- Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
Yesterday, August 15, 2024, Governor Maura Healey signed an executive order that revises the current state authority concerned with the Massachusetts State Rehabilitation Council to reflect and implement changes in accordance with federal guidance and regulations related to the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which has been amended since its passage.
The Massachusetts State Rehabilitation Council (“SRC”) has operated under the same Executive Order (368) since 1994. The Executive Order issued today will allow the SRC to operate more efficiently and timely in the performance of its mandates with 15 members who represent a broad range of experiences and professions in vocational rehabilitation, consistent with federal laws.
“The State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) is a diverse and inclusive body that ensures representative voices from the disability community are considered when we develop and implement essential programs that have a direct positive impact in the lives of individuals with disabilities,” said Commissioner Toni Wolf. “The Executive Order issued today reflects the current national trend and will allow the SRC to productively contribute to the innovation of our career and counseling services, making Massachusetts a more inclusive state where everyone can live, work, and thrive.”
“As we reduce the number of Council members, we are unwavering in our commitment to diversity,” said SRC Chair Heather Wood. “A smaller, more diverse Council meaningfully helps us fulfill our responsibilities and provide a more thorough and inclusive advisory role to the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission. In contrast to the larger membership, a smaller group ensures that enough members are present to approve mandated action items, allowing the Council to operate more efficiently. We welcome anyone interested in contributing to the SRC’s work to attend our meetings and get involved.”
The Rehabilitation Act authorizes federal grants to state agencies that provide vocational rehabilitation services. The Act requires the establishment of a State Rehabilitation Council (SRC). The SRC collaborates with various state entities, including MRC, the Massachusetts Office on Disability, the Massachusetts Workforce Development Board, the Statewide Independent Living Council, and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Among its several responsibilities, the SRC reviews, evaluates and advises the agency regarding its performance and effectiveness in delivering VR services, including the effect of service provision on the achievement of employment outcomes by individuals with disabilities. The work of the SRC is instrumental in achieving MRC’s mission in breaking down barriers and empowering people with disabilities to live life on their own terms.
If you are interested in learning more about the SRC, contact mrc.staterehabcouncil@mass.gov.
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The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission provides services that break down barriers and empower people with disabilities to live life on their own terms. Our programs focus on career services, home and community life, and benefits and rights. We are change agents and community builders. And we put the people we serve at the heart of everything we do.
