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GA HB963

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/20/2020

Primary Sponsor

Carl Gilliard

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

2019-2020 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Creates the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired as Georgia's principal state entity to advocate for blind and visually impaired persons, promoting independent living, career opportunities, and self-sufficiency "from cradle to grave"
  • Establishes a 6-member commission (chairperson plus 5 members) appointed by the Governor, Speaker of the House, and President of the Senate, with a majority required to be blind or visually impaired, serving 3-year terms and meeting quarterly
  • Directs the commission to advise the Governor, General Assembly, and relevant commissioners on policies, programs, legislation, and use of federal and state funds affecting blind and visually impaired persons across areas including education, employment, health, and housing
  • Requires the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency to consult with the commission before establishing, revising, or discontinuing any programs or services for blind or visually impaired persons, including vending facility licensing and deaf-blind services
  • Authorizes the commission to appoint an executive director (with preference for a blind or visually impaired individual), receive state and federal funds, publish an annual report evaluating state programs, and advise on services such as Braille certification, assistive technology, and library services

Legislative Description

Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired Act; enact

Last Action

House Second Readers

2/24/2020

Full Bill Text

No bill text available