PROGRAM AUTHORIZED.

SEC. 231. PROGRAM AUTHORIZED. (a) Demonstration and Innovation Projects.—The Secretary shall make grants to, or enter into contracts or cooperative agreements with, nonprofit and for-profit entities to pay all or part of the cost of establishing or operating demonstration and innovation 102 STAT. 1064projects relating to technology-related assistance for individuals with disabilities. (b) Eligible Activities.—Amounts made available for purposes of carrying out this part may be used for the following activities: (1) Model projects for delivering assistive technology devices and services.—The establishment or operation of model projects for delivering assistive technology devices and assistive technology services to individuals of all ages with disabilities functioning in various environments and carrying out various life activities (including model systems described in section 101(c)(1) of title I). (2) Model research and development projects.— The conduct of applied research and development projects, including projects designed to— (A) increase the availability of reliable and durable assistive technology devices that address unique, low-market demand, or complex technology-related needs for individuals with disabilities; (B) develop strategies and techniques that involve individuals with disabilities in assessing the performance characteristics of technology that is not designed specifically for individuals with disabilities and developing adaptations of such technology for individuals with disabilities; (C) assist in the transfer of technology that is not specifically designed for individuals with disabilities to uses appropriate for such individuals; and (D) facilitate effective and efficient technology transfer. (3) Income-contingent direct loan demonstration project.— Demonstration projects in accordance with regulations issued by the Secretary (which may include a requirement that the Secretary shall provide an amount equal to not more than 90 percent of the amount required for any such project) to examine the feasibility of a direct loan program that would provide loans— (A) to individuals with disabilities who require technology-related assistance in order to maintain a level of functioning or to achieve a greater level of functioning in any major life activity; or (B) to the families or employers of individuals with disabilities, on behalf of such individuals, for the purposes described in subparagraph (A). (c) Report to Congress on Extension of Direct Loan Program.—The Secretary shall, based on the projects assisted under subsection (b)(3), report to Congress concerning the feasibility of operating a direct loan program of general applicability beginning after September 30, 1993.