In April 1997, EDGAR's menu of
selection criteria became effective. For each competition, the
Secretary would select one or more criteria that best enable the
Department to identify the highest quality applications consistent
with the program purpose, statutory requirements, and any
priorities established. This allows the Secretary the flexibility
to weigh the criteria according to the needs of each individual
program. This menus of selection criteria will provide the
Department the flexibility to choose a set of criteria tailored to
a given competition....
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that
the collection of information encompassed by this request complies
with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR
1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding
the proposed collection of information, that the certification
covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a
benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control
number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of
these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked
and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.