§ 25-10-210 — Comprehensive system of personnel development

(a) Under Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1992, Pub. L. No. 102-569, a state vocational rehabilitation agency is required to establish qualified personnel standards for rehabilitation personnel, including vocational rehabilitation counselors, that are consistent with national or state-approved or recognized certification, licensing, or registration that apply to a particular profession. (b) (1) In order to comply with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. § 701 et seq., as it existed on January 1, 2023, and state plan requirements, the Division of State Services for the Blind is granted a general waiver of the Financial Management Guide, R 1-19-4 -522 Continuing Professional Education. (2) The waiver granted under subdivision (b)(1) of this section allows the division to provide college level coursework in a degree program for an eligible employee selected by the division. (c) This section covers any formula and discretionary grants funded by the United States Department of Education Rehabilitation Services Administration, including without limitation the following: (1) The vocational rehabilitation program; (2) Supported employment; (3) Independent living; and (4) The staff development grant. (d) State general revenue shall not be expended for tuition for a degree authorized under this section.

Legislative History

Added by Act 2023, No. 283,§ 15, eff. 7/1/2023.