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<P class=MsoNormal
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style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT
OF EDUCATION<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns =
"urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office"
/><o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></SPAN></A></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">OFFICE OF SPECIAL
EDUCATION AND <BR>REHABILITATIVE
SERVICES<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">REHABILITATION SERVICES
ADMINISTRATION<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">WASHINGTON, D.C.
20202-2800<o:p></o:p></SPAN></B></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></B></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 3.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><U><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
CIRCULAR<o:p></o:p></SPAN></U></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 3.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">RSA-TAC-12-03<o:p></o:p></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 3.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">DATE:<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>April 16,
2012<o:p></o:p></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
class=CharChar9><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><STRONG><FONT
face=Calibri>ADDRESSEES:</FONT></STRONG></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"> <SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 1">
</SPAN>STATE VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION
AGENCIES<o:p></o:p></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">STATE REHABILITATION
COUNCILS<o:p></o:p></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.75in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
& CONTINUING <BR>EDUCATION CENTERS<o:p></o:p></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.75in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">AMERICAN INDIAN
VOCATIONAL <BR>REHABILITATION PROGRAMS<o:p></o:p></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">CLIENT ASSISTANCE
PROGRAMS<o:p></o:p></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">CONSUMER ADVOCACY
ORGANIZATIONS<o:p></o:p></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
class=CharChar9><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><STRONG><FONT
face=Calibri>SUBJECT:</FONT></STRONG></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"> <SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 1">
</SPAN>Organizational Structure and Non-Delegable Responsibilities of the
Designated State Unit for the Vocational Rehabilitation
Program<o:p></o:p></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
class=CharChar9><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><STRONG><FONT
face=Calibri>PURPOSE:</FONT></STRONG></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"><SPAN style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 1">
</SPAN>Through this technical assistance circular (TAC), the Rehabilitation
Services Administration (RSA) provides guidance on the federal requirements
governing the organizational structure of, and the non-delegable
responsibilities to be performed by, the designated State unit (DSU) for the
vocational rehabilitation (VR) program, authorized under Title I, Part B, of the
<I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation Act of 1973</I>, as
amended (<I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation Act</I>).<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>RSA has determined that clarification of
the relevant statutory and regulatory provisions is needed in light of inquiries
from VR agencies and the results of its recent monitoring activities.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></P><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK2"></SPAN><SPAN
style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1"></SPAN>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">The guidance contained
in this TAC covers each of the federal requirements and further
explains:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">the meaning of the term
“other rehabilitation” for the purpose of satisfying the organizational
requirements for the DSU within the designated State agency
(DSA);<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">the calculation used to
determine the percentage of DSU staff required to perform the vocational or
other rehabilitation work of the DSU; <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">factors to consider when
determining if the DSU is located at a level comparable to other major
components of the DSA; and<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">additional factors
related to the assessment of the DSU’s ability to perform its non-delegable
responsibilities.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-hyphenate: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">This TAC retires prior
guidance issued through RSA-PI-75-31, <I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">RSA
Policy Statement on Interpretation of State VR Organizational Requirements of
the Rehabilitation Act as amended</I>, June 3, 1975; RSA-PI-<SPAN
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold">77-26, </SPAN><I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">RSA Policy Statement of Interpretation of
State VR Organizational Requirements of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended</I>
July 26, 1977 (addendum to RSA-75-31); and <SPAN
style="LETTER-SPACING: -0.15pt">RSA-PD-96-02, <I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Special Education Programs as "Other
Rehabilitation" for Purposes <SPAN style="mso-tab-count: 1">
</SPAN>of the Application of the Provisions of Sections 101(a)(1)(B)(i) and
(2)(A)(i) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended</I>, November 7,
1995.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>These prior issuances
contained outdated citations, described regulations that are no longer in
effect, or included information that is restated in explanatory guidance to
current regulations.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>However, any
still valid statements of policy found in these older issuances are incorporated
in this TAC.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt 1in; TEXT-INDENT: -1in; TEXT-ALIGN: justify; tab-stops: -.5in 0in .5in; mso-hyphenate: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; LINE-HEIGHT: 115%; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; LETTER-SPACING: -0.15pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><FONT size=3>FEDERAL </FONT></H1>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -1.5in"><FONT
size=3>REQUIREMENTS:<SPAN style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: normal">Since 1920, when the VR program was first authorized
under the <I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Smith-Fess Act</I>, federal
requirements governing the organizational requirements for the VR program have
changed significantly.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>The <I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Smith-Fess Act </I>required that the VR
program be administered by State Boards of Vocational Education.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>The 1954 amendments to the <I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Vocational</I> <I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation Act </I>(<I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">VR Act</I>), the authorizing federal
legislation for the VR program at that time, created another organizational
structure option for States in administering the VR program.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Specifically, those amendments permitted
the VR program to be administered by a state agency that was primarily concerned
with VR and other rehabilitation.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>In other words, an independent state agency could be established to
administer the VR program and other programs for individuals with
disabilities.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">The 1965 Amendments to
the <I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">VR Act</I> contained the last
significant change in the statutory provisions related to the state
administration and organization of the VR program.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>In response to a perceived need for
greater flexibility at the state level, the 1965 Amendments also allowed the VR
program to be administered by a state agency that contained at least two other
units administering a program of education, health, welfare, or labor.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Congress clearly intended to achieve a
balance between state flexibility in the administration of the VR program, while
at the same time preserving the integrity and autonomy of the program by
imposing the organizational unit requirements described below, which were
subsequently incorporated into the <I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation Act</I> and have been
maintained since that time.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><o:p></o:p></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">Section 101(a)(2)(A) of
the <I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation Act </I>and its
implementing regulations at 34 CFR 361.13(a) require that the VR State Plan
shall designate a state agency as the sole state agency to administer the
plan.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>The state agency designated
to administer the VR State Plan must be either:<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>1) a state agency primarily concerned
with VR, or VR and other rehabilitation, of individuals with disabilities; or 2)
a state agency that includes a VR bureau, division or other organizational unit
(Section 101(a)(2)(B) of the <I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation Act </I>and 34 CFR
361.13(a)).<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">If the state agency
contains a VR bureau, division or other organizational unit, Section
101(a)(2)(B)(ii) of the <I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation
Act </I>and 34 CFR 361.13(b) require that the VR bureau, division or VR
organizational unit must:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo5"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">be primarily concerned
with VR, or VR and other rehabilitation, of individuals with disabilities, and
be responsible for the<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>VR program
of the DSA;<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo5"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">be administered by a
full-time director;<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo5"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">employ staff on the
rehabilitation work of the organizational unit all or substantially all of whom
devote their full time to such work; and<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo5"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">be located at an
organizational level and have an organizational status within the DSA comparable
to that of other major organizational units of the DSA.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">In addition, regulations
found at 34 CFR 361.13(c) require that certain functions be reserved solely to
the staff of the DSU and that these functions may not be delegated to any other
agency or individual (34 CFR 361.13(c)(2)).<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>At a minimum, these “non-delegable”
responsibilities relate to decisions affecting:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo6"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">eligibility, the nature
and scope of services, and the provision of those services (34 CFR
361.13(c)(1)(i));<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo6"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">the determination that
individuals have achieved employment outcomes (34 CFR 361.13(c)(1)(ii));
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo6"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">policy formulation and
implementation (34 CFR 361.13(c)(1)(iii)); <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo6"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">the allocation and
expenditure of VR funds (34 CFR 361.13(c)(1)(iv)); and <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo6"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">the participation of the
DSU in the one-stop service delivery system in accordance with Title I of the <I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Workforce Investment Act</I> (<I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">WIA</I>) and the regulatory requirements
specified in 20 CFR Part 662 (34 CFR 361.13(c)(1)(v)).<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; tab-stops: 45.8pt 91.6pt 137.4pt 183.2pt 229.0pt 274.8pt 320.6pt 366.4pt 412.2pt 458.0pt 503.8pt 549.6pt 595.4pt 641.2pt 687.0pt 732.8pt"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><FONT size=3>TECHNICAL</FONT></H1>
<H1 style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -1.5in"><FONT
size=3>ASSISTANCE:<SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 1">
</SPAN><SPAN style="FONT-WEIGHT: normal">Although RSA can best determine whether
a state is complying with the organizational requirements for the DSU and DSA
through the conduct of monitoring (Final Regulations 62 Fed. Reg. 6308, 6316
(February 11, 1997)), it is important that state officials and personnel
responsible for the administration of the VR program understand each federal
requirement to ensure that the state has in fact created the proper
organizational structure that enables the DSU to exercise its non-delegable
responsibilities for the VR program.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>Therefore, in an effort to assist States outside of the monitoring
process, this TAC first provides guidance on each of the organizational
requirements and then addresses the non-delegable responsibilities of the DSU.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></H1>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<H2 style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in"><FONT size=3>Administration of the VR
Program and “Other Rehabilitation”<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN></FONT></H2>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">The DSA or the DSU, in
those States where there is a DSU, must be primarily concerned with VR, or VR
and other rehabilitation, of individuals with disabilities (Section 101(a)(2)(B)
of the <I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation Act </I>and 34 CFR
361.13(a)(1) and (b)(1)(i)).<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>According to these requirements, the primary function of the DSA or the
DSU, if one exists, must be the delivery of VR or VR and other rehabilitation
services to individuals with disabilities.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">Although the statute and
regulations permit the DSA or the DSU to administer programs other than the VR
program that assist with the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities,
the relevant provisions themselves neither define nor describe the meaning of
the term “other rehabilitation.”<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>However, the preamble to the 1997 final VR program regulations clarifies
that “other rehabilitation” “includes, but is not limited to, other programs
that provide medical, psychological, educational, or social services to
individuals with disabilities” (Final Regulations 62 Fed. Reg. 6308, 6316
(February 11, 1997)). <SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>The preamble
to the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) for these final regulations also
contains examples of programs or services that constitute “other
rehabilitation,” including independent living services, programs for individuals
with developmental disabilities, services for individuals who are deaf or
hearing‑impaired, services for individuals who are blind or visually impaired,
Social Security disability determinations, or another type of program related to
individuals with disabilities (NPRM 60 Fed. Reg. 64476, 64481 (December 15,
1995)).<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">In light of this
regulatory guidance, the determination whether programs located within, or
services provided by, the DSU constitute “other rehabilitation” for purposes of
the VR organizational requirements is dependent on the provision of services or
supports provided by those other programs to individuals with disabilities, as
well as the linkage between those services and supports and the VR program.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>For instance, a DSU may be located
within a DSA that provides human services.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>Although the concept of “other rehabilitation” is very broad as described
above, not all human services can be considered to come within its scope.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>For example, the provision of medical,
psychiatric, or social services to individuals with developmental disabilities,
mental illness, or with alcohol and drug addictions would fall within the scope
of “other rehabilitation” because the primary purpose of those services is to
benefit individuals with disabilities.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>On the other hand, the provision of other types of human services, such
as those for the aging, child welfare, child care licensing, and
crisis/emergency response would not fall within the scope of “other
rehabilitation” for purposes of the VR organizational requirements because the
primary focus of each of these programs is not the provision of VR or other
rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>The fact that these programs may, on
occasion, benefit individuals with disabilities, does not alter the fact that
the primary focus of these programs is to benefit a wider population.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">Consequently, the DSU
must determine the primary purpose of the other programs that fall within its
purview to ascertain if those programs constitute “other rehabilitation” within
the meaning of VR organizational requirements.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Only then can the DSU ensure that
substantially all of its staff are engaged in the provision of VR or other
rehabilitation services, despite the inclusion of these other human service
programs under its purview.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>As
explained further below, an understanding of whether the scope of the
programming administered by the DSA or DSU, if one exists, indicates that it is
primarily responsible for the provision of VR and other rehabilitation services
is critical for determining if all, or substantially all, of the DSU’s staff are
employed full-time on the VR and other rehabilitation work of the unit.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.75in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<H2 style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in"><FONT size=3>Full-Time Director
</FONT></H2>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.75in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">Section
101(a)(2)(B)(ii)(II) of the <I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation Act </I>and 34 CFR
361.13(b)(1)(ii) require that the DSU, if one has been established within a
larger DSA, employ a full-time director.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>Pursuant to this requirement, the DSU director must devote his or her
full time to the work of the DSU, which would include the VR program and any
other program under the purview of the DSU.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>While the director is not required to
devote his or her full time to the VR component of the DSU’s work, title I funds
must be used only to support the work of the director as it relates to the VR
program.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; tab-stops: list .25in"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">Although this statutory
and regulatory provision is as important to the proper organizational structure
and administration of the VR program, its language is clear and RSA has received
no inquiries or encountered any issues of non-compliance during the monitoring
process with respect to its implementation.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Thus, no further explanation or guidance
concerning this specific requirement is warranted at this
time.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.75in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<H2 style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in"><FONT size=3>Staff Performing VR or Other
Rehabilitation Work </FONT></H2>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">The DSU, where one
exists, must have “a staff employed on the rehabilitation work of the
organizational unit all or substantially all of whom are employed full time on
such work” (Section 101(a)(2)(B)(ii)(III) of the <I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation Act</I>).<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>VR program regulations clarify the
meaning of “substantially all” by requiring that the DSU have “a staff, at least
90 percent of whom are employed full time on the rehabilitation work of the
organizational unit” (34 CFR 361.13(b)(1)(iii)).<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><o:p></o:p></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">The <I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation Act </I>recognizes the
state’s flexibility regarding the manner in which it organizes the DSU and
allows for the centralization of its administrative functions. <SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Nonetheless, it remains consistent and
clear that the DSA and the DSU, if one exists in the state, must be primarily
concerned with the VR or VR and other rehabilitation needs of individuals with
disabilities.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Although the work of
the DSU can encompass activities that extend beyond VR and other rehabilitation,
the <I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation Act </I>and the VR
implementing regulations prescribe that "all or substantially all staff" – e.g.,
90 percent -- of the DSU must devote their full time to the rehabilitation work
of the unit, i.e., VR or vocational and other rehabilitation.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>This intention is further supported by
guidance contained in the preamble to the 1995 NPRM, which reads as
follows:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 27pt 0pt 2in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; TEXT-ALIGN: justify"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">This requirement means
that if the organizational unit provides other rehabilitation services, in
addition to vocational rehabilitation, the 90 percent staffing requirement
applies to all unit staff providing rehabilitation services, not to just the
vocational rehabilitation staff (NPRM 60 Fed. Reg. 64476, 64481 (December 15,
1995)).<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">In other words, no more
than ten percent of the DSU staff can devote any portion of their time to other
programs and activities carried out by the DSU that do not constitute VR or
other rehabilitation, as described above.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">To determine that the
DSU employs a staff at least 90 percent of whom are working full-time on the
rehabilitation work of the unit, RSA considers the entire DSU, as defined by the
state in the VR State Plan, and all of its activities.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>RSA then determines which of those
activities constitute the VR and other rehabilitation of individuals with
disabilities.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Once this
determination is made, RSA then takes into account the total staff employed by
the DSU and the manner in which they are apportioned to each of the DSU’s
activities to determine the percentage that work full-time on the rehabilitation
work of the DSU, as opposed to the percentage that are engaged, full- or
part-time, on the non-rehabilitation work, if any, of the
DSU.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">The Federal requirement
refers to 90 percent of the staff, not 90 percent of the staff’s work hours,
that must be devoted to the performance of matters related to VR or the other
rehabilitation work of the DSU.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>This distinction is important when considering DSU staff who expend any
time working on the provision of services or activities that do not constitute
VR or other rehabilitation, such as universal and core service activities within
Workforce Centers.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>The DSU must
maintain careful time distribution records for any staff, again no more than ten
percent, who spend any time working on matters that are not related to the VR or
other rehabilitation work of the DSU.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>These time records are essential to ensure that this requirement is
satisfied, as well as compliance with cost allocation requirements under <SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>the federal cost principles found at 2
CFR Part 225.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">For example, a DSU’s
staff may be co-located in the state’s one-stop centers and it may meet its cost
sharing obligations, in part, by paying for a proportionate share of the
reception services provided by one-stop staff, or by assigning DSU staff to
perform reception duties while again ensuring that the time of these staff is
properly allocated to the VR program.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>Because the receptionists in the one-stop centers perform “universal”
activities for all individuals served by the centers, not only individuals with
disabilities, they cannot be considered to be engaged in the provision of VR or
other rehabilitation services.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>Therefore, if the DSU chooses to assign its staff to assist with the
reception duties at the one-stop centers, it must be careful that the number of
staff assigned to these or other such duties, even on a part-time basis do not
exceed ten percent of its total staff.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">Furthermore, RSA
recognizes that staffing of a state agency is a dynamic process in which the
number of staff or full-time equivalent (FTE) positions can change on a frequent
basis.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>In an environment where
funding may be limited, it is not uncommon for hiring freezes and budget
concerns to result in vacant FTE positions that may not be filled or that may be
eliminated. Consequently, when reviewing a DSU’s compliance with this
requirement, RSA only considers staff who are actively employed at a specific
point during the review and does not consider vacant positions or FTEs assigned
to the DSU, as those positions are not actively contributing to the provision of
VR or other rehabilitation services within the DSU.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>The language of Section
101(a)(2)(B)(ii)(III) and the regulations at 34 CFR 361.13(b)(1)(iii) supports
this approach through the use of such words as “staff” and “employed.”<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Additionally, when discussing this
requirement, the preambles to both the 1995 NPRM (60 Fed. Reg. 64475,
64481(December 15, 1995)) and the 1997 Final Regulations (62 Fed. Reg. 6307,
6316 (February 11, 1997)) refer to “all unit staff <B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">providing rehabilitation services</I></B>”
(emphasis added).<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Therefore, when
making the determination that a DSU is in compliance with the requirement that
90 percent of its staff work full-time on VR or other rehabilitation activities,
only staff actually employed by the unit will be taken into consideration.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">Finally, some DSUs
include within their structures community rehabilitation programs (CRP) that
employ both staff who provide rehabilitation services to individuals with
disabilities and staff who engage solely in the production and manufacturing
activities of the CRP.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>When
determining whether substantially all of the DSU’s staff are engaged full-time
in the provision of VR and other rehabilitation services, only those individuals
employed within the CRP who provide rehabilitation services are considered to be
performing VR or other rehabilitation activities, and not those individuals
engaged in its production work. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></B></P>
<H2 style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in"><FONT size=3>Organizational Level and
Status of the DSU</FONT></H2>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">Section
101(a)(2)(B)(ii)(IV) of the <I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation Act </I>and 34 CFR
361.13(b)(1)(iv) require that the DSU, where one exists, must be “located at an
organizational level and [have] an organizational status within the designated
State agency comparable to that of other major organizational units of the
designated State agency.”<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>This
particular requirement has remained unchanged since its inclusion in the 1965
amendments to the <I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">VR Act</I> and, along
with the other requirements discussed above, affirms a cardinal principle
concerning the organization of the VR program – that the VR program is an
integral categorical program, not to be merged with other organizations of state
government. <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; tab-stops: 0in 1.1in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in 7.0in 7.5in; mso-hyphenate: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; tab-stops: 0in 1.1in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in 7.0in 7.5in; mso-hyphenate: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">The requirement that the
DSU be located at a level and have a status comparable to that of the other
major units of the DSA, in effect, places constraints upon the alternatives
available to the State in designating an agency to administer the VR
program.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>As clearly articulated in
the Congressional Oversight Hearings of November 30 and December 10, 1973, the
objective of these constraints is to prevent the submersion of the VR program
within the structure of the DSA, which could reduce the program’s scope and
effectiveness.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>The requirements
have been consistently interpreted to mean that the VR unit must have clear,
direct supervision of VR staff with regard to program policy, operations, and
related program matters.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">When evaluating whether
the DSU is at a comparable level to other major organizational units within the
DSA, it has been the long-standing policy of RSA that such an evaluation will
take into consideration such factors as:<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; tab-stops: 0in 1.1in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in 7.0in 7.5in; mso-hyphenate: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo2; mso-hyphenate: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">the directness of the
reporting line from the VR director to the head of the
DSA;<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo2; mso-hyphenate: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">the title, status, and
grade of the VR director, as compared with those of the heads of other
organizational units within the DSA;<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo2; mso-hyphenate: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">the extent to which the
VR director can determine the scope and policies of the VR program;
and<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo2; mso-hyphenate: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">the kind and degree of
authority delegated to the director of the DSU for the administration of the VR
program.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; tab-stops: 0in 1.1in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in 7.0in 7.5in; mso-hyphenate: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">Each of these factors
should be considered when determining if the DSU is located at a level
comparable to other major units of the DSA, and not submerged within the
organizational structure of the DSA to such an extent that the DSU director is
limited in his or her ability to have input into legislative and other matters
affecting the VR program in a manner that is more restricted than that of other
directors of comparable programs.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>However, with respect to the consideration of the title, status, and pay
grade of the DSU director, RSA has not historically been involved in providing
direction to the states regarding personnel matters, except as they relate to
the requirements for a comprehensive system of personnel development.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Absent a functional impact, differences
in title, status and pay grade between the DSU director and other directors in
the DSA may not raise concerns in connection with the federal requirements at
Section 101(a)(2)(B)(ii)(IV) of the <I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation Act </I>and 34 CFR
361.13(b)(1)(iv).<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>On the other
hand, if such differences reflect a devaluation of the DSU, this factor should
be considered, along with the others mentioned herein, to determine the state’s
compliance with the federal organizational requirements for the DSU and the
ability of the DSU to carry out the non-delegable responsibilities specified in
34 CFR 361.13(c).<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; tab-stops: 0in 1.1in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in 7.0in 7.5in; mso-hyphenate: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">Ideally the DSU director
reports directly to the head of the DSA. However, given the complexity of some
state government structures, the head of the DSA may find it necessary to
require that the DSU director report to a deputy within his or her office
instead.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Such an organizational
structure is permissible within the requirements of Section 101(a)(2)(B)(ii)(IV)
of the <I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation Act </I>and 34 CFR
361.13(b)(1)(iv), so long as the DSU director and the directors of the other
major components are treated similarly.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>Under such arrangements, the deputy within the DSA’s office typically
functions as a conduit of information and facilitator of communication between
the DSU director and the head of the DSA, as well as with the heads of the other
major units.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">Unlike the
above-described organizational structure, some state government structures
include a level of organization outside the head of the DSA’s office that
incorporates the DSU within its own structure, thus creating an additional
organizational layer between the head of the DSA and the DSU.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>While additional organizational layers
between the DSA and the DSU may be permissible, their presence can complicate
the determination of the proper placement of the DSU.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>When evaluating this intervening
organizational level in light of the factors listed above, especially that of
the directness of communication between the head of the DSA and the DSU
director, RSA considers the role of the head of the intervening organization in
terms of the administration of the VR and other programs located within the
intervening level. Specifically, RSA considers whether this individual’s role
interferes with the DSU director’s ability to perform the non-delegable
functions listed at 34 CFR 361.13(c).<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>For example, RSA will examine the involvement of the head of the
intervening organization in decisions related to legislative, budget, strategic
planning, policy development, and the allocation of resources (including staff)
of the VR program, particularly as compared to the involvement of the heads of
intervening levels in matters administered by the directors of other major
components within the DSA.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Under
circumstances where the DSU director does not provide input on such matters
directly to the head of the DSA, but rather does so through the head of the
intervening organization, RSA will consider whether the input provided by the VR
director is marginalized prior to being transmitted to the head of the DSA.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>The marginalization of such input could
have a negative affect on the ability of the DSU director to carry out the
non-delegable responsibilities for the VR program set forth at 34 CFR 361.13(c).
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">In summary, RSA
considers many factors when analyzing whether the DSU is located at a level
comparable to other major components within the DSA.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Except for the factor pertaining to the
VR director’s ability to carry out the non-delegable functions required by 34
CFR 361.13(c), none of these factors are dispositive on their own.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Instead, they all work together to help
RSA determine whether the organizational structure established by the state
meets the spirit and intent of the federal requirements.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<H2 style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in"><FONT size=3>Non-Delegable
Responsibilities</FONT></H2>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">As stated earlier in
this TAC, Section 101(a)(2)(B)(ii)(I) of the <I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation Act </I>and 34 CFR
361.13(b)(1)(i) require that the DSU be responsible for the administration of
the VR program.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>The statute does
not describe the nature and scope of this responsibility or how it is to be
carried out by the DSU.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>However,
the VR program implementing regulations, found at 34 CFR 361.13(c)(1), require
that certain functions be reserved solely to the staff of the DSU and that these
functions may not be delegated to any other agency or individual (34 CFR
361.13(c)(2)).<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>These
“non-delegable” functions relate to decisions affecting:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo3"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">eligibility, the nature
and scope of services, and the provision of those
services;<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo3"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">the determination that
individuals have achieved employment outcomes; <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo3"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">policy formulation and
implementation; <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo3"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">allocation and
expenditure of VR funds; and <o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo3"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">participation in the
One-Stop service delivery system in accordance with Title I of the <I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Workforce Investment Act</I> (WIA) and the
regulatory requirements specified in 20 CFR Part 662.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoFooter style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; tab-stops: .5in"><SPAN
lang=X-NONE>RSA has long interpreted these provisions to require that the
specified functions and activities be carried out by the DSU’s own staff (NPRM,
60 <I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Fed. Reg.</I> 64475, 64482 (December
15, 1995) and Final Regulations, 62 <I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Fed.
Reg.</I> 6307, 6316 (February 11, 1997)).<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes">
</SPAN>In addition, the VR unit must have clear and direct supervision over VR
program staff with regard to program policy, operations, and related program
matters.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoFooter
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; tab-stops: .5in center 3.0in right 6.0in"><SPAN
lang=X-NONE><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoFooter style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; tab-stops: .5in"><SPAN
lang=X-NONE>The non-delegation provisions are intended to, “[strengthen] the
role of the State unit by requiring that the unit have a substantial role in all
decisions affecting the administration of the VR program whenever management
functions within the State agency are centralized” (60 <I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Fed. Reg.</I> at 64482).<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Retaining these non-delegable functions
within the DSU:</SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoFooter
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; tab-stops: .5in center 3.0in right 6.0in"><SPAN
lang=X-NONE><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoFooter style="MARGIN: 0in 27pt 0pt 2in; tab-stops: .5in"><SPAN
lang=X-NONE>Ensure[s] that State agencies that consolidate staff to administer
multiple State and federally funded programs do not entrust these key VR
programmatic decisions to individuals who lack experience in meeting the needs
of individuals with disabilities…[T]he benefits derived from DSU retention of
these functions – enhanced program efficiency and effectiveness – outweigh any
costs that may be associated with the non-delegation requirements in the final
regulations (62 <I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Fed. Reg.</I> at
6316).</SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; TEXT-INDENT: -1in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; tab-stops: 0in .7in 1.0in 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in 7.0in 7.5in; mso-hyphenate: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-hyphenate: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">When certain functions,
such as human resource development or financial management, are placed at the
DSA or departmental level, it is important to assess the manner in which the DSU
exercises a strong voice or provides effective input into the policy, planning,
operations or similar program decisions made in these areas.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>While certain purely administrative
functions may be performed by personnel outside the DSU, centralization of
functions on the state agency level is impermissible if it results in
interference with the decision-making capacity of the administrator of the DSU
to direct the VR program in the state, given that the DSU has been designated as
the entity responsible for administering the VR program under the VR State plan
(34 CFR 361.13(b)(1)(i)).<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; tab-stops: list .25in"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">The following program
management activities are among those that typically are carried out by an
organization that is responsible for the day-to-day operational administration
of a public VR program:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold">development
of legislative proposals and regulations regarding VR program funding and
services;<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold">program
planning and evaluation;<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold">personnel
management;<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold">implementation
and use of management information systems; and<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold">fiscal
and statistical reporting.</SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoFooter style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; tab-stops: .5in"><SPAN
lang=X-NONE>When centralization of these or other functions occurs, questions
may arise as to whether the DSU has retained an effective voice in the making of
key policy decisions to ensure that the DSU has sufficient responsibility for
the administration of the VR program, as required by 34 CFR 361.13(c).<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; tab-stops: list .5in"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">In making judgments
about the nature and degree of DSU involvement in these activities for the
purpose of assessing compliance with the non-delegable functions, RSA recognizes
that the <I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Rehabilitation Act </I>provides
considerable flexibility to the state in the administration of the VR program
and that the responsibility for the administration of the state Plan rests with
the DSA in accordance with 34 CFR 361.13(a).<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>However, the DSU is responsible for the
administration of the VR program under the State Plan (34 361.13(b)(1)(i)), and
for the operation of the VR service delivery system (34 CFR
361.13(c)(1)(i)).<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>In assessing the
nature and extent of the DSU's authority in carrying out its responsibility to
administer the VR program, RSA will determine whether the DSU director indeed
has the authority to administer the VR program and, if so, the extent of that
authority, i.e., if it affords the DSU adequate input with respect to the
administration of the centralized functions.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>RSA will review the degree of authority
and involvement of all of the DSU’s functions taken together, and not with
respect to one or more of the functions alone.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">Regarding the allocation
and expenditure of VR funds (an area where questions concerning the DSU’s
authority are more likely to arise), RSA will determine whether the DSU has
responsibility for the approval of expenditures, the development and approval of
contracts, budgeting for the program, development of the cost allocation plan
and the procurement process.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>As the
head of the DSU, the entity solely responsible for the expenditure and
allocation of VR funds pursuant to 34 CFR 361.13(c)(1)(iv), the DSU director
must be privy to all financial information about the VR program,<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>not just informed of such information by
the DSA, and should be in direct control of the decisions affecting the VR
program.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Decisions regarding
staffing levels, priority setting, and the awarding of contracts fall within the
scope of the expenditure and allocation of VR funds.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Therefore, decisions related to these
matters require the DSU to determine where to spend its resources for the
benefit of the program and to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities
within the state.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>As such, these
decisions must ultimately be made by the DSU.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>For example, while the DSA may
centralize contracting processing, decisions involving whether to contract for a
service, the amount to be contracted, and the service to be procured, must be
retained by the DSU since those decisions pertain to the allocation and
expenditure of VR funds and the provision of VR services, both of which are
non-delegable functions of the DSU (34 CFR 361.13(c)(1)(i) and (iv)).<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoFooter
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; tab-stops: .5in center 3.0in right 6.0in"><B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><SPAN
lang=X-NONE><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></B></P>
<P class=MsoPlainText style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in"><SPAN lang=X-NONE
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.5pt">In
addition, the director and staff of the DSU must have sufficient information
regarding the fiscal resources available for use in<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>the VR program, especially in those
states where the DSA has centralized the payment and fiscal reporting processes
for the entire agency.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Because the
DSU is solely responsible for the allocation and expenditure of VR funds
pursuant to 34 CFR 361.13(c)(1)(iv), the DSU remains responsible for ensuring
the accuracy of financial reports and the satisfaction of all fiscal
requirements, including match and maintenance of effort.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Furthermore, the DSU must have
sufficient information about the financial resources available to the VR program
in order to avoid the inadvertent and unnecessary reallotment of funds, or, most
significantly, the return of funds to the U. S. Treasury -- actions that could
occur if the DSU does not maintain control over the expenditure and allocation
of VR funds.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoFooter style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; tab-stops: .5in"><SPAN
style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoFooter style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; tab-stops: .5in"><SPAN
lang=X-NONE>Finally, the VR program regulations at 34 CFR 361.23 and Section
121(c) of <I style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">WIA</I>, along with <I
style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">WIA</I> implementing regulations at 20 CFR
662.300, require that a memorandum of understanding governing operations of the
One-Stop service delivery system in a local area be developed and executed
between the Local Workforce Investment Board<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>and the One-Stop service delivery system
partners.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>Because the DSU is solely
responsible for its role as a partner in the one-stop system (34 CFR
361.13(c)(1)(v)), it must negotiate its own contracts with the other one-stop
partners.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>This responsibility may
not be delegated to another individual or agency, including the DSA (34 CFR
361.13(c)(2)).</SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoFooter
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 0.25in; tab-stops: .5in center 3.0in right 6.0in"><SPAN
lang=X-NONE><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoFooter
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -1.5in; tab-stops: .5in"><SPAN><STRONG><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">SUMMARY:</SPAN><SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 1">
</SPAN></STRONG></SPAN><SPAN lang=X-NONE>The federal requirements governing the
organization of the VR program provide considerable flexibility to the states in
recognition of the wide variety and complex nature of the programs and services
within their purview, while establishing a framework in which VR services are
delivered through an autonomous and distinct unit.<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>This framework enables the officials and
personnel of the DSU to conduct those non-delegable functions critical to the
administration and operation of the VR</SPAN><SPAN
style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoFooter
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -1.5in; tab-stops: .5in"><SPAN
style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoFooter style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; tab-stops: .5in"><SPAN
lang=X-NONE>program. <SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>It is these
persons who possess the knowledge and experience necessary to make decisions
regarding the effective and efficient use of VR program resources to address the
unique needs of individuals with disabilities as they engage in the pursuit of
quality employment.<B
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><o:p></o:p></B></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; TEXT-INDENT: -1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
class=CharChar9><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><STRONG><FONT
face=Calibri>CITATIONS:</FONT></STRONG></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"> <SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 1">
</SPAN><I>Rehabilitation Act of 1973, </I>as amended<I>, </I>Section 101(a)(2)
<BR>Vocational Rehabilitation Program Regulations, 34 CFR 361.13
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN><STRONG><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><FONT face=Calibri>INQUIRIES:</FONT></SPAN> <SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 1"> </SPAN></STRONG></SPAN><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 1">
</SPAN>Carol Dobak, Chief<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">Vocational
Rehabilitation Program Unit<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; mso-layout-grid-align: none"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">(202)
245-7325<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><A
href="mailto:Carol.Dobak@ed.gov">Carol.Dobak@ed.gov</A><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 3.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoBodyTextIndent2
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 3.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<DIV
style="BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: windowtext 1pt solid; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; MARGIN-LEFT: 3.25in; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0in; PADDING-TOP: 1pt; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; mso-element: para-border-div; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt">
<P class=MsoBodyTextIndent2
style="BORDER-RIGHT: medium none; PADDING-RIGHT: 0in; BORDER-TOP: medium none; PADDING-LEFT: 0in; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; LINE-HEIGHT: normal; PADDING-TOP: 0in; BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 0in 0in 0in"><SPAN
lang=X-NONE style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">Edward
Anthony, Ph.D.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P></DIV>
<P class=MsoBodyTextIndent2
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt 3.25in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN lang=X-NONE
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">Deputy Commissioner<SPAN
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN><o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">cc:<SPAN
style="mso-tab-count: 1">
</SPAN>Council of State Administrators of Vocational
Rehabilitation<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">National Council of
State Agencies for the Blind<o:p></o:p></SPAN></P>
<P class=MsoNormal
style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; LINE-HEIGHT: normal"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">National Disability
Rights Network<SPAN
style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></SPAN></P></DIV></BODY></HTML>