A recipient is permitted to take an action otherwise prohibited by Sec. 18.511 which is based on a factor other than age, even though that action may have a disproportionate effect on persons of different ages. An action may be based on a factor other than age only if the factor bears a direct and substantial relationship to the normal operation of the program or activity or to the achievement of a statutory objective. (Authority: 42 U.S.C. 6101-6107)