Michigan’s Bureau of Services for ... - State of Michigan



State of MichiganGRETCHEN WHITMERGOVERNORDEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY LansingJEFF DONOFRIODIRECTORUnder the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) in accordance with the WIOA Sections 101(g) and 20 Code of Federal Regulation (CFR) 376.130, 34 CFR 361.130, and 34 CFR 463.130, the State of Michigan is providing an opportunity for public comment on, and input into, the 2020-2023 Michigan Unified State Plan.? The plan must meet the requirements described in the WIOA and other published federal guidance and must outline a four-year strategy for all of the core program areas (Titles I-IV).? Comments are due no later than 5:00pm ET on Monday, February 17th, 2020. The Unified State Plan will be submitted for final approval to the United States Department of Labor and the United States Department of Education after the public comment period has closed.The full plan is posted at the following web-accessible location until 5:00pm on Monday, February 17, 2020: .? All comments regarding the 2020-2023 Unified State Plan should be submitted to:Ms. Voni Booyinga, WIOA SpecialistDepartment of Labor and Economic Opportunity, State of Michigan201 North Washington Square, 5th FloorLansing, Michigan 48913booyingav@Fax: 517-241-9846To ensure your comments are considered, they must be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, February 17, 2020.In an effort to make this as inclusive of a process as possible, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity respectfully requests you share the availability of this public comment opportunity with key stakeholders in your local area including, but not limited to, chief local elected officials, local workforce board members, one-stop partners, service providers, other community and faith-based organizations that are part of your referral network, and employers.? Your assistance is greatly appreciated.? Thank you.Michigan’s Bureau of Services for Blind Persons 2020-2023 Work Innovation and Opportunity Act 2020-2023 Unified State PlanProgram-Specific Requirements for Vocational Rehabilitation (Blind)The Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services Portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan* must include the following descriptions and estimates, as required by section 101(a) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended by WIOA:?__________?* Sec. 102(b)(D)(iii) of WIOAa. Input of State Rehabilitation CouncilAll agencies, except for those that are independent consumer-controlled commissions, must describe the following:1. input provided by the State Rehabilitation Council, including input and recommendations on the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan, recommendations from the Council's report, the review and analysis of consumer satisfaction, and other Council reports that may have been developed as part of the Council’s functions;"In accordance with the requirements as required by section 101(a) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended by title IV of the Workforce and Innovation Opportunity Act, regarding public review and comment, responses to comments submitted will be addressed after the public comment period closes. Input and recommendations from the State Rehabilitation Council will be included in the plan once received." FY 2019 Recommendation Update:Michigan Council for Rehabilitation ServicesFriday, July 12, 2019Re: response regarding EO-2019-13 and amended State Plans for Bureau of Services for Blind Persons (BSBP) and Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS).Michigan Council for Rehabilitation Services (MCRS) acknowledges that the council will be relocated from the Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) as a result of Executive Order 2019-13 effective August 11, 2019.MCRS shall continue to be the single state rehabilitation council pursuant to 29 USC 721(a)(21)(B) for authorities, powers, duties, functions, and responsibilities transferred to the Department under sections 6(b) and 7(c).MCRS has an understanding that the executive reorganization will:? Better align the core partners to serve the dual customer of individuals with disabilities and employers.? Allow greater networking, coordination and data sharing while being able to work independently within the Michigan Vocational Rehabilitation system.? Promote higher efficiency and effectiveness regarding the connection to labor.? Work towards the goal of a strong economy that requires a concentration of talent.? Foster opportunity to build and enhance relationships while MCRS continues to work autonomously to comply with our federal mandates.MCRS’s expectation is that the executive reorganization will better enable the council to advise BSBP and MRS in the development of State goals and priorities in relationship to serving individuals with disabilities. This includes addressing the governor’s goal of 60% of Michigan citizens achieving post-secondary credential attainment by 2030.FY 2016 Recommendations Update:1 - We recommend that the Council receive the BSBP program and financial data on a quarterly basis following the submittal of their 113 reports to Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA). We recognize the value of this information as we work to review, analyze and advise BSBP about their service system. This information will be included in the applicable Business Meeting packets, as members look forward to receiving BSBP data in print format for review and discussion at business meetings.OUTCOME: The consistent receipt of data has been managed through recent Training Sessions with BSBP Administrators about the mandated requirements and the training needs of the membership regarding WIOA Performance indicators. Achieved.2 - We recommend that BSBP designs and implements a Succession Plan that will strengthen and ensure the future availability of experienced and prepared employees for management and direct service positions.OUTCOME: The VR BSBP portion of the State Plan update indicates that data has been collected regarding succession planning for staff. We would like to have discussion with BSBP about their plans to fill anticipated future vacancies. 3 - We recommend that BSBP conduct a Strategic Plan session with an outside facilitator to create a new plan with goals and strategies for their Bureau, to include the vocational rehabilitation and supported employment components. The Council looks forward to being involved in this process and believes that a new plan will strengthen the BSBP operations in a manner which results in an increase in successful outcomes. OUTCOME: The VR BSBP portion of the State Plan update specifies that the anticipated planning process will incorporate the MCRS. Achieved. 4 - In consultation with the MCRS, and with regard to new WIOA requirements, we recommend that BSBP evaluate, update, and implement changes to their policies and procedures that impact all applicants and those determined eligible to receive VR services.OUTCOME: BSBP is now including the MCRS in activities related to policy review and updates. As well, BSBP provides regular updates at MCRS Business Meetings regarding minor policy changes. Achieved. 5 - We recommend that BSBP review the contents of their web site and incorporate current program and data information along with success stories for perusal by the public which provides transparency of their service system. As well, a brief description about the MCRS with a link to our website should be part of the BSBP website.OUTCOME: We understand that the BSBP will incorporate the above recommendations into the content of their website. Achieved.Recommendations after reviewing the FY 2018 State Plan:1. Regarding Section 2. B. 1, we recommend that BSBP create an annual document regarding their Interagency Cash Transfer Agreements (ICTA) which establishes the transparency that we believe is needed for public consumption, including by the MCRS. We suggest that the document include the identifying information for each ICTA, along with the purpose for the agreement and then the impact it has had on the customers who have been served. We believe that this investment into the local community, the opportunity to expand the use of federal dollars and the additional service resource for the customers of BSBP should be documented as an asset of for the BSBP service system.2. Regarding 1. DSU plans . . . 2. Info on the formal interagency . . . C. Roles and Responsibilities. The response by BSBP does not say that they will follow the RSA criteria, our question is, should that be included?3. Regarding Section j. Statewide Assessment, 2., the MCRS has a question for clarification. This passage describes the current status of BSBPs work with community rehabilitation programs (CRPs). The MCRS would like to know if BSBP has plans to develop and expand their CRP relationships?4. Regarding A. The VR Program; C., we recommend that the annual review of the need of order of selection include the MCRS. 5. o - State Strategies, B. 1. H., we recommend that BSBP partner with the MCRS when researching and considering opportunities for a credible CSNA for the customers they serve.The following recommendations were determined when considering the Office of Performance and Transformation (within the State of Michigan) findings after they conducted a review of the MCRS operations and business processes. These findings were discussed in January 2018 with both DSUs at a MCRS Training Session, but the members determined their importance for inclusion in the plan. 1. We recommend to BSBP that the MCRS is provided on at least a quarterly basis, their service system data that is relevant to status of the eligibility process for customers. CITE: 361.17 (h) Functions. The Council must, after consulting with the State workforce development board— (1) Review, analyze, and advise the designated State unit regarding the performance of the State unit's responsibilities under this part, particularly responsibilities related to— (i) Eligibility, including order of selection; 2. We recommend to BSBP that the MCRS is provided on at least a quarterly basis, with service system data that is relevant to the status of their determination that the establishment and/or implementation of Order of Selection for services is needed or not. CITE: 361.17 (h) Functions. The Council must, after consulting with the State workforce development board— (1) Review, analyze, and advise the designated State unit regarding the performance of the State unit's responsibilities under this part, particularly responsibilities related to— (i) Eligibility, including order of selection; 3. We recommend to BSBP that the MCRS is provided on at least a quarterly basis, with service system data that is relevant to the employment outcomes of customers. CITE: 361.17 (ii) The extent, scope, and effectiveness of services provided; and (iii) Functions performed by State agencies that affect or potentially affect the ability of individuals with disabilities in achieving employment outcomes under this part; This should include a training for the MCRS members on the WIOA Performance Indicators.CITE: 361.17 (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;4. We recommend to BSBP to consult the MCRS regarding the development of State goals and priorities. Once agreed upon BSBP should report on the progress toward goal achievement on a quarterly basis. CITE: 361.17 (2) In partnership with the designated State unit— (i) Develop, agree to, and review State goals and priorities in accordance with §361.29(c); and 5. We recommend that BSBP report to the MCRS on at least a quarterly basis the progress toward our State Plan recommendations that we have made in this document, so that we can advise the designated State unit.CITE: 361.17 (3) Advise the designated State agency and the designated State unit regarding activities carried out under this part 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 required by this part;6. We recommend that BSBP provide the MCRS with reports and/or evaluations as produced related to their service system.CITE: 361.17 (3) Advise the designated State agency and the designated State unit regarding activities carried out under this part 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 required by this part;7. We recommend that BSBP work with the MCRS in the design and review of the Customer Satisfaction Survey, along with the annual report. (4) To the extent feasible, conduct a review and analysis of the effectiveness of, and consumer satisfaction with— CITE: 361.17 (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;8. We recommend that in keeping with WIOA that BSBP inform the MCRS of the process they will design to track their staff efforts to educate and inform consumers working in the subminimum wage environments about the choice of competitive integrated employment opportunities. 9. We recommend that given the various data elements the MCRS should receive from BSBP, that a meeting takes place with both DSUs and MCRS representatives to create a template that can be utilized by BSBP and MRS for reporting their data to the MCRS. 2. the Designated State unit's response to the Council’s input and recommendations; "In accordance with the requirements as required by section 101(a) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended by title IV of the Workforce and Innovation Opportunity Act, regarding public review and comment, responses to comments submitted will be addressed after the public comment period closes. Input and recommendations from the State Rehabilitation Council will be included in the plan once received." BSBP has reviewed the recommendations of the MCRS as amended for the 2018 state plan modification as well as the responses to the recommendations made in 2016. BSBP and MCRS will continue to work together to implement the new recommendations and agree that the previous recommendations have been completed in many instances and will continue to be addressed in others. Please refer to MCRS 2014 -2016 recommendations and modified recommendations for 2018.It should be noted that BSBP has no objection to the comments provided by the MCRS related to the Executive Order transferring the Council, MRS and BSBP to the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity.3. the designated State unit’s explanations for rejecting any of the Council’s input or recommendations."In accordance with the requirements as required by section 101(a) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended by title IV of the Workforce and Innovation Opportunity Act, regarding public review and comment, responses to comments submitted will be addressed after the public comment period closes. Input and recommendations from the State Rehabilitation Council will be included in the plan once received." The DSU and the council are in agreement with the recommendations. b. Request for Waiver of StatewidenessWhen requesting a waiver of the statewideness requirement, the designated State unit must identify the types of services to be provided by the program on a non-statewide basis. The waiver request must also include written assurances that:1. a local public agency will provide the non-Federal share of costs associated with the services to be provided in accordance with the waiver request;BSBP is requesting a waiver of statewideness. BSBP develops interagency cash transfer agreements (ICTA) in various parts of the state as determined necessary by BSBP and intermediate school district (ISD) staff. These ICTAs are not available in all parts of the state.2. the designated State unit will approve each proposed service before it is put into effect; andBSBP policy requires each ICTA to contain written assurance that outlined services will be incorporated into the Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) prior to service provision.3. All State plan requirements will applyRequirements of the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan will apply to the services approved under the waiver.BSBP policy requires each ICTA to contain written assurance that the agreement will comply with all State Plan requirements for services approved under the waiver, including the state’s Order of Selection for Services (OSS) requirements.c. Cooperative Agreements with Agencies Not Carrying Out Activities Under the Statewide Workforce Development System.Describe interagency cooperation with and utilization of the services and facilities of agencies and programs that are not carrying out activities through the statewide workforce development system with respect to:1. Federal, State, and local agencies and programs;Describe interagency cooperation with and utilization of the services and facilities of agencies and programs that are not carrying out activities through the statewide workforce investment system with respect to ? Federal, state, and local agencies and programs; ? State programs carried out under section 4 of the Assistive Technology Act of 1998; ? If applicable, Programs carried out by the Under Secretary for Rural Development of the United States Department of Agriculture; ? Noneducational agencies serving out-of-school youth; and ? If applicable, state use contracting programs.BSBP collaborates with a variety of state and local agencies to provide comprehensive rehabilitation services to individuals who are blind and visually impaired. BSBP will negotiate an agreement with the Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities Administration (BHDDA). When the agreement or (Memorandum of Understanding) MOU with BHDDA is signed, it will create opportunities for BSBP to work cooperatively with state and local community mental health entities in order to maximize the ability of BSBP consumers to receive comprehensive mental health and developmental health related services.BSBP continues to utilize MOUs with Institutions of Higher Education (IHE) that outline the responsibility of BSBP and the IHE as it relates to the requirements found in Section 103 (a) of the Rehabilitation Act as amended regarding dispute resolutions, financial responsibilities, accommodations, and service provisions. BSBP supports post-secondary training that leads to measurable skill gains and industry recognized credential attainment.2. State programs carried out under section 4 of the Assistive Technology Act of 1998; BSBP currently refers consumers to the Assistive Technology loan fund which is administered through United Cerebral Palsy Michigan (UCP).3. Programs carried out by the Under Secretary for Rural Development of the United States Department of Agriculture; BSBP utilizes local advisory councils (LAC’S) to share information regarding grants, funding and service availability that can benefit BSBP consumers, to ensure that the needs of blind and visually impaired individuals are included in planning for accessible transportation services for employment and leisure activities.4. Noneducational agencies serving out-of-school youth; andBSBP’s co-location within LEO as well as participation in Workforce Development Boards (WDB) facilitates collaboration among noneducational agencies serving out-of-school youth. MOUs and Infrastructure Agreements (IFA’s) with WDB’s outline shared goals and encourage interagency referrals for the out-of-school programs allowing BSBP consumers to benefit.5. State use contracting programs.BSBP does not have a formal agreement regarding state use contracting programs. MRS does have a representative on the state’s disability set-aside committee to ensure that Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRP) identified by MRS are given priority in certain types of contracts set aside for such organizations under State law.d. Coordination with Education OfficialsDescribe: 1. DSU's plansBSBP’s Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) unit composed of a statewide manager, a statewide consultant and a data analyst supports the provision of Pre-ETS and transition services to students who are potentially eligible and those who are VR consumers on a statewide basis. The BSBP Transition Services Manager functions as the statewide liaison to Michigan Department of Education-Low Incidence Outreach (MDE-LIO), MDE Transition Coordinators, and Statewide Transition Teams. BSBP’s Pre-ETS unit provides training and technical assistance to regional BSBP, MDE staff, and families. BSBP’s Pre-ETS unit facilitates the coordination of local programming, outreach, and provision of Pre-ETS services through ICTA’s, year-round and summer programs. BSBP’s VR counselors and Vision Rehabilitation Therapists are assigned geographically to the 57 ISD’s and Local Educational Authority (LEA). VR counselors work closely with teacher consultants for the visually impaired (TCVI) to identify students who would benefit from Pre-ETS and/or Vocational Rehabilitation Services. BSBP Youth Low Vision Program also serves as an outreach to those students who may not be aware of the Pre-ETS program or VR.BSBP staff, when invited, participate in the Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs) of students with visual impairments who are fourteen years and older. Students and their families are provided with information on Pre-ETS as well as the VR Program. BSBP counselors work with each student to ensure that Pre-ETS services are provided or arranged. BSBP staff partners with the LEAs through the Transition Coordinators and TCVIs to determine what Pre-ETS services are currently being provided to the student via the LEA or ISD and the additional Pre-ETS services that will be provided through VR. BSBP will provide Pre-ETS to students with disabilities who have applied for vocational rehabilitation services and to potentially eligible students with visual impairments. If a student needs a service that goes beyond the scope of Pre-ETS, and the service is listed on the student's approved IPE, BSBP will pay for those costs with non-reserved VR funds. The student must apply for a VR case and be determined eligible by the Counselor within 60 days of the VR application being signed. The VR Counselor will work with the student and parents or legal guardians to develop an IPE outlining the VR services necessary to assist the student in obtaining competitive integrated employment. The eligibility criteria for services must be met before plan development. The IEP, along with the IPE, are instruments that identify education, transition, and employment goals and objectives.The Michigan Department of Education - Low Incidence Outreach (MDE-LIO) provides technical assistance and resources to enable local school districts to serve and improve the quality of education for students with visual impairments. The Bureau has contributed to MDE-LIO’s quarterly newsletter providing valuable information on the BSBP’s transition activities and resources. BSBP partners with MDE-LIO and local districts to facilitate the coordination of the provision of Pre-ETS services and the coordination of academic, vocational, independent and community-based curricula. BSBP also provides technical assistance for the establishment of local partnerships designed to aid and empower students who are blind and visually impaired.2. Information on the formal interagency agreement with the State educational agency with respect to:A. consultation and technical assistance to assist educational agencies in planning for the transition of students with disabilities from school to post-school activities, including VR services;BSBP is developing an agreement with the Michigan Department of Education as required by the WIOA amendments with specific details regarding Pre-ETS.BSBP personnel will provide consultation and technical assistance (TA) to the Michigan Department of Education and LEAs to assist in planning for the transition of students with disabilities (SWD) from school to post-school activities, including postsecondary education, employment-related activities, Pre-ETS, and other VR services. Examples include participating when available in LEA transition planning meetings and department meetings, when invited, and sharing training and conference opportunities when available. Additional consultation and TA may include, but is not limited to the following topics:Disability awarenessAccommodations and assistive technologyBSBP application, eligibility, and servicesCommunity-based servicesIndependent livingCareer PathwaysCompetitive integrated employmentThe consultation and TA provided by BSBP may be through a variety of mediums, including:Direct one-on-one communication;Multi-media formats including Web-based conferencing, email etc. Conference or phone calls; Presentations to groups; or Formal and informal networkingB. transition planning by personnel of the designated State agency and educational agency that facilitates the development and implementation of their individualized education programs; A. The roles and responsibilities of BSBP are to:Provide consultation to assist in the identification of eligible and potentially eligible SWD and assess their individual needs for Pre-ETS.Provide consultation to LEAs on transition planning to prepare a student to move from school to competitive integrated employment or post-secondary education in accordance with the student's unique needs as determined through the IEP process and provision of Pre-ETS.Provide information to parents and/or guardian(s), student/clients regarding VR eligibility, vocational assessment for employment and post-secondary planning and Client Assistance Program (CAP).Obtain written consent for the release of confidential information, pursuant to -BSBP policy and procedures, federal and state laws and regulations regarding confidentiality.Provide contact information for BSBP personnel and office locations.Provide brochures and materials about the VR process and services to LEAs for distribution to the students, parents, legal guardians, teachers and others.Participate with the MDE in joint training of education and VR staff as rm MDE, LEA personnel, students, legal guardians and parents of the mandates found in the Rehabilitation Act and its implementing regulations, which require the student with a disability exiting school to be referred to BSBP prior to entering subminimum wage work with a 14c certificate holder.In collaboration with LEAs, provide or arrange for the provision of Pre-ETS to all SWD in need of such services.B. The responsibilities of the Michigan Department of Education within its authority are to:Partner with BSBP to ensure that students can participate in programs and services that will result in a seamless transition to post-secondary training and employment.Identify local and statewide opportunities for SWD that would enhance their education and transition services. In partnership with BSBP, provide technical assistance and training regarding WIOA to LEAs and other stakeholders identified by the MDE, including parents, families, guardians and students relating to the provision of Pre-ETS and other transition services.Encourage collaboration and coordination between LEAs and BSBP to minimize duplication and maximize resources, services and opportunities for SWD.Identify a point of contact at the Department of Education’s Low Incidence Outreach Program (LIO)Encourage coordination between LEAs and local -BSBP offices, to ensure the provision of disability documentation prior to the provision of Pre-ETS, and/or copy of the IEP/504 for students referred with appropriate consent as required by State law and the requirement to provide all special educational services or related transition services under IDEA required to be provided by the school system under Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in accordance with section 101(c) of the Rehabilitation Act and 34 VCFR 361.22(c) of its implementing regulations.C. roles and responsibilities, including financial responsibilities, of each agency, including provisions for determining State lead agencies and qualified personnel responsible for transition services; The purpose of the serviceIs it related more to an employment outcome or education (i.e., is it considered a special education or related service (e.g., rehabilitation counseling that is necessary for the provision of a free appropriate public education)?2. Customary ServicesIs the service one that the school customarily provides under IDEA part B?EligibilityIs the student with a disability eligible for transition services under IDEA?Because the definition of a "student with a disability," for the VR program includes an individual with a disability for purposes of section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, it is broader than the definition under IDEA.D. procedures for outreach to and identification of students with disabilities who need transition services.BSBP counselors will work with LEAs to identify SWD and potentially eligible students that may benefit from the delivery of Pre-ETS.BSBP will assign VR counselors to work with LEAs to coordinate and implement the provision of Pre-ETS.Pre-ETS may be provided by either the LEA (under IDEA) or BSBP (under the Rehabilitation Act).School personnel, family members, guardians, or other interested persons may refer students for BSBP services.BSBP will provide school personnel, family members, guardians, or other interested persons the necessary forms to initiate Pre-ETS, transition or other VR services.BSBP in collaboration with LEAs may utilize a variety of activities to provide outreach to and identification of SWD in need of transition services and Pre-ETS. These activities may be conducted jointly and/or individually for student with IEPs, students with 504 plans and other potentially eligible student with disabilities not currently receiving services. Activities may include, but are not limited to, presentations to students and parents, IEP attendance, websites, brochures, conferences, professional groups/councils, and regular contact between LEA and BSBP personnel.Outreach activities and student identification by BSBP shall generally begin when students reach the 10th grade and minimally include dissemination of the following information:The purpose of BSBP;Eligibility requirements BSBP services;How to apply for BSBP services; andThe scope of services that may be provided by BSBP, including Pre-ETS.Not all eligible or potentially eligible students with disabilities will require all five required pre-employment transition services, however, all should receive all needed services, as determined through informed choice and consultation with each student based on their strengths and needs and consistent with their IEP, when applicable.e. Cooperative Agreements with Private Nonprofit Organizations(Formerly known as Attachment 4.8(b)(3)). Describe the manner in which the designated State agency establishes cooperative agreements with private non-profit VR service providers.BSBP has no formal cooperative agreements with private nonprofit vocational rehabilitation service providers.f. Arrangements and Cooperative Agreements for the Provision of Supported Employment Services(Formerly known as Attachment 4.8(b)(4)). Describe the designated State agency’s efforts to identify and make arrangements, including entering into cooperative agreements, with other State agencies and other appropriate entities in order to provide supported employment services and extended employment services, as applicable, to individuals with the most significant disabilities, including youth with the most significant disabilities. BSBP has no formal agreements for the provision of supported Employment Services.g. Coordination with Employers(Formerly known as Attachment 4.8(b)(5)). Describe how the designated State unit will work with employers to identify competitive integrated employment and career exploration opportunities in order to facilitate the provision of: 1. VR services; andBSBP has embraced a dual customer service delivery model that considers the needs of both business and the consumer in the provision of VR services.The co-location of BSBP and MRS within LEO allows for additional opportunities to collaborate and coordinate employer engagement and related business services which promote the employment of persons with disabilities (PWD). Both BSBP and MRS are participating in an intensive technical assistance agreement through the Workforce Innovation Technical Assistance Center (WINTAC) that includes technical assistance in working with the One-Stops.Michigan’s largest employer is the State of Michigan. Wishing to take the lead in employment of persons with disabilities, Executive Directive 2014-1 creates opportunities for qualified persons with disabilities to be highly considered for state employment when those positions are available. BSBP has met with state HR directors to discuss accommodations and supports that BSBP can provide to assist in this process.Michigan is an Employment First state, EO 2015-15.BSBP is a participating stakeholder in the Employment First initiative and has comprehensive representation on work groups to ensure that BSBP consumers are well represented and considered when decisions regarding employment of persons with significant disabilities are made.BSBP and Michigan Rehabilitation Services have engaged in intensive technical assistance with WINTAC to promote customized employment as a state model for the competitive integrated employment of persons who possess significant barriers to employment including a component that is inclusive of business engagement. BSBP’s Training Center provides blindness specific training to community partners to assist in the education and training of service providers. 2. transition services, including pre-employment transition services, for students and youth with disabilities.BSBP Counselors generating work-based learning opportunities for students including internships and paid work experiences that enhance their ability to become employed in a competitive, integrated setting. Statewide programs such as Project Search and Seamless Transition promote education and work-based learning which can result in competitive, integrated employment, and the development of employability skills for students. These can include, but are not limited to, interagency cash transfer agreements with Intermediate School Districts, both summer and year-round programs facilitated by the DSU to address the specific needs of blind and low vision transition populations, and for students who are VR clients - individualized job development and placement services. BSBP also identifies other work opportunities including those offered by the Michigan Works offices that students participate in to enhance their employment skills. h. Interagency CooperationDescribe how the designated State unit will collaborate with the State agency responsible for administering each of the following programs to develop opportunities for competitive integrated employment, to the greatest extent practicable: 1. the State Medicaid plan under title XIX of the Social Security Act; Currently the DSU is coordinating with Medicaid program providers to determine the best way to utilize those services to enhance the support of individuals served by both VR and Medicaid. BSBP is engaging in the development of a MOU with The Department of Health and Human Services Behavioral and Mental Health programs.2. the State agency responsible for providing services for individuals with developmental disabilities; and The DSU is coordinating with the Department of Health and Human Services in Michigan as well as the general agency, to determine an agreement that will outline how VR and DHHS can effectively work together to serve mutual consumers. This would include the MOU referenced above as well as the Employment First Executive Order referenced earlier in this document and the WINTAC customized employment project.3. the State agency responsible for providing mental health services.Through BSBP’s collaborative efforts with Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), an agreement is being developed and will be implemented to provide long term supports. This agreement will provide for extended supports to assist consumers in maintaining their employment. This agreement could provide services such as job coaching, development of natural supports, and on-going follow along to enable the consumer to maintain competitive integrated employment. BSBP and local community mental health agencies will be working to develop agreements to support long term follow-up services to enhance the employment activities of consumers, as well as the need for auxiliary aids to improve their daily living skills and employability.i. Comprehensive System of Personnel Development; Data System on Personnel and Personnel Development(Formerly known as Attachment 4.10)). Describe the designated State agency's procedures and activities to establish and maintain a comprehensive system of personnel development designed to ensure an adequate supply of qualified State rehabilitation professional and paraprofessional personnel for the designated State unit, including the following: 1. Data System on Personnel and Personnel DevelopmentA. Qualified Personnel Needs.Describe the development and maintenance of a system for collecting and analyzing on an annual basis data on qualified personnel needs with respect to:i. the number of personnel who are employed by the State agency in the provision of VR services in relation to the number of individuals served, broken down by personnel category; BSBP currently has 48 full-time positions authorized and funded by the department to provide field-based VR services. BSBP’s budget supports 16 Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) positions, which includes 1 position eligible for retirement. BSBP’s budget supports 14 vision Rehabilitation Therapists,1 being eligible for retirement and 3 being professionals who are dually educated as VRC’s and VRT’s providing teachingproviding teaching services and counseling services to VR consumers including students eligible for Pre-ETS services who are potentially eligible, or VR eligible students. . Currently, there are 8 Support Staff positions of which 2 are eligible to retire at any time. BSBP has 3 regional managers, 1 who is currently eligible to retire and 1 who will be eligible to retire in 2 years. 3 assistant regional managers,1 of those positions is currently eligible to retire, and one Pre-ETS manager, one statewide Pre-ETS consultant and 1 Departmental Analyst dedicated to the Pre-ETS Unit. There is 1 Field Services Division Director position eligible to retire within 5 years. Approximately 1000 VR consumers are served directly by 19 direct services field-based professionals. Case load sizes are approximately 50-60 consumers to 1 professional staff person and will vary according to population density, such as Metropolitan Area vs. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.BSBP’s comprehensive field service delivery models consider the holistic needs of the BSBP consumer. Complimentary to and enhancing VR field-based services are VR group services provided by the Business Enterprise Program (BEP), the Braille and Talking Book Library (BTBL) as well as VR center-based services provided by the BSBP Training Center (BSBPTC). Professional field staff team with the BEP, BTBL and BSBPTC professionals in order to further enhance the consumer experience and meet the BSBP shared common goal for the consumer of Competitive Integrated Employment and an active participant of their community.ii. the number of personnel currently needed by the State agency to provide VR services, broken down by personnel category; BSBP anticipates the continued need for 16 VR counselors 14 VRT’s 3 of which who are also educated as counselors in addition to their VRT credentials to serve Michigan’s Blind and visually impaired citizens. BSBP needs the 8-support staff positions statewide and BSBP plans to maintain the current management structure of 3 regional managers, 3 assistant managers, 1 Pre-ETS manager and 1 Field Services Division Director. BSBP’s newly developed Pre-ETS unit will continue to be necessary to oversee Pre-ETS services and programs. iii. projections of the number of personnel, broken down by personnel category, who will be needed by the State agency to provide VR services in 5 years based on projections of the number of individuals to be served, including individuals with significant disabilities, the number of personnel expected to retire or leave the field, and other relevant factors. BSBP will continue to need 16-19 VRC’s and 11-14 VRT’s, 7 managers and 8 support staff positions, 2 positions supporting the Pre-ETS unit, and one Field Services Division Director. BSBP may re-purpose positions to adjust to the changing needs of the Bureau and the population it serves. BSBP will strategically plan for vacancies due to attrition and retirements. BSBP will include strategies to develop and train current staff to fill vacancies. B. Personnel DevelopmentDescribe the development and maintenance of a system for collecting and analyzing on an annual basis data on personnel development with respect to:i.Aa list of the institutions of higher education in the State that are preparing VR professionals, by type of program; Michigan State - Rehabilitation Counseling, Wayne State University’s online Rehabilitation Counseling program. Western Michigan - Orientation & Mobility (for adults and children), Rehabilitation Teaching, Rehabilitation Counseling and Teaching Children with Visual Impairments.BSBP participates in the development of vocational rehabilitation professionals by providing opportunities for mentoring and supervising vocational rehabilitation practicum and internship experiences. BSBP staff participates on admission panels at Western Michigan University to provide guidance as to the skills and abilities the field of rehabilitation requires.BSBP initiates annual communication with the programs above allow us to gather statistical data needed to address this topic. BSBP staff are periodically requested to provide in-service training in this program of study.ii. tthe numbernumbers of students enrolled at each of those institutions, broken down by type of program; Approximately 10-15 students20-30 will be enrolled in eachbetween the 3 of the counseling programs and between 4 and 5 would be enrolled in the O&M and teaching programs at Wwestern Michigan University. The statistics for the program teaching blind children is not available and will be updated when available. iii. the number of students who graduated during the prior year from each of those institutions with certification or licensure, or with the credentials for certification or licensure, broken down by the personnel category for which they have received, or have the credentials to receive, certification or licensure. 10-2020-30 students graduate each year from both in-state counseling programs with credentials consistent with academic preparedness to meet national certification requirements. Michigan State -Western Michigan - Teaching: Orientation & Mobility (for adults and children), Rehabilitation Teaching, Rehabilitation Counseling and Teaching Children with Visual Impairments. Graduates during the past two years were approximately 33; Counseling graduates in the past two years were approximately 5 with a projection of another 5 graduates by December of 2018. Current enrollment is 11. Optimal enrollment objective would be 20 students by 2020.2. Plan for Recruitment, Preparation and Retention of Qualified PersonnelDescribe the development and implementation of a plan to address the current and projected needs for qualified personnel including, the coordination and facilitation of efforts between the designated State unit and institutions of higher education and professional associations to recruit, prepare, and retain personnel who are qualified, including personnel from minority backgrounds and personnel who are individuals with disabilities. This DSU partners with educational institutions in our state in addressing current and projected needs for qualified personnel by providing practicum experiences and internships. Individuals on staff also serve on boards and interview committees for admission.3. Personnel StandardsDescribe the State agency's policies and procedures for the establishment and maintenance of personnel standards consistent with section 101(a)(7)(B) and 34 CFR 361.18(c) to ensure that designated State unit professional and paraprofessional personnel are adequately trained and prepared, including: A. standards that are consistent with any national or State-approved or -recognized certification, licensing, registration, or other comparable requirements that apply to the profession or discipline in which such personnel are providing VR services; andMichigan Department of Civil Service has established the following standards for a qualified rehabilitation counselor or vocational rehabilitation teacher:A qualified rehabilitation counselor is defined as a counselor with a minimum of a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling, counseling, or a counseling related field such as psychology, social work, or special education. All BSBP VR counselors meet the minimum Civil Service requirement and most are eligible to be certified as rehabilitation counselors by the Commission on Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC). B. the establishment and maintenance of education and experience requirements, in accordance with section 101(a)(7)(B)(ii) of the Rehabilitation Act, to ensure that the personnel have a 21st century understanding of the evolving labor force and the needs of individuals with disabilities.All counselors in the agency must have a 21st century understanding of the evolving labor force and the needs of individuals with disabilities. BSBP counselors are provided opportunities for in-service training and participation in and attendance at other training programs focusing on job development, job placement, and labor market analysis. New hires will receive basic information on this topic within six months of being hired. From that point on and for more experienced counselors, the need to maintain that understanding will be an on-going activity through continued training and maintenance of knowledge.BSBP is utilizing technical assistance available through entities such as WINTAC and VR Development Group. Subject matter experts in the areas of Pre-ETS, Performance measures and staff performance appraisal and motivational interviewing have been utilized. Projected TA subject matter expertise for customized employment has been engaged. Annual training will be provided on understanding and utilization of data collected relative to the 6 performance indicators. Counselors and other staff attend three major in-state conferences each year. One is the statewide rehabilitation conference which typically has about 400-500 participants from across the state from a wide range of rehabilitation programs and businesses. Another is the conference designed primarily for rehabilitation teachers, the MAER Conference, and the third one is the conference sponsored by the non-profit, Michigan Transition Services. All three of these programs provide an excellent chance for new and experienced counselors, teachers, managers, support staff, and others to learn the latest trends in employment, the newest developments in technologies, changes in the laws, etc. and to network with other rehabilitation professionals.Staff participate in subject matter specific webinars, in-services and online training related to implementation of best practices in delivering quality services.4. Staff Development.Describe the State agency's policies, procedures, and activities to ensure that, consistent with section101(a)(7)(C) of the Rehabilitation Act, all personnel employed by the designated State unit receive appropriate and adequate training in terms of:A. System of staff developmenta system of staff development for professionals and paraprofessionals within the designated State unit, particularly with respect to assessment, vocational counseling, job placement, and rehabilitation technology, including training implemented in coordination with entities carrying out State programs under section 4 of the Assistive Technology Act of 1998; andThis DSU makes available to staff continuous opportunities for professional development that enhances skills. BSBP’s leadership team is responsible for identifying appropriate training and tracking professional development by staff person. BSBP utilizes resources including but not limited to conferences featuring subject matter experts, training provided through vendors both in-person and online, webinars, RSA Technical Assistance Centers, WIOA Core partner resources and peer-to-peer training. B. Acquisition and dissemination of significant knowledgeprocedures for the acquisition and dissemination of significant knowledge from research and other sources to designated State unit professionals and paraprofessionals.BSBP management and staff consistently research and share the latest findings on various disability topics, best practices and intervention possibilities.5. Personnel to Address Individual Communication NeedsDescribe how the designated State unit has personnel or obtains the services of other individuals who can communicate in appropriate modes of communication with or in the native language of applicants or eligible individuals who have limited English speaking ability.Interpreter services, including sign language and oral interpreter services are provided as needed.6. Coordination of Personnel Development Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education ActAs appropriate, describe the procedures and activities to coordinate the designated State unit's comprehensive system of personnel development with personnel development under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.BSBP has a Pre-ETS unit consisting of 3 professionals dedicated to the complex requirements of the pre-employment transition service delivery model as defined by the WIOA and RSA. These positions also provide education and professional development to existing staff regarding the requirements of WIOA-Pre-ETS and the alignment with IDEA in order to assist in the alignment of VR and the Michigan Department of Education (MDE). BSBP is actively designing a Memorandum of understanding (MOU) utilizing technical assistance provided by WINTAC to outline the relationship between VR and MDE.j. Statewide Assessment(Formerly known as Attachment 4.11(a)). 1. Provide an assessment of the rehabilitation needs of individuals with disabilities residing within the State, particularly the VR services needs of those:A. with the most significant disabilities, including their need for supported employment services;More than 90% individuals served by BSBP are considered significantly disabled according to the federal quarterly reports. BSBP provides customized comprehensive assessment of rehabilitation needs, plan development, placement services to address the identified barriers to employment of VR and Supported Employment consumers. B. who are minorities;American Indian/Alaskan Native, Asian, Non-Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, Black or African American. According to our case management system, a small percentage disclosed that they were Hispanic, or Latino and another small percentage did not disclose any race or ethnicity.C. who have been unserved or underserved by the VR program;BSBP conducted an internal evaluation via the Case Management System and determined the following; BSBP’s most underserved reported race and ethnicity are identified as American Indian/Alaskan Native, Asian, Non-Hawaiian/Pacific Islander and Black. Approximately 30% of BSBP’s total population served in all statuses identified as being Black or African American. Michigan State’s Project Excellence Program are conducting a Comprehensive Statewide needs assessment, where additional data can be compared to BSBP’s existing data and will be evaluated and strategic planning regarding the results will occur during the 2020-2023 Unified state plan cycle. D. who have been served through other components of the statewide workforce development system; andBSBP’s co-location with LEO allows all WIOA core partners to collaborate more closely to identify consumers who have been served by other WIOA partners. This information is not currently readily available in any one database.E. who are youth with disabilities and students with disabilities, including, as appropriate, their need for pre-employment transition services or other transition services. BSBP will evaluate data from the most recent Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment (CSNA) when completed, the Center for Education and Performance Information (CEPI) as well as the American Printing House for the Blind (APH) student count in order to identify students who are visually impaired who would benefit from Pre-ETS services. BSBP consistently communicates with the Michigan Department of Education-Low Incidence Outreach (MDE-LIO) as well as local Teacher Consultants for the Visually Impaired to determine if there are students who need Pre-ETS and other transition services.2. Identify the need to establish, develop, or improve community rehabilitation programs within the State; andCommunity Rehabilitation Programs (CRPs) that are familiar with and have the capacity to address the unique needs of persons who are blind or visually impaired is necessary to assist in the ability of BSBP to provide comprehensive services including vocational assessment, placement services, Pre-ETS and customized employment services. BSBP’s training center is a CRP that is operated and maintained within the Bureau. The training center assists in educating other CRPs on the specialized services required for blind consumers by offering community in-services and training specific to blindness.3. Include an assessment of the needs of individuals with disabilities for transition career services and pre-employment transition services, and the extent to which such services are coordinated with transition services provided under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Students who are blind or visually impaired benefit from services designed to enhance Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) outcomes by receiving work-based learning, work-based readiness, career exploration counseling, instruction in self advocacy and counseling on opportunities for enrollment in post-secondary education. BSBP’s assessment suggests that early intervention implementing the above services leads to stronger vocational direction and outcomes that are focused on demand-driven occupations. BSBP is gathering data that could substantiate the benefit of providing these early services. BSBP aligns with IDEA by participating in the IEP process, participating and conducting person centered plans and post-secondary planning.k. Annual EstimatesDescribe:1. The number of individuals in the State who are eligible for services;While the Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment does not specifically identify number of individuals in the State who are eligible for services some inferences may be drawn from American Foundation for the Blind national survey numbers applied to Michigan. On average, BSBP receives approximately 300 referrals during a program year (PY) and serves approximately 900-1000 individuals each PY.The most recent data according to the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), the following are statistics for persons in Michigan with 2016?Prevalence?Rates of Vision DifficultyTotal227,082Gender???Male104,671???Female122,411Age???Under 53,625???5-1715,271???18-3424,920???35-6490,806???65-7435,827???75 and older56,633*The definition for “Vision Loss” used by the AFB is: “individuals who reported that they have serious difficulty seeing even when wearing glasses or contact lenses, as well as those who are blind or unable to see at all.2. The number of eligible individuals who will receive services under: A. The VR Program;The agency projects that we will serve approximately 900-1000 VR consumers annually over the next two years.B. The Supported Employment Program; andBSBP anticipates serving approximately 76-100 individuals within the Supported Employment Program. C. each priority category, if under an order of selection;BSBP is currently not under an order of selection. BSBP reserves the opportunity to review the need for order of selection at least annually.3. The number of individuals who are eligible for VR services, but are not receiving such services due to an order of selection; and N/A - BSBP is currently not under an order of selection.4. The cost of services for the number of individuals estimated to be eligible for services. If under an order of selection, identify the cost of services for each priority category.N/A - BSBP is currently not under an order of selection.l. State Goals and PrioritiesThe designated State unit must:1. Identify if the goals and priorities were jointly developedIdentify if the goals and priorities that were jointly developed and agreed to by the State VR agency and the State Rehabilitation Council, if the State has a Council, and jointly agreed to any revisions.Bureau of Services for Blind PersonsThe goals and priorities below under question “Identify the goals and priorities in carrying out the VR and Supported Employment programs”, were jointly developed, reviewed, revised, and agreed upon by the Bureau of Services for Blind Persons (BSBP) and the Michigan Council for Rehabilitation Services in order to carry out the VR and Supported Employment programs. 2. Identify the goals and priorities in carrying out the VR and Supported Employment programs.A. BSBP will continue implementing and improving strategies that support the utilization of the state’s 15% reservation of VR federal grant funds dedicated to the provision of statewide pre-employment transition services (Pre-ETS).B. BSBP will engage in the monitoring of persons in the unserved, underserved and emerging populations.C. BSBP will continue to develop relationships with community rehabilitation organizations and community partners.D. BSBP will utilize the expertise of technology service providers including the group services of the Braille and Talking Book Library (BTBL) to ensure that staff and consumers are familiar with emerging adaptive technologies and their applications.E. BSBP will provide professional development opportunities for staff.F. BSBP will continue to collect data that will establish a baseline for performance related to the 6 performance indicators.G. BSBP will continue to utilize the Braille and Talking Book Library to provide group education and training for BSBP consumers.H. BSBP goals related to providing supported employment:BSBP will utilize the technical assistance provided by the Employment First ODEP grant to enhance BSBP’s service to consumers who are appropriate for supported employment.BSBP will ensure that customized placement strategies are utilized that support competitive, integrated employment outcomes.BSBP is engaged in conducting a CSNA that reflects the needs of blind and visually impaired individuals in Michigan.BSBP consumers will receive rehabilitation services that will promote demand-driven occupations that result in competitive integrated employment including measurable skill gains and credential attainment.3. Ensure that the goals and priorities are based on an analysis of the following areas:BSBP has evaluated the goals and priorities and determined that those goals and priorities as amended in this plan reflect the needs and strengths of BSBP and the strategies to address them as highlighted below.A. The most recent comprehensive statewide assessment, including any updates;The most recent Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment was completed in 2017. Unfortunately, the report did not reflect Michigan’s blind population well. The report also indicated the transition exit age to be 21, which is not correct for Michigan. Michigan’s secondary exit age is 26. Therefore, the goals and priorities noted above reflect the data that BSBP has collected as well as the federal mandates of WIOA. BSBP is currently participating a Comprehensive Assessment of Rehabilitation Needs where BSBP’s data and information will be considered. This information will be evaluated and strategic planning surrounding the use of the information will happen during this plan cycle. B. the State's performance under the performance accountability measures of section 116 of WIOA; andBSBP is currently collecting data via the case management system as reported by consumers and documented by staff in order to generate baseline data that will allow the opportunity to determine appropriate objectives for performance. Michigan has determined that we will monitor all three employment engagement methods as documented in indicator 6. Michigan’s WIOA partners are working together to determine an effective process for monitoring the employer engagement strategies. This DSU is aware of the performance monitoring objectives and will be working to put measures in place so that we can effectively respond to them.C. other available information on the operation and effectiveness of the VR program, including any reports received from the State Rehabilitation Council and findings and recommendations from monitoring activities conducted under section 107.BSBP has completed a 107-monitoring review during its FFY 17. Currently BSBP has received the final monitoring report and will comply with the corrective action planm. Order of SelectionDescribe:1. Whether the designated State unit will implement and order of selection. If so, describe:A. The order to be followed in selecting eligible individuals to be provided VR services.BSBP does not have a plan to implement an order of selection.B. The justification for the order.N/AC. The service and outcome goals.N/AD. The time within which these goals may be achieved for individuals in each priority category within the order.N/AE. How individuals with the most significant disabilities are selected for services before all other individuals with disabilities; andN/A2. If the designated State unit has elected to serve eligible individuals, regardless of any established order of selection, who require specific services or equipment to maintain employment.This DSU does not have an established order of Selection and services are provided to eligible individuals according to the vocational direction and skills and abilities of the consumer being served. Services provided are designed to obtain, maintain and advance in competitive, integrated employment.n. Goals and Plans for Distribution of title VI Funds.1. Specify the State's goals and priorities for funds received under section 603 of the Rehabilitation Act for the provision of supported employment services.Title VI funds will be used to support competitive integrated employment outcomes including extended services when appropriate as directed by WIOA legislation. All match equations will also be honored in accordance with the law and federal regulations.2. Describe the activities to be conducted, with funds reserved pursuant to section 603(d), for youth with the most significant disabilities, including:A. the provision of extended services for a period not to exceed 4 years; andBSBP is working to establish an MOU with Michigan’s Behavioral Health and Department of Health and Human Services to ensure that extended services when needed can be provided to promote a successful competitive integrated employment outcome for a period not to exceed 4 years.B. how the State will leverage other public and private funds to increase resources for extended services and expanded supported employment opportunities for youth with the most significant disabilities.When BSBP consumers who are receiving Medicaid funding and who are receiving services from Community Mental Health agencies can leverage those resources to receive extended services.o. State's StrategiesDescribe the required strategies and how the agency will use these strategies to achieve its goals and priorities, support innovation and expansion activities, and overcome any barriers to accessing the VR and the Supported Employment programs (See sections 101(a)(15)(D) and (18)(B) of the Rehabilitation Act and section 427 of the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA)):1. The methods to be used to expand and improve services to individuals with disabilities.Goal A: BSBP will continue implementing and improving strategies that support the utilization of the state’s 15% reservation of VR federal grant funds dedicated to the provision of statewide pre-employment transition services (Pre-ETS).Strategy: BSBP has designed policy, procedure, toolkits and fiscal forecasting with technical assistance that includes WINTAC and RSA. BSBP is engaging the Michigan Department of Education in developing a Memorandum of Understanding that clearly defines the role of VR and that of the LEAs. BSBP will continue to actively partner with stakeholders and providers in the delivery of Pre-ETS. BSBP will continue to utilize technical assistance as needed to assist in defining programs and services to potentially eligible and eligible students.Goal B: BSBP will engage in the monitoring of persons in the unserved, underserved and emerging populations.Strategy: BSBP will utilize federal reporting information, i.e., the federal 911 data reports that identify populations served and to determine where energy should be focused to identify unserved, underserved and emerging populations.Goal C: BSBP will continue to develop relationships with community rehabilitation organizations and community partners.Strategy: BSBP will utilize community partners to provide services such as job development and placement, work assessments, appropriate services as allowed within the Pre-ETS regulatory guidelines, sub-regulatory guidance and technical assistance, technology training and travel instruction. BSBP will attend Statewide Independent Living Council meetings, state rehabilitation conferences, Employment First workgroups and other activities as determined necessary. BSBP will utilize the workgroups and other activities as determined necessary. BSBP will utilize the services of the WIOA partners, including the one stops or America’s Job Centers.Goal D: BSBP will utilize the expertise of technology service providers including the Braille and Talking Book Library (BTBL) to ensure that staff and consumers are familiar with emerging adaptive technologies and their applications.Strategy: BSBP’s BTBL will continue providing group services including but not limited to book clubs and technology training workshops and seminars and sponsor technology clubs as well as outreach to patrons and BSBP consumers including Pre-ETS eligible and potentially eligible students via social media.Goal E: BSBP will provide professional development opportunities for staff.Strategy: To develop competencies and enhance staff understanding of effective strategies to implement WIOA legislation, including but not limited to, Pre-ETS, the 6 performance indicators, and ability to serve the dual customer defined as the business community and the consumer.Goal F: BSBP will collect data that will establish a baseline for performance related to the 6 performance indicators.Strategy: BSBP will utilize the data elements collected via the 911 federal report to determine the baselines for performance and respond to those baselines to establish measurable goals that can provide information that will speak to BSBP’s return on investment.Goal G: BSBP Goals related to providing Supported Employment· BSBP will review and implement the policy changes as recommended by RSA during the FFY 2017 monitoring review. BSBP will commence a policy review team that will design and implement policy and procedure changes for Supported Employment.· BSBP will utilize the technical assistance provided by the Employment First initiative to enhance BSBP’s service to consumers who are appropriate for supported employment.Strategy: BSBP has and will continue to have a presence on Employment First workgroups and are actively engaging with the technical assistance provider engaged by Employment First. BSBP will utilize the technology assistance and information to continue promoting and cultivating supported employment practices that will result in competitive, integrated outcomes.Goal H: BSBP will ensure that customized placement strategies are utilized that support competitive, integrated employment outcomes.Strategy: BSBP implements as a method of general practice a customized employment philosophy that incorporates the individual needs of the consumer into all facets of the rehabilitation process. BSBP engages with Community Rehabilitation Organizations who hold a 14C subminimum wage license to identify individuals who may choose to pursue competitive, integrated employment. BSBP staff will continue participating in leadership and training opportunities related to customized employment.Goal I: BSBP will engage in determining an appropriate CSNA that reflects the needs of blind and visually impaired individuals in Michigan.Strategy: BSBP will need to research and consider opportunities that will allow a CSNA to be conducted that is specifically designed to address the needs of persons who are blind and visually impaired as well as appropriately identify Pre-ETS eligible students.2. How a broad range of assistive technology services and devices will be provided to individuals with disabilities at each stage of the rehabilitation process and on a statewide basis.Consumers are assessed to determine their need and capacities as they relate to assistive technology. This assessment allows BSBP staff to understand the specific needs of the consumer and design a service delivery plan that addresses training needs. The ability to utilize adaptive technology will allow consumers to obtain skills that will result in potential credentialing that ultimately results in skills of independence and competitive integrated employment.3. The outreach procedures that will be used to identify and serve individuals with disabilities who are minorities, including those with the most significant disabilities, as well as those who have been unserved or underserved by the VR program.BSBP is able to utilize interpreters, both for persons who are deaf and hard of hearing as well as those who may need language interpretation in order to access services. BSBP staff participates in community events that may reach out to minority or underserved populations. Examples are annual cultural fairs where we may have presence, communication with the Hannahville 121 project in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula where a memorandum of understanding is being updated to clearly define referral processes.4. The methods to be used to improve and expand VR services for students with disabilities, including the coordination of services designed to facilitate the transition of such students from school to postsecondary life (including the receipt of VR services, postsecondary education, employment, and pre-employment transition services).BSBP participates on the Michigan Interagency Transition Team to design and develop collaborative models to use with students with disabilities in the state. BSBP partners with MDE, MRS, CILs and other community rehabilitation programs to design Pre-Employment Transition services and programs in the 5 required Pre-ETS categories. In collaboration with our partners statewide pilots such as Seamless Transition have been developed to utilize evidence-based practices to increase competitive integrated employment outcomes for students. BSBP staff attend transition council meetings and statewide transition events such as the Michigan Transition Services Association annual conference. BSBP staff participate in local transition fairs and events to explain Pre-Employment Transition Services and VR services for students. 5. If applicable, plans for establishing, developing, or improving community rehabilitation programs within the State.BSBP does not have plans to develop a community rehabilitation program. However, the BSBP Training Center continues to improve and grow programs that address the independent living and employment needs of BSBP consumers. During FY2019, BSBP engaged fellows from UMASS Boston’s Institute for Community Inclusion to assist in developing a strategic plan for the BSBP Training Center. The focus of the strategic plan is to more fully integrate an employment focus and WIOA principles into the daily operations of the BSBP Training Center. Specific initiatives are currently being implemented.6. Strategies to improve the performance of the State with respect to the performance accountability measures under section 116 of WIOA.Continue to partner with WIOA partners including but not limited to presence on local workforce boards, State level workforce presence, engagement in MOU development and implementation with local workforce agencies, engagement in the development of MOUs with education and training agencies and provide education regarding the services BSBP provides as well as receiving education from other WIOA partners to understand their programs in order to enhance collaboration for performance accountability.7. Strategies for assisting other components of the statewide workforce development system in assisting individuals with disabilities.Maintaining One-Stop center presence, continue to create and implement memorandums of understanding, promotion of a mutual awareness of the capacities of BSBP and our partners, continued understanding of the requirements of WIOA with our state and local partners.8. How the agency's strategies will be used to:A. achieve goals and priorities by the State, consistent with the comprehensive need’s assessment;The data identified in the Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment (CSNA) will enhance BSBP’s ability to identify unserved/underserved populations that can benefit from BSBP services. Once received, BSBP will review the data and determine how best to incorporate the information into a service delivery plan with measurable goals. Because of the low incidence of blindness, prior CSNA’s have not provided granular information regarding blindness by demographic in order to be a useful tool. Currently BSBP and Project Excellence have made substantial efforts to include the interests of BSBP and its consumers. B. support innovation and expansion activities; andInnovation and Expansion Activities: Michigan Council of Rehabilitation Services (MCRS) and Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC). BSBP partners with the MCRS and the SILC to address consumer needs.Innovation and Expansion Activities: Michigan Council of Rehabilitation Services (MCRS). BSBP partners with MCRS to address the consumer needs.C. overcome identified barriers relating to equitable access to and participation of individuals with disabilities in the State VR Services Program and the State Supported Employment Services Program.Continue education and support both on a state and local level to assist the business community, consumers and other stakeholders in understanding the opportunities of the hidden talent we represent in VR. Examples are presence on the local and state work force development boards, in schools, local community mental health organizations, and community outreach opportunities with community rehabilitation programs. p. Evaluation and Reports of Progress: VR and Supported Employment GoalsDescribe:1. An evaluation of the extent to which the VR program goals described in the approved VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan for the most recently completed program year were achieved. The evaluation must:A. Identify the strategies that contributed to the achievement of the goals.The funds are used to support the SRC in completing the mandated requirements of the SRC to assist the DSU in providing quality services that are aligned with the state plan goals and priorities’ BSBP has also used these to support the Michigan statewide Independent Living Council and may continue to do that as needed. Goal 1 - BSBP has established a goal to monitor, through data collection over the next three years, the successful completion of VR program/services for African Americans. The Comprehensive Statewide Needs Assessment has identified the need to increase eligibility of African Americans who are referred for vocational rehabilitation services.Strategy and achievement: In 2014, BSBP had 144 African American applicants and 105 were determined eligible for services. In 2015, BSBP had 155 African American applicants and 120 were determined eligible for services. BSBP utilizes existing knowledge regarding motivational interviewing. Although BSBP had intended to revisit motivational interviewing skill building, as a result of the dissolving of the previously existing TACE centers, we were not able to do this. However, as noted from the data above, BSBP has seen an increase in service to individuals who are African American in the past two years. This is a result of a commitment to reach out to this population, knowing and understanding the need to serve this historically underserved population. BSBP will continue to monitor this goal during the remainder of the plan cycle to determine outcome and relevance of this goal. 30% of the participants receiving services from BSBP identify as African American. 70% of participants or persons services represent other races and ethnicities. BSBP has addressed this goal and will continue these efforts.Goal 2 - BSBP will expand minority outreach efforts by establishing town hall meetings and informational sessions with each group. BSBP will monitor the activities to determine if the methods are producing new referrals. BSBP is aware of the need to channel resources in the area of underserved populations. BSBP’s strategic plan emphasizes the need to increase rehabilitation services to Latino/Hispanic Americans, African Americans, Native Americans, Arab Americans and Hmong populations.Strategy and achievement: The data indicates that there has been an increase in referral and eligibility of consumers who are African American, Asian, Pacific Islander and Hispanic, which correlates with the concentrated effort of BSBP through community outreach and awareness. However, we still note a decline in our service to individuals who are Native American and understand the need for increased community awareness of this population regarding our services. We do participate in events coordinated with the 121 Project as well as community health fairs and other events in the Native American culture around the State of Michigan. BSBP will continue to monitor this goal for remainder of the plan cycle and adjust accordingly. BSBP continues these outreach activities and will continue to do so. This goal has been addressed. Goal 3 - The Bureau will develop relationships with community rehabilitation organizations, mental health agencies with emphasis on individuals with mental illness, housing authorities, local centers for independent living (CIL), and transportation sources to assist in providing expanded services for consumers. Each region will continue to collaborate with community mental health agencies to enhance relationships that may result in appropriate referrals as well as to continue to expand opportunities with local and statewide rehabilitation agencies. BSBP will continue to communicate with local CMH’s regarding the statewide agreement to encourage collaboration and cooperation.Strategy and achievement: BSBP is actively engaged in developing an MOU that will guide the process of ensuring that referrals are made from community mental health agencies to VR and that extended services are provided when time frames for VR participation are met. The achievement of this goal will be more effectively measured after the MOU is in place structuring the parameters for providing extended services to individuals after BSBP has utilized the supported employment resources available to the Bureau in accordance with WIOA legislation and the needs of the consumer. The impact of this goal will be measurable when post exit data measures the success of the placement based on 2nd and 4th quarter employment retention. Continuous extended service should have a positive outcome for employment retention.Goal 4 - BSBP’s goal is to continue to work with its technology vendors to make sure that staff and consumers are familiar with new and emerging technologies and their applications. The Bureau provides staff with opportunities to gain additional technology skills throughout the year in a variety of training venues; such as webinars and virtual classroom training. Staff also receives training on the latest adaptive and/or technology equipment.Strategy and achievement: BSBP provides a yearly workshop available to all staff that provides hands on demonstration and tools to assist in navigating the latest adaptive technology. BSBP co-sponsors a Visions event that provides opportunity for vendors to promote their products to staff and consumers for the purpose of providing hands on experience with the latest technology. Webinars and online tutorials such as those offered by Hadley School for the Blind are also available to staff and consumers to enhance skill development. The BSBPTC has a technology team that also provides in-service training to staff and at times community partners in order to assist them in acquiring and updating their skills. The training center provides comprehensive technology training to consumers who are part of the personal adjustment program in order to prepare them for vocational training and/or placement. This goal will remain constant as the need for knowledge regarding technology continues to be a need for BSBP in order to facilitate the education and placement of blind consumers. This goal was met has been met and has transitioned into regional trainings around the state to address geographical and staff needs. Goal 6 - The BSBP goal is to increase competitive employment opportunities for individuals with visual impairment and blindness by utilizing its Business Services staff. BSBP, through its collaboration with community partners and employers, has established a goal to rehabilitate 163 consumers with competitive outcomes.Strategy and achievement: In FY15, BSBP rehabilitated 181 consumers. BSBP counselors assume as part of their duties, a business approach. By connecting with employers and learning about their needs and coupling them with the skills and abilities of consumers, successful placements have been made. BSBP has also incorporated a staff person whose skill set can assist with the development of small business with consumers. This is a very effective practice, especially for consumers living in rural areas where transportation and opportunities for community-based employment are limited. This resource assists staff and consumers in determining the viability of a small business and the provision of business counseling to assist both staff and consumers in the processes of developing a small business. This goal continues to receive additional consideration as WIOA performance measures are continuing to be baselined and data is gathered. Although CIE outcomes are not a performance indicator the focus on measurable skill gain and credential attainment are indicators. The goal has been modified above reflect more the WIOA indicators. This goal should be removed.Goal 7 - BSBP will identify transitioning youth and work to serve individuals age 14 to 26 years old. BSBP collaborates with the Michigan Department of Education’s Low Incidence Outreach (LIO) program and Intermediate School Districts (ISD) to provide information regarding transition services.Strategy and achievement: BSBP coordinates with LEA’s and SEA’s and the Low Incidence Outreach program to identify potentially eligible and eligible students who could benefit from Pre-Employment Transition Services and VR services. The achievement of this goal is being met through ongoing and continuous outreach and BSBP efforts to continue to identify eligible students. This goal will remain a focus for the remainder of this plan cycle. BSBP is successfully identifying students and has increased potentially eligible students from 0 -112. Goal 8 - The VR staff and the library staff collaborate to ensure that consumers are aware of the services and how to access the materials in their preferred format. This increased collaboration will provide additional avenues for consumers who are pursuing vocational and secondary training.Strategy and achievement: BSBP educates most, if not all, consumers about library services and assists those consumers in completing the necessary documentation to become a library patron. This documentation includes the acquisition of the mode of communication which means that VR staff can crosscheck data in the case management system with what is reported to the library to ensure that the information is as accurate as possible. Although it is true that the mode of communication is collected by both the library and the VR agency, this piece of the strategy has not been determined to be necessarily relevant to the collaboration process. BSBP and the library are working together to provide services to groups via technology training and book clubs, tech tips and monthly meetings. This is happening and will continue. This goal will continue as a focus for BSBP. This practice continues and this goal has been met.B. Describe the factors that impeded the achievement of the goals and priorities.Challenges that effect the achievement of some goals would be the lack of a comprehensive statewide needs assessment that effectively evaluates the needs of persons who are blind or visually impaired. Other factors that could slow the progress of the achievement of some goals would be the VR agency’s adjustment to WIOA legislation - note: as regulations are implemented, sub-regulatory guidance and policy directives issued and technical assistance is utilized, this factor will decrease.2. An evaluation of the extent to which the Supported Employment program goals described in the Supported Employment Supplement for the most recent program year were achieved. The evaluation must:A. Identify the strategies that contributed to the achievement of the goals.Michigan’s engagement in the Employment First process, guidance from RSA during the 2017 monitoring review, guidance from WINTAC and participation in an Intensive Technical Assistance Agreement along with MRS and the forward momentum on the design and implementation of the MOU with DHHS lend themselves to goal success.B. Describe the factors that impeded the achievement of the goals and priorities.WIOA implementing regulations and ongoing guidance has required significant amounts of staff training. The limited economic opportunities for rural consumers. Transportation and lack of public transportation resources. IDEA not aligned with WIOA. The lack of communityof community providers that clearly understand the needs of blind consumers. Lack of clarity in roles of state agencies in structuring and funding extended services. The challenges of educating business regarding the capabilities of significantly disabled individuals to contribute to the workforce.3. The VR program's performance on the performance accountability indicators under section 116 of WIOA.Currently BSBP is establishing baseline data to design a plan for establishing performance goals to address the 6 performance indicators. This process was to continue the data obtained will be used to develop with RSA’s guidance those performance standards that will guide BSBP’s performance measurement.4. How the funds reserved for innovation and expansion (I&E) activities were utilized.Innovation and Expansion Activities: Funding operations of Michigan Council of Rehabilitation Services (MCRS) and Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC)Innovation and Expansion Activities: Michigan Council of Rehabilitation Services (MCRS). q. Quality, Scope, and Extent of Supported Employment Services.Include the following: 1. The quality, scope, and extent of supported employment services to be provided to individuals with the most significant disabilities, including youth with the most significant disabilities.Quality service delivery to adults and youth and students requires that BSBP staff be able to acknowledge the existence of any disability the consumer is managing. BSBP partners with community resources such as CMH as necessary to develop a plan to address the needs presented by additional disabilities.The scope of service provided to consumers being served as supported employment are customized. Considering the skills and abilities of the consumers and the needs of the business community. Those services include but are not limited to assessment, work-based learning, customized placement and coaching services as well as building trust relationships with employers.2. The timing of transition to extended services.BSBP transfers customers receiving Support Employment to extended services once stabilization has occurred. The customer is considered to have achieved stabilization when the counselor with input from the job coach/employment specialist, employer and individual confirms that: 1) initial intensive services identified on the IPE have resulted in the individual demonstrating acceptable job performance, and 2) a reasonable expectation of satisfactory job performance will be maintained with the individual based on ongoing support services being provided.BSBP will work in tandem with systems that support the needs of the individual in order to make decisions regarding transition to extended service. Contributing factors could be, but are not limited to, the type of employment, the supports required to ensure the success of the employment outcome, the skills and abilities of the individual and the availability of the follow along support in the individual’s community.CertificationsName of designated State agency or designated State unit, as appropriate????? Bureau of Services for Blind Persons Name of designated State agency????? Michigan Department of Labor and Economic OpportunityFull Name of Authorized Representative:????? Jeff DonofrioTitle of Authorized Representative:????? Director, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity ?States must provide written and signed certifications that:1. The designated State agency or designated State unit (as appropriate) listed above is authorized to submit the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan under title I of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Rehabilitation Act), as amended by WIOA*, and its supplement under title VI of the Rehabilitation Act.**?????Yes2. As a condition for the receipt of Federal funds under title I of the Rehabilitation Act for the provision of VR services, the designated State agency listed above agrees to operate and administer the State VR Services Program in accordance with the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan , the Rehabilitation Act, and all applicable regulations , policies, and procedures established by the Secretary of Education. Funds made available under section 111 of the Rehabilitation Act are used solely for the provision of VR services and the administration of the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan;?????Yes3. As a condition for the receipt of Federal funds under title VI of the Rehabilitation Act for supported employment services, the designated State agency agrees to operate and administer the State Supported Employment Services Program in accordance with the supplement to the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan* , the Rehabilitation Act, and all applicable regulations , policies, and procedures established by the Secretary of Education. Funds made available under title VI are used solely for the provision of supported employment services and the administration of the supplement to the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan;**?????Yes4. The designated State agency and/or the designated State unit has the authority under State law to perform the functions of the State regarding the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan and its supplement;?????Yes5. The State legally may carry out each provision of the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan and its supplement.?????Yes6. All provisions of the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan and its supplement are consistent with State law.?????Yes7. The Authorized Representative listed above has the authority under State law to receive, hold, and disburse Federal funds made available under the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan and its supplement;?????Yes8. The Authorized Representative listed above has the authority to submit the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan and the supplement for Supported Employment services;?????Yes9. The agency that submits the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan and its supplement has adopted or otherwise formally approved the plan and its supplement.?????YesFootnotes__________?Certification 1 Footnotes?* Public Law 113-128.?** Unless otherwise stated, "Rehabilitation Act" means the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended by WIOA, signed into law on July 22, 2014.?Certification 2 Footnotes?* All references in this plan to "designated State agency" or to "the State agency" relate to the agency identified in this paragraph.?** No funds under title 1 of the Rehabilitation Act may be awarded without an approved VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan in accordance with section 101(a) of the Rehabilitation Act.?*** Applicable regulations, in part, include the Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR) in 34 CFR parts 76,77,79,81, and 82; 2 CFR part 200 as adopted by 2 CFR part 3485; and the State VR Services Program regulations.?Certification 3 Footnotes?* No funds under title VI of the Rehabilitation Act may be awarded without an approved supplement to the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan in accordance with section 606(a) of the Rehabilitation Act.?** Applicable regulations, in part, include the citations in *** under Certification 2 footnotesAdditional Comments on the Certifications from the StateNone.Certification Regarding Lobbying — Vocational RehabilitationCertification for Contracts, Grants, Loans, and Cooperative Agreements The undersigned certifies, to the best of his or her knowledge and belief, that:(1) No Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of the undersigned, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of an agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with the awarding of any Federal contract, the making of any Federal grant, the making of any Federal loan, the entering into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment, or modification of any Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement.(2) If any funds other than Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form-LLL, ''Disclosure of Lobbying Activities,'' in accordance with its instructions.(3) The undersigned shall require that the language of this certification be included in the award documents for all subawards at all tiers (including subcontracts, subgrants, and contracts under grants, loans, and cooperative agreements) and that all subrecipients shall certify and disclose accordingly. This certification is a material representation of fact upon which reliance was placed when this transaction was made or entered into. Submission of this certification is a prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction imposed by section 1352, title 31, U.S. Code. Any person who fails to file the required certification shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000 and not more than $100,000 for each such failure.Statement for Loan Guarantees and Loan InsuranceThe undersigned states, to the best of his or her knowledge and belief, that: If any funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this commitment providing for the United States to insure or guarantee a loan, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form-LLL, ''Disclosure of Lobbying Activities,'' in accordance with its instructions. Submission of this statement is a prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction imposed by section 1352, title 31, U.S. Code. Any person who fails to file the required statement shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000 and not more than $100,000 for each such failure. Applicant’s Organization????? Michigan Bureau of Services for Blind Persons Full Name of Authorized Representative:????? William A. Robinson, III Title of Authorized Representative:????? Bureau Director SF LLL Form – Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (only if applicable) (). If applicable, please print, sign, and email to MAT_OCTAE@Certification Regarding Lobbying — Supported EmploymentCertification for Contracts, Grants, Loans, and Cooperative Agreements The undersigned certifies, to the best of his or her knowledge and belief, that:(1) No Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of the undersigned, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of an agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with the awarding of any Federal contract, the making of any Federal grant, the making of any Federal loan, the entering into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment, or modification of any Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement.(2) If any funds other than Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form-LLL, ''Disclosure of Lobbying Activities,'' in accordance with its instructions.(3) The undersigned shall require that the language of this certification be included in the award documents for all subawards at all tiers (including subcontracts, subgrants, and contracts under grants, loans, and cooperative agreements) and that all subrecipients shall certify and disclose accordingly. This certification is a material representation of fact upon which reliance was placed when this transaction was made or entered into. Submission of this certification is a prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction imposed by section 1352, title 31, U.S. Code. Any person who fails to file the required certification shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000 and not more than $100,000 for each such failure.Statement for Loan Guarantees and Loan InsuranceThe undersigned states, to the best of his or her knowledge and belief, that: If any funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this commitment providing for the United States to insure or guarantee a loan, the undersigned shall complete and submit Standard Form-LLL, ''Disclosure of Lobbying Activities,'' in accordance with its instructions. Submission of this statement is a prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction imposed by section 1352, title 31, U.S. Code. Any person who fails to file the required statement shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000 and not more than $100,000 for each such failure. Applicant’s Organization????? Bureau of Services for Blind Persons Full Name of Authorized Representative:????? William A. Robinson, III Title of Authorized Representative:????? Bureau Director SF LLL Form – Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (only if applicable) ().AssurancesThe designated State agency or designated State unit, as appropriate and identified in the State certifications included with this VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan and its supplement, through signature of the authorized individual, assures the Commissioner of the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), that it will comply with all of the requirements of the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan and its supplement, as set forth in sections 101(a) and 606 of the Rehabilitation Act. The individual authorized to submit the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan and its supplement makes the following assurances: The State Plan must provide assurances that:1. Public Comment on Policies and Procedures:The designated State agency assures it will comply with all statutory and regulatory requirements for public participation in the VR Services Portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan, as required by section 101(a)(16)(A) of the Rehabilitation Act.2. Submission of the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan and Its Supplement:The designated State unit assures it will comply with all requirements pertaining to the submission and revisions of the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan and its supplement for the State Supported Employment Services program, as required by sections 101(a)(1), (22), (23), and 606(a) of the Rehabilitation Act; section 102 of WIOA in the case of the submission of a unified plan; section 103 of WIOA in the case of a submission of a Combined State Plan; 34 CFR 76.140.3. Administration of the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan:The designated State agency or designated State unit, as appropriate, assures it will comply with the requirements related to: a. the establishment of the designated State agency and designated State unit, as required by section 101(a)(2) of the Rehabilitation Act.b. the establishment of either a State independent commission or State Rehabilitation Council, as required by section 101(a)(21) of the Rehabilitation Act. The designated State agency or designated State unit, as applicable ????? (B) has established a State Rehabilitation Council c. consultations regarding the administration of the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan, in accordance with section 101(a)(16)(B) of the Rehabilitation Act.d. the financial participation by the State, or if the State so elects, by the State and local agencies, to provide the amount of the non-Federal share of the cost of carrying out the VR program in accordance with section 101(a)(3).e. the local administration of the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan, in accordance with section 101(a)(2)(A) of the Rehabilitation Act.The designated State agency allows for the local administration of VR funds ????? Yes f. the shared funding and administration of joint programs, in accordance with section 101(a)(2)(A)(ii) of the Rehabilitation Act.The designated State agency allows for the shared funding and administration of joint programs: ????? Yes g. statewideness and waivers of statewideness requirements, as set forth in section 101(a)(4) of the Rehabilitation Act.Is the designated State agency requesting or maintaining a waiver of statewideness for one or more services provided under the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan? See Section 2 of this VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan.????? Yes h. the descriptions for cooperation, collaboration, and coordination, as required by sections 101(a)(11) and (24)(B); and 606(b) of the Rehabilitation Act.i. all required methods of administration, as required by section 101(a)(6) of the Rehabilitation Act .j. the requirements for the comprehensive system of personnel development, as set forth in section 101(a)(7) of the Rehabilitation Act.k. the compilation and submission to the Commissioner of statewide assessments, estimates, State goals and priorities, strategies, and progress reports, as appropriate, and as required by sections 101(a)(15), 105(c)(2), and 606(b)(8) of the Rehabilitation Act.l. the reservation and use of a portion of the funds allotted to the State under section 110 of the Rehabilitation Act for the development and implementation of innovative approaches to expand and improve the provision of VR services to individuals with disabilities, particularly individuals with the most significant disabilities.m. the submission of reports as required by section 101(a)(10) of the Rehabilitation Act.4. Administration of the Provision of VR Services:The designated State agency, or designated State unit, as appropriate, assures that it will:a. comply with all requirements regarding information and referral services in accordance with sections 101(a)(5)(D) and (20) of the Rehabilitation Act.b. impose no duration of residence requirement as part of determining an individual’s eligibility for VR services or that excludes from services under the plan any individual who is present in the State in accordance with section 101(a)(12) of the Rehabilitation Act .c. provide the full range of services listed in section 103(a) of the Rehabilitation Act as appropriate, to all eligible individuals with disabilities in the State who apply for services in accordance with section 101(a)(5) of the Rehabilitation Act?Agency will provide the full range of services described above ????? Yes d. determine whether comparable services and benefits are available to the individual in accordance with section 101(a)(8) of the Rehabilitation Act.e. comply with the requirements for the development of an individualized plan for employment in accordance with section 102(b) of the Rehabilitation Act.f. comply with requirements regarding the provisions of informed choice for all applicants and eligible individuals in accordance with section 102(d) of the Rehabilitation Act.g. provide vocational rehabilitation services to American Indians who are individuals with disabilities residing in the State, in accordance with section 101(a)(13) of the Rehabilitation Act.h. comply with the requirements for the conduct of semiannual or annual reviews, as appropriate, for individuals employed either in an extended employment setting in a community rehabilitation program or any other employment under section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, as required by section 101(a)(14)of the Rehabilitation Act.i. meet the requirements in sections 101(a)(17) and 103(b)(2) of the Rehabilitation Act if the State elects to construct, under special circumstances, facilities for community rehabilitation programsj. with respect to students with disabilities, the State, has developed and will implement,strategies to address the needs identified in the assessments; andstrategies to achieve the goals and priorities identified by the State, to improve and expand vocational rehabilitation services for students with disabilities on a statewide basis; andhas developed and will implement strategies to provide pre-employment transition services (sections 101(a)(15) and 101(a)(25)).5. Program Administration for the Supported Employment Title VI Supplement:a. The designated State unit assures that it will include in the VR services portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan all information required by section 606 of the Rehabilitation Act.b. The designated State agency assures that it will submit reports in such form and in accordance with such procedures as the Commissioner may require and collects the information required by section 101(a)(10) of the Rehabilitation Act separately for individuals receiving supported employment services under title I and individuals receiving supported employment services under title VI of the Rehabilitation Act.c. The designated state unit will coordinate activities with any other State agency that is functioning as an employment network under the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency program under Section 1148 of the Social Security Act.6. Financial Administration of the Supported Employment Program:a. The designated State agency assures that it will expend no more than 2.5 percent of the State’s allotment under title VI for administrative costs of carrying out this program; and, the designated State agency or agencies will provide, directly or indirectly through public or private entities, non-Federal contributions in an amount that is not less than 10 percent of the costs of carrying out supported employment services provided to youth with the most significant disabilities with the funds reserved for such purpose under section 603(d) of the Rehabilitation Act, in accordance with section 606(b)(7)(G) and (H) of the Rehabilitation Act.b. The designated State agency assures that it will use funds made available under title VI of the Rehabilitation Act only to provide supported employment services to individuals with the most significant disabilities, including extended services to youth with the most significant disabilities, who are eligible to receive such services; and, that such funds are used only to supplement and not supplant the funds provided under Title I of the Rehabilitation Act, when providing supported employment services specified in the individualized plan for employment, in accordance with section 606(b)(7)(A) and (D), of the Rehabilitation Act.7. Provision of Supported Employment Services:a. The designated State agency assures that it will provide supported employment services as defined in section 7(39) of the Rehabilitation Act.b. The designated State agency assures that: the comprehensive assessment of individuals with significant disabilities conducted under section 102(b)(1) of the Rehabilitation Act and funded under title I of the Rehabilitation Act includes consideration of supported employment as an appropriate employment outcome, in accordance with the requirements of section 606(b)(7)(B) of the Rehabilitation Actan individualized plan for employment that meets the requirements of section 102(b) of the Rehabilitation Act , which is developed and updated with title I funds, in accordance with sections 102(b)(3)(F) and 606(b)(6)(C) and (E) of the Rehabilitation Act.Additional Comments on the Assurances from the StateNone. ................
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