Article IV -- Responsibilities of the Council and its Members

To review, analyze, and advise RSB regarding RSB's performance of responsibilities under Title I of the Act, relating especially to eligibility for Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) services; the extent, scope and effectiveness of VR services that RSB provides; and functions performed by State agencies that potentially affect the ability of blind individuals to achieve rehabilitation goals and objectives;

In partnership with RSB develop, agree to, and review State goals and priorities in accordance with 361.29(c).Evaluate the effectiveness of the vocational rehabilitation program and submit reports of progress to the Secretary in accordance with 361.29(e).Advise DFS and RSB regarding activities carried out under this part and assist in the preparation of the State plan and amendments to the plan, applications, reports, needs assessments, and evaluations required by this part.

To the extent feasible, conduct a review and analysis of the effectiveness of, and consumer satisfaction with, VR services and other functions performed by State agencies and other public and private entities responsible for performing functions for blind individuals;

To prepare and submit an annual report to the Governor, to the Commissioner of the Rehabilitation Services Administration of the U. S. Department of Education, and to the Director of FSD;

To coordinate with other councils within the State, including the Statewide Independent Living Council, the Advisory Panel established under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the State Planning Council established in accordance with the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act and the State mental health planning council established under the Public Health Service Act;

To advise the DFS and/or RSB and provide for coordination and the establishment of working relationships between the DFS and/or RSB and the Statewide Independent Living Council and Centers for Independent Living in Missouri;

To select a pool of individuals to serve as impartial hearing officers for VR applicants and recipients who wish to appeal a decision of RSB. Council members listed in Article V, S1. a-d are excluded from this selection process.

To perform such other functions, consistent with the purpose of Title I of the Act, as the Council determines to be appropriate, as long as they are comparable to the other functions performed by the Council;

In order to carry out the above responsibilities mandated by the Act, the Council will: