SB 1012 Summary

• Transfers all functions of the Commission on the Deaf and Hearing Impaired to the Department of Social Services effective July 1, 2011, making the department the successor agency.

• Splits functions of the Board of Education and Services for the Blind between two departments: vocational rehabilitation, business enterprise, adult services, and management services transfer to Department of Social Services; children's services program transfers to Department of Education.

• Converts the Board of Education and Services for the Blind from a policy-making authority to an advisory board to the Departments of Social Services and Education.

• Changes the Commission on the Deaf and Hearing Impaired from an independent agency to an advisory commission within the Department of Social Services.

• Updates statutes throughout to reflect these organizational changes, including references to interpreter registration, vending stand operations, special telecommunications equipment funds, and services to blind and deaf/hearing impaired persons.