FINAL BILL REPORT

                  HB 2853

                          C 57 L 00

                     Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description:  Conforming the advisory council for the blind with the federal rehabilitation act.

Sponsors:  Representatives Wolfe, D. Schmidt, Romero, Cairnes, Haigh and Cody; by request of Department of Services for the Blind.

House Committee on Children & Family Services

Senate Committee on Human Services & Corrections

Background:

The Department of Services for the Blind operates a federal-state vocational rehabilitation program to assist people who are blind or visually impaired to become employed.  The program is governed under both federal and state laws.

Prior to 1998, the state was required to have a Rehabilitation Advisory Council for the Blind.  The duties of the council included delivering advice regarding the development and implementation of the state plan and strategic plan. 

In 1998, as part of the federal Workforce Investment Act, the Congress amended the requirements for the state plans operating under this program.  The council's name was changed in the federal legislation to the State Rehabilitation Council.  In addition, the council's duties and composition were changed.  The membership of the council was expanded to include at least one project director, at least one representative from the state educational agency, and at least one representative from the Workforce Investment Board.  The representatives from the client assistance programs and the project directors are not limited to two consecutive terms.

Summary of Bill:

As required by federal law, changes are made in the vocational rehabilitation program for the blind and visually impaired, including changing the name to the State Rehabilitation Council.

The Department of Services for the Blind may make future changes in the composition and duties of the council as mandated by federal law.

Votes on Final Passage:

House960

Senate460

Effective:June 8, 2000