The DSE Role with CILs
In The DSE Role with CILs, you will explore how the Designated State Entity (DSE) works with Centers for Independent Living (CILs) and how Part B and Part C funding oversight responsibilities differ under Sections 722 and 723 of the Rehabilitation Act. You will learn about the DSE role in the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL), while recognizing the CILs’ and the State Independent Living Council’s (SILC’s) joint responsibility for its development, and the SILC’s responsibility for monitoring and evaluating its implementation. By the end of the course, you will understand the DSE funding oversight and reporting responsibilities when it comes to the CILs.
Ready? Let’s go!
Associated Text:
This e-course was reviewed by the Administration for Community Living (ACL) for consistency with the requirements governing the Independent Living program, including the Rehabilitation Act, 45 CFR part 1329, applicable provisions of the Uniform Guidance, and the DSE assurances.
This content is grounded in the Designated State Entity (DSE) Guidebook, updated February 2026, prepared by Sandra Breitengross Bitter, Paula McElwee, Amber OHaver, Jeremy Morris, and Carol Eubanks, IL T&TA Center, University of Montana Rural Institute for Inclusive Communities.
Instructional framing, scenarios, activities, and assessments were developed for this e-course based on that content. The material was also cross-checked against the Rehabilitation Act, 45 CFR part 1329, applicable Uniform Guidance, and the DSE assurances. IL philosophy, the IL movement, and IL history are covered in an existing prerequisite or companion course and are not repeated here. The DSE Guidebook is noted as a supporting source in various sections of this DSE e-Course along with the specific page numbers and subject matter applicable to these sections.
Course Details:
- This is a self-paced, 30-40-minute course.
- Great for newcomers to the Independent Living network.
- Each lesson includes one core takeaway, reflection questions, and interactive activities.
- A 10-question assessment at the conclusion of the course.
- Must pass with 80% to receive a certificate of completion from the IL T&TA Center.
Objectives:
Explain the difference between 722 and 723 states and describe the Designated State Entity (DSE) role in each.
Describe the DSE responsibilities for Section 4 of the State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL), and in monitoring Part B sub-recipients.
Identify formal federal grant reports and explain how regular fiscal updates help the State Independent Living Council (SILC) monitor and evaluate SPIL implementation.