Statewide Council for Vocational Rehabilitation Principles and Member Composition

As a federally mandated entity charged with giving guidance and input to the Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, we stand for the following principles and urge you to consider them when voting on legislation that will impact Kentuckians with disabilities.  These views are solely that of the Council and should in no way be construed as the opinions of the Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

We value the worth and dignity of people with disabilities and their right to pursue, obtain, and maintain competitive employment appropriate to their unique strengths, abilities, and interests.  The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, honoring the mandates governing them, facilitated this principle by assisting 4808 Kentuckians with disabilities achieve their career goals in FY 2004. 

We believe that all Kentuckians should have access to adequate healthcare, assistive technology, public properties and services, transportation and personal care services necessary for employment so that no one who is able to work is forced to be dependent upon public assistance.

We believe that self-determination, empowerment and informed choice are vital components for full participation in education, employment and society as a whole for all people but particularly for those with significant disabilities.

We believe that there continues to be a lack of knowledge by employers about persons with disabilities and the skills and abilities they have to offer in the workforce.  As the labor shortage grows, and assistive technology develops, it becomes increasingly important to train current and prospective employers about worksite accommodations and resources so that qualified workers who acquire disabilities can maintain employment and to facilitate the entrance of Kentuckians with disabilities into the workforce. We hold that the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, honoring the mandates governing them, continues to build the bridge between the employer and the consumer with a disability that is not met by any other agency, and should be wholly supported in its efforts on this front.

The Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998, Public Law 105-220, mandate the establishment of a State Rehabilitation Council. The intent of Congress in requiring states to have a consumer-controlled Council is reflected by the requirement that a Council must be in place for the State to receive federal funds under Title I for vocational rehabilitation.

Statutory language sets out the establishment, composition and appointment of the Council.

Composition

• At least one representative of the Statewide Independent Living Council who may be the chairperson or other designee of the Council;
• At least one representative of a parent training and information center established under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act;
• At least one representative of the Client Assistance Program;
• At least one representative of community rehabilitation program service providers;
• Four representatives of business, industry, and labor;
• Representatives of disability advocacy groups representing a cross section of individuals with physical, cognitive, sensory, and mental disabilities; and parents, family members, guardians, advocates, or authorized representatives of individuals with disabilities who have difficulty in representing themselves or are unable due to their disabilities to represent themselves;
• Current or former applicants for, or recipients of, vocational rehabilitation services;
• At least one representative of the state educational agency responsible for the public education of students with disabilities;
• At least one representative from the state Workforce Investment Board; and
• Director of the designated State unit who shall service as an ex officio, nonvoting member.
  

Appointment

The Governor appoints members of the Council for three-year terms. The Governor selects members after soliciting recommendations from representatives of organizations representing a broad range of individuals with disabilities and organizations interested in individuals with disabilities.

Qualifications

A majority of Council members shall be persons who are:

• Individuals with disabilities described in the Rehabilitation Act; and
• Not employed by the designated State unit.