Edu Dept Tunes Rehab Worker Training Rules
Published Date: 1/21/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Department of Education is updating the Rehabilitation Long-Term Training program to better train and keep skilled workers in vocational rehabilitation jobs. These changes focus on key training areas and will guide funding competitions starting in fiscal year 2025. If you want to share your thoughts, make sure to comment by February 20, 2025!
Analyzed Economic Effects
7 provisions identified: 6 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
At least 65% of funds must be scholarships
If a college or university wins an RLTT grant, it must award at least 65 percent of the project funds as scholarships to students (RSA scholars). Scholarships may cover stipends, tuition and fees, books and supplies, and student travel related to training.
One-time stipends for internships and job placement
RLTT projects may provide a one-time stipend to RSA scholars for needs related to (a) completing an internship (room and board, travel), (b) obtaining and maintaining qualifying employment after graduation, or (c) paying a vetted employment expert or consultant to help secure employment; stipend amounts will be specified in the Notice Inviting Applications (NIA).
Internship in State VR agency required for completion
RSA scholars are required to complete an internship in a State vocational rehabilitation (VR) agency as a condition for program completion, unless the Secretary grants a waiver based on sufficient justification.
Payback agreements and service obligations required
Applicants must educate prospective RSA scholars about the terms and consequences of the scholarship service obligation under 34 CFR 386.4, 386.34, and 386.40–386.43 and must maintain a system that ensures scholars sign a payback agreement at program start and an exit certification on leaving the program.
Post-graduation contact and early employment support
Grantees must maintain bi-monthly contact with RSA scholars after successful program completion and provide post-graduation support for at least the scholar's initial three to six months of employment; grantees must also maintain quarterly communication after program exit until the start of the scholar's service obligation date and safeguard PIMS access and scholar financial records.
Training must meet State DSU personnel standards
All academic training under these priorities must meet designated State unit (DSU) personnel standards under section 101(a)(7) of the Rehabilitation Act and 34 CFR 361.18, and must meet the master's degree or certificate qualifications specified in the State's CSPD plans or partnering States' plans.
Rehabilitation technology training includes AI and assistive tech
The Rehabilitation Technology topic area explicitly requires training on the use, applications, and benefits of technology — including assistive technology and artificial intelligence tools — to help individuals with disabilities achieve competitive integrated employment and independence.
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Key Dates
Related Federal Register Documents
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