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the Federal work force, an analysis (in accordance with OMB Circular A-76) be conducted to determine which of the aspects of the SSIE function might be conducted by the private sector. OMB went on to state that the index would be an effective management tool only if there is a Federal policy regarding input and use of information by Federal agencies. Staffs of the SSIE and NTIS are now engaged in joint planning of these studies.

It is our understanding that OMB will approve a budget for FY 1981 of $2 million to implement the merger in addition to $2 million of operating expense of the SSIE function and $300-500 thousand to acquire the assets of the corporation. OMB has set FY 1984 as the deadline for an integrated information system that will recover its cost through user payments.

The Institution is now determining the range of possible personnel costs associated with termination of the corporation and absorption of the function into the NTIS in FY 1981. Such cost will include those associated with the payment of annual leave balances and severance pay. The dimension of such costs, which would be borne by the Department of Commerce, depends in part on the number of employees actually offered positions with NTIS.