GA HB1376

Establishes the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired as a new body within the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency, composed of 8 members including representatives from nonprofit consumer organizations, the deaf-blind community, the Department of Education, and individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

Requires the commission to appoint an executive director with expertise in rehabilitation services for the blind, with hiring preference given to qualified individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

Directs the commission to advise state agencies on vocational rehabilitation services, independent living programs, Braille instruction certification, business enterprises programs, accessible technology, and library services for blind and visually impaired individuals.

Mandates 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.

Requires the commission to meet quarterly, publish an annual report evaluating state programs for the blind, and authorizes it to apply for state and federal funding and receive donations to support services.