area, the 
specific problem(s) and/or need(s) that will be addressed by this 
project(s), and relevant constraints. Applicants will be evaluated on 
the thorough and accurate assessment of the implementing environment 
and the problems that exist and clear identification of the specific 
problem(s) the applicant proposes to address. (10 points)
    Applicants must provide a monitoring and evaluation plan for 
measuring project performance that includes challenging but realistic 
targets and measurable, verifiable project indicators that measure 
achievement of project objectives and performance in project 
implementation. The plan should show how the information and data will 
be collected and what systems will be put in place for self-assessment, 
monitoring, and continuous improvement. (5 points)
    Applicants must provide a description of the proposed approach to 
expending funds in the most cost-effective method possible in order to 
achieve the project objectives. Applicants must submit an Outputs-based 
Budget, a sample of which is provided in Annex 1. Applicants must refer 
to the submitted budget in explaining how the budgeted funds will be 
utilized cost-effectively. In order to assist USDOL in assessing the 
efficient and effective allocation of project funding, the applicant 
must submit, at minimum, supporting budget information indicating how 
the applicant arrived at estimating the costs of the following items/
activities: salaries and benefits for all key personnel; 2-3 key 
activities proposed by the applicant under its project design; and 
meeting all USDOL close-out requirements. Applicants will be evaluated 
based on the clear identification of all project costs and efficient 
and effective allocation of funding. The project budget should clearly 
demonstrate that the total amount and distribution of funds is 
sufficient to cover the cost of all major project activities identified 
by the applicant in its proposal, management of the project, monitoring 
and evaluation, and project close-out and that the distribution of 
funds maximizes the provision of equipment and/or services to project 
beneficiaries. Higher ratings may be given to applicants with low 
administrative costs and with a budget breakdown that provides a larger 
amount of resources to project activities. The Grant Officer reserves 
the right to negotiate administrative cost levels prior to award. 
Indirect cost charges should be based on allowable, allocable, and 
reasonable costs based on the applicable cost principles included in 
the OMB Circular A-122 and Indirect Charges Instructions included in 
Annex 2. This section will be evaluated in accordance with applicable 
Federal laws and regulations. Applicants should submit output-based 
budgets. A sample of an output-based budget format is included in Annex 
1. The budget must comply with Federal cost principles (which can be 
found in the applicable OMB Circulars) and with ILAB budget 
requirements contained in the application instructions in Section VI of 
this solicitation. Applicants must also be required to include an 
indirect cost certification, the SF 424, SF 424A, and the Equal 
Employment Opportunity survey. (15 points)
    Applicants will be evaluated on their use of existing expertise 
from the recipient country in order to reduce costs and further develop 
local capacity. The proposal should identify specific organizations to 
carry out the work in each country. Local organizations will be rated 
on their technical ability to effectively carry out the proposed work, 
their experience working with the project beneficiaries and 
stakeholders in target communities, and ability to implement activities 
in a timely fashion. (15 points)
    Applicants will be evaluated on their proposed submission of a 
schedule of quarterly deliverables that will serve to determine the 
level of performance of the awardee. The identification of deliverables 
that are presented in the proposal should be objective, verifiable, and 
demonstrate progress in achieving project objectives. (5 points)
 Institutional Qualifications/Past Performance--20 points
    Applicants will be evaluated on the prior experience of all 
organizations included in their proposal, including prime and sub-
awardees, in designing and implementing activities in developing 
countries, especially in Central America, related to labor law 
compliance, occupational safety and health, work in the agricultural 
sector, strategic planning, outreach and education, and capacity 
building. Applicants must include information as an attachment (that 
will not count towards the page limit) regarding previous grants, 
contracts, or grants, including: (a) The organization for which the 
work was done; (b) a contact person in that organization with his/her 
current phone number; (c) the dollar value of the grant or contract for 
the project(s); (d) the time frame and professional effort, either 
directly by key personnel, by consultants, or under contractual 
arrangements involved in the project(s); (e) a brief summary of the 
work performed; and (f) a brief summary of accomplishments. Applicants 
must also address their organization's country presence; ability to 
work directly with government and Non Governmental Organizations 
(NGOs), including local and community-based organizations. Applicants 
may submit supporting documentation with their application 
demonstrating country presence and/or outreach to host government 
ministries and non-governmental organizations in the country. Said 
documentation will not count against the page limit. (10 points)
    Applicants will be evaluated on their demonstration of strong 
financial management and internal control systems. If the applicant is 
a U.S.-based NGO already subject to the single audit requirements, the 
applicant's most recent single audit, as submitted to the Federal Audit 
Clearinghouse, must accompany the application as an attachment. In 
addition, applications must show that they have complied with report 
submission timeframes established in OMB Circular A-133. If an 
Applicant is not in compliance with the requirements for completing 
their single audit, the application will be considered nonresponsive 
and will be rejected. If the applicant is a for-profit or foreign-based 
organization, a copy of its most current independent financial

[[Page 982]]

audit must accompany the application as an attachment. Applicants must 
also submit a copy of the most recent single audit report for all 
proposed U.S.-based, non-profit partners, Associates and subawardees 
that are subject to the Single Audit Act. If the proposed Associate(s) 
or partner(s) is a for-profit or foreign-based organization, a copy of 
its most current independent financial audit should accompany the 
application as an attachment. If the audit submitted by the applicant 
reflects any adverse opinions, the application will not be further 
considered by the technical review panel and will be rejected. USDOL 
reserves the right to ask further questions on any audit report 
submitted as part of an application. USDOL also reserves the right to 
place special conditions on Grantees if concerns are raised in their 
audit reports. In order to expedite the screening of applications and 
to ensure that the appropriate audits are attached to the proposals, 
the applicant must provide a cover sheet to the audit attachments 
listing all proposed partners and subawardees. These attachments will 
not count toward the application page limit. (10 points)
 Experience of Personnel/Management Plan--15 points
    Applicants will be evaluated on their inclusion of key personnel 
with prior experience directly related to the proposed work, including 
technical and language qualifications, professional competence, 
relevant academic background, and demonstrated experience. Applicants 
must submit a r[eacute]sum[eacute] for each key personnel proposed, 
which includes the individual's current employment status and previous 
work experience, including position title, duties performed, salary 
history, dates in position, employing organizations, and educational 
background. Duties must be clearly defined in terms of role performed 
(i.e., manager, team leader, consultant). R[eacute]sum[eacute] must be 
included as attachments, which do not count against the page 
limitation. Management and professional technical staff members 
comprising the applicant's proposed team must be individuals who have 
prior experience with organizations working in similar efforts, and who 
are fully qualified to perform the work specified in the Scope of Work. 
(10 points)
    Successful performance of the proposed work depends heavily on the 
management of the project. Accordingly, in its evaluation of each 
application, USDOL will place emphasis on the applicant's management 
approach involved in accomplishing the assigned tasks. This section of 
the application must include sufficient information to judge management 
and staffing plans. Where subawards or outside assistance are proposed, 
organizational lines of authority and responsibility should be clearly 
delineated to ensure responsiveness to the needs of USDOL. (5 points)
 Leveraging of Grant Funding--5 points
    USDOL will award up to five (5) additional rating points to 
applications that include non-Federal resources that significantly 
expand the size and scope of project-related activities. These programs 
must not be financed by the project, but can complement and enhance 
project objectives. To be eligible for the additional points, the 
applicant must list the resource(s), the nature, and possible 
activities anticipated and any partnerships, linkages, or coordination 
of activities, cooperative funding, etc., including the specific value 
of such contributions.
 Suggested Outline for Technical Proposal
    This outline is provided as a guideline. Organizations may elect a 
format of their choosing, subject to the requirements of this 
announcement.

i. Executive Summary
ii. Program Description
iii. Goal and Objectives
iv. Background
v. Technical Approach and Implementation Timetable (Proposed 
Intervention)
vi. Monitoring and Evaluation Plan
vii. Experience of Personnel
viii. Identification of Deliverables and Quarterly Schedule of their 
submission to determine contractor performance
ix. Staffing Pattern and Project Management Organizational Chart
x. Leveraging of non-Federal Resources
xi. Budget
xii. Attachments:
     Summaries of other relevant organizational experiences
     R[eacute]sum[eacute]s of key personnel and signed letters 
of commitment to the project
     Audit reports

    Successful proposals submitted in response to this solicitation 
will be incorporated into the text of the grant with the selected 
applicant(s).

Measuring the Performance of the Grantee

    The performance of the Grantee will be assessed based on the timely 
completion of one or more deliverables that will be due to USDOL at the 
end of each quarter of the Grant (as described in Section VI.3). These 
deliverables should reflect the outcomes of the project that are 
expected to help achieve the project's objective(s).
    Applicants are requested to include in their proposal a project 
implementation plan and approach to monitor the performance of the 
project throughout the period of the grant. The implementation plan is 
to consist of a quarterly schedule of activities and list of 
deliverables that would be completed by the Grantee each quarter. The 
defined list and schedule of deliverables is viewed by USDOL as a key 
component of the technical proposal.
    Applicants are requested to include in their proposal a process for 
project evaluation, using an independent evaluation method, strategy 
and costs for mid-term and final evaluations.

VI. Award Administration Information

1. Award Notices

    The Grant Officer will notify applicants of designation results as 
follows:
    Designation Letter: The designation letter signed by the Grant 
Officer will serve as official notice of an organization's designation. 
The designation letter will be accompanied by a Cooperative Agreement 
and ILAB's Management Procedures and Guidelines (MPG).
    Non-Designation Letter: Any organization not designated will be 
notified formally of the non-designation and given the basic reasons 
for the determination. Notification of designation by a person or 
entity other than the Grant Officer is not valid.

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

A. General
    Grantees are subject to applicable U.S. Federal laws (including 
provisions of appropriations law) and regulations, Executive Orders, 
applicable OMB Circulars, and USDOL policies. If during project 
implementation a Grantee is found in violation of USG laws and 
regulations, the terms of the Cooperative Agreement awarded under this 
solicitation may be modified by USDOL, costs may be disallowed and 
recovered, the Cooperative Agreement may be terminated, and USDOL may 
take other action permitted by law. Determinations of allowable costs 
will be made in accordance with the applicable U.S. Federal cost 
principles.

[[Page 983]]

B. Audits
    After award, Grantees must also submit an annual independent audit 
regardless of grant amount.
    i. For U.S. based non-profit organizations expending $500,000 or 
more in a year in Federal awards: a ``single'' or ``program specific'' 
audit conducted under the provisions of OMB Circular A-133 is required.
    ii. For all other organizations (including foreign-based and 
private for-profit grantees): an audit conducted in accordance with the 
U.S. Government Accountability Office's (GAO) ``Government Auditing 
Standards'' is required. The audit must address the following:
    (a) Compliance with the Department's regulations and the provisions 
of the Cooperative Agreement; and
    (b) Reliability of the organization's financial and performance 
reports.
    Costs for audits or attestation engagements should be included in 
direct or indirect costs, whichever is appropriate.

    Please Note: USDOL generally allows the costs to be allocated 
based on the following (applicable to U.S. based agencies only): (1) 
A-133 ``single audit'' costs as part of the indirect cost rate/pool 
for organizations with more than one Federal source of funding. 
Organizations with only one Federal source could charge the A-133 
single audit cost as direct costs; (2) A-133 ``compliance 
supplement'' costs--as direct costs for Federal sources only through 
a cost allocation methodology approved by the Federal cognizant 
agency; or (3) A-133 program specific audits as direct costs. Any 
deviations from the above must be explained and justified in the 
application.

C. Administrative Standards and Provisions
    The Cooperative Agreements awarded under this solicitation are 
subject to the following administrative standards and provisions, and 
any other applicable standards that come into effect during the term of 
the Cooperative Agreement, if applicable to a particular Grantee:
    i. 29 CFR Part 2 Subpart D--Equal Treatment in Department of Labor 
Programs for Religious Organizations; Protection of Religious Liberty 
of Department of Labor Social Service Providers and Beneficiaries.
    ii. 29 CFR Part 31--Nondiscrimination in Federally Assisted 
Programs of the Department of Labor--Effectuation of Title VI of the 
Civil Rights Act of 1964.
    iii. 29 CFR Part 32--Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Handicap in 
Programs and Activities Receiving or Benefiting from Federal Financial 
Assistance.
    iv. 29 CFR Part 33--Enforcement of Nondiscrimination on the Basis 
of Handicap in Programs or Activities Conducted by the Department of 
Labor.
    v. 29 CFR Part 35--Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Age in 
Programs or Activities Receiving Federal Financial Assistance from the 
Department of Labor.
    vi. 29 CFR Part 36--Federal Standards for Nondiscrimination on the 
Basis of Sex in Education Programs or Activities Receiving Federal 
Financial Assistance.
    vii. 29 CFR Part 93--New Restrictions on Lobbying.
    viii. 29 CFR Part 95--Uniform Administrative Requirements for 
Grants and Agreements with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals 
and other Non-Profit Organizations, and with Commercial Organizations, 
Foreign Governments, Organizations Under the Jurisdiction of Foreign 
Governments and International Organizations.
    ix. 29 CFR Part 96--Federal Standards for Audit of Federally Funded 
Grants, Contracts and Agreements.
    x. 29 CFR Part 98--Federal Standards for Government-wide Debarment 
and Suspension(Nonprocurement).
    xi. 29 CFR Part 99--Federal Standards for Audits of States, Local 
Governments, and NonProfit Organizations.
    xii. CFR 29 Part 94--Govermnentwide Requirements for Drug Free 
Workplace.
    Copies of all regulations referenced in this solicitation are 
available at no cost, on-line, at https://www.dol.gov.
D. Key Personnel
    As noted in Section V, the applicant must list all key personnel 
candidates. After the Cooperative Agreement has been awarded and 
throughout the life of the project, the Grantee agrees to inform the 
Grant Officer's Technical Representative (GOTR) whenever it appears 
impossible for key personnel to continue work on the project as 
planned. The Grantee must nominate, through the submission of a formal 
project revision, new personnel; however, the Grantee must obtain 
approval from the Grant Officer before all changes to key personnel are 
formalized. If the Grant Officer is unable to approve the key personnel 
change, she or he reserves the right to terminate the Cooperative 
Agreement or disallow costs.
E. Encumbrance of Grant Funds
    Grant funds may not be encumbered/obligated by the Grantee(s) 
before or after the period of performance. Encumbrances/obligations 
outstanding as of the end of the grant period may be liquidated (paid 
out) after the end of the grant period. Such encumbrances/obligations 
may involve only commitments for which a need existed during the grant 
period and that are supported by approved contracts, purchase orders, 
requisitions, invoices, bills, or other evidence of liability 
consistent with the Grantee's purchasing procedures and incurred within 
the grant period. All encumbrances/ obligations incurred during the 
grant period must be liquidated within 90 days after the end of the 
grant period, if practicable.
F. Acknowledgement on Printed Materials
    In all circumstances, the following shall be displayed on printed 
materials: Preparation of this item was funded by the United States 
Department of Labor under Grant No. [insert the appropriate grant 
number]. In addition, the Grantee is required to include a disclaimer 
in publications and materials that have been directly funded by USDOL 
as follows: This ( * * * ) does not necessarily reflect the views or 
policies of the United States Department of Labor, nor does the mention 
of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement 
by the United States Government. This acknowledgement and disclaimer 
must be included in documents (reports and other materials) produced, 
edited and published for distribution beyond the Grantee and USDOL 
(i.e., to other donors, organizations, or the general public). When 
issuing statements, press releases, requests for proposals, bid 
solicitations, and other documents describing projects or programs 
funded in whole or in part with Federal money, all Grantees receiving 
Federal funds must clearly state:
     The percentage of the total costs of the program or 
project, which will be financed with Federal money;
     The dollar amount of Federal funds for the project or 
program; and
     The percentage and dollar amount of the total costs of the 
project or program that will be financed by non-governmental sources.
G. Use of the USDOL Logo
    In consultation with ILAB, the Grantee(s) will acknowledge USDOL's 
role in one of the following ways:
     The USDOL logo may be applied to USDOL-funded material 
prepared for public distribution, including posters, videos, pamphlets, 
research documents, national survey results, impact evaluations, best 
practice reports, and other publications of public interest. The 
Grantee(s) must consult with USDOL on whether the logo may be used on 
any such items prior to final

[[Page 984]]

draft or final preparation for distribution. In no event shall the 
USDOL logo be placed on any item until USDOL has given the Grantee 
written permission to use the logo on the item.
     All documents should include the following notice: ``This 
document does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. 
Department of Labor, nor does mention of trade names, commercial 
products, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.''
H. Privacy and Freedom of Information
    Any information submitted in response to this solicitation will be 
subject to the provisions of the Privacy Act and the Freedom of 
Information Act, as appropriate.

I. Site Visits

    USDOL, through its authorized representatives, has the right, at 
all reasonable times, to make site visits to review project 
accomplishments and management control systems and to provide such 
technical assistance as may be required. If USDOL makes any site visit 
on the premises of the Grantee or a subawardee(s) under this grant, the 
Grantee must provide and must require its subawardee(s) to provide all 
reasonable facilities and assistance for the safety and convenience of 
the Government representatives in the performance of their duties. All 
site visits and evaluations will be performed so as not to unduly delay 
the work.

3. Reporting and Deliverables

    Guidance on USDOL procedures and management requirements will be 
provided to Grantees in the Management Procedures Guidelines (MPGs) and 
within the Cooperative Agreement. Unless otherwise indicated, a Grantee 
must submit copies of all required reports and deliverables to USDOL by 
the specified due dates. Exact timeframes for the completion of 
deliverables will be addressed in the Cooperative Agreement and the 
MPGs. Specific deliverables are outlined below.
A. Required Deliverables
    Following the award of the grant, the Grantee(s) must collaborate 
with USDOL/ILAB to:
     Develop a Project Document (including a project budget) 
that will set the technical parameters and provide guidance to the 
project. It must include all information and be prepared according to 
the standardized format outlined by USDOL. While the applicant's 
original proposal will serve as the basis of the Project Document, in 
every case USDOL has found it advantageous to visit the field and reach 
consensus on the project strategy