Social Security Relationship

COMMITTEE ON SOCIAL SECURITY RELATIONS

2007-2008 Committee Goals

This Committee is charged with the consideration of matters affecting the relationship between State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies and the Social Security Administration and the rehabilitation portions of the Social Security Disability (SSDI) and the Supplemental Security Income Program (SSI).

Goal # 1
Address employment barriers for SSA beneficiaries through the development of joint initiatives between the Social Security Administration and the Vocational Rehabilitation Program.

    a.    Establish an Early Diversion program, in partnership with CSAVR and the Legislative Committee of CSAVR.
    b.    Explore alternative service delivery approaches for SSA beneficiaries, including youth initiatives and work incentives planning. Share best practices on youth in transition.
    c.    Partner with GAO to review and discuss the findings in the May 2007 GAO report.

Goal # 2
Maximize the potential impact of the new Ticket to Work program for VR consumers.

    d.    Develop an implementation plan for VR agencies.
    e.    Develop new business models for working with Employment Networks.
    f.    Explore the most effective payment strategies for VR agencies.
    g.    Provide technical assistance to states on new regulations.

Goal # 3
Develop strategies for improving the Social Security Reimbursement Program.

h. Identify best practices.
i Develop a technical assistance plan to maximize reimbursement for all states.

Goal # 4
Develop an effective strategy to coordinate SSA, DDS and VR towards a common goal of employment for individuals with significant disabilities who have the ability to work

j. Provide a forum to discuss issues common to VR and DDS.
k. Work collaboratively with SSA to determine the impact of DSI on beneficiaries.