Collapse to view only § 717. Client assistance information
- § 701. Findings; purpose; policy
- § 702. Rehabilitation Services Administration
- § 703. Advance funding
- § 704. Joint funding
- § 705. Definitions
- § 706. Allotment percentage
- § 707. Nonduplication
- § 708. Application of other laws
- § 709. Administration
- § 710. Reports
- § 711. Evaluation
- § 712. Information clearinghouse
- § 713. Transfer of funds
- § 714. State administration
- § 715. Review of applications
- § 716. Carryover
- § 717. Client assistance information
- § 718. Traditionally underserved populations
§ 701. Findings; purpose; policy
(a) FindingsCongress finds that—
(1) millions of Americans have one or more physical or mental disabilities and the number of Americans with such disabilities is increasing;
(2) individuals with disabilities constitute one of the most disadvantaged groups in society;
(3) disability is a natural part of the human experience and in no way diminishes the right of individuals to—
(A) live independently;
(B) enjoy self-determination;
(C) make choices;
(D) contribute to society;
(E) pursue meaningful careers; and
(F) enjoy full inclusion and integration in the economic, political, social, cultural, and educational mainstream of American society;
(4) increased employment of individuals with disabilities can be achieved through implementation of statewide workforce development systems defined in section 3102 of this title that provide meaningful and effective participation for individuals with disabilities in workforce investment activities and activities carried out under the vocational rehabilitation program established under subchapter I, and through the provision of independent living services, support services, and meaningful opportunities for employment in integrated work settings through the provision of reasonable accommodations;
(5) individuals with disabilities continually encounter various forms of discrimination in such critical areas as employment, housing, public accommodations, education, transportation, communication, recreation, institutionalization, health services, voting, and public services;
(6) the goals of the Nation properly include the goal of providing individuals with disabilities with the tools necessary to—
(A) make informed choices and decisions; and
(B) achieve equality of opportunity, full inclusion and integration in society, employment, independent living, and economic and social self-sufficiency, for such individuals; and
(7)
(A) a high proportion of students with disabilities is leaving secondary education without being employed in competitive integrated employment, or being enrolled in postsecondary education; and
(B) there is a substantial need to support such students as they transition from school to postsecondary life.
(b) PurposeThe purposes of this chapter are—
(1) to empower individuals with disabilities to maximize employment, economic self-sufficiency, independence, and inclusion and integration into society, through—
(A) statewide workforce development systems defined in section 3102 of this title that include, as integral components, comprehensive and coordinated state-of-the-art programs of vocational rehabilitation;
(B) independent living centers and services;
(C) research;
(D) training;
(E) demonstration projects; and
(F) the guarantee of equal opportunity;
(2) to maximize opportunities for individuals with disabilities, including individuals with significant disabilities, for competitive integrated employment;
(3) to ensure that the Federal Government plays a leadership role in promoting the employment of individuals with disabilities, especially individuals with significant disabilities, and in assisting States and providers of services in fulfilling the aspirations of such individuals with disabilities for meaningful and gainful employment and independent living;
(4) to increase employment opportunities and employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities, including through encouraging meaningful input by employers and vocational rehabilitation service providers on successful and prospective employment and placement strategies; and
(5) to ensure, to the greatest extent possible, that youth with disabilities and students with disabilities who are transitioning from receipt of special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1400 et seq.) and receipt of services under section 794 of this title have opportunities for postsecondary success.
(c) PolicyIt is the policy of the United States that all programs, projects, and activities receiving assistance under this chapter shall be carried out in a manner consistent with the principles of—
(1) respect for individual dignity, personal responsibility, self-determination, and pursuit of meaningful careers, based on informed choice, of individuals with disabilities;
(2) respect for the privacy, rights, and equal access (including the use of accessible formats), of the individuals;
(3) inclusion, integration, and full participation of the individuals;
(4) support for the involvement of an individual’s representative if an individual with a disability requests, desires, or needs such support; and
(5) support for individual and systemic advocacy and community involvement.
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 2, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1095; amended Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(b)(2)], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–337, 2681–413; Pub. L. 113–128, title IV, § 402, July 22, 2014, 128 Stat. 1631.)
§ 702. Rehabilitation Services Administration
(a) There is established in the Office of the Secretary in the Department of Education a Rehabilitation Services Administration which shall be headed by a Commissioner (hereinafter in this chapter referred to as the “Commissioner”) appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Such Administration shall be the principal agency, and the Commissioner shall be the principal officer, of the Department for purposes of carrying out subchapters I, III, VI, and part B of subchapter VII. The Commissioner shall be an individual with substantial experience in rehabilitation and in rehabilitation program management. In the performance of the functions of the office, the Commissioner shall be directly responsible to the Secretary of Education or to the Under Secretary or an appropriate Assistant Secretary of such Department, as designated by the Secretary. The functions of the Commissioner shall not be delegated to any officer not directly responsible, both with respect to program operation and administration, to the Commissioner. Any reference in this chapter to duties to be carried out by the Commissioner shall be considered to be a reference to duties to be carried out by the Secretary of Education acting through the Commissioner. In carrying out any of the functions of the office under this chapter, the Commissioner shall be guided by general policies of the National Council on Disability established under subchapter IV of this chapter.ng out any of the functions of the office under this chapter, the Commissioner shall be guided by general policies of the National Council on Disability established under subchapter IV of this chapter.
(b) The Secretary of Education shall take whatever action is necessary to ensure that funds appropriated pursuant to this chapter are expended only for the programs, personnel, and administration of programs carried out under this chapter.
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 3, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1096; amended Pub. L. 113–128, title IV, § 403, July 22, 2014, 128 Stat. 1632.)
§ 703. Advance funding
(a) For the purpose of affording adequate notice of funding available under this chapter, appropriations under this chapter are authorized to be included in the appropriation Act for the fiscal year preceding the fiscal year for which they are available for obligation.
(b) In order to effect a transition to the advance funding method of timing appropriation action, the authority provided by subsection (a) of this section shall apply notwithstanding that its initial application will result in the enactment in the same year (whether in the same appropriation Act or otherwise) of two separate appropriations, one for the then current fiscal year and one for the succeeding fiscal year.
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 4, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1097.)
§ 704. Joint funding
Pursuant to regulations prescribed by the President, and to the extent consistent with the other provisions of this chapter, where funds are provided for a single project by more than one Federal agency to an agency or organization assisted under this chapter, the Federal agency principally involved may be designated to act for all in administering the funds provided, and, in such cases, a single non-Federal share requirement may be established according to the proportion of funds advanced by each agency. When the principal agency involved is the Rehabilitation Services Administration, it may waive any grant or contract requirement (as defined by such regulations) under or pursuant to any law other than this chapter, which requirement is inconsistent with the similar requirements of the administering agency under or pursuant to this chapter.
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 5, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1097.)
§ 705. DefinitionsFor the purposes of this chapter:
(1) Administrative costsThe term “administrative costs” means expenditures incurred in the performance of administrative functions under the vocational rehabilitation program carried out under subchapter I, including expenses related to program planning, development, monitoring, and evaluation, including expenses for—
(A) quality assurance;
(B) budgeting, accounting, financial management, information systems, and related data processing;
(C) providing information about the program to the public;
(D) technical assistance and support services to other State agencies, private nonprofit organizations, and businesses and industries, except for technical assistance and support services described in section 723(b)(5) of this title;
(E) the State Rehabilitation Council and other advisory committees;
(F) professional organization membership dues for designated State unit employees;
(G) the removal of architectural barriers in State vocational rehabilitation agency offices and State operated rehabilitation facilities;
(H) operating and maintaining designated State unit facilities, equipment, and grounds;
(I) supplies;
(J) administration of the comprehensive system of personnel development described in section 721(a)(7) of this title, including personnel administration, administration of affirmative action plans, and training and staff development;
(K) administrative salaries, including clerical and other support staff salaries, in support of these administrative functions;
(L) travel costs related to carrying out the program, other than travel costs related to the provision of services;
(M) costs incurred in conducting reviews of rehabilitation counselor or coordinator determinations under section 722(c) of this title; and
(N) legal expenses required in the administration of the program.
(2) Assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needsThe term “assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs” means, as appropriate in each case—
(A)
(i) a review of existing data—(I) to determine whether an individual is eligible for vocational rehabilitation services; and(II) to assign priority for an order of selection described in section 721(a)(5)(A) of this title in the States that use an order of selection pursuant to section 721(a)(5)(A) of this title; and
(ii) to the extent necessary, the provision of appropriate assessment activities to obtain necessary additional data to make such determination and assignment;
(B) to the extent additional data is necessary to make a determination of the employment outcomes, and the nature and scope of vocational rehabilitation services, to be included in the individualized plan for employment of an eligible individual, a comprehensive assessment to determine the unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice, including the need for supported employment, of the eligible individual, which comprehensive assessment—
(i) is limited to information that is necessary to identify the rehabilitation needs of the individual and to develop the individualized plan for employment of the eligible individual;
(ii) uses, as a primary source of such information, to the maximum extent possible and appropriate and in accordance with confidentiality requirements—(I) existing information obtained for the purposes of determining the eligibility of the individual and assigning priority for an order of selection described in section 721(a)(5)(A) of this title for the individual; and(II) such information as can be provided by the individual and, where appropriate, by the family of the individual;
(iii) may include, to the degree needed to make such a determination, an assessment of the personality, interests, interpersonal skills, intelligence and related functional capacities, educational achievements, work experience, vocational aptitudes, personal and social adjustments, and employment opportunities of the individual, and the medical, psychiatric, psychological, and other pertinent vocational, educational, cultural, social, recreational, and environmental factors, that affect the employment and rehabilitation needs of the individual;
(iv) may include, to the degree needed, an appraisal of the patterns of work behavior of the individual and services needed for the individual to acquire occupational skills, and to develop work attitudes, work habits, work tolerance, and social and behavior patterns necessary for successful job performance, including the utilization of work in real job situations to assess and develop the capacities of the individual to perform adequately in a work environment; and
(v) to the maximum extent possible, relies on information obtained from experiences in integrated employment settings in the community, and other integrated community settings;
(C) referral, for the provision of rehabilitation technology services to the individual, to assess and develop the capacities of the individual to perform in a work environment; and
(D) an exploration of the individual’s abilities, capabilities, and capacity to perform in work situations, which shall be assessed periodically during trial work experiences, including experiences in which the individual is provided appropriate supports and training.
(3) Assistive technology terms
(A) Assistive technology
(B) Assistive technology device
(C) Assistive technology serviceThe term “assistive technology service” has the meaning given such term in section 3002 of this title, except that the reference in such section—
(i) to the term “individual with a disability” shall be deemed to mean an individual with a disability, as defined in paragraph (20)(A); and
(ii) to the term “individuals with disabilities” shall be deemed to mean more than 1 such individual.
(4) Community rehabilitation programThe term “community rehabilitation program” means a program that provides directly or facilitates the provision of vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities, and that provides, singly or in combination, for an individual with a disability to enable the individual to maximize opportunities for employment, including career advancement—
(A) medical, psychiatric, psychological, social, and vocational services that are provided under one management;
(B) testing, fitting, or training in the use of prosthetic and orthotic devices;
(C) recreational therapy;
(D) physical and occupational therapy;
(E) speech, language, and hearing therapy;
(F) psychiatric, psychological, and social services, including positive behavior management;
(G) assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs;
(H) rehabilitation technology;
(I) job development, placement, and retention services;
(J) evaluation or control of specific disabilities;
(K) orientation and mobility services for individuals who are blind;
(L) extended employment;
(M) psychosocial rehabilitation services;
(N) supported employment services and extended services;
(O) customized employment;
(P) services to family members when necessary to the vocational rehabilitation of the individual;
(Q) personal assistance services; or
(R) services similar to the services described in one of subparagraphs (A) through (Q).
(5) Competitive integrated employmentThe term “competitive integrated employment” means work that is performed on a full-time or part-time basis (including self-employment)—
(A) for which an individual—
(i) is compensated at a rate that—(I)(aa) shall be not less than the higher of the rate specified in (bb) is not less than the customary rate paid by the employer for the same or similar work performed by other employees who are not individuals with disabilities, and who are similarly situated in similar occupations by the same employer and who have similar training, experience, and skills; or(II) in the case of an individual who is self-employed, yields an income that is comparable to the income received by other individuals who are not individuals with disabilities, and who are self-employed in similar occupations or on similar tasks and who have similar training, experience, and skills; and
(ii) is eligible for the level of benefits provided to other employees;
(B) that is at a location where the employee interacts with other persons who are not individuals with disabilities (not including supervisory personnel or individuals who are providing services to such employee) to the same extent that individuals who are not individuals with disabilities and who are in comparable positions interact with other persons; and
(C) that, as appropriate, presents opportunities for advancement that are similar to those for other employees who are not individuals with disabilities and who have similar positions.
(6) Construction; cost of construction
(A) ConstructionThe term “construction” means—
(i) the construction of new buildings;
(ii) the acquisition, expansion, remodeling, alteration, and renovation of existing buildings; and
(iii) initial equipment of buildings described in clauses (i) and (ii).
(B) Cost of construction
(7) Customized employmentThe term “customized employment” means competitive integrated employment, for an individual with a significant disability, that is based on an individualized determination of the strengths, needs, and interests of the individual with a significant disability, is designed to meet the specific abilities of the individual with a significant disability and the business needs of the employer, and is carried out through flexible strategies, such as—
(A) job exploration by the individual;
(B) working with an employer to facilitate placement, including—
(i) customizing a job description based on current employer needs or on previously unidentified and unmet employer needs;
(ii) developing a set of job duties, a work schedule and job arrangement, and specifics of supervision (including performance evaluation and review), and determining a job location;
(iii) representation by a professional chosen by the individual, or self-representation of the individual, in working with an employer to facilitate placement; and
(iv) providing services and supports at the job location.
(8) Designated State agency; designated State unit
(A) Designated State agency
(B) Designated State unitThe term “designated State unit” means—
(i) any State agency unit required under section 721(a)(2)(B)(ii) of this title; or
(ii) in cases in which no such unit is so required, the State agency described in section 721(a)(2)(B)(i) of this title.
(9) DisabilityThe term “disability” means—
(A) except as otherwise provided in subparagraph (B), a physical or mental impairment that constitutes or results in a substantial impediment to employment; or
(B) for purposes of sections 701, 711, and 712 of this title, and subchapters II, IV, V, and VII, the meaning given it in section 12102 of title 42.
(10) Drug and illegal use of drugs
(A) Drug
(B) Illegal use of drugs
(11) Employment outcomeThe term “employment outcome” means, with respect to an individual—
(A) entering or retaining full-time or, if appropriate, part-time competitive employment in the integrated labor market;
(B) satisfying the vocational outcome of supported employment; or
(C) satisfying any other vocational outcome the Secretary of Education may determine to be appropriate (including satisfying the vocational outcome of customized employment, self-employment, telecommuting, or business ownership),
in a manner consistent with this chapter.
(12) Establishment of a community rehabilitation program
(13) Extended servicesThe term “extended services” means ongoing support services and other appropriate services, needed to support and maintain an individual with a most significant disability in supported employment, that—
(A) are provided singly or in combination and are organized and made available in such a way as to assist an eligible individual in maintaining supported employment;
(B) are based on a determination of the needs of an eligible individual, as specified in an individualized plan for employment; and
(C) are provided by a State agency, a nonprofit private organization, employer, or any other appropriate resource, after an individual has made the transition from support provided by the designated State unit.
(14) Federal share
(A) In general
(B) Exception
(C) Relationship to expenditures by a political subdivision
(15) Governor
(16) Impartial hearing officer
(A) In generalThe term “impartial hearing officer” means an individual—
(i) who is not an employee of a public agency (other than an administrative law judge, hearing examiner, or employee of an institution of higher education);
(ii) who is not a member of the State Rehabilitation Council described in section 725 of this title;
(iii) who has not been involved previously in the vocational rehabilitation of the applicant or eligible individual;
(iv) who has knowledge of the delivery of vocational rehabilitation services, the State plan under section 721 of this title, and the Federal and State rules governing the provision of such services and training with respect to the performance of official duties; and
(v) who has no personal or financial interest that would be in conflict with the objectivity of the individual.
(B) Construction
(17) Independent living core servicesThe term “independent living core services” means—
(A) information and referral services;
(B) independent living skills training;
(C) peer counseling (including cross-disability peer counseling);
(D) individual and systems advocacy; and
(E) services that—
(i) facilitate the transition of individuals with significant disabilities from nursing homes and other institutions to home and community-based residences, with the requisite supports and services;
(ii) provide assistance to individuals with significant disabilities who are at risk of entering institutions so that the individuals may remain in the community; and
(iii) facilitate the transition of youth who are individuals with significant disabilities, who were eligible for individualized education programs under section 614(d) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1414(d)), and who have completed their secondary education or otherwise left school, to postsecondary life.
(18) Independent living servicesThe term “independent living services” includes—
(A) independent living core services; and
(B)
(i) counseling services, including psychological, psychotherapeutic, and related services;
(ii) services related to securing housing or shelter, including services related to community group living, and supportive of the purposes of this chapter and of the subchapters of this chapter, and adaptive housing services (including appropriate accommodations to and modifications of any space used to serve, or occupied by, individuals with disabilities);
(iii) rehabilitation technology;
(iv) mobility training;
(v) services and training for individuals with cognitive and sensory disabilities, including life skills training, and interpreter and reader services;
(vi) personal assistance services, including attendant care and the training of personnel providing such services;
(vii) surveys, directories, and other activities to identify appropriate housing, recreation opportunities, and accessible transportation, and other support services;
(viii) consumer information programs on rehabilitation and independent living services available under this chapter, especially for minorities and other individuals with disabilities who have traditionally been unserved or underserved by programs under this chapter;
(ix) education and training necessary for living in a community and participating in community activities;
(x) supported living;
(xi) transportation, including referral and assistance for such transportation and training in the use of public transportation vehicles and systems;
(xii) physical rehabilitation;
(xiii) therapeutic treatment;
(xiv) provision of needed prostheses and other appliances and devices;
(xv) individual and group social and recreational services;
(xvi) training to develop skills specifically designed for youths who are individuals with disabilities to promote self-awareness and esteem, develop advocacy and self-empowerment skills, and explore career options;
(xvii) services for children;
(xviii) services under other Federal, State, or local programs designed to provide resources, training, counseling, or other assistance, of substantial benefit in enhancing the independence, productivity, and quality of life of individuals with disabilities;
(xix) appropriate preventive services to decrease the need of individuals assisted under this chapter for similar services in the future;
(xx) community awareness programs to enhance the understanding and integration into society of individuals with disabilities; and
(xxi) such other services as may be necessary and not inconsistent with the provisions of this chapter.
(19) Indian; American Indian; Indian American; Indian tribe
(A) In general
(B) Indian tribe
(20) Individual with a disability
(A) In generalExcept as otherwise provided in subparagraph (B), the term “individual with a disability” means any individual who—
(i) has a physical or mental impairment which for such individual constitutes or results in a substantial impediment to employment; and
(ii) can benefit in terms of an employment outcome from vocational rehabilitation services provided pursuant to subchapter I, III, or VI.
(B) Certain programs; limitations on major life activities
(C) Rights and advocacy provisions
(i) In general; exclusion of individuals engaging in drug use
(ii) Exception for individuals no longer engaging in drug useNothing in clause (i) shall be construed to exclude as an individual with a disability an individual who—(I) has successfully completed a supervised drug rehabilitation program and is no longer engaging in the illegal use of drugs, or has otherwise been rehabilitated successfully and is no longer engaging in such use;(II) is participating in a supervised rehabilitation program and is no longer engaging in such use; or(III) is erroneously regarded as engaging in such use, but is not engaging in such use;
except that it shall not be a violation of this chapter for a covered entity to adopt or administer reasonable policies or procedures, including but not limited to drug testing, designed to ensure that an individual described in subclause (I) or (II) is no longer engaging in the illegal use of drugs.
(iii) Exclusion for certain services
(iv) Disciplinary action
(v) Employment; exclusion of alcoholics
(D) Employment; exclusion of individuals with certain diseases or infections
(E) Rights provisions; exclusion of individuals on basis of homosexuality or bisexualityFor the purposes of sections 791, 793, and 794 of this title—
(i) for purposes of the application of subparagraph (B) to such sections, the term “impairment” does not include homosexuality or bisexuality; and
(ii) therefore the term “individual with a disability” does not include an individual on the basis of homosexuality or bisexuality.
(F) Rights provisions; exclusion of individuals on basis of certain disordersFor the purposes of sections 791, 793, and 794 of this title, the term “individual with a disability” does not include an individual on the basis of—
(i) transvestism, transsexualism, pedophilia, exhibitionism, voyeurism, gender identity disorders not resulting from physical impairments, or other sexual behavior disorders;
(ii) compulsive gambling, kleptomania, or pyromania; or
(iii) psychoactive substance use disorders resulting from current illegal use of drugs.
(G) Individuals with disabilities
(21) Individual with a significant disability
(A) In generalExcept as provided in subparagraph (B) or (C), the term “individual with a significant disability” means an individual with a disability—
(i) who has a severe physical or mental impairment which seriously limits one or more functional capacities (such as mobility, communication, self-care, self-direction, interpersonal skills, work tolerance, or work skills) in terms of an employment outcome;
(ii) whose vocational rehabilitation can be expected to require multiple vocational rehabilitation services over an extended period of time; and
(iii) who has one or more physical or mental disabilities resulting from amputation, arthritis, autism, blindness, burn injury, cancer, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, deafness, head injury, heart disease, hemiplegia, hemophilia, respiratory or pulmonary dysfunction, intellectual disability, mental illness, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, musculo-skeletal disorders, neurological disorders (including stroke and epilepsy), paraplegia, quadriplegia, and other spinal cord conditions, sickle cell anemia, specific learning disability, end-stage renal disease, or another disability or combination of disabilities determined on the basis of an assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (2) to cause comparable substantial functional limitation.
(B) Independent living services and centers for independent living
(C) Research and training
(D) Individuals with significant disabilities
(E) Individual with a most significant disability
(i) In general
(ii) Individuals with the most significant disabilities
(22) Individual’s representative; applicant’s representative
(23) Institution of higher education
(24) Local agency
(25) Local workforce development board
(26) Nonprofit
(27) Ongoing support servicesThe term “ongoing support services” means services—
(A) provided to individuals with the most significant disabilities;
(B) provided, at a minimum, twice monthly—
(i) to make an assessment, regarding the employment situation, at the worksite of each such individual in supported employment, or, under special circumstances, especially at the request of the client, off site; and
(ii) based on the assessment, to provide for the coordination or provision of specific intensive services, at or away from the worksite, that are needed to maintain employment stability; and
(C) consisting of—
(i) a particularized assessment supplementary to the comprehensive assessment described in paragraph (2)(B);
(ii) the provision of skilled job trainers who accompany the individual for intensive job skill training at the worksite;
(iii) job development, job retention, and placement services;
(iv) social skills training;
(v) regular observation or supervision of the individual;
(vi) followup services such as regular contact with the employers, the individuals, the individuals’ representatives, and other appropriate individuals, in order to reinforce and stabilize the job placement;
(vii) facilitation of natural supports at the worksite;
(viii) any other service identified in section 723 of this title; or
(ix) a service similar to another service described in this subparagraph.
(28) Personal assistance services
(30)2
2 So in original. There is no par. (29).
Pre-employment transition services(31) Public or nonprofit
(32) Rehabilitation technology
(33) SecretaryUnless where the context otherwise requires, the term “Secretary”—
(A) used in subchapter I, III, IV, V, VI, or part B of subchapter VII, means the Secretary of Education; and
(B) used in subchapter II or part A of subchapter VII, means the Secretary of Health and Human Services.
(34) State
(35) State workforce development board
(36) Statewide workforce development system
(37) Student with a disability
(A) In generalThe term “student with a disability” means an individual with a disability who—
(i)(I)(aa) is not younger than the earliest age for the provision of transition services under section 614(d)(1)(A)(i)(VIII) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1414(d)(1)(A)(i)(VIII)); or(bb) if the State involved elects to use a lower minimum age for receipt of pre-employment transition services under this chapter, is not younger than that minimum age; and(II)(aa) is not older than 21 years of age; or(bb) if the State law for the State provides for a higher maximum age for receipt of services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1400 et seq.), is not older than that maximum age; and
(ii)(I) is eligible for, and receiving, special education or related services under part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. 1411 et seq.); or(II) is an individual with a disability, for purposes of section 794 of this title.
(B) Students with disabilities
(38) Supported employmentThe term “supported employment” means competitive integrated employment, including customized employment, or employment in an integrated work setting in which individuals are working on a short-term basis toward competitive integrated employment, that is individualized and customized consistent with the strengths, abilities, interests, and informed choice of the individuals involved, for individuals with the most significant disabilities—
(A)
(i) for whom competitive integrated employment has not historically occurred; or
(ii) for whom competitive integrated employment has been interrupted or intermittent as a result of a significant disability; and
(B) who, because of the nature and severity of their disability, need intensive supported employment services and extended services after the transition described in paragraph (13)(C), in order to perform the work involved.
(39) Supported employment servicesThe term “supported employment services” means ongoing support services, including customized employment, needed to support and maintain an individual with a most significant disability in supported employment, that—
(A) are provided singly or in combination and are organized and made available in such a way as to assist an eligible individual to achieve competitive integrated employment;
(B) are based on a determination of the needs of an eligible individual, as specified in an individualized plan for employment; and
(C) are provided by the designated State unit for a period of not more than 24 months, except that period may be extended, if necessary, in order to achieve the employment outcome identified in the individualized plan for employment.
(40) Vocational rehabilitation services
(41) Workforce investment activities
(42) Youth with a disability
(A) In generalThe term “youth with a disability” means an individual with a disability who—
(i) is not younger than 14 years of age; and
(ii) is not older than 24 years of age.
(B) Youth with disabilities
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 7, formerly § 6, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1097; amended Pub. L. 105–244, title I, § 102(a)(9)(A), Oct. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1619; renumbered § 7 and amended Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1), (b)(3), (c)(1)], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–337, 2681–412, 2681–413, 2681–415; Pub. L. 105–394, title IV, § 402(a), Nov. 13, 1998, 112 Stat. 3661; Pub. L. 110–325, § 7, Sept. 25, 2008, 122 Stat. 3558; Pub. L. 111–256, § 2(d)(1), Oct. 5, 2010, 124 Stat. 2643; Pub. L. 113–128, title IV, § 404, July 22, 2014, 128 Stat. 1632.)
§ 706. Allotment percentage
(a)
(1) For purposes of section 730 of this title, the allotment percentage for any State shall be 100 per centum less that percentage which bears the same ratio to 50 per centum as the per capita income of such State bears to the per capita income of the United States, except that—
(A) the allotment percentage shall in no case be more than 75 per centum or less than 33⅓ per centum; and
(B) the allotment percentage for the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands shall be 75 per centum.
(2) The allotment percentages shall be promulgated by the Secretary of Education between October 1 and December 31 of each even-numbered year, on the basis of the average of the per capita incomes of the States and of the United States for the three most recent consecutive years for which satisfactory data are available from the Department of Commerce. Such promulgation shall be conclusive for each of the 2 fiscal years in the period beginning on the October 1 next succeeding such promulgation.
(3) The term “United States” means (but only for purposes of this subsection) the 50 States and the District of Columbia.
(b) The population of the several States and of the United States shall be determined on the basis of the most recent data available, to be furnished by the Department of Commerce by October 1 of the year preceding the fiscal year for which funds are appropriated pursuant to statutory authorizations.
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 8, formerly § 7, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1110; renumbered § 8, Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1)], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–337, 2681–412; amended Pub. L. 113–128, title IV, § 405(a), July 22, 2014, 128 Stat. 1637.)
§ 707. Nonduplication
In determining the amount of any State’s Federal share of expenditures for planning, administration, and services incurred by it under a State plan approved in accordance with section 721 of this title, there shall be disregarded—
(1) any portion of such expenditures which are financed by Federal funds provided under any other provision of law; and
(2) the amount of any non-Federal funds required to be expended as a condition of receipt of such Federal funds.
No payment may be made from funds provided under one provision of this chapter relating to any cost with respect to which any payment is made under any other provision of this chapter, except that this section shall not be construed to limit or reduce fees for services rendered by community rehabilitation programs.
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 10, formerly § 8, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1110; renumbered § 10 and amended Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1), (c)(2)], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–337, 2681–412, 2681–415.)
§ 708. Application of other laws
(a) The provisions of chapter 71 of title 31 and of title V of the Act of October 15, 1977 (Public Law 95–134) shall not apply to the administration of the provisions of this chapter or to the administration of any program or activity under this chapter.
(b) Section 501 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [29 U.S.C. 3341] shall apply, as specified in that section, to amendments to this chapter that were made by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 11, formerly § 9, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1110; renumbered § 11, Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1)], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–337, 2681–412; amended Pub. L. 113–128, title IV, § 405(b), July 22, 2014, 128 Stat. 1637.)
§ 709. Administration
(a) Technical assistance; short-term traineeships; special projects; dissemination of information; monitoring and evaluationsIn carrying out the purposes of this chapter, the Commissioner may—
(1)
(A) provide consultative services and technical assistance to public or nonprofit private agencies and organizations, including assistance to enable such agencies and organizations to facilitate meaningful and effective participation by individuals with disabilities in workforce investment activities;
(B) provide technical assistance to the designated State units on developing successful partnerships with local and multi-State businesses in an effort to increase the employment of individuals with disabilities;
(C) provide technical assistance to providers and organizations on developing self-employment opportunities and outcomes for individuals with disabilities; and
(D) provide technical assistance to entities carrying out community rehabilitation programs to build their internal capacity to provide individualized services and supports leading to competitive integrated employment, and to transition individuals with disabilities away from nonintegrated settings;
(2) provide short-term training and technical instruction, including training for the personnel of community rehabilitation programs and other providers of services (including job coaches);
(3) conduct special projects and demonstrations;
(4) collect, prepare, publish, and disseminate special educational or informational materials, including reports of the projects for which funds are provided under this chapter; and
(5) provide monitoring and conduct evaluations.
(b) Utilization of services and facilities; information task forces
(1) In carrying out the duties under this chapter, the Commissioner may utilize the services and facilities of any agency of the Federal Government and of any other public or nonprofit agency or organization, in accordance with agreements between the Commissioner and the head thereof, and may pay therefor, in advance or by way of reimbursement, as may be provided in the agreement.
(2) In carrying out the provisions of this chapter, the Commissioner shall appoint such task forces as may be necessary to collect and disseminate information in order to improve the ability of the Commissioner to carry out the provisions of this chapter.
(c) Regulations to carry out this chapter
(1) The Secretary of Education may promulgate such regulations as are considered appropriate to carry out the Commissioner’s duties under this chapter.
(2) In promulgating regulations to carry out this chapter, the Secretary of Education shall promulgate only regulations that are necessary to administer and ensure compliance with the specific requirements of this chapter.
(d) Regulations for implementation
(1) The Secretary of Education shall promulgate regulations regarding the requirements for the implementation of an order of selection for vocational rehabilitation services under section 721(a)(5)(A) of this title if such services cannot be provided to all eligible individuals with disabilities who apply for such services.
(2) Not later than 180 days after July 22, 2014, the Secretary of Education shall receive public comment and promulgate regulations to implement the amendments made by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.
(e) Authorities and responsibilities of Commissioner and Secretary of Education
(1) The Administrator of the Administration for Community Living (referred to in this subsection as the “Administrator”) may carry out the authorities and shall carry out the responsibilities of the Commissioner described in paragraphs (1)(A) and (2) through (4) of subsection (a), and subsection (b), except that, for purposes of applying subsections (a) and (b), a reference in those subsections—
(A) to facilitating meaningful and effective participation shall be considered to be a reference to facilitating meaningful and effective collaboration with independent living programs, and promoting a philosophy of independent living for individuals with disabilities in community activities; and
(B) to training for personnel shall be considered to be a reference to training for the personnel of centers for independent living and Statewide Independent Living Councils.
(2) The Secretary of Health and Human Services may carry out the authorities and shall carry out the responsibilities of the Secretary of Education described in subsections (c) and (d).
(f) References to “this chapter”
(1) In subsections (a) through (d), a reference to “this chapter” means a provision of this chapter that the Secretary of Education has authority to carry out; and
(2) In subsection (e), for purposes of applying subsections (a) through (d), a reference in those subsections to “this chapter” means a provision of this chapter that the Secretary of Health and Human Services has authority to carry out.
(g) Authorization of appropriations
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 12, formerly § 10, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1111; renumbered § 12, Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1)], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–337, 2681–412; amended Pub. L. 113–128, title IV, § 405(c), July 22, 2014, 128 Stat. 1637.)
§ 710. Reports
(a) Annual reports required
(b) Collection of information
(c) Information to be included in reports
(1)1
1 So in original. There is no par. (2).
In preparing the report, the Commissioner shall annually collect and include in the report information based on the information submitted by States in accordance with section 721(a)(10) of this title, including information on administrative costs as required by section 721(a)(10)(D) of this title. The Commissioner shall, to the maximum extent appropriate, include in the report all information that is required to be submitted in the reports described in section 3141(d)(2) of this title and that pertains to the employment of individuals with disabilities.(d) Availability to public
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 13, formerly § 11, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1111; renumbered § 13, Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1)], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–337, 2681–412; amended Pub. L. 113–128, title IV, § 406,
§ 711. Evaluation
(a) Statement of purpose; standards; persons eligible to conduct evaluations
(b) Opinions of participants; data as property of United States; availability of information
(1) In carrying out evaluations under this section, the Secretary of Education shall obtain the opinions of program and project participants about the strengths and weaknesses of the programs and projects.
(2) The Secretary of Education shall take the necessary action to assure that all studies, evaluations, proposals, and data produced or developed with Federal funds under this chapter shall become the property of the United States.
(3) Such information as the Secretary of Education may determine to be necessary for purposes of the evaluations conducted under this section shall be made available upon request of the Secretary of Education, by the departments and agencies of the executive branch.
(c) Longitudinal study
(1) To assess the linkages between vocational rehabilitation services and economic and noneconomic outcomes, the Secretary of Education shall continue to conduct a longitudinal study of a national sample of applicants for the services.
(2) The study shall address factors related to attrition and completion of the program through which the services are provided and factors within and outside the program affecting results. Appropriate comparisons shall be used to contrast the experiences of similar persons who do not obtain the services.
(3) The study shall be planned to cover the period beginning on the application of individuals with disabilities for the services, through the eligibility determination and provision of services for the individuals, and a further period of not less than 2 years after the termination of services.
(d) Information on exemplary practices
(1) The Commissioner shall identify and disseminate information on exemplary practices concerning vocational rehabilitation.
(2) To facilitate compliance with paragraph (1), the Commissioner shall conduct studies and analyses that identify exemplary practices concerning vocational rehabilitation, including studies in areas relating to providing informed choice in the rehabilitation process, promoting consumer satisfaction, promoting job placement and retention, providing supported employment, providing services to particular disability populations, financing personal assistance services, providing assistive technology devices and assistive technology services, entering into cooperative agreements, establishing standards and certification for community rehabilitation programs, converting from nonintegrated to competitive integrated employment, and providing caseload management.
(e) Authorities and responsibilities of Secretary of Education and Commissioner
(1) The Secretary of Health and Human Services may carry out the authorities and shall carry out the responsibilities of the Secretary of Education described in subsections (a) and (b).
(2) The Administrator of the Administration for Community Living may carry out the authorities and shall carry out the responsibilities of the Commissioner described in subsections (a) and (d)(1), except that, for purposes of applying those subsections, a reference in those subsections to exemplary practices shall be considered to be a reference to exemplary practices concerning independent living services and centers for independent living.
(f) References to “this chapter”
(1) In subsections (a) through (d), a reference to “this chapter” means a provision of this chapter that the Secretary of Education has authority to carry out; and
(2) In subsection (e), for purposes of applying subsections (a), (b), and (d), a reference in those subsections to “this chapter” means a provision of this chapter that the Secretary of Health and Human Services has authority to carry out.
(g) Authorization of appropriations
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 14, formerly § 12, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1110; renumbered § 14, Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1)], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–337, 2681–412; amended Pub. L. 113–128, title IV, § 407(a), July 22, 2014, 128 Stat. 1638.)
§ 712. Information clearinghouse
(a) Establishment; information and resources for individuals with disabilities
The Secretary of Education shall establish a central clearinghouse for information and resource availability for individuals with disabilities which shall provide information and data regarding—
(1) the location, provision, and availability of services and programs for individuals with disabilities, including such information and data provided by State workforce development boards regarding such services and programs authorized under title I of such Act; 1
1 See References in Text note below.
(2) research and recent medical and scientific developments bearing on disabilities (and their prevention, amelioration, causes, and cures); and
(3) the current numbers of individuals with disabilities and their needs.
The clearinghouse shall also provide any other relevant information and data which the Secretary of Education considers appropriate.
(b) Information and data retrieval system
(c) Office of Information and Resources for Individuals with Disabilities
(d) Authorization of appropriations
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 15, formerly § 13, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1113; renumbered § 15, Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1)], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–337, 2681–412; amended Pub. L. 113–128, title IV, § 407(b), July 22, 2014, 128 Stat. 1639.)
§ 713. Transfer of funds
(a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, no funds appropriated under this chapter for any program or activity may be used for any purpose other than that for which the funds were specifically authorized.
(b) No more than 1 percent of funds appropriated for discretionary grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements authorized by this chapter may be used for the purpose of providing non-Federal panels of experts to review applications for such grants, contracts, or cooperative agreements.
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 16, formerly § 14, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1113; renumbered § 16, Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1)], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–337, 2681–412.)
§ 714. State administration
The application of any State rule or policy relating to the administration or operation of programs funded by this chapter (including any rule or policy based on State interpretation of any Federal law, regulation, or guideline) shall be identified as a State imposed requirement.
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 17, formerly § 15, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1114; renumbered § 17, Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1)], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–337, 2681–412.)
§ 715. Review of applications
Applications for grants in excess of $100,000 in the aggregate authorized to be funded under this chapter, other than grants primarily for the purpose of conducting dissemination or conferences, shall be reviewed by panels of experts which shall include a majority of non-Federal members. Non-Federal members may be provided travel, per diem, and consultant fees not to exceed the daily equivalent of the rate of pay for level 4 of the Senior Executive Service Schedule under section 5382 of title 5.
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 18, formerly § 16, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1114; renumbered § 18, Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1)], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–337, 2681–412.)
§ 716. Carryover
(a) In general
Except as provided in subsection (b), and notwithstanding any other provision of law—
(1) any funds appropriated for a fiscal year to carry out any grant program under part B of subchapter I, section 794e of this title (except as provided in section 794e(b) of this title), subchapter VI, subpart 2 or 3 of part A of subchapter VII, or part B of subchapter VII (except as provided in section 796k(b) of this title), including any funds reallotted under any such grant program, that are not obligated and expended by recipients prior to the beginning of the succeeding fiscal year; or
(2) any amounts of program income, including reimbursement payments under the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 301 et seq.), received by recipients under any grant program specified in paragraph (1) that are not obligated and expended by recipients prior to the beginning of the fiscal year succeeding the fiscal year in which such amounts were received,
shall remain available for obligation and expenditure by such recipients during such succeeding fiscal year.
(b) Non-Federal share
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 19, formerly § 17, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1114; renumbered § 19 and amended Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1), (b)(4)], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–337, 2681–412, 2681–413; Pub. L. 113–128, title IV, § 408, July 22, 2014, 128 Stat. 1639.)
§ 717. Client assistance information
All programs, including community rehabilitation programs, and projects, that provide services to individuals with disabilities under this chapter shall advise such individuals who are applicants for or recipients of the services, or the applicants’ representatives or individuals’ representatives, of the availability and purposes of the client assistance program under section 732 of this title, including information on means of seeking assistance under such program.
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 20, formerly § 18, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1114; renumbered § 20 and amended Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1), (b)(5)], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–337, 2681–412, 2681–413.)
§ 718. Traditionally underserved populations
(a) Findings
With respect to the programs authorized in subchapters II through VII, the Congress finds as follows:
(1) Racial profile
(2) Rate of disability
Ethnic and racial minorities tend to have disabling conditions at a disproportionately high rate. In 2011—
(A) among Americans ages 16 through 64, the rate of disability was 12.1 percent;
(B) among African-Americans in that age range, the disability rate was more than twice as high, at 27.1 percent; and
(C) for American Indians and Alaska Natives in the same age range, the disability rate was also more than twice as high, at 27.0 percent.
(3) Inequitable treatment
(4) Recruitment
(b) Outreach to minorities
(1) In general
(2) Activities
The activities carried out by the Commissioner and the Director shall include one or more of the following:
(A) Making awards to minority entities and Indian tribes to carry out activities under the programs authorized under subchapters II, III, VI, and VII.
(B) Making awards to minority entities and Indian tribes to conduct research, training, technical assistance, or a related activity, to improve services provided under this chapter, especially services provided to individuals from minority backgrounds.
(C) Making awards to entities described in paragraph (3) to provide outreach and technical assistance to minority entities and Indian tribes to promote their participation in activities funded under this chapter, including assistance to enhance their capacity to carry out such activities.
(3) Eligibility
(4) Report
(5) Definitions
In this subsection:
(A) Historically Black college or university
(B) Minority entity
(c) Demonstration
(Pub. L. 93–112, § 21, formerly § 19, as added Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403, Aug. 7, 1998, 112 Stat. 1115; renumbered § 21 and amended Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1), (b)(6), (c)(3)], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–337, 2681–412, 2681–413, 2681–415; Pub. L. 113–128, title IV, § 409, July 22, 2014, 128 Stat. 1639.)