The U.S. Department of Education is requesting public comment on Frequently Asked Questions: Criterion for an Integrated Employment Location in the Definition of “Competitive Integrated Employment” and Participant Choice by April 8.
The Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) in the U.S. Department of Education has received requests for further clarification of the definition of “competitive integrated employment,” particularly with respect to:
- The criterion for an “integrated employment location” (i.e., the integration standards for the location of the employment) in the definition of “competitive integrated employment” for purposes of the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program; and
- How the criterion for an integrated employment location in the definition affects a VR program participant’s ability to exercise informed choice.
The information in these FAQs provides guidance and technical assistance to VR agencies and community rehabilitation programs (CRPs) so they may assist individuals with disabilities to achieve high-quality employment and exercise their informed choice about the type of employment to pursue, either with assistance from the VR program or from other community resources.
Other than statutory and regulatory requirements included in the document, the contents of this guidance do not have the force and effect of law and are not meant to bind the public. This document is intended only to provide clarity to the public regarding existing requirements under the law or agency policies. In addition, it does not create or confer any rights for or on any person.
Please submit comments by April 8, 2021, through the Federal eRulemaking portal.