H259 - 2023 Appropriations Act. (SL 2023-134)

Overview: Section 6.11 of S.L. 2023-134 directs the State Board of Community Colleges (SBCC) to establish the Vocational Rehabilitation Pilot Program (Program) for the 2023-2024 to 2025-2026 academic years.

The Program will provide support services to community college students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to help those students reach their goals for employment and independence without duplicating the existing vocational support network. Community colleges can apply to the SBCC to participate in the Program, and will be selected by the SBCC in consultation with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services of the Department of Health and Human Services (DVR). The Community Colleges System Office must also contract with DVR to place student counselors at selected community colleges in the State.

By March 15, 2024, and annually thereafter in each year in which funds are expended during the Program, the SBCC, in consultation with DVR, must report on the impact of the Program on participants, including mental health, well-being, and job placement of participants.

This section became effective July 1, 2023.