Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

Periodically, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) will publish a summary of information collection requests under OMB review, in compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. chapter 35). To request a copy of these documents, call the SAMHSA Reports Clearance Officer on (301) 443-7978.

Pretesting of Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment and Mental Health Services Communication Messages—(OMB No. 0930-0196, Reinstatement)—As the Federal agency responsible for developing and disseminating authoritative knowledge about substance abuse prevention, addiction treatment, and mental health services and for mobilizing consumer support and increasing public understanding to overcome the stigma attached to addiction and mental illness, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is responsible for development and dissemination of a wide range of education and information materials for both the general public and the professional communities. This submission is for generic approval and will provide for formative and qualitative evaluation activities to (1) assess audience knowledge, attitudes, behavior and other characteristics for the planning and development of messages, communication strategies and public information programs; and (2) test these messages, strategies and program components in developmental form to assess audience comprehension, reactions and perceptions. Information obtained from testing can then be used to improve materials and strategies while revisions are still affordable and possible. The annual burden associated with these activities is summarized below.

Written comments and recommendations concerning the proposed information collection should be sent by April 26, 2004: SAMHSA Desk Officer, Human Resources and Housing Branch, Office of Management and Budget, New Executive Office Building, Room 10235, Washington, DC 20503; due to potential delays in OMB's receipt and processing of mail sent through the U.S. Postal Service, respondents are encouraged to submit comments by fax to: (202) 395-6974.