Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 112 Part 4.djvu/1039

 PUBLIC LAW 105-285—OCT. 27, 1998 112 STAT. 2771 (2) The savings rates of individuals in the demonstration project based on demographic characteristics including gender, age, family size, race or ethnic background, and income. (3) The economic, civic, psychological, and social effects of asset accumulation, and how such effects vary among dif- ferent populations or communities. (4) The effects of individual development accounts on savings rates, homeownership, level of postsecondary education attained, and self-employment, and how such effects vary among different populations or communities. (5) The potential financial returns to the Federal Government and to other public sector and private sector investors in individual development accounts over a 5-year and 10-year period of time. (6) The lessons to be learned from the demonstration projects conducted under this title and if a permanent program of individual development accounts should be established. (7) Such other factors as may be prescribed by the Secretary. (c) METHODOLOGICAL REQUIREMENTS.— In evaluating any demonstration project conducted under this title, the research organization shall— (1) for at least one site, use control groups to compare participants with nonparticipants; (2) before, during, and after the project, obtain such quantitative data as are necessary to evaluate the project thoroughly; and (3) develop a qualitative assessment, derived from sources such as in-depth interviews, of how asset accumulation affects individuals and families. (d) REPORTS BY THE SECRETARY.— Deadlines. (1) INTERIM REPORTS. — Not later than 90 days after the end of the calendar year in which the Secretary first authorizes a qualified entity to conduct a demonstration project under this title, and every 12 months thereafter until all demonstration projects conducted under this title are completed, the Secretary shall submit to Congress an interim report setting forth the results of the reports submitted pursuant to section 412(b). (2) FINAL REPORTS.— Not later than 12 months after the conclusion of all demonstration projects conducted under this title, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a final report setting forth the results and findings of all reports and evaluations conducted pursuant to this title. (e) EVALUATION EXPENSES.— The Secretary shall expend 2 percent of the amount appropriated under section 416 for a fiscal year, to carry out the objectives of this section. SEC. 415. TREATMENT OF FUNDS. Of the funds deposited in individual development accounts for eligible individuals, only the funds deposited by the individuals (including interest accruing on those funds) may be considered to be the income, assets, or resources of the individuals, for purposes of determining eligibility for, or the amount of assistance furnished under, any Federal or federally assisted program based on need.

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