MN SF1246

No person may provide rehabilitation counseling services for the blind or represent themselves as a qualified rehabilitation counselor for the blind without certification by the director of State Services for the Blind, effective January 1, 2011.

Certified rehabilitation counselors for the blind must complete a minimum of six weeks of intensive training under sleep shades at an adjustment-to-blindness center and complete additional director-approved training.

All public records held by state agencies, universities, cities, counties, school districts and other political subdivisions must be made accessible to persons with disabilities in compliance with state and federal non-discrimination laws, effective January 1, 2013.

All continuing education and professional development courses approved or administered by the state, University of Minnesota, or Minnesota State Colleges and Universities must be accessible to persons with disabilities, effective January 1, 2013.

Violations of public records or continuing education accessibility requirements are subject to civil penalties of $500 per violation, plus attorney fees and costs, payable to the qualified disabled person affected.