meeting notice and agenda · web viewatt. 2: word version of the css presentation13 item 6:...
TRANSCRIPT
State Rehabilitation Council Quarterly Meeting Wednesday, July 14, 2021 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 15, 2021 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Meeting Packet
Table of ContentsMeeting Notice and Agenda..............................................................................2Item 4: Consumer Satisfaction Survey Update...............................................6
Att. 1: Final 2021 Consumer Satisfaction Survey (CSS)..................................8Att. 2: Word Version of the CSS Presentation................................................13
Item 6: Adopt-a-Region Reports.....................................................................19Att. 1: Adopt-a-Region SRC Member Assignments.......................................20
Item 11: Approval of the April 28-29, 2021 SRC Meeting Minutes...............21Att. 1: Draft April 28-29, 2021 SRC Quarterly Meeting Minutes.....................22
Item 12: SRC Bylaws Amendments................................................................34Att. 1: SRC Proposed Bylaw Amendments....................................................35
Item 13: Election of the Nominating Committee...........................................48Item 14: Benefits Planning and Work Incentive Planners............................49
Att. 1: Benefits Summary and Analysis..........................................................50Att. 2: Work Incentives Plan...........................................................................58
Item 16: Year-to-Date DOR Quarterly Case Data Report..............................60Att. 1: Year-to-Date DOR Quarterly Report- Quarter 3..................................61
Item 19: Identification of Future Agenda Items.............................................68Att. 1: Information Updates/Presentations List...............................................69
Page 1
CALIFORNIA STATE REHABILITATION COUNCIL (SRC)Meeting Notice and Agenda
Wednesday, July 14, 2021 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.Thursday, July 15, 2021 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Public Participation Options
Virtual Meeting Link: Zoom https://tinyurl.com/CASRC2021o Meeting ID: 914 104 0013 and Passcode: 6r$5HtYk
Join by Phone: +1 408 638 0968 or +1 669 900 6833o Meeting ID: 914 104 0013 and Passcode: 47653956o Phone controls for participants:
Mute and unmute press *6 Raise hand press *9
Email Your Comments: [email protected]
Meeting AgendaPlease note: Times are listed with the agenda items to assist attendees joining the meeting virtually and by phone. These times are estimates and subject to change. The SRC may act on any item listed in the agenda.
1. Welcome and Introductions (10:00 – 10:10 a.m.) Theresa Comstock, SRC Chair
2. Public Comment (10:10 – 10:15 a.m.) Members of the public will have the opportunity to comment on issues and concerns not included elsewhere on the agenda. Public comment relating to a specific agenda item will be taken at the end of the applicable agenda item or prior to a vote.
3. Directorate Report (10:15 – 11:00 a.m.)Joe Xavier, DOR Director and Andi Mudryk, DOR Chief Deputy Director, will report on leadership and policy topics of interest. National, State, and
Page 2
departmental updates will be provided. SRC members will have the opportunity to ask questions and have an interactive discussion.
Break (11:00 – 11:05 a.m.)
4. Consumer Satisfaction Survey (11:05 – 11:30 a.m.)Representatives of the Planning Unit will present on the primary results of the 2021 Consumer Satisfaction Survey.
5. Safety Policy & Procedures to Protect Consumers (11:30 – 11:45 a.m.) DOR Blind Advisory Committee (BAC) Chair, Chris Fendrick, will inform the SRC regarding the BAC concerns related to understanding and potentially updating safety policies and procedures to prevent abuse of consumers.
6. Adopt-a-Region Reports (11:45 – 12:00 p.m.) SRC members will report out from their recent Adopt-a-Region discussions.
Break (12:00 – 12:05 p.m.)
7. Adopt-a-Region Reports Continued (12:05 – 12:30 p.m.)SRC members will continue to report out from their recent Adopt-a-Region discussions.
8. Recess until 10:00 a.m. Thursday, July 15, 2021
Agenda for Thursday, July 15, 2021
9. Reconvene, Welcome, and Introductions (10:00 – 10:05 a.m.)Theresa Comstock, SRC Chair
10. Public Comment (10:05 – 10:10 a.m.) Members of the public will have the opportunity to comment on issues and concerns not included elsewhere on the agenda. Public comment relating to a specific agenda item will be taken at the end of the applicable agenda item or prior to a vote.
11. Approval of the April 28-29, 2021 SRC Meeting Minutes (10:10 – 10:15 a.m.)
12. SRC Bylaw Amendments (10:15 – 10:20 a.m.)SRC members will vote to adopt the proposed bylaw amendments introduced at the April 28-29, 2021 quarterly meeting.
Page 3
13. Election of the Nominating Committee (10:20 – 10:30 a.m.)In preparation for the September 2021 election of the SRC members will elect a Nominating Committee.
14. Benefits Planning and Work Incentive Planners (10:30 – 11:00 a.m.)Representatives of the DOR Social Security Programs Section and Work Incentives Planners (WIP) will provide information on benefits counseling and WIP services.
Break (11:00 – 11:05 a.m.)
15. Consumer Payment Card (11:05 – 11:30 a.m.)SRC Members will learn about the Consumer Payment Card to enable DOR consumers to directly purchase approved goods and services needed for their rehabilitation plans using an electronic payment card.
16. Year-to-Date DOR Quarterly Case Data Report (11:30 – 11:45 a.m.)SRC members will learn about the DOR case data from quarter 3 (July 1, 2020 through March 31, 2021).
17. Debrief and Recommendations Discussion (11:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)SRC Members will debrief from this meeting’s discussions and potentially adopt additional recommendations.
Break (12:00 – 12:05 p.m.)
18. SRC Officers, Members, and Executive Officer Reports (12:05 – 12:25 p.m.)
19. Identification of Future Agenda Items (12:25 – 12:30 p.m.)
20. Adjourn (12:30 p.m.) *
PUBLIC COMMENTSPublic comment relating to a specific agenda item will be taken at the end of the applicable agenda item or prior to a vote. Public comments on matters not on the agenda are taken at the beginning of the meeting. A speaker will have up to three minutes to make public comments and may not relinquish his or her time allotment to another speaker. Non-English speakers who utilize translators to make public comment will be allotted no more than six minutes unless they utilize simultaneous translation equipment. The SRC is precluded from discussing matters not on the agenda; however, SRC members may ask questions for clarification purposes.
Page 4
MEETING NOTICE AND AGENDAThis meeting notice and agenda is posted on the SRC webpage. Supplemental meeting materials will be available for public viewing at the meeting site. All times indicated and the order of business are approximate and subject to change.
*The meeting will adjourn upon completion of the agenda. Interested members of the public may join virtually or use the teleconference line to listen to the meeting and/or provide public comment. The SRC is not responsible for unforeseen technical difficulties that may occur and is not obligated to postpone or delay its meeting in the event of unforeseen technical difficulties with the teleconference line or virtual meeting room.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONSIf you require a disability-related accommodation, materials in alternate format or auxiliary aids/services, please call (916) 558-5897 or email [email protected] five days prior to the meeting. Any requests received after this date will be given consideration, but logistical constraints may not allow for their fulfillment.
CONTACT PERSONRegina Cademarti, SRC Executive Officer, [email protected], (916) 558-5897.
Page 5
Agenda Item 4
Wednesday, July 14, 2021
Item Name: Consumer Satisfaction Survey Update
Item Type: Information. SRC members will receive an update on Consumer Satisfaction Survey distribution.
Background:The SRC is federally mandated to conduct a review and analysis of consumer satisfaction with vocational rehabilitation services. This is done through the annual Consumer Satisfaction Survey.
The Rehabilitation Act 34 CFR § 361.17 (h)(4) - Requirements for a State Rehabilitation Council indicates the SRC shall:To the extent feasible, conduct a review and analysis of the effectiveness of, and consumer satisfaction with -
(i) The functions performed by the designated State agency;(ii) The vocational rehabilitation services provided by State agencies and other public and private entities responsible for providing vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities under the Act; and(iii) The employment outcomes achieved by eligible individuals receiving services under this part, including the availability of health and other employment benefits in connection with those employment outcomes.
In July 2019, the SRC submitted a memo to DOR with suggested updates, modifications, and considerations for incorporation into the Consumer Satisfaction Survey (CSS). Afterwards, a workgroup of DOR team members convened to consider these suggestions.
At the January 2020 SRC quarterly meeting, this workgroup presented on the proposed modifications to the CSS. The SRC was supportive of the modifications and offered minor changes, which were incorporated.
In August 2020, the SRC and DOR came to the final version of the CSS. This new survey instrument represents the combined effort of the SRC and DOR to
Page 6
assess consumer satisfaction and to evaluate the effectiveness of the vocational rehabilitation program.
Attachment(s): Attachment 1 – Final 2021 Consumer Satisfaction Survey Attachment 2 - Word Version of the Consumer Satisfaction Survey PowerPoint PresentationAgenda Item 4, Attachment 3 – SFY 2020-21 CSS - Preliminary Results – Separate attachment from meeting packet
Page 7
Agenda Item 4, Attachment 1 Final 2021 Consumer Satisfaction Survey
How Is DOR Doing? Your Feedback Will Help Us Improve.
Introductory Questions
What is your age? ________________________________
What city do you live in? ________________________________
Check the disability type(s) that apply to you: Blind/Visually Impaired Cognitive Impairment Deaf/Hard of Hearing Intellectual/Developmental Disability Learning Disability Physical Disability Psychiatric Disability Traumatic Brain Injury Other (please specify) _______________________________
1. Overall, I am satisfied with my experience at DOR.Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
The following questions ask about your DOR Counselor:
2. My counselor understands my disability, skills, and abilities. Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
Page 8
3. My counselor provided me with guidance and information to help me better understand my disability, skills, and abilities. Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
4. My counselor provided me guidance and information that helped me understand the jobs in my area and how to get hired by businesses.Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
5. My counselor treats me with courtesy and respect.Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
6. My counselor responds timely to my questions and requests.Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
The following questions ask about your service provider(s).Service providers include job coaches, community rehabilitation programs, schools, etc.
7. Overall, I am satisfied with my service providers.Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
8. My service providers understand my disability, skills, and abilities. Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
9. My service providers treat me with courtesy and respect.Not at all 2 3 4 5 6 Extremely Not
Page 9
satisfied1
satisfied7 applicable
10. My service providers respond promptly to my needs.Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
The following questions ask about employment services and your employment goals.
11. I am very involved in setting my employment goals with my DOR Counselor.
Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
12. I am comfortable telling my DOR Counselor when we disagree about my employment goals.
Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
13. My DOR team connects me to the right agencies and service providers for my needs.
Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
14. I understand and am comfortable with the process for appealing a DOR decision that I disagreed with.Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
Page 10
If you are currently employed after receiving services from DOR, please answer the statements below:
15. I am satisfied with the type of work I do at my job.Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
16. I am satisfied with the wages and benefits I receive from my job. Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
17. My job is consistent with my employment plan.Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
18. My life is more independent because of DOR services.Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
If you are not employed, please answer the statements below.
19. DOR services have improved my chance to find a job.Not at all satisfied
12 3 4 5 6
Extremely satisfied
7
Not applicable
20. Check all the reasons below that you are not employed: I am still looking. I am a student. My disability prevents me from working. I do not want to give up my SSI/SSDI benefits. There are no jobs available to me that are consistent with my DOR
employment plan. DOR did not assist me in finding a job. I have family issues such as daycare or caring for relative. Lack of transportation or no transportation.
Page 11
I need additional help to find a job. No jobs are available that I want. I am not ready to start working.
All respondents:
21. Please tell us if there is anything DOR or its service providers can do to improve services.
22. If you would like to speak directly with DOR about your experiences, provide your contact information below:
*End of Survey*
Page 12
Agenda Item 4, Attachment 2 Word Version of the CSS Presentation
Word document version of the PowerPoint presentation discussing the SFY 2020-21 Consumer Satisfaction Survey (CSS) Preliminary Results prepared by the Planning Unit at the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR).
SLIDE 1: Consumer Satisfaction SurveyPresentationJuly 14th, 2021State Rehabilitation CouncilPrepared ByPlanning UnitDepartment of RehabilitationFigure Description: Word cloud generated from top 60 words used in CSS comments
SLIDE 2Preliminary Results: SFY 2020-21 Consumer Satisfaction SurveyUsing a combination of analyses,1 we will address the following questions:
1. Who was surveyed?a. Sample sizeb. Survey delivery
2. Who responded?a. Response rateb. Disabilityc. Age
3. What was said?a. Overall satisfactionb. Unemployed Reasonsc. Additional feedback
Slide 2 Footnote(s)1 Descriptive statistics (median, average, range, etc.) and inferential statistics
(Pearson correlation coefficients, etc.)SLIDE 3DOR consumers were more likely to complete surveys electronically than using surface mailSFY 2020-21 CSS Sample Size
5703 surveys sent (5.1% surveyed1) 5127 surveys delivered (89.9% deliverable2)
Page 13
801 responses received (15.6% response rate3)
Table 1. CSS Surveys Sent and Received in SFY 2020-21SFY 2020-21 CSS Total Electronic SurfaceSurveys Sent 5,703 95% (5,418) 5% (285)Surveys Delivered 5,127 95% (4,875) 5% (252)Responses Received 801 99% (796) 1% (5)
Slide 3 Footnote(s)1 Percent of SFY 2019-20 total consumer population (109,845), 2021 CSS
sample size was determined by BFFR based on SFY 2019-20 data2 Percent of surveys sent (5703)3 Percent of surveys delivered (5127)
SLIDE 4Participation in the CSS has declined Table 2. CSS responses to deliverable surveys
SFYSurveysReceived
Surveys Sent(Deliverable)
Response Rate1
(Percent of Deliverable)2016-17 4,344 18,676 23.3%2017-18 4,351 18,561 23.4%2018-19 3,486 18,676 18.7%2019-202 N/A N/A N/A2020-21 801 5,127 15.6%
N/A, not applicable.2
Why is there a decline in participation?
Potential factors to explore: Number surveyed VR vs PE cases Case Closure Rates Demographics Etc…
Slide 4 Footnote(s):1 Response Rate was calculated as the number of responses received to the
total number of deliverable surveys2 CSS was not conducted in SFY 2019-20
SLIDE 5
Page 14
Physical, psychiatric, and learning disabilities are consistently the most reported disability impairment types by CSS consumersTable 3. CSS Reported Disability Impairments
Disability TypeCount (N)
Distribution1 (Percent of Total)
Physical 249 22.3%Psychiatric 247 22.2%Learning 222 19.9%Deaf/Hard of Hearing 107 9.6%Intellectual/Developmental 98 8.3%Blind/Visually Impaired 83 7.4%Traumatic Brain Injury 50 4.5%Cognitive Impairment 49 4.4%Not Reported 15 1.3%Total 1,115 100%
26.6% (213) of CSS participants reported more than one disability impairment.Top 3 Disabilities Reported2:
Physical Psychiatric Learning disabilities
Slide 5 Footnote(s)1 SFY 2020-21 CSS participants (801) reported 1,115 disabilities in total.2 For CSS from: SFY 2016-17, SFY 2017-16, SFY 2018-19, and SFY 2020-21
SLIDE 6CSS consumers ranged from 16 to 93 years old with an average of 38 years oldTable 4. CSS Responses by Age Ranges
Age RangeCount (N)
Distribution1 (Percent of Total)
Less than 20 61 7.6%20-29 207 25.8%30-39 154 19.2%40-49 155 19.4%50-59 133 16.6%60-69 69 8.6%70-79 10 1.2%80-89 1 0.1%90+ 1 0.1%Not Reported 10 1.2%Total 801 100%
Page 15
Top 3 age ranges make up 64.4% of all CSS consumers1
1. 20-292. 40-493. 30-39
23.7% of participants are youths (16-24 years old)1
93.0% of participants are working age (18-64 years old)1
Slide 6 Footnote(s)1 Percent of total SFY 2020-21 CSS responses (801)
SLIDE 7Most consumers are satisfied with services provided by DOR and its service providers
Table 5. Overall Satisfaction Ratings for Question Categories1
CategoryQuestions (N)
DissatisfiedResponses2
SatisfiedResponses2
Service Providers 4 13% 81%DOR Experience 1 16% 78%Counselor 5 17% 78%Employment Services 4 18% 75%Employment 4 20% 74%Employment Chances 1 24% 70%
Slide 7 Footnote(s)1 Responses were classified as Dissatisfied (ratings: 1-3), Neutral (rating: 4), or Satisfied (ratings: 5-7)2 Percent of total SFY 2020-21 CSS responses for each question category
SLIDE 8Consumers identified being a student, still looking, or needing additional help as the most common reasons for being unemployed
Table 6. Reasons Consumers are Unemployed
Reason for UnemploymentCount (N)
Distribution1 (Percent of Total)
Student 310 22.7%Still looking 253 18.5%Needs additional help 165 12.1%Lack of DOR assistance 119 8.7%Disability prevents from working 111 8.1%Not ready to start working 96 7.0%
Page 16
Lack of transportation 82 6.0%No jobs available 81 5.9%No IPE-related jobs available 67 4.9%Want to keep SSI/SSDI benefits 43 3.1%Family issues 41 3.0%Total 1368 100%
Consumers gave an average of 2 reasons for being unemployed.
Consumers were more likely to list “DOR did not assist me” as a reason for unemployment if they were not satisfied with their DOR experience, counselor, service providers and employment services.
Slide 8 Footnote(s)1 Percent of total number of reported unemployment reasons (1368)
SLIDE 953.6% of CSS Participants1 gave feedback for improving services from DOR and its service providers
Comments were screened for feedback type and keywords related to common topics.
Table 7. Feedback ReceivedComments Count (N) Percent of Total2 (%)Positive 151 35.2%Constructive 209 48.7%
If consumers left a positive comment, they were less likely to include constructive feedback (and vice versa).
Table 8. Topics DiscussedTopic Count (N) Percent of Total2 (%)Communication 85 35.2%COVID-19 36 8.4%Transportation 10 2.3%
83% of COVID-19 comments came from working age consumers (18-64 years old)
Slide 9 Footnote(s)1 Percent of total number of SFY 2020-21 CSS responses (801)2 Percent of total number of comments received (429)
Page 17
SLIDE 10
Preliminary Results SummaryCSS was…
Sent to 5.1% of DOR’s total population. Responded to by only 801 consumers.
Responses were most commonly from… Individuals most with Physical, Psychiatric, or Learning disabilities. Individuals between the ages of 20 – 49.
Consumers gave… Satisfied ratings for services provided by DOR and its service providers. Being a student, still looking, or need additional assistance as the top
reasons for being unemployed. Positive and Constructive feedback.
SLIDE 11What are the next steps?
Additional Analysis Draft Executive Summary and Detailed Report Share CSS Final Results Gather Feedback Publish Executive Summary
SLIDE 12Contact InformationPlanning Unit
Alicia Lucas, Manager, [email protected] Molly Foote Ph.D., Research Data Analyst II, [email protected] Judy Gonzalez, Research Data Analyst II, [email protected] Avantika Sharma, Associate Governmental Program Analyst, (currently
on leave), [email protected] Lisa Kessler, Office Technician (currently on leave),
Page 18
Agenda Items 6 and 7
Wednesday, July 14, 2021
Item Name: Adopt-a-Region Reports
Item Type: Information. SRC members will report out from their recent Adopt-a-Region discussions.
Background: Through the Adopt-a-Region program, each SRC member is paired up with a DOR Regional Director. This program provides SRC members the opportunity to build connections with the DOR district leadership and learn about local issues, activities, and opportunities.
Attachment(s):Attachment 1 – Adopt-a-Region SRC Member Assignments
Page 19
Agenda Items 6 and 7, Attachment 1 Adopt-a-Region SRC Member Assignments
DOR District/Region DOR Regional Director
Assigned SRC Member
Northern Sierra Jay Onasch LaQuita Wallace
Greater East Bay Carol Asch Susan Henderson
San Jose Donna Hezel Jonathan Hasak
Santa Barbara Susan Mathers Theresa Comstock
Inland Empire Robert Loeun Benjamin Aviles
Van Nuys/Foothill Wan-Chun Chang Kecia Weller
Greater Los Angeles Maria Turrubiartes Nicolas Wavrin
Los Angeles South Bay Susan Senior Benjamin Aviles
Redwood Empire David Wayte Theresa Comstock
San Joaquin Valley Araceli Holland Peter Mendoza
San Francisco Theresa Woo Chanel Brisbane
San Diego Carmencita Trapse
Ivan Guillen
Orange/San Gabriel Trung Le
Not assigned
Blind Field Services Peter Dawson Marcus Williams
Page 20
Agenda Item 11
Thursday, July 15, 2021
Item Name: Approval of the April 28-29, 2021 SRC Meeting Minutes
Item Type: Action. The SRC members will review and vote to approve the minutes from the last SRC quarterly meeting on April 28-29, 2021.
Background: The SRC meet for their quarterly meeting on April 28-29, 2021. The meeting minutes highlight the key issues that were discussed, motions proposed or voted on, and activities to be undertaken.
Attachment(s): Attachment 1 – Draft April 28-29 SRC Quarterly Meeting Minutes
Page 21
Agenda Item 11, Attachment 1 Draft April 28-29, 2021 SRC Quarterly Meeting Minutes
California State Rehabilitation Council (SRC)Quarterly MeetingApril 28-29, 202110:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.Virtual meeting through Zoom with conference call option.
SRC Members DOR Staff DOR Staff (cont.)Theresa Comstock, Chair Armel Biscocho Lisa NiegelNick Wavrin, Vice Chair Cynthia Butler Josefina NotsinnehBenjamin Aviles, Treasurer Regina Cademarti Conan PetrieChanel Brisbane Sarah Candee John PonceInez De Ocio Serena Chacon Nina PresmontIvan Guillen Cindy Chiu David PuenteJonathan Hasak Lisa Cushman Desiree SampleSusan Henderson Mark Erlichman Russell SchuttePeter Mendoza Shanti Ezrine Joe StansilLaQuita Wallace Peter Frangel Suhail SyedMarcus Williams Grace Friedrich Nancy WentlingKecia Weller Kerry Gantt Barbara WieskampJoe Xavier Elena Gomez
Judy Gonzalez Public MembersJessica Grove Lesley Ann GibbonsChristina James Olivia LewisBrenna Lammerding Danny MarquezTracy Millsap-Simec Kendra Tully Andi Mudryk
Wednesday, April 28, 2021
Item 1. Welcome and Introductions SRC Chair Theresa Comstock called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m. and a quorum was established. The SRC members introduced themselves and all members of the public were welcomed.
Page 22
Item 2. Public Comment There were no public comments on issues and concerns not included elsewhere on the agenda.
Item 3. Approval of the January 27-28, 2021 SRC Meeting Minutes Motion: It was moved/seconded (Mendoza/Wavrin) to approve the January 27-28, 2021 meeting minutes. A roll call vote was taken. (Yes – Aviles, Brisbane, Comstock, Guillen, Hasak, Henderson, Mendoza, Wavrin, Weller, Williams), (No - 0) (Abstain – 0) (Absent for vote – Wallace) The final vote was 10 yes, 0 no, and 0 abstain. Motion carried. Item 4. SRC Bylaws Amendment The SRC members reviewed the proposed SRC bylaw amendments. Proposed amendments include:
Pg. 21: Replacing the outdated title of District Administrator to Regional Director (RD)
Pg. 21: Defining time frame as a quarterly meeting with the RD Pg. 24-25: Using gender neutral pronouns. Removing he/she with
they/them
SRC members did not provide any additional amendments The vote to adopt the SRC amendments will take place at the next SRC quarterly meeting on July 14-15.
Item 5: Fair Hearing and Mediation Statistics and Overview of Hearing SummariesSRC members were joined by Serina Chacon from the DOR Program Support Branch and Lisa Niegel from the DOR Legal Affairs and Regulations and learned about the Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2019-2020 (Oct. 1, 2019 – Sept. 30, 2020) fair hearing and mediation statistics.
During FFY 2019-20 there were 82 requests for fair hearings (65 new requests and 17 carried over from the previous Federal fiscal year)
Of the 82 requests for fair hearings: 38 requests resolved without a fair hearing 26 requests resulted in a fair hearing decision
o 20 decisions favored the departmento 6 decisions favored the appellant
5 requests did not resolve due to the appellant not appearing at their hearing
13 cases carried over to the current Federal fiscal year 2020-21
Page 23
For FFY 2019-20, there were 48 requests for mediation Of the 48 requests for mediation,
30 disputes were resolved in the mediation process 17 did not resolve 1 dispute carried over to the current Federal fiscal year 2020-21
Two new efficiencies were created for individuals who are appealing actions or decisions of the department. They include:
1. DR 107 Request for Mediation and/or Fair Hearing form replaced the hard signature with an electronic signature.
This form is not on the VR Connections yet, but may be included in the future.
2. There are now expanded ways to participate in a hearing. Individuals can participate by video, phone, or in person.
Most complaints addressed through the fair hearing process were in three categories:
1. Request for reimbursement for goods and services which were not previously authorized by the DOR.
2. Disagreements to the goods and services that were necessary to achieve the employment goal identified in the Individualized Plan for Employment.
3. Failure to cooperate or participate in the vocational rehabilitation process.
DOR continues to work on clarifying the responsibilities of consumers to request for reimbursement for goods and services not previously authorized.
Member Mendoza suggested DOR may want to add discussing the purchasing of goods and services to the orientation or orientation material.
Member Guillen stated the DOR needs to be clearer to consumers about purchases and prior reimbursement rules. The rules can be complicated to consumers and to possibly have it in writing.
Items 6 and 8. Adopt-a-Region Reports
Member Aviles connected with Robert Loeun, Regional Director from the Inland Empire District/Region. Discussion highlights include:
Virtual Delivery Services. From 2020 to current there were over 3,000 attendees at their workshops.
Student Services and Peer Mentorship Project. The students created podcasts to promote disability awareness, prepare for the workforce, and inspire other students to focus on self-advocacy.
Business Consulting Services. The teams support local businesses with tools such as on-the-job trainings, work experience, custom recruitment services, and Windmills training.
Page 24
Member Brisbane connected with Theresa Woo, Regional Director from San Francisco District/Region. Discussion highlights include:
Successes in hiring. Teams built partnerships with local colleges and presented about DOR to graduating students.
Challenges. Lower enrollment. Road Ahead Transitions Workshop. This two-month workshop was offered
to high school juniors and seniors and covered topics such as mental health, assistive technology, and independent living skills.
Project Rebound. The district/region collaborated with Project Rebound. Project Rebound is a program that supports the higher education and successful reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals wishing to enroll and succeed at the California State University.
Lifemoves. There was a focus on individuals who experience homelessness that included collaborating with Lifemoves. Lifemoves is dedicated to finding solutions to homelessness in Silicon Valley.
Youth. Staff continued their work with the Transition Partnership Programs (TPP) including working with the court schools in San Mateo that focus on consumers in the foster care system.
Member Guillen connected with Carmencita Trapse, Regional Director from the San Diego District/Region and Jeff Noyes, District Administrator. Discussion highlights include:
Local Partnership Agreement Meeting. Member Guillen attended this meeting between DOR and service providers and discussed topics such as Student Services implementation.
Paid Work Experience for Students. There is a new partnership with CVS pharmacy to provide pre-employment training and paid work experience to students ages16-21 age range eligible to receive pre-employment transition services.
State Internship Program (SIP) This program provides an alternate eligibility process for people with significant intellectual and developmental disabilities to gain employment with the State of California. Upon completion of the SIP, each successful applicant can obtain LEAP list eligibility for hire by the State of California to apply for State agency positions.
Priority areas the district/region are focusing on include individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, foster youth, and justice involved youth.
Member Hasak connected with Donna Hezel, Regional Director from the San Jose District/Region. Discussion highlights include:
Page 25
We-Can-Work program for youth. The We-Can-Work contracts are funded by DOR to provide DOR Student Services work based learning experience, for students with a disability.
Providing Student Services virtually was seen as successful. The district/region has a pilot for Individual Placement and Support
Supported Employment (IPS). IPS helps consumers with mental illness work at regular jobs of their choosing.
SIP. The district/region are continuing their work with Regional Centers for this program.
Challenges. Items discussed were lower referral numbers and learning how to serve consumers virtually.
Member Henderson connected with Carol Asch, Regional Director from the Greater East Bay District/Region. Discussion highlights include:
IPS. Staff are conducting motivational interviews, training, interviewing. and engaging with employers.
Labor Market Information (LMI). Staff are continually updated on the LMI. Recruiting and Recruiting Counselors. Staff are engaged with the
Alameda County Workforce Development Board to help recruit and retain counselors which is impacted due to the high cost of living in the region.
Career Fairs. The district/region is holding a career fair in Contra Costa County on April 28 and planning another career fair with the Solano County school districts.
Member Mendoza connected with Araceli Holland, Regional Director from the San Joaquin Valley District/Region. Discussion highlights include:
The district/region is working on innovative ways to reach out to their consumers.
Access. Discussion was had about the challenges people with disabilities can have to access computers and the internet to work remotely.
Outreach to Ability Tools. Member Mendoza suggested outreaching to Ability Tools, California’s Assistive Technology (AT) Act Program. AT provides an AT exchange marketplace, device lending libraries, and information and referral.
Member Wavrin connected with Maria Turrubiartes, Regional Director from the Greater Los Angeles District/Region and Peter Blanco, District Administrator. Discussion highlights include:
Developing a partnership with the Los Angeles Convention Center. This partnership will help to facilitate a hiring event targeted to individuals with disabilities.
DOR LatinX Task Force. This task force was established.
Page 26
May 5th event spotlighting Farm Workers. The district/region is partnering with the DOR Inland Empire District for this event.
Youth in Foster Care. The district/region is partnering with New Ways to Work and has a new pilot with the Los Angeles Child and Family Services and Unite LA to provide services to youth in foster care.
Developed a MOU with Learn4Life. Learn4Life helps students who need options in education and an adult who helps them through the process.
Piloting with the County Public Defender’s office to provide services to individuals released from prison.
Virtual orientations. Staff are conducting virtual orientations and have received positive feedback from consumers and staff on this format.
The regional business specialist is working with America’s Job Centers on a local job fair.
In the last 12 months this district has had no eligibility or IPEs past due.
Member Comstock connected with David Wayte, Regional Director from the Redwood Empire District/Region. Discussion highlights include:
Successes. Intakes increased; developing MOUs to increase collaboration with many agencies such as Mental Health, Probation, and Child Protective Services; and continued services through COVID.
Challenges include: o Reopening from COVID, preparing staff to return to offices, and
increasing outreach to notify people they are open and ready to provide services.
o Digital access for consumers related to equipment for interaction with DOR staff/contractors; equipment for use in virtual job placements; and “Soft Skills” training for virtual workplace (being developed).
o Fewer Service Providers. Sonoma County has lost service providers both due to low reimbursement rates and to COVID.
o Unfunded Mandates: Required collaborations (Foster Care System, Homeless Programs, Juvenile Justice and Prison Re-entry programs) do not come with additional funding, relying solely on the good will of the parties to work together.
Member Comstock connected with Susan Mathers, Regional Director from the Santa Barbara District/Region and Brian Winic, District Administrator. Discussion highlights include:
Successes: Staff are successfully increasing intakes (which dropped due to
COVID).
Page 27
Downsizing Office Space – The Santa Barbara office is leading the way for the region, by reducing the number of offices by half. This is being done with employee input to ensure a smooth transition. The work environment will include: an increase in shared offices; continued telework; decrease in storage, supply, and mail room space; and the “Job Club” room (consumers use this room for emails) will be shifted to a smaller room to better match utilization.
Challenges: High cost of living results in difficulty recruiting and retaining lower-paid
staff. “Program Technician” and “Office Techs” were mentioned. Transportation. There has been an increase in referrals and mobility
evaluation. Anticipate challenges in responding to an increase in consumers who are using public transportation (COVID precautions, such as avoiding public transportation, may linger post-COVID), and barriers to getting to work, consumers are looking at using alternate transportation options with fewer crowds.
Suicide Prevention Training. Staff have encountered youth who are suicidal, and need to know how to respond to consumers and their families. Suicide prevention training is being provided during an upcoming district/region meeting.
Item 7. Rehabilitation Services Administration Monitoring Report and Corrective Acton PlanSRC members learned about the results of the RSA monitoring report and the details of the DOR Corrective Action Plan.
In March 2018, the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) performed a monitoring review of DOR. In 2021 the final report for the review was published. A corrective action plan (CAP) was developed by DOR and submitted to RSA.
Link to the RSA final report: https://rsa.ed.gov/about/programs/vocational-rehabilitation-state-grants/monitoring-of-vocational-rehabilitation-program/2018
SRC members learned about the results of the RSA monitoring report and the details of the DOR CAP. Highlights include:
Number of Findings: 7 Total Number of Corrective Actions: 25 Corrective Focus Areas:
o Performanceo VR Services, including Pre-Employment Transition Serviceso Fiscal
Timeframe for DOR to resolve the corrective actions:
Page 28
January 14 – October 14, 2021
Item 9. Recess.The SRC meeting recessed until 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 29, 2021
Thursday, April 29, 2021
Item 10. Reconvene, Welcome, and Introductions Meeting attendees were welcomed back for day two of the quarterly meeting.
Item 11. Public Comment There were no public comments on issues and concerns not included elsewhere on the agenda.
Item 12. Directorate Report Joe Xavier, DOR Director and Andi Mudryk, DOR Chief Deputy Director reported out on National, State, and departmental policy topics. Highlights included:
National The Council of State Administrator of Vocation Rehabilitation (CSAVR)
virtual conference was held with almost 600 participants. Ensuring competitive integrated employment remains the standard for the
employment of individuals with a disability Congress continues to place a great emphasis on student services. Incentivizing businesses for hiring individuals with disabilities is gaining
more momentum. The reauthorization of the Rehabilitation Act is a conversation taking
place. This act was last reauthorized in 2014. Likely to be included in the reauthorization is the expansion of student services, improving services to justice involved individuals, and increasing partnerships with businesses.
State Governor Newsom announced the full reopening of the California
economy on June 15. This will be contingent on hospitalization rates decreasing and vaccine availability.
The Olmstead Advisory Committee was originally established within the CHHS in 2005. In March 2021, the Committee is being renamed to the “Disability and Aging Community Living Advisory Committee” to better reflect and communicate the vision and purpose of the Committee.
Department Chief Deputy Andi Mudryk was unanimously confirmed by the California
Senate. Page 29
DOR continues to provide services remotely, virtually, and in person consistent in needs and desires of consumers.
DOR is working on creating pathways for with paid work-experience for consumers.
Item 13. VR ConnectionsSRC members received a project update on the VR Connections Project, the web-based portal enhances collaboration between DOR staff, consumers, and vendors.
VR Connections is now Statewide and allows for expedited authorizations and electronic signatures for Individualized Plans for Employment
New features include verification of goods and services, online referral, and applications.
Potential new features include vendor templates, payment status, basic invoice submission tools.
o Ongoing quick survey to vendors, participants, and staff can all inform us of their satisfaction with VR connections, they can make recommendations about improving the current features and provide ideas for future features.
o Delivering surveys to all three user groups. For vendors, the VR Connections staff are looking for feedback to provide feedback about recommendations from vendors about the current features on VR Connection. The VR Connections Teams would like to make adjustments, based on what best meets the needs of all of our vendors.
o Asking vendors to work with the VR Connections Team in on-line review sessions and to join testing sessions.
Public comment: Lesley Gibbons of Sterling Adaptives commented that some parts of VR Connections are excellent, but there are significant challenges to vendors. She asked the SRC to recommend the VR Connections staff to not move forward with new projects without talking to the vendors. Some suggested improvements to VR Connections include:
o Placing the consumer’s last name on the authorizationo Increase the font of the authorization to larger than 8 pointo To not put an end of service date in email with the authorization to
the consumer. The end of service date is irrelevant to products. After the end of service date, consumers will ask the vendor
where their product is if they have not received it yet. To build a custom laptop system for the consumer can take longer than the end of service date.
o Consider the impact on small companies and Community Rehabilitation Programs. We want to be heard and our input considered.
Page 30
Item 14. Debrief and Recommendations DiscussionSRC members debriefed from the meeting to discuss, draft, and potentially adopt recommendations. The SRC adopted three recommendations:
1. The SRC recommends DOR materials (informational handouts to consumers, website content, staff resources and training) related to financial participation and loaned property regulations are developed with plain language and examples to ensure understanding by staff, consumers, and the public, reassuring that access to needed services will continue in an equitable and fair manner.
2. The SRC recommends DOR assess the Virtual Delivery Services Project and Student Assistant & Peer Mentorship Project in terms of: Analyzing performance outcomes of these projects Consideration for statewide implementation in all DOR Districts Assessing the Virtual Delivery Services Project and Student Assistant
and Peer Mentorship Project for performance outcomes and consideration for statewide implementation
Motion: It was moved/seconded (Mendoza/Weller) to approve the two recommendations. A roll call vote was taken. (Yes – Aviles, Brisbane, Comstock, Guillen, Hasak, Henderson, Mendoza, Wallace, Wavrin, Weller, Williams), (No - 0) (Abstain – 0) The final vote was 11 yes, 0 no, and 0 abstain. Motion carried.
3. VR Connections Project – Provide opportunity for stakeholder input, respond to stakeholder input, and ensure the VR Connections meets ADA accessibility requirements.
Motion: It was moved/seconded (Mendoza/Wavrin) to approve the VR Connections recommendation. The final wording would be edited and finalized after this meeting. A roll call vote was taken. (Yes – Aviles, Brisbane, Comstock, Guillen, Hasak, Henderson, Mendoza, Wallace, Wavrin, Williams), (No - 0) (Abstain – 0) (Absent for vote – Weller). The final vote was 10 yes, 0 no, and 0 abstain. Motion carried.
Further discussion was on purchase of goods and services. Member Mendoza stated the consumer need to be reminded to make sure
they have permission to purchase before reimbursement. Member De Ocio shared in the DOR Individualized Plan for Employment
there is a statement about approval and purchasing goods and services. Issues arise when a consumer may need a service that day, but because of DOR processes and regulations set in place some consumers can become frustrated with the processes. A counselor can only make
Page 31
reimbursement up to $100. A suggestion was the SVRC, QRP could put it in a case note that the information about needing approval to purchase before reimbursement was reviewed in detail with the consumer.
o 5/4/2021: De Ocio provided feedback there is not a limit of $100 for reimbursements. This is a best practice used in the Visalia branch office. DOR does offer direct pay to our consumers which has no specified limit.
Member Brisbane asked how long the approval and reimbursement process takes. Member De Ocio stated it varies on the service such as a wheelchair purchase that requires Medi-Cal denial versus a software ordered on Amazon.
Member De Ocio stated there is also direct pay if reimbursement is not an option. For example, a consumer needed an online course paid for and the entity would not accept a DOR authorization. De Ocio was able to issue the consumer a check, but by the time the check gets to the consumer, it can be a week.
Item 15. SRC Officers, Members, and Executive Officer ReportsSRC Officers and the SRC Executive Officer provided brief reports.
Chair Comstock shared: She is paying attention to the labor market shift coming out of COVID and
the impact to the workforce. Vice-Chair Wavrin shared:
Upcoming meetings on WorkAbility Advisory Committee Updates from the Advisory Committee on Specialist Education meeting The California Practitioners’ Guide for Education English Learners with
Disabilities was published and posted to the CDE website.Treasurer Aviles shared:
He continues to stay engaged on issues of importance to the SRC. State Plan Committee Chair Williams shared:
The successes, challenges, and progress of the State Plan. Results were from the most recent subcommittee meeting on 3/02/2021.
Monitoring and Evaluation Committee Chair De Ocio shared: The Consumer Satisfaction Survey results will be presented on at the next
SRC quarterly meeting. Member Wallace shared:
The Bureau of Reclamation is hosting a virtual hiring fair on May 18, 2021. DOR Northern Sierra district will be participating and partnering with this project.
Member Guillen shared:
Page 32
Disability Rights California is working on outreach to consumers specifically to access integrated competitive employment. They are providing virtual clinics that have gone well.
Encouraging students that are transitioning and clients of the Regional Centers for applications for student services.
Received calls for self-employment and alternative employment settings. Member Hasak shared:
Year Up is developing a pilot in Los Angeles with a few community colleges and it is to put individuals making minimum wage or disconnected into the economy into corporate internships.
Member Henderson shared: Reminder there are Parent Training and Information Centers throughout
California to help youth in their transition plan and IEPs. Member Mendoza shared:
Notified members of the next State Independent Living Center meeting on May 25 and 26, 2021 and of the State Plan for Independent Living workgroups.
Executive Officer Cademarti shared: Progress on membership recruitment efforts.
Item 16. Identification of Future Agenda Items The following items were noted for possible items for the upcoming SRC quarterly meetings:
Process of consumer reimbursement of goods and services Self-employment DOR’s Social Media Presence
Item 17. Adjourn The SRC quarterly meeting was adjourned at 12:30 p.m.
Page 33
Agenda Item 12
Thursday, July 15, 2021
Item Name: SRC Bylaws Amendments
Item Type: Action. Vote to adopt the amended SRC Bylaws.
Background: This agenda items supports, SRC Bylaws, Article VIII, Item 1 stating the SRC bylaws shall be reviewed annually by the Executive Planning Committee (EPC).
On March 17, 2021, the EPC reviewed the SRC Executive Officers suggested edits to the bylaws. The EPC agreed with these bylaw amendments and did not have any additional edits.
On April 28-29, 2021 SRC members reviewed the proposed bylaw amendments. Members had the opportunity to recommend any additional amendments. There were no additional amendments.
Attachment(s): Attachment 1 – SRC Proposed Bylaw Amendments
Page 34
Agenda Item 12, Attachment 1SRC Proposed Bylaw Amendments
CALIFORNIA STATE REHABILITATION COUNCILBYLAWS
Article I NameThe name of this council shall be the STATE REHABILITATION COUNCIL,
hereinafter referred to as the SRC.
Article II AuthorityTitle I, Part A, Section 105 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (29
U.S.C. 720 et seq.), and California Welfare and Institutions Code Sections
19070 - 19072, and federal and state regulations pertaining thereto. Should
subsequent amendments to federal and state laws conflict with these bylaws,
said laws and regulations shall prevail.
Article III FunctionsThe functions of the SRC are mandated in federal law as follows:
A. Review, analyze, and advise the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR)
regarding the performance of the responsibilities of the DOR under Title 1 of
the Rehabilitation Act, particularly responsibilities relating to:
(1) eligibility (including order of selection);
(2) the extent, scope, and effectiveness of services provided; and
(3) functions performed by State agencies that affect or that potentially
affect the ability of individuals with disabilities in achieving employment
outcomes under this title.
B. In partnership with the DOR:
Page 35
(1) develop, agree to, and review State goals and priorities in accordance
with section 101(a)(15)(C) of the Rehabilitation Act; and
(2) evaluate the effectiveness of the vocational rehabilitation program and
submit reports of progress to the Rehabilitation Services Administration
(RSA) Commissioner in accordance with section 101(a)(15)(E) of the
Rehabilitation Act.
(3) advise and assist in the preparation of the vocational rehabilitation
services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan and
amendments to the plan, applications, reports, needs assessments
and evaluations as required.
C. Advise the DOR regarding activities authorized to be carried out under Title 1
of the Rehabilitation Act.
D. To the extent feasible, conduct a review and analysis of the effectiveness of,
and consumer satisfaction with:
(1) the functions performed by the DOR;
(2) vocational rehabilitation services provided by State agencies and
other public and private entities responsible for providing vocational
rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities under this Act;
and
(3) employment outcomes achieved by eligible individuals receiving
services under this title, including the availability of health and other
employment benefits in connection with such employment outcomes.
E. Prepare and submit an Annual Report to the Governor and the RSA
Commissioner on the status of vocational rehabilitation programs operated
within the State, and make the report available to the public.
F. To avoid duplication of efforts and enhance the number of individuals served,
coordinate activities with the activities of other councils within the State,
including the following: State Independent Living Council; Advisory
Commission on Special Education; Assistive Technology Advisory Page 36
Committee; State Council on Developmental Disabilities; California
Behavioral Health Planning Council; and the California Workforce
Development Board.
G. Provide for coordination and the establishment of working relationships
between the DOR and the State Independent Living Council and centers for
independent living within California.
H. Perform such other functions, consistent with the purpose of Title 1 of the
Rehabilitation Act, as the SRC determines to be appropriate, that are
comparable to the other functions performed by the Council.
Article IV MembershipA. Pursuant to federal law [29 USC Section 725 (b)(3)], the Governor shall
appoint all of the members to the SRC after soliciting recommendations from
representatives of organizations representing a broad range of individuals
with disabilities and organizations interested in individuals with disabilities. In
selecting members, the Governor shall consider, to the greatest extent
practicable, the extent to which minority populations are represented on the
Council.
B. The SRC, pursuant to 29 USC Section 725 (b), shall be composed of at least
16 members:
(1) One representative of the State Independent Living Council;
(2) One representative of a parent training and information center
established under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
(IDEA);
(3) One representative of the Client Assistance Program (CAP);
(4) One vocational rehabilitation counselor, with knowledge of and
experience with vocational rehabilitation programs, who shall serve as
an ex officio, nonvoting member of the SRC if the counselor is an
employee of the DOR;
Page 37
(5) One representative of Community Rehabilitation Program (CRP)
service providers;
(6) Four representatives of business, industry and labor;
(7) Two representatives of disability advocacy groups representing a
cross section of:
a. individuals with physical, cognitive, sensory, and mental disabilities;
and
b. 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;
(8) One current or former applicants for, or recipients of, vocational
rehabilitation services;
(9) One representative of the directors of the American Indian Vocational
Rehabilitation Projects in California;
(10) One representative of the California Department of Education;
(11) One representative of the California Workforce Development Board;
and
(12) The Director of the DOR, who shall be an ex officio member of the
SRC.
C. A majority of SRC members shall be persons who are:
(1) individuals with disabilities, and
(2) not employed by the DOR.
D. Each SRC member shall be appointed to serve no more than two
consecutive full three-year terms (with the exception of the representatives
from CAP and the American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Projects). If a
council member is initially appointed to replace a former member who did not
complete his or her term, the new council member must be appointed for the
remainder of the vacated term for which he or she is being appointed – not a Page 38
full three-year term. Once that initial term is completed, the individual may be
appointed to fill a second term of three years.
E. Any vacancy occurring in the membership of the SRC shall be filled in the
same manner as the original appointment. The vacancy of one or more
members shall not affect the power of the remaining members to execute the
duties of the SRC.
F. SRC members shall notify the SRC Executive Officer if the member cannot
attend an SRC meeting. If it is determined that a quorum will not be present,
members will be notified.
G. Duties of SRC Members:
(1) Prepare for, and attend, quarterly SRC meetings.
(2) Serve on at least one SRC committee, taskforce or workgroup.
(3) Review and comment on proposed DOR plans, policies and
regulations.
(4) Report to the SRC on successes/challenges/trends impacting the
Member's category of representation.
[(5)] Maintain cooperative and mutually supportive appropriate
relationships with the DOR Executive leadership, local District
Administrators Regional Directors and staff.
[(6)] Meet quarterly with local District AdministratorsRegional Directors as
assigned each quarterly meeting. [Staff Suggestion. Update the job title of District Administrator to Regional Director and add in quarterly to define the time frame of meeting]
(5)[(7)] Perform other duties as required.
Article V OfficersA. The SRC Officers shall be Chair, Vice-Chair and Treasurer, with duties and
responsibilities as follows:
Page 39
(1) The Chair shall:
a. Preside as Chair of SRC meetings in order to facilitate discussion,
planning and decision making;
b. Select and appoint, from among the SRC membership, Chairs and
members of all SRC Committees and taskforces, with the exception of
the Nominating Committee; and
c. Coordinate SRC activities and maintain communication with the SRC
Executive Officer, DOR leadership and SRC leadership.
(2) The Vice-Chair shall:
a. Preside at meetings of the SRC in the absence of the Chair;
b. Assume the Office of Chair if, for any reason, the Chair is unable to
complete the term;
c. Serve as SRC Parliamentarian, ensuring that SRC meetings operate
in accordance with applicable state laws and regulations and these
bylaws; and
d. Carry out other duties as may be assigned by the Chair.
(3) The Treasurer shall:
a. Work together with the SRC Executive Officer to ensure:
1) Maintenance of accurate and timely financial records
2) Appropriate development and allocation of SRC budget
3) Periodic review of SRC expenditures/financial status;
b. Present a financial report to the SRC at each quarterly meeting; and
c. Carry out other duties as may be assigned by the Chair.
B. Officers' Election and Terms:
(1) The election of Officers shall take place during the final full SRC meeting of
the federal fiscal year (October 1 - September 30).
(2) The Officers of the SRC shall be elected by a majority of the voting SRC
members. The Nominating Committee's slate of candidates shall be
provided to the SRC members at least one week prior to the Election of Page 40
Officers. At the meeting at which the election is held, and subsequent to the
announcement of the slate, the floor shall also be open to nominations.
(3) The term of Office shall be for one year, from October 1 - September 30.
(4) Officers may serve for no more than two consecutive full terms in any one
Office.
Article VI ProceduresAll meetings of the State Rehabilitation Council shall be conducted in
accordance with California's Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act (Government
Code Section 11120, et seq).
A. Quorum.
In order to conduct any official business, a quorum shall consist of fifty-one
percent (51%) of the current SRC voting membership, excluding vacancies.
Pursuant to federal law, vacancies shall not affect the power of the remaining
members to execute the duties of the SRC.
B. Voting:
(1) Each member shall have one vote.
(2) All decisions shall be made by a majority vote of the voting members
present.
(3) Unless a member needs accommodation, all votes will be conducted
by a voice vote. At anytime, a member can request a show of hands
or a roll call vote.
(4) Ex-officio members may not vote or present motions.
(5) In accordance with the Bagley Keene Open Meeting Act, all votes
occurring during teleconference meetings shall be by roll call vote.
C. Meetings.
(1) The SRC shall convene at least four meetings per federal fiscal year
(October 1 - September 30).
Page 41
(2) SRC meeting times and locations shall be set by the Executive
Planning Committee (EPC) with input from SRC members.
D. Agendas.
Agendas for SRC meetings shall be developed by the SRC Executive Officer
and Chair, with input from the EPC. Agendas for Committees shall be
developed by the SRC Executive Officer and Chair of Standing Committees,
with input from SRC Chair. The SRC may adopt procedures for requesting
placement of items on agendas. The SRC Chair shall approve the meeting
agenda before distribution. In the event that the SRC Chair is unavailable,
the SRC Vice-Chair shall have approving authority.
E. Minutes.
The SRC Executive Officer has responsibility for ensuring that minutes of all
committees and full SRC meetings are kept. Approved minutes shall be
maintained in the SRC office. Such approved minutes shall be made
available to the public upon request.
F. Conflict of Interest.
No member of the Council shall cast a vote on any matter that would provide
direct financial benefit to the member or to the organization that he/she they
represents, [Staff Suggestion: Use gender neutral pronoun by replacing he/she with they and replacing represents with represent] or otherwise
give appearance of a conflict-of-interest. The member shall abstain and
publicly state the conflict of interest.
According to state law, all SRC members shall file a Fair Political Practices
Commission Form 700 to file their statements of economic interests 30 days
after initial appointment and annually thereafter.
SRC members shall adhere to all conflict-of-interest policies adopted by DOR
and state law.
G. Accessibility Policy
Page 42
The Council’s role is to promote the employment of people with disabilities,
and as such, the SRC strives to include all people with disabilities in all
aspects of its role. The SRC will provide accommodation to members of the
public and the membership in accordance with the Bagley-Keene Open
Meeting Act and other state law. Documents will be made available in
electronic formats and alternative formats, upon request in accordance with
the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act.
H. Public Comment
The opportunity for public comment shall be provided on each agenda in
accordance with the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act.
I. Rules of Order
Absent a conflict in federal or state law and regulation, the most recent
revision of Robert's Rules of Order shall govern questions of parliamentary
procedure not otherwise specified by these Bylaws.
J. Compensation for services
Pursuant to Welfare and Institution Code Section 19092, any member of the
SRC who is unemployed or required to forfeit wages from other employment
shall be compensated one hundred dollars ($100) per day for each day the
member is engaged in discharging his/her their [Staff Suggestion: Use gender neutral pronoun by replacing his/her with their] SRC-related
duties. Certification of eligibility for said compensation shall be maintained by
the DOR. It is the responsibility of the SRC member to notify the SRC
Executive officer of any change in eligibility for said stipend and follow any
policies related to the stipend. K. Reimbursement for travel, per diem, child care and attendant care services
shall be in accordance with applicable state policy.
Article VII CommitteesIt is the intention of the SRC that the full SRC make key decisions pertaining to
the fulfillment of its federal responsibilities, unless otherwise delegated. The
Page 43
purpose of the Standing Committees is to provide an opportunity for greater
discussion, analysis and oversight of these mandated functions or to address
certain administrative functions of the SRC.
A. Committee Quorums
Three voting members of the SRC shall constitute a quorum for purposes of
conducting committee meetings.
B. Duties of Standing Committee Chairs;
a) Agenda creation with the Executive Officer for Committee meeting,
[b)] Provide input on the work of the Committee, . [Staff Suggestion: remove period and replace with a comma]
b)[c)] Discuss work of the Committee with Chair of the SRC,
c)[d)] Provide updates at each quarterly meeting,
d)[e)] Facilitate meetings,
e)[f)] Determine if additional meetings are needed, and,
f)[g)] Provide the Executive Officer with the direction on Committee work
products.
C. Standing Committees: The following standing committees are hereby
established:
1) Executive Planning Committee (EPC)
a) The EPC will be led by the SRC Chair, with the Vice-Chair, Treasurer,
Policy, Unified State Plan and Monitoring and Evaluation Committee Chairs as members.
b) The EPC shall schedule SRC meetings, establish agendas and select
meeting sites while coordinating Council activities with other SRC
Standing Committees, the DOR, and other entities responsible for, or
concerned with, the provision of rehabilitation services within the State of
California. (These duties are in practice delegated to the Executive Officer
working in conjunction with the SRC Chair.)
Page 44
c) Create slate of candidates for the SRC to be appointed as Members of the
Nominating Committee.
2) Policy Committee
The areas assigned to the Policy Committee are:
a) Develop the SRC Annual Report
b) Evaluate proposed regulations, policies and services.
c) Prepare recommendations for the SRC.
d) Receive issues from the Monitoring and Evaluation Committee and the
Unified State Plan Committee to further evaluate and assist the SRC in
developing recommendations to DOR.
3) Monitoring and Evaluation Committee
The areas assigned to the Monitoring and Evaluation Committee are:
a) Evaluate the Consumer Satisfaction Survey and its results.
b) Review and analyze trends in Appeal Hearing Decisions.
c) Review the progress of performance measures.
d) Review data as requested by the SRC.
e) May refer issues to other Committees to further evaluate and make
recommendations for improvement of services.
f) Prepare recommendations for the full Council’s consideration.
4) Unified State Plan Committee
a) Collaborate with DOR in developing various aspects of the Vocational
Rehabilitation Services Portion of the Combined or Unified State Plan.
b) Conduct and evaluate the Comprehensive Statewide Assessment.
c) Monitor the State of California’s Unified State Plan.
d) Review drafts of the Vocational Rehabilitation Services Portion of the
Unified State Plan.
e) May refer issues to other Committees to further evaluate and make
recommendations for improvement of services.
f) Prepare recommendations for the full Council’s consideration.Page 45
5) Nominating Committee
The Nominating Committee shall make recommendations to the SRC relative to
the annual election of SRC officers. The Nominating Committee shall:
a) Be composed of at least three (3) and not more than five (5) SRC
members.
b) Be elected by the SRC at the meeting preceding the meeting in which
Officer elections are held, from a slate of candidates recommended by the
EPC. The floor shall also be opened to additional nominations.
c) Serve for one year. Should a mid-year vacancy occur in the office of vice-
chair or treasurer, the Nominating Committee shall reconvene and
recommend a candidate for vote at the next SRC meeting.
D. Ad hoc Committees/Taskforces/Workgroups
The SRC may, by majority vote, establish task specific entities as necessary.
These entities are limited to acting on the issues for which they were created
and within the time frame established for the assignment.
Article VIII Amendments1. These Bylaws shall be reviewed annually by the Executive Planning
Committee.
2. Bylaws amendments may be introduced, in writing, at any full SRC meeting.
The vote upon such amendments shall not take place until the following SRC
meeting. Amendments must receive a two-thirds vote of the voting membership
present at the meeting. No amendments may be adopted which conflict with any
applicable state and federal law or regulation. Subsequent changes to
applicable state and federal laws and regulations shall supersede any portion of
the bylaws in conflict with same.
Dates of RevisionRevised August 15, 2018
Revised November 18, 2015
Page 46
Revised May 27, 2015
Revised August 20, 2014
Revised May 16, 2012
Revised January 25, 2011
Page 47
Agenda Item 13
Thursday, July 15, 2021
Item Name: Election of the Nominating Committee
Item Type: Action. SRC members will elect the Nominating Committee members.
BackgroundOn June 2, 2021, the SRC Executive Planning Committee (EPC) created a slate of candidates to be appointed as Nominating Committee members. The EPC chose:
Benjamin Aviles Ivan Guillen Jonathan Hasak Nick Wavrin
Page 48
Agenda Item 14
Thursday, July 15, 2021
Item Name: Benefits Planning and Work Incentive Planners
Item Type: Information. Representatives of the DOR Social Security Programs Section and Work Incentives Planners (WIP) will provide information on benefits counseling and WIP services.
Background: In September 2020, the SRC had a presentation on WIPs. There were four areas the SRC wanted to learn more about:1. Is DOR providing benefits counseling at eligibility before a plan is written?
a. If yes, does it happen in all districts?2. Do WIPs provide financial planning information to consumers? 3. Can you tell the SRC more about the WIPs role of developing benefits
analyses and work incentive plans? 4. Do the WIPs services discuss any consumer concerns about not taking a job
promotional opportunity to make more money due to fear of loss of SSI/SSDI benefits?
Attachment(s): Attachment 1 – Benefits Summary and Analysis Attachment 2 – Work Incentives Plan
Page 49
Agenda Item 14, Attachment 1 Benefits Summary and Analysis
Work Incentives Planning ServicesBenefits Summary & Analysis
Consumer Name: Merry Wip Date: 11/19/2020
Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) Goal: Librarian____________________________________________________________
Summary of your Current Benefits Situation
What I have verified about your current benefits with Social Security and other agencies (as needed):
With your signed permission, this is what I have verified about your current benefits with Social Security’s Benefits Planning Query (BPQY) report dated 8/13/2020:
You are receiving Title II, Childhood Disability Benefits (CDB/DAC) based on your father’s record
o The total monthly benefit amount you are receiving is $1215.00
Medicare: receiving Part A, B, and D Medi-Cal Working Disabled Program (MWDP): receiving through the
County per your report Cal Fresh $200.00/month per your report Section 8 voucher through the Housing Authority of the City of Santa
Barbara per your report
What you told me about your current employment situation (including average monthly wages) and/or your future employment plans and earnings goals:You are currently working for Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) Library as a computer tutor which started in September 2020, and you will work until December 2020. You are working an average of 27.5 hours a month. You are currently earning $17.01 an hour, so you are earning an average of around $470.00/month. You were working for Interplay Youth Drought Project Landscape as a trainee from April to Aug. 2020. You also previously worked for Santa Barbara Public Library as a Library Technician from Feb 2020- March
Page 50
2020 and SBCC library from August 2019-May 2020 at the circulation desk student work study worker.Your future goal is to be a Librarian and you are working toward that goal with your education and work experience. Your earnings could be around $75,030.00/year, the average salary for Librarians in California.
Analysis of How Employment May Affect Your Benefits
How your employment situation and/or plans may affect your Title II (CDB) cash benefits:
Trial Work Period (TWP):The TWP consists of nine months, not necessarily used consecutively, where earnings of any amount will not impact your benefits. A TWP month is used when you earn over a certain amount of income in a given month, which varies each year. For 2020, the TWP level is $910.00/month. For 2021, the TWP level will increase to $940.00/month. The TWP ends when you have used all nine TWP months within a rolling 60-month (5 year) period.
Specific to Your Situation: According to your BPQY, you have used two of your trial work period months. However, December 2012 was your first TWP month and the second TWP was March 2020, so it is likely that the December 2012 TWP will roll off as it was almost 8 years ago so would not fall into the rolling 60-month period. In reviewing the paystubs from your employment from 8/19 to present, it appears that 3/20 is the only month you had earnings above the TWP amount, so you likely have 8 TWP months available.
Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE): This is a consecutive 36-month period that occurs immediately after the TWP ends, when your eligibility continues even if you earn too much to receive a check. During the EPE you are eligible to receive CDB checks if your monthly countable earnings are less than Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) ($1,260.00 in 2020; $1310.00 in 2021). During any months your countable earnings are above SGA you may not receive your CDB check. If your countable monthly earnings are below SGA during the EPE, you would receive your check. For this reason, you must promptly report your earnings to SSA, so they know whether you should receive a check or not.
Specific to Your Situation: Your EPE won’t begin until you have used all nine of your TWP months.
Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA):
Page 51
Once your TWP is over, SSA will look at your countable monthly earnings to see if they would be “Substantial Gainful Activity” or SGA. During the EPE, SSA allows you to keep your full cash payment if the work you are doing is not considered to be SGA. To help decide if earnings are SGA, SSA uses a specific dollar figure as a guideline. SGA for 2020 is $1,260.00/month and in 2021 it will be $1310.00/month.It is important to understand that SGA is far more than just a number or a dollar amount of monthly gross earnings. During an SGA determination, SSA considers many different things such as the value of your work, how long you were able to earn more than the SGA level, and whether special work incentives can be used to reduce the amount of earned income they count each month.
If your countable earnings are more than $1,310.00 per month in 2021, SSA will likely determine you are earning above SGA.
Grace Period: The first time that your countable monthly earnings demonstrate a pattern of work over SGA after the TWP, you will use your Grace Period. You will still receive your CDB check during this 3-month period. If your earnings continue to be above SGA after this, your cash benefits may be suspended.
Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWEs): SSA deducts the cost of certain impairment-related items and services that you need to work from your gross monthly earnings when they figure out how much of your earnings to count. This means you can actually earn more than SGA and still keep your CDB cash benefits!
You let me know that you have expenses that may qualify as IRWE. You pay around $177.00/month out of pocket for doctors’ visits and prescription co-pays. If your gross earnings are over SGA, SSA will look at your IRWEs to see if they reduce your countable earnings to below SGA. You will need to save your receipts for anything you pay for; you will need to have receipts when claiming an IRWE in case SSA wants to verify expenses. Let me demonstrate:Gross earnings = $ 1425.00 (above SGA)IRWEs = - $177.00 Countable earnings =$1248.00 (below SGA, so likely eligible for CDB)
Specific to your situation: Your earnings are currently below the SGA amount, but should your earnings increase, this is a useful incentive to keep in mind when you enter your EPE if your gross earnings are above SGA.
Expedited Reinstatement (EXR):
Page 52
People often worry that if they lose their CDB benefits because of work, there will be no way to get them back again if they stop working or their earnings are reduced. Fortunately, this is not so, due to an important work incentive known as “Expedited Reinstatement” or EXR. This is a quick way to get benefits back again for people who have stopped receiving benefits due to work and then at later date find themselves unable to engage in SGA level work because of their medical condition or disability. EXR provides a 5-year “safety net” starting with the month in which benefits were terminated due to SGA-level work. The great thing about EXR is that you can get up to six months of provisional benefits while SSA is checking to see that you still meet the disability requirements.
How your employment situation and/or plans may affect your health insurance (Medicare and/or Medi-Cal):
MedicareYou are currently receiving Medicare Part A, B and D through your CDB. As long as you are eligible to receive a CDB payment, you will keep your Medicare coverage – all parts!
Even if your CDB checks stop due to SGA level work, you can keep your Medicare coverage long-term! The Extended Period of Medicare Coverage (EPMC) is a work incentive that can provide ongoing Medicare coverage for at least 93 months after your TWP ends—that’s about 7 ½ years! If your employer offers health insurance, you can choose to accept it and it will not impact your Medicare.
Medi-Cal Working Disabled ProgramWhen you are working and you have a disability, you may be able to continue in the Medi-Cal Working Disabled program. This program allows you to receive Medi-Cal by paying an affordable monthly premium. You will remain eligible until your earnings reach an annual threshold of $64,836 (2020). This program has many unique features such as:
Asset building featureso You can save an unlimited amount of your earned income with
no impact on resource limitso IRS-approved retirement accounts do not impact resource
limits An affordable monthly premium is based on your countable income
instead of a high Share of Cost If you become unemployed, you can remain in the Medi-Cal Working
Disabled program for up to 26 weeks while you are looking for other employment
Page 53
When you get Medicare there is more good news:o Medi-Cal can pay for your Medicare Part B premium! o You automatically qualify for the Medicare Part D Low Income
Subsidy, which helps pay for part of your prescription drug plan costs keeping costs low.
To apply, go to your local County Welfare office. If they are unfamiliar with the program, mention Aid Code 6G.
Your future goal earnings may be above the MWDP limit, but it is likely you would be offered a benefit plan from your employer when working as a Librarian.
How your employment situation and/or plans may affect other benefits you receive (CalFresh, HUD rental subsidies, etc.):
It is important to report income changes to the Department of Social Services for Medi-Cal and Cal Fresh. You also may want to check with your Housing Authority worker to see if you might be eligible for the Earned Income Disregard incentive. I have provided you with the letter template in this packet so check to see if this incentive is available to you. The Earned Income Disregard is a Housing incentive in which allows:
o an initial 12-month exclusion of all increased income (wages)o a second cumulative 12-month exclusion of 50% of increased
income
Employment Services and Supports that Might Benefit You
Ticket to WorkTicket to Work (TTW) is a voluntary program that offers a variety of service providers to support your employment efforts. You can choose to use your Ticket with a State Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (like DOR) or with an Employment Network (EN). While you are using your ticket and meeting Social Security’s benchmarks for Timely Progress towards employment, you will be excused from Social Security’s medical Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs).
The DOR case management system indicates that you are currently participating in the TTW program. If you disagree or have questions about this, please contact me. I have verified that your Ticket was assigned on 10/7/2019.
You can expect to receive a Timely Progress Review (TPR) from Social Security every year.
Page 54
After DOR case closure, you can choose to assign your Ticket to an EN for employment services. A directory of ENs is available at www.ChooseWorkTTW.net.
Resources for Benefits Planning After your DOR Case is ClosedOnce your DOR case is closed, you can access benefits planning services from the closest Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) project. The WIPA in your area is:
Verdugo Workforce Investment Board1255 S. Central Ave., Glendale, CA 91204818-937-8020Community Work Incentives Planner: Nina Schultz
Community Resource:Independent Living Resource Center (ILRC)423 W. Victoria St. Santa Barbara, CA 93101Carol Baizer, Benefits Planning Specialist email: [email protected] ph: 805-963-0595 ext. 102
Many ENs also have benefits planners available to assist you.
Issues Requiring Immediate Action
Wage ReportingWhen you are employed, it is important to let SSA know what your wages are to avoid overpayments. You had a work review done by your local SSA office on 5/18/20. You could use the online MySSA/MyWR system to report your monthly earnings by creating an account on www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.
Be sure to read and respond to anything you receive in the mail from SSA in a timely manner. When you are about to complete your TWP, submit an SSA 821 (Work Activity Report) to SSA so they can update their records. If you receive a CDB check when you think you should not have, (e.g. your earnings are above SGA after the Grace period) do your best not to spend it until you can confirm with SSA. That will help you to avoid an overpayment.Benefits Issues Not Related to EmploymentCDB Benefits and MarriageFor CDB, if you marry someone who is not receiving a Title II benefit (SSDI, CDB or DWB,) your CDB eligibility will likely end, regardless of your earnings.
Earned Income Tax CreditPage 55
The earned income tax credit (EITC) is a tax credit for certain people who work and have low wages. The EITC may put more money in your pocket and make you eligible for a tax refund. If you would like to find out more information about this, you can go online to www.irs.gov. For assistance claiming the EITC, check out the resources for Volunteer Income Tax Assistance below.
Volunteer Income Tax AssistanceIt is important to file your taxes annually, especially to ensure you take advantage of all the deductions available to you. Contact your local Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site to see if you are eligible to receive assistance with tax calculations and preparation free of charge. Local VITA site information is also available by calling the IRS toll-free number 1-800-906-9887 or online at www.irs.gov.
ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) AccountOpening an ABLE account might be a great option for you while receiving Medi-Cal. Here are some of the features of an ABLE account:
ABLE Accounts are tax-advantaged savings/investment accounts for individuals with disabilities where the disability began before their 26th birthday.
Enable eligible individuals to save for disability related expenses. “Qualified disability expenses” are expenses that relate to the designated beneficiary’s blindness or disability and are for the benefit of that designated beneficiary in maintaining or improving his or her health, independence, or quality of life such as Education, Housing, Transportation, Employment training and support etc.
The total annual contribution by all participating individuals including family and friends for a single tax year is $15,000.00 in 2021. However, you can contribute and additional $12,760.00/year (2021) from work earnings so long as you are not contributing to a retirement account.
ABLE Account funds are disregarded as resources for Medi-Cal. To find out more about ABLE accounts, go to www.ablenrc.org ; or for CAL
ABLE accounts, go to www.CALABLE.ca.gov . Also see the enclosed handouts, ABLE 101, from World Institute on Disability.
Using this Report
Please keep this report and refer back to it when you have questions about how your employment plans may affect your Social Security benefits, associated health insurance, and any other federal, state or local benefits. It is also important for you to share this report with other people who are helping you achieve your employment goals.
Page 56
The information contained in this report is intended to help you make informed choices about important life issues that may affect your Social Security and/or other public assistance benefits. The accuracy of the information and advice contained in this report is dependent upon:
1.The accuracy and completeness of the information you provided about your current and past benefits status;
2.The accuracy and completeness of information you provided about relevant factors such as current and past earnings, unearned income, resources, disability status/medical condition, marital status, and living arrangements;
3.Current laws and regulations governing the effect of employment and other factors on Social Security disability benefits and other federal benefits; and
4.Current Social Security Administration policies and procedures regarding the use of applicable work incentives.
Changes in the factors described above may seriously affect the accuracy of the information provided in this correspondence. Please contact your Work Incentives Planner immediately to discuss any changes in your benefits situation or employment plans or to answer any additional questions you have about how employment may affect your benefits!
Work Incentives Planner Signature:
__________________________________________Date:____________
NOTE: By signing this Benefits Summary & Analysis report, the Work Incentives Planner is verifying that a copy of this report has been provided to and reviewed with the beneficiary.
Page 57
Agenda Item 14, Attachment 2 Work Incentives Plan
Work Incentives Plan
Participant Name: Merry Wip DATE: November 19, 2020
Employment Goal: Librarian
ACCESSING EMPLOYMENT SERVICES AND SUPPORTSAction Step Person
ResponsibleTarget Date Completed
DateContinue working at SBCC and participating in your Master’s Program
Merry ongoing
RESOLVING EXISTING BENEFIT ISSUESAction Step Person
ResponsibleTarget Date
Completed Date
None at this time
MANAGING SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS AND WORK INCENTIVESAction Step Person
ResponsibleTarget Date Completed
DateCreate Benefits Binder to store pay stubs, Social Security letters, and TWP/EPE tracking worksheet.
Merry 11/30/2020
Keep track of monthly gross earnings and track TWP months
Merry monthly
Report monthly gross earnings to the local Social Security office.
Merry By the 6th of each month
MANAGING FEDERAL, STATE OR LOCAL BENEFIT PROGRAMSAction Step Person
ResponsibleTarget Date Completed
DateKeep Dept. of Social Merry As needed
Page 58
Services updated of income changes for Cal Fresh and MWDPReview Earned Income Disregard (EID) letter and inquire with the Housing Authority about the Earned Income Disregard incentive
Merry and Housing Authority
11/25/20
FOLLOW UP CONTACT PLANAction Step Person
ResponsibleTarget Date Completed
DateComplete an SSA-821-BK (work activity report) when you complete your TWP
Merry and WIP When applicable
Update WIP with any changes in Benefits or employment
Merry As needed
Review ABLE Account information and consider opening an ABLE account
Merry As desired
Contact Verdugo Job Centers or ILRC for benefits planning services if needed.
Merry After DOR case closure
Consider assigning your Ticket to an Employment Network (EN) once DOR case closes
Merry and WIP 90 days to assign Ticket to EN after DOR case closure
Beneficiary Signature:________________________ Date:_______WIP Signature: _________________________ Date: 11/19/2020
Page 59
Agenda Item 16
Thursday, July 15, 2021
Item Name: Year-to-Date DOR Quarterly Case Data Report
Item Type: Information. SRC members will learn about the DOR case data from quarter 3 (July 1, 2020 through March 31, 2021).
Background: The DOR Year-to-Date Quarterly case report captures data numbers for applications, waitlist, new plans, total closed, successful closures, all cases served, and closures by disability type.
Attachment(s): Attachment 1 – Year-to-Date DOR Quarterly Report – Quarter 3
Page 60
Agenda Item 16, Attachment 1 Year-to-Date DOR Quarterly Report- Quarter 3
Year-to-Date Quarterly Report
Quarter 3(July 1, 2020 through March 31, 2021)
ofState Fiscal Year (SFY) 2020-21
(July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021)
NOTE: All figures are accumulative, represent all VR Programs, and span July 1 through March 31 of each year referenced.
APPLICATIONSThose who applied for services, regardless of forthcoming eligibility status.
SFY 2020/21 = 20,082, a decrease of 40% from Prior Year (PY).o PE = 6,741, a decrease of 41% from PY.
SFY 2019/20 = 33,289, an increase of .5% from the PY.o PE = 11,365 a decrease of 7% from the PY.
SFY 2018/19 = 33,453 an increase of 20% from PY.o PE = 12,222.
SFY 2017/18 = 27,801.
WAIT LISTThose who applied and were determined eligible but will not yet receive service(s) due to the current Order of Selection Declaration.
SFY 2020/21 = 0. SFY 2019/20 = 18, a decrease of 51% from PY. SFY 2018/19 = 37, an increase of 85% from PY. SFY 2017/18 = 20.
NEW PLANSThose with an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) initiated during the current SFY.
SFY 2020/21 = 11,348, a decrease of 31% from PY. SFY 2019/20 = 16,372, an increase of 4% from PY. SFY 2018/19 = 15,699, a decrease of 22% from PY. SFY 2017/18 = 20,051.
TOTAL CLOSEDCases that closed within the year.
Page 61
SFY 2020/21 = 21,358, a decrease of 31% from PY.o PE = 6,225, an increase of 12% from PY.
SFY 2019/20 = 31,078, an increase of 14% from PY.o PE = 5,556, an increase of 260% from PY.
SFY 2018/19 = 27,216, a decrease of 4% from PY.o PE = 1,544.
SFY 2017/18 = 28,254.
CLOSED AFTER PLAN – SUCCESSFUL CLOSURES (26s)Those who completed their IPE, closed their case as status “employed,” and maintained stable employment for a minimum of 90 days. Also referred to as “Closed Rehab.”
SFY 2020/21 = 4,664, a decrease of 30% from PY. SFY 2019/20 = 6,639, a decrease of 5% from PY. SFY 2018/19 = 7,009, a decrease of 11% from PY. SFY 2017/18 = 7,901.
CLOSED AFTER PLAN – NOT EMPLOYED (28s)Those who completed their IPE and closed their case not in “employed” status, including cases where an IPE was signed but services were never provided. Also referred to as “Closed from Service.”
SFY 2020/21 = 6,795, a decrease of 44% from PY. SFY 2019/20 = 12,150, an increase of 6% from PY. SFY 2018/19 = 12,077, a decrease of 5% from PY. SFY 2017/18 = 12,752.
ALL CASES SERVEDAll opened and closed cases that received service(s) in the year
SFY 2020/21 = 93,500, a decrease of 10% from PY.o PE = 24,266, a decrease of 3% from PY.o VR = 69,234, a decrease of 13% from PY.
SFY 2019/20 = 104,317, an increase of 7% from PY.o PE = 24,890, an increase of 77% from PY.o VR = 79,427, a decrease of 4% from PY.
SFY 2018/19 = 97,012, an increase of 5% from PY.o PE = 14,100.o VR = 82,912.
SFY 2017/18 = 91,917.
Page 62
ANALYSIS OF DATAThe Department’s caseload and expenditures have been significantly impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic as evidenced by the downtrend compared to prior years. Successful Closures (26s) are down by 1,975 (-30%) compared to PY. Total combined cases are down by 10,817 (-10%), PE cases are down by 624 (-2%), and VR cases are down by 10,193 (-13%) compared to PY. While overall caseloads are down, the proportion of VR cases, specifically the 16-21 age cohort for VR cases, have been decreasing over the last four years. The decline in the VR 16-21 age range correlates with the increase in PE cases.
Page 63
COMPARISON TABLES - CLOSURES BY DISABILITY TYPE (See Attachment A for explanation of Disability Types.)
Closed Rehab (26s)Disability Type SFY 2020
NumberSFY 2020
PercentageSFY 2019 Number
SFY 2019 Percentage
Blind/Visually Impaired 189 4% 275 4%
Cognitive Impairment 321 7% 508 8%
Deaf/ Hard of Hearing 285 6% 467 7%
Intellect./Dev. Disability 765 16% 1,092 16%
Learning Disability 748 16% 1,162 18%
Physical Disability 671 14% 1,008 15%
Psychiatric Disability 1,634 35% 2,074 31%
Traumatic Brain Injury 51 1% 53 1%
TOTAL 4,664 99 6,639 100
Closed from Service (28s)Disability Type SFY 2020
NumberSFY 2020
PercentageSFY 2019 Number
SFY 2019 Percentage
Blind/Visually Impaired 287 4% 452 4%
Cognitive Impairment 447 7% 905 7%
Deaf/ Hard of Hearing 333 5% 588 5%
Intellect./Dev. Disability 1,087 16% 1,758 14%
Learning Disability 996 15% 2,529 21%
Physical Disability 1,240 18% 2,126 17%
Psychiatric Disability 2,325 34% 3,624 30%
Traumatic Brain Injury 79 1% 168 1%
Not Reported 1 0% 0 0%
TOTAL 6,795 100 12,150 99
ATTACHMENT A: DISABILITY TYPESPage 64
The Budgets, Fiscal Forecasting, and Research Section (BFFR) merges 23 Disability Impairments and five Disability Causes within Aware into the nine Primary Disability Types referenced in the Budget Briefing Book and SRC Year-to-Date Report.
Nine Primary Disability Types 1 - Blind/Visually Impaired2 - Cognitive Impairment3 - Deaf/Hard of Hearing4 - Intellectual/Developmental Disability5 - Learning Disability6 - Not Reported7 - Physical Disability8 - Psychiatric Disability9 - Traumatic Brain Injury
The following table shows how Disability Impairments and Disability Causes within Aware are grouped to synthesize the nine Primary Disability Types listed above.
Page 65
Grouping Breakdown of the 9 Primary Disability Types: Disability Type(BFFR Grouping)
Disability Impairment(Source: Aware)
Disability Cause(Source: Aware)
1 - Blind/Visually Impaired
Blindness - Legal None specified
Blindness - TotalOther Visual Impairments
2 - Cognitive Impairment
Cognitive (learning, thinking & processing info)
None specified
Communicative Impairments (expressive/receptive)
None specified
3 - Deaf/Hard of Hearing
Deaf - Blindness None specified
3 - Deaf/Hard of Hearing
Deafness, Primary Communication Auditory
None specified
3 - Deaf/Hard of Hearing
Deafness, Primary Communication Visual
None specified
3 - Deaf/Hard of Hearing
Hearing Loss, Primary Communication Auditory
None specified
3 - Deaf/Hard of Hearing
Hearing Loss, Primary Communication Visual
None specified
3 - Deaf/Hard of Hearing
Other Hearing Impairments (Tinnitus, etc.)
None specified
4 - Intellectual/ Developmental Disability
None specified Intellectual Disability
4 - Intellectual/ Developmental Disability
None specified Intellectual/Developmental Conditions
4 - Intellectual/ Developmental Disability
None specified Autism
5 - Learning Disability
None specified Specific Learning Disabilities
6 - Not Reported Converted Data None specified6 - Not Reported No Impairment None specified6 - Not Reported Null None specified7 - Physical Disability General Physical
Debilitation (Fatigue, pain, etc.)
None specified
Page 66
Disability Type(BFFR Grouping)
Disability Impairment(Source: Aware)
Disability Cause(Source: Aware)
7 - Physical Disability Manipulation/Dexterity - Orthopedic/Neurological
None specified
7 - Physical Disability Mobility - Orthopedic/Neurological Impairments
None specified
7 - Physical Disability Other Orthopedic Impairments (limited motion)
None specified
7 - Physical Disability Other Physical Impairments (not listed above)
None specified
7 - Physical Disability Respiratory Impairments None specified7 - Physical Disability Both Mobility &
Manip/Dexterity - Ortho/Neurologic
None specified
8 – Psychiatric Disability
Other Mental Impairments None specified
8 – Psychiatric Disability
Psychosocial (interpersonal/behavior impairments)
None specified
9 - Traumatic Brain Injury
None specified Traumatic Brain Injury
Page 67
Agenda Item 19
Thursday, July 15, 2021
Item Name: Identification of Future Agenda Items
Item Type: Discussion. This item affords the SRC the opportunity to discuss issues they would like to appear on future agendas.
Background: Each quarterly meeting there are standing/business items, information updates, or presentations requested by the SRC or from requests received by the SRC Executive Officer.
Attachment(s): Attachment 1 – Information Updates/Presentations List
Page 68
Agenda Item 19, Attachment 1Information Updates/Presentations List
Meeting Dates: September 1-2, 2021Meeting Time: To be determined
Information Updates/Presentations
1. Measuring the Success of Student Services Presenter(s): To be determined Item Type: For information/discussionItem Details:The SRC will learn about how the success of DOR Student Services is measured by DOR. DOR Student Services helps students prepare for work by exploring options, getting ready for work, and creating careers. Presentation discussion items may include methods of measuring is success (ex. goals, targets, tracking), the know issues (if any) in measuring the success, and what are the results so far.
2. Services to Youth with Disabilities involved in the Foster Care SystemPresenter(s): To be determined Item Type: For informationItem Details: The SRC will learn about the DOR’s Services to youth with disabilities involved in the foster care system. Assembly Bill 2083 requires each California county to develop and implement a memorandum of understanding (MOU) setting forth roles and responsibilities of agencies and other entities that serve children and youth in foster care. DOR is listed as a key partner within the MOU guidance. Services the DOR provides to youth with disabilities involved in the foster care system include student services, vocational rehabilitation services, and supported employment services.
3. Consumer Reimbursement of Goods and ServicesPresenter(s): To be determined Item Type: For Information/Discussion Item Details: The SRC will learn about the process of consumer reimbursement of goods and services. The DOR fair hearing complaints were separated into categories, one category included the request for reimbursement for goods and services which were not previously authorized by the DOR. The SRC can learn of the possible factors that may lead up to those complaints.
Page 69
4. Blind Advisory Committee Task Force Updates Presenter(s): To be determined Item Type: For InformationItem Details: The Blind Advisory Committee (BAC) provides advice to the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) on means to increase competitive employment, enlarge economic opportunities, enhance independence and self-sufficiency, and in methods of improving services for persons who are blind or visually impaired. The BAC formed a task force to discuss Safety Policy & Procedures to Protect Consumers.
5. Self-Employment ProgramPresenter(s): Workforce Development SectionItem Type: For Information Item Details: The SRC will learn about the DOR process and guidelines to become employed in a self-employment setting. The concept of a "Self-Employment Setting" allows the individual to choose a vocational goal/occupation such as graphic artist, barber, accountant, etc., as an employment outcome in a setting where the individual can work as self-employed instead of as an employee.
6. Social Media Presenter(s): To be determined Item Type: For Information Item Details: The SRC will learn about how DOR engages with consumers and stakeholders through social media. How does the DOR respond to comments and questions from followers and keep followers/community informed, educated, and up-to-date? How do they choose what content to publish to attract attention from followers and encourage engagement?
7. Independent Living Presenter(s): To be determined Item Type: For information/DiscussionItem Details: The SRC members will learn about the work of the Independent Living Centers, the State Independent Living Council, and of any policy and system issues.
8. Employer PanelPresenter(s): To be determined Item Type: For Information/discussionItem Details:
Page 70
The panel discussion will allow the SRC to hear from the business, industry, and labor representatives. The SRC can help identify the topics they want to know more about. Some potential discussion areas can include:
What are hiring mangers looking for when selecting an employee? What would be the best way for DOR to approach your company about
hiring? What are some positive and/or negative experiences have you had while
working with DOR? What fears do employers have the most about when hiring a person with a
disability? What suggestions would you give DOR to help them develop long-term
partnerships with employers?
9. Financial Participation Implementation Documents (on hold until the documents are produced)Presenter(s): To be determined Item Type: For information/discussion Item Details:The SRC will learn about the DOR materials (informational handouts to consumers, website content, staff resources and training) related to the financial participation and loaned property regulations. This is in support of the 2021 SRC recommendation that the materials are developed with clear language and with examples to ensure understanding by staff, consumers, and the public, reassuring that access to needed services will continue in an equitable and fair manner.
Page 71