CT HB05438

Repeals outdated statutory language requiring state departments and agencies to purchase products and services from persons with disabilities exclusively through the Department of Rehabilitation Services, while maintaining a preference for such products and services that meet quality, quantity, and price requirements.

Modifies section 10-295 to clarify that the $10,000 per fiscal year expenditure limit for specialized services for persons who are both blind and deaf is in addition to other expenditures, and defines "community inclusion services" as assistance enabling persons with disabilities to connect with peers and their community.

Changes section 46a-33b to allow (rather than require) the Commissioner of Rehabilitation Services to adopt regulations establishing rates for interpreting services provided to the public and private entities.

Clarifies the definition of "person with a disability" and related vocational rehabilitation terms to reference only sections 17b-650a through 17b-663, removing references to obsolete sections 10-298b and 10-298c.

Repeals eight obsolete sections (10-298a, 10-298b, 10-298c, 10-298d, 10-300, 10-300a, 10-304, and 10-310) concerning workshops for blind persons and related provisions, effective October 1, 2016.