SSB Notices and Announcements
2011 State Services for the Blind Annual Report
Includes a summary of resources spent and allocated, along with statistics that illustrate the impact and scope of SSB programming. Client profiles highlight the impact our services have on individuals.
Draft Documents for Community, SRC-B, and Staff Review
SSB has developed new processes and documents regarding rehabilitation services rate-setting, master contracting, and monitoring. These changes result from a review done by the Rehabilitation Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Education, and state of Minnesota contracting processes. These documents will be reviewed with the SRC-B, vendors, staff, and other interested parties during April, 2012. Links to the documents are below:
Frequently Asked Questions
SSB's New Rulemaking Process for the Business Enterprises Program
State Services for the Blind has begun a rulemaking process for the Business Enterprises Program, Minnesota Rules 3321.
The division is considering rule amendments and repealing some rule parts. The rules were last amended in 1990. Specifically, SSB is interested in removing and updating archaic language; clarifying terms and processes; ensuring consistent use of terminology; modifying rule format; and considering policy changes.
Comments on other areas of the current rule are welcome but will only be considered for this rule revision as the agency has time.
The division does plan to appoint an advisory committee to comment on the possible rules. The advisory committee will consist of the Operator Management Committee, an elected body representing all current licensed blind vendors operating vending stands and business enterprises in the Business Enterprises Program.
The Operator Management Committee is constituted pursuant to Code of Federal Regulations, title 34, section 395.14, to, among other duties, “…actively participate with the State licensing agency in major administrative decisions and policy and program development decisions affecting the overall administration of the State's vending facility program.” The advisory committee is expected to commence and finish its work in June, 2012.
SSB will be keeping the State Rehabilitation Council for the Blind, consumer groups, staff and others informed as the process moves forward.
Legal documents related to SSB’s rulemaking process are posted on the Department of Employment and Economic Development’s Rulemaking Docket page.