((a)) ** Conduct of study**

((1)) ** In general** The Secretary shall establish a commission on the education of the deaf (in this section referred to as the “commission”) to conduct a national study on the education of the deaf, to identify education-related barriers to successful postsecondary education experiences and employment for individuals who are deaf, and those education-related factors that contribute to successful postsecondary education experiences and employment for individuals who are deaf.

((2)) ** Definition** In this section the term “deaf”, when used with respect to an individual, means an individual with a hearing impairment, including an individual who is hard of hearing, an individual deafened later in life, and an individual who is profoundly deaf.

((b)) ** Public input and consultation**

((1)) ** In general** In conducting such study, the commission shall obtain input from the public. To obtain such input, the commission shall—

((A)) publish a notice with an opportunity for comment in the Federal Register;

((B)) consult with individuals and organizations representing a wide range of perspectives on deafness-related issues, including organizations representing individuals who are deaf, parents of children who are deaf, educators, and researchers; and

((C)) take such other action as the commission deems appropriate, which may include holding public meetings.

((2)) ** Structured opportunities** The commission shall provide structured opportunities to receive and respond to the viewpoints of the individuals and organizations described in paragraph (1)(B).

((c)) ** Report** The commission shall report to the Secretary and Congress not later than 18 months after , regarding the results of the study. The report shall contain—

((1)) recommendations relating to educated-related factors that contribute to successful postsecondary education experiences and employment for individuals who are deaf, including recommendations for legislation, that the commission deems appropriate; and

((2)) a detailed summary of the input received under subsection (b) and the ways in which the report addresses such input.

((d)) ** Authorization of appropriations** There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 2009 and 2010 to carry out the provisions of this section.