US Code

Public Law 119-73 (01/23/2026)

29 U.S.C. § 705

Definitions

For the purposes of this chapter:
(1)

Administrative costs

The term “administrative costs” means expenditures incurred in the performance of administrative functions under the vocational rehabilitation program carried out under subchapter I, including expenses related to program planning, development, monitoring, and evaluation, including expenses for—
(A)
quality assurance;
(B)
budgeting, accounting, financial management, information systems, and related data processing;
(C)
providing information about the program to the public;
(D)
section 723(b)(5) of this title technical assistance and support services to other State agencies, private nonprofit organizations, and businesses and industries, except for technical assistance and support services described in ;
(E)
the State Rehabilitation Council and other advisory committees;
(F)
professional organization membership dues for designated State unit employees;
(G)
the removal of architectural barriers in State vocational rehabilitation agency offices and State operated rehabilitation facilities;
(H)
operating and maintaining designated State unit facilities, equipment, and grounds;
(I)
supplies;
(J)
section 721(a)(7) of this title administration of the comprehensive system of personnel development described in , including personnel administration, administration of affirmative action plans, and training and staff development;
(K)
administrative salaries, including clerical and other support staff salaries, in support of these administrative functions;
(L)
travel costs related to carrying out the program, other than travel costs related to the provision of services;
(M)
section 722(c) of this title costs incurred in conducting reviews of rehabilitation counselor or coordinator determinations under ; and
(N)
legal expenses required in the administration of the program.
(2)

Assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs

The term “assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs” means, as appropriate in each case—
(A)
(i)
a review of existing data—
(I)
to determine whether an individual is eligible for vocational rehabilitation services; and
(II)
section 721(a)(5)(A) of this titlesection 721(a)(5)(A) of this title to assign priority for an order of selection described in in the States that use an order of selection pursuant to ; and
(ii)
to the extent necessary, the provision of appropriate assessment activities to obtain necessary additional data to make such determination and assignment;
(B)
to the extent additional data is necessary to make a determination of the employment outcomes, and the nature and scope of vocational rehabilitation services, to be included in the individualized plan for employment of an eligible individual, a comprehensive assessment to determine the unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice, including the need for supported employment, of the eligible individual, which comprehensive assessment—
(i)
is limited to information that is necessary to identify the rehabilitation needs of the individual and to develop the individualized plan for employment of the eligible individual;
(ii)
uses, as a primary source of such information, to the maximum extent possible and appropriate and in accordance with confidentiality requirements—
(I)
section 721(a)(5)(A) of this title existing information obtained for the purposes of determining the eligibility of the individual and assigning priority for an order of selection described in for the individual; and
(II)
such information as can be provided by the individual and, where appropriate, by the family of the individual;
(iii)
may include, to the degree needed to make such a determination, an assessment of the personality, interests, interpersonal skills, intelligence and related functional capacities, educational achievements, work experience, vocational aptitudes, personal and social adjustments, and employment opportunities of the individual, and the medical, psychiatric, psychological, and other pertinent vocational, educational, cultural, social, recreational, and environmental factors, that affect the employment and rehabilitation needs of the individual;
(iv)
may include, to the degree needed, an appraisal of the patterns of work behavior of the individual and services needed for the individual to acquire occupational skills, and to develop work attitudes, work habits, work tolerance, and social and behavior patterns necessary for successful job performance, including the utilization of work in real job situations to assess and develop the capacities of the individual to perform adequately in a work environment; and
(v)
to the maximum extent possible, relies on information obtained from experiences in integrated employment settings in the community, and other integrated community settings;
(C)
referral, for the provision of rehabilitation technology services to the individual, to assess and develop the capacities of the individual to perform in a work environment; and
(D)
an exploration of the individual’s abilities, capabilities, and capacity to perform in work situations, which shall be assessed periodically during trial work experiences, including experiences in which the individual is provided appropriate supports and training.
(3)

Assistive technology terms

(A)

Assistive technology

section 3002 of this titleThe term “assistive technology” has the meaning given such term in .

(B)

Assistive technology device

section 3002 of this title1

1 So in original. The second closing parenthesis probably should not appear.
The term “assistive technology device” has the meaning given such term in , except that the reference in such section to the term “individuals with disabilities” shall be deemed to mean more than 1 individual with a disability as defined in paragraph (20)(A)).

(C)

Assistive technology service

section 3002 of this titleThe term “assistive technology service” has the meaning given such term in , except that the reference in such section—
(i)
to the term “individual with a disability” shall be deemed to mean an individual with a disability, as defined in paragraph (20)(A); and
(ii)
to the term “individuals with disabilities” shall be deemed to mean more than 1 such individual.
(4)

Community rehabilitation program

The term “community rehabilitation program” means a program that provides directly or facilitates the provision of vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities, and that provides, singly or in combination, for an individual with a disability to enable the individual to maximize opportunities for employment, including career advancement—
(A)
medical, psychiatric, psychological, social, and vocational services that are provided under one management;
(B)
testing, fitting, or training in the use of prosthetic and orthotic devices;
(C)
recreational therapy;
(D)
physical and occupational therapy;
(E)
speech, language, and hearing therapy;
(F)
psychiatric, psychological, and social services, including positive behavior management;
(G)
assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs;
(H)
rehabilitation technology;
(I)
job development, placement, and retention services;
(J)
evaluation or control of specific disabilities;
(K)
orientation and mobility services for individuals who are blind;
(L)
extended employment;
(M)
psychosocial rehabilitation services;
(N)
supported employment services and extended services;
(O)
customized employment;
(P)
services to family members when necessary to the vocational rehabilitation of the individual;
(Q)
personal assistance services; or
(R)
services similar to the services described in one of subparagraphs (A) through (Q).
(5)

Competitive integrated employment

The term “competitive integrated employment” means work that is performed on a full-time or part-time basis (including self-employment)—
(A)
for which an individual—
(i)
is compensated at a rate that—
(I)
(aa)
section 206(a)(1) of this title shall be not less than the higher of the rate specified in or the rate specified in the applicable State or local minimum wage law; and
(bb)
is not less than the customary rate paid by the employer for the same or similar work performed by other employees who are not individuals with disabilities, and who are similarly situated in similar occupations by the same employer and who have similar training, experience, and skills; or
(II)
in the case of an individual who is self-employed, yields an income that is comparable to the income received by other individuals who are not individuals with disabilities, and who are self-employed in similar occupations or on similar tasks and who have similar training, experience, and skills; and
(ii)
is eligible for the level of benefits provided to other employees;
(B)
that is at a location where the employee interacts with other persons who are not individuals with disabilities (not including supervisory personnel or individuals who are providing services to such employee) to the same extent that individuals who are not individuals with disabilities and who are in comparable positions interact with other persons; and
(C)
that, as appropriate, presents opportunities for advancement that are similar to those for other employees who are not individuals with disabilities and who have similar positions.
(6)

Construction; cost of construction

(A)

Construction

The term “construction” means—
(i)
the construction of new buildings;
(ii)
the acquisition, expansion, remodeling, alteration, and renovation of existing buildings; and
(iii)
initial equipment of buildings described in clauses (i) and (ii).
(B)

Cost of construction

The term “cost of construction” includes architects’ fees and the cost of acquisition of land in connection with construction but does not include the cost of offsite improvements.

(7)

Customized employment

The term “customized employment” means competitive integrated employment, for an individual with a significant disability, that is based on an individualized determination of the strengths, needs, and interests of the individual with a significant disability, is designed to meet the specific abilities of the individual with a significant disability and the business needs of the employer, and is carried out through flexible strategies, such as—
(A)
job exploration by the individual;
(B)
working with an employer to facilitate placement, including—
(i)
customizing a job description based on current employer needs or on previously unidentified and unmet employer needs;
(ii)
developing a set of job duties, a work schedule and job arrangement, and specifics of supervision (including performance evaluation and review), and determining a job location;
(iii)
representation by a professional chosen by the individual, or self-representation of the individual, in working with an employer to facilitate placement; and
(iv)
providing services and supports at the job location.
(8)

Designated State agency; designated State unit

(A)

Designated State agency

section 721(a)(2)(A) of this titleThe term “designated State agency” means an agency designated under .

(B)

Designated State unit

The term “designated State unit” means—
(i)
section 721(a)(2)(B)(ii) of this title any State agency unit required under ; or
(ii)
section 721(a)(2)(B)(i) of this title in cases in which no such unit is so required, the State agency described in .
(9)

Disability

The term “disability” means—
(A)
except as otherwise provided in subparagraph (B), a physical or mental impairment that constitutes or results in a substantial impediment to employment; or
(B)
section 12102 of title 42 for purposes of sections 701, 711, and 712 of this title, and subchapters II, IV, V, and VII, the meaning given it in .
(10)

Drug and illegal use of drugs

(A)

Drug

21 U.S.C. 812The term “drug” means a controlled substance, as defined in schedules I through V of section 202 of the Controlled Substances Act ().

(B)

Illegal use of drugs

21 U.S.C. 801The term “illegal use of drugs” means the use of drugs, the possession or distribution of which is unlawful under the Controlled Substances Act [ et seq.]. Such term does not include the use of a drug taken under supervision by a licensed health care professional, or other uses authorized by the Controlled Substances Act or other provisions of Federal law.

(11)

Employment outcome

The term “employment outcome” means, with respect to an individual—
(A)
entering or retaining full-time or, if appropriate, part-time competitive employment in the integrated labor market;
(B)
satisfying the vocational outcome of supported employment; or
(C)
satisfying any other vocational outcome the Secretary of Education may determine to be appropriate (including satisfying the vocational outcome of customized employment, self-employment, telecommuting, or business ownership),
in a manner consistent with this chapter.
(12)

Establishment of a community rehabilitation program

The term “establishment of a community rehabilitation program” includes the acquisition, expansion, remodeling, or alteration of existing buildings necessary to adapt them to community rehabilitation program purposes or to increase their effectiveness for such purposes (subject, however, to such limitations as the Secretary of Education may determine, in accordance with regulations the Secretary of Education shall prescribe, in order to prevent impairment of the objectives of, or duplication of, other Federal laws providing Federal assistance in the construction of facilities for community rehabilitation programs), and may include such additional equipment and staffing as the Commissioner considers appropriate.

(13)

Extended services

The term “extended services” means ongoing support services and other appropriate services, needed to support and maintain an individual with a most significant disability in supported employment, that—
(A)
are provided singly or in combination and are organized and made available in such a way as to assist an eligible individual in maintaining supported employment;
(B)
are based on a determination of the needs of an eligible individual, as specified in an individualized plan for employment; and
(C)
are provided by a State agency, a nonprofit private organization, employer, or any other appropriate resource, after an individual has made the transition from support provided by the designated State unit.
(14)

Federal share

(A)

In general

Subject to subparagraph (B), the term “Federal share” means 78.7 percent.

(B)

Exception

section 731(a)(3) of this titlesection 723(b)(2) of this titlesection 731(a)(3) of this titleThe term “Federal share” means the share specifically set forth in , except that with respect to payments pursuant to part B of subchapter I to any State that are used to meet the costs of construction of those rehabilitation facilities identified in in such State, the Federal share shall be the percentages determined in accordance with the provisions of applicable with respect to the State.

(C)

Relationship to expenditures by a political subdivision

For the purpose of determining the non-Federal share with respect to a State, expenditures by a political subdivision thereof or by a local agency shall be regarded as expenditures by such State, subject to such limitations and conditions as the Secretary of Education shall by regulation prescribe.

(15)

Governor

The term “Governor” means a chief executive officer of a State.

(16)

Impartial hearing officer

(A)

In general

The term “impartial hearing officer” means an individual—
(i)
who is not an employee of a public agency (other than an administrative law judge, hearing examiner, or employee of an institution of higher education);
(ii)
section 725 of this title who is not a member of the State Rehabilitation Council described in ;
(iii)
who has not been involved previously in the vocational rehabilitation of the applicant or eligible individual;
(iv)
section 721 of this title who has knowledge of the delivery of vocational rehabilitation services, the State plan under , and the Federal and State rules governing the provision of such services and training with respect to the performance of official duties; and
(v)
who has no personal or financial interest that would be in conflict with the objectivity of the individual.
(B)

Construction

An individual shall not be considered to be an employee of a public agency for purposes of subparagraph (A)(i) solely because the individual is paid by the agency to serve as a hearing officer.

(17)

Independent living core services

The term “independent living core services” means—
(A)
information and referral services;
(B)
independent living skills training;
(C)
peer counseling (including cross-disability peer counseling);
(D)
individual and systems advocacy; and
(E)
services that—
(i)
facilitate the transition of individuals with significant disabilities from nursing homes and other institutions to home and community-based residences, with the requisite supports and services;
(ii)
provide assistance to individuals with significant disabilities who are at risk of entering institutions so that the individuals may remain in the community; and
(iii)
20 U.S.C. 1414(d) facilitate the transition of youth who are individuals with significant disabilities, who were eligible for individualized education programs under section 614(d) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (), and who have completed their secondary education or otherwise left school, to postsecondary life.
(18)

Independent living services

The term “independent living services” includes—
(A)
independent living core services; and
(B)
(i)
counseling services, including psychological, psychotherapeutic, and related services;
(ii)
services related to securing housing or shelter, including services related to community group living, and supportive of the purposes of this chapter and of the subchapters of this chapter, and adaptive housing services (including appropriate accommodations to and modifications of any space used to serve, or occupied by, individuals with disabilities);
(iii)
rehabilitation technology;
(iv)
mobility training;
(v)
services and training for individuals with cognitive and sensory disabilities, including life skills training, and interpreter and reader services;
(vi)
personal assistance services, including attendant care and the training of personnel providing such services;
(vii)
surveys, directories, and other activities to identify appropriate housing, recreation opportunities, and accessible transportation, and other support services;
(viii)
consumer information programs on rehabilitation and independent living services available under this chapter, especially for minorities and other individuals with disabilities who have traditionally been unserved or underserved by programs under this chapter;
(ix)
education and training necessary for living in a community and participating in community activities;
(x)
supported living;
(xi)
transportation, including referral and assistance for such transportation and training in the use of public transportation vehicles and systems;
(xii)
physical rehabilitation;
(xiii)
therapeutic treatment;
(xiv)
provision of needed prostheses and other appliances and devices;
(xv)
individual and group social and recreational services;
(xvi)
training to develop skills specifically designed for youths who are individuals with disabilities to promote self-awareness and esteem, develop advocacy and self-empowerment skills, and explore career options;
(xvii)
services for children;
(xviii)
services under other Federal, State, or local programs designed to provide resources, training, counseling, or other assistance, of substantial benefit in enhancing the independence, productivity, and quality of life of individuals with disabilities;
(xix)
appropriate preventive services to decrease the need of individuals assisted under this chapter for similar services in the future;
(xx)
community awareness programs to enhance the understanding and integration into society of individuals with disabilities; and
(xxi)
such other services as may be necessary and not inconsistent with the provisions of this chapter.
(19)

Indian; American Indian; Indian American; Indian tribe

(A)

In general

43 U.S.C. 1602The terms “Indian”, “American Indian”, and “Indian American” mean an individual who is a member of an Indian tribe and includes a Native and a descendant of a Native, as such terms are defined in subsections (b) and (r) of section 3 of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act ().

(B)

Indian tribe

43 U.S.C. 1601lThe term “Indian tribe” means any Federal or State Indian tribe, band, rancheria, pueblo, colony, or community, including any Alaskan native village or regional village corporation (as defined in or established pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act [ et seq.]) and a tribal organization (as defined in section 5304() of title 25).

(20)

Individual with a disability

(A)

In general

Except as otherwise provided in subparagraph (B), the term “individual with a disability” means any individual who—
(i)
has a physical or mental impairment which for such individual constitutes or results in a substantial impediment to employment; and
(ii)
can benefit in terms of an employment outcome from vocational rehabilitation services provided pursuant to subchapter I, III, or VI.
(B)

Certain programs; limitations on major life activities

section 12102 of title 42Subject to subparagraphs (C), (D), (E), and (F), the term “individual with a disability” means, for purposes of sections 701, 711, and 712 of this title, and subchapters II, IV, V, and VII of this chapter, any person who has a disability as defined in .

(C)

Rights and advocacy provisions

(i)

In general; exclusion of individuals engaging in drug use

For purposes of subchapter V, the term “individual with a disability” does not include an individual who is currently engaging in the illegal use of drugs, when a covered entity acts on the basis of such use.

(ii)

Exception for individuals no longer engaging in drug use

Nothing in clause (i) shall be construed to exclude as an individual with a disability an individual who—
(I)
has successfully completed a supervised drug rehabilitation program and is no longer engaging in the illegal use of drugs, or has otherwise been rehabilitated successfully and is no longer engaging in such use;
(II)
is participating in a supervised rehabilitation program and is no longer engaging in such use; or
(III)
is erroneously regarded as engaging in such use, but is not engaging in such use;
 except that it shall not be a violation of this chapter for a covered entity to adopt or administer reasonable policies or procedures, including but not limited to drug testing, designed to ensure that an individual described in subclause (I) or (II) is no longer engaging in the illegal use of drugs.
(iii)

Exclusion for certain services

Notwithstanding clause (i), for purposes of programs and activities providing health services and services provided under subchapters I, II, and III, an individual shall not be excluded from the benefits of such programs or activities on the basis of his or her current illegal use of drugs if he or she is otherwise entitled to such services.

(iv)

Disciplinary action

For purposes of programs and activities providing educational services, local educational agencies may take disciplinary action pertaining to the use or possession of illegal drugs or alcohol against any student who is an individual with a disability and who currently is engaging in the illegal use of drugs or in the use of alcohol to the same extent that such disciplinary action is taken against students who are not individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, the due process procedures at section 104.36 of title 34, Code of Federal Regulations (or any corresponding similar regulation or ruling) shall not apply to such disciplinary actions.

(v)

Employment; exclusion of alcoholics

For purposes of sections 793 and 794 of this title as such sections relate to employment, the term “individual with a disability” does not include any individual who is an alcoholic whose current use of alcohol prevents such individual from performing the duties of the job in question or whose employment, by reason of such current alcohol abuse, would constitute a direct threat to property or the safety of others.

(D)

Employment; exclusion of individuals with certain diseases or infections

For the purposes of sections 793 and 794 of this title, as such sections relate to employment, such term does not include an individual who has a currently contagious disease or infection and who, by reason of such disease or infection, would constitute a direct threat to the health or safety of other individuals or who, by reason of the currently contagious disease or infection, is unable to perform the duties of the job.

(E)

Rights provisions; exclusion of individuals on basis of homosexuality or bisexuality

For the purposes of sections 791, 793, and 794 of this title—
(i)
for purposes of the application of subparagraph (B) to such sections, the term “impairment” does not include homosexuality or bisexuality; and
(ii)
therefore the term “individual with a disability” does not include an individual on the basis of homosexuality or bisexuality.
(F)

Rights provisions; exclusion of individuals on basis of certain disorders

For the purposes of sections 791, 793, and 794 of this title, the term “individual with a disability” does not include an individual on the basis of—
(i)
transvestism, transsexualism, pedophilia, exhibitionism, voyeurism, gender identity disorders not resulting from physical impairments, or other sexual behavior disorders;
(ii)
compulsive gambling, kleptomania, or pyromania; or
(iii)
psychoactive substance use disorders resulting from current illegal use of drugs.
(G)

Individuals with disabilities

The term “individuals with disabilities” means more than one individual with a disability.

(21)

Individual with a significant disability

(A)

In general

Except as provided in subparagraph (B) or (C), the term “individual with a significant disability” means an individual with a disability—
(i)
who has a severe physical or mental impairment which seriously limits one or more functional capacities (such as mobility, communication, self-care, self-direction, interpersonal skills, work tolerance, or work skills) in terms of an employment outcome;
(ii)
whose vocational rehabilitation can be expected to require multiple vocational rehabilitation services over an extended period of time; and
(iii)
who has one or more physical or mental disabilities resulting from amputation, arthritis, autism, blindness, burn injury, cancer, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, deafness, head injury, heart disease, hemiplegia, hemophilia, respiratory or pulmonary dysfunction, intellectual disability, mental illness, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, musculo-skeletal disorders, neurological disorders (including stroke and epilepsy), paraplegia, quadriplegia, and other spinal cord conditions, sickle cell anemia, specific learning disability, end-stage renal disease, or another disability or combination of disabilities determined on the basis of an assessment for determining eligibility and vocational rehabilitation needs described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (2) to cause comparable substantial functional limitation.
(B)

Independent living services and centers for independent living

For purposes of subchapter VII, the term “individual with a significant disability” means an individual with a severe physical or mental impairment whose ability to function independently in the family or community or whose ability to obtain, maintain, or advance in employment is substantially limited and for whom the delivery of independent living services will improve the ability to function, continue functioning, or move toward functioning independently in the family or community or to continue in employment, respectively.

(C)

Research and training

For purposes of subchapter II, the term “individual with a significant disability” includes an individual described in subparagraph (A) or (B).

(D)

Individuals with significant disabilities

The term “individuals with significant disabilities” means more than one individual with a significant disability.

(E)

Individual with a most significant disability

(i)

In general

section 721(a)(5)(C) of this titleThe term “individual with a most significant disability”, used with respect to an individual in a State, means an individual with a significant disability who meets criteria established by the State under .

(ii)

Individuals with the most significant disabilities

The term “individuals with the most significant disabilities” means more than one individual with a most significant disability.

(22)

Individual’s representative; applicant’s representative

The terms “individual’s representative” and “applicant’s representative” mean a parent, a family member, a guardian, an advocate, or an authorized representative of an individual or applicant, respectively.

(23)

Institution of higher education

section 1002 of title 20The term “institution of higher education” has the meaning given the term in .

(24)

Local agency

section 721 of this titlesection 721 of this titleThe term “local agency” means an agency of a unit of general local government or of an Indian tribe (or combination of such units or tribes) which has an agreement with the designated State agency to conduct a vocational rehabilitation program under the supervision of such State agency in accordance with the State plan approved under . Nothing in the preceding sentence of this paragraph or in shall be construed to prevent the local agency from arranging to utilize another local public or nonprofit agency to provide vocational rehabilitation services if such an arrangement is made part of the agreement specified in this paragraph.

(25)

Local workforce development board

29 U.S.C. 3102The term “local workforce development board” means a local board, as defined in section 3 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [].

(26)

Nonprofit

section 501(c)(3) of title 26The term “nonprofit”, when used with respect to a community rehabilitation program, means a community rehabilitation program carried out by a corporation or association, no part of the net earnings of which inures, or may lawfully inure, to the benefit of any private shareholder or individual and the income of which is exempt from taxation under .

(27)

Ongoing support services

The term “ongoing support services” means services—
(A)
provided to individuals with the most significant disabilities;
(B)
provided, at a minimum, twice monthly—
(i)
to make an assessment, regarding the employment situation, at the worksite of each such individual in supported employment, or, under special circumstances, especially at the request of the client, off site; and
(ii)
based on the assessment, to provide for the coordination or provision of specific intensive services, at or away from the worksite, that are needed to maintain employment stability; and
(C)
consisting of—
(i)
a particularized assessment supplementary to the comprehensive assessment described in paragraph (2)(B);
(ii)
the provision of skilled job trainers who accompany the individual for intensive job skill training at the worksite;
(iii)
job development, job retention, and placement services;
(iv)
social skills training;
(v)
regular observation or supervision of the individual;
(vi)
followup services such as regular contact with the employers, the individuals, the individuals’ representatives, and other appropriate individuals, in order to reinforce and stabilize the job placement;
(vii)
facilitation of natural supports at the worksite;
(viii)
section 723 of this title any other service identified in ; or
(ix)
a service similar to another service described in this subparagraph.
(28)

Personal assistance services

The term “personal assistance services” means a range of services, provided by one or more persons, designed to assist an individual with a disability to perform daily living activities on or off the job that the individual would typically perform if the individual did not have a disability. Such services shall be designed to increase the individual’s control in life and ability to perform everyday activities on or off the job.

(30)

2
2 So in original. There is no par. (29).
  Pre-employment transition services

section 733 of this titleThe term “pre-employment transition services” means services provided in accordance with .

(31)

Public or nonprofit

The term “public or nonprofit”, used with respect to an agency or organization, includes an Indian tribe.

(32)

Rehabilitation technology

The term “rehabilitation technology” means the systematic application of technologies, engineering methodologies, or scientific principles to meet the needs of and address the barriers confronted by individuals with disabilities in areas which include education, rehabilitation, employment, transportation, independent living, and recreation. The term includes rehabilitation engineering, assistive technology devices, and assistive technology services.

(33)

Secretary

Unless where the context otherwise requires, the term “Secretary”—
(A)
used in subchapter I, III, IV, V, VI, or part B of subchapter VII, means the Secretary of Education; and
(B)
used in subchapter II or part A of subchapter VII, means the Secretary of Health and Human Services.
(34)

State

The term “State” includes, in addition to each of the several States of the United States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

(35)

State workforce development board

29 U.S.C. 3102The term “State workforce development board” means a State board, as defined in section 3 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [].

(36)

Statewide workforce development system

29 U.S.C. 3102The term “statewide workforce development system” means a workforce development system, as defined in section 3 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [].

(37)

Student with a disability

(A)

In general

The term “student with a disability” means an individual with a disability who—
(i)
(I)
(aa)
20 U.S.C. 1414(d)(1)(A)(i)(VIII) is not younger than the earliest age for the provision of transition services under section 614(d)(1)(A)(i)(VIII) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (); or
(bb)
if the State involved elects to use a lower minimum age for receipt of pre-employment transition services under this chapter, is not younger than that minimum age; and
(II)
(aa)
is not older than 21 years of age; or
(bb)
20 U.S.C. 1400 if the State law for the State provides for a higher maximum age for receipt of services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ( et seq.), is not older than that maximum age; and
(ii)
(I)
20 U.S.C. 1411 is eligible for, and receiving, special education or related services under part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ( et seq.); or
(II)
section 794 of this title is an individual with a disability, for purposes of .
(B)

Students with disabilities

The term “students with disabilities” means more than 1 student with a disability.

(38)

Supported employment

The term “supported employment” means competitive integrated employment, including customized employment, or employment in an integrated work setting in which individuals are working on a short-term basis toward competitive integrated employment, that is individualized and customized consistent with the strengths, abilities, interests, and informed choice of the individuals involved, for individuals with the most significant disabilities—
(A)
(i)
for whom competitive integrated employment has not historically occurred; or
(ii)
for whom competitive integrated employment has been interrupted or intermittent as a result of a significant disability; and
(B)
who, because of the nature and severity of their disability, need intensive supported employment services and extended services after the transition described in paragraph (13)(C), in order to perform the work involved.
(39)

Supported employment services

The term “supported employment services” means ongoing support services, including customized employment, needed to support and maintain an individual with a most significant disability in supported employment, that—
(A)
are provided singly or in combination and are organized and made available in such a way as to assist an eligible individual to achieve competitive integrated employment;
(B)
are based on a determination of the needs of an eligible individual, as specified in an individualized plan for employment; and
(C)
are provided by the designated State unit for a period of not more than 24 months, except that period may be extended, if necessary, in order to achieve the employment outcome identified in the individualized plan for employment.
(40)

Vocational rehabilitation services

section 723 of this titleThe term “vocational rehabilitation services” means those services identified in which are provided to individuals with disabilities under this chapter.

(41)

Workforce investment activities

29 U.S.C. 3102The term “workforce investment activities” means workforce investment activities, as defined in section 3 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act [], that are carried out under that Act.

(42)

Youth with a disability

(A)

In general

The term “youth with a disability” means an individual with a disability who—
(i)
is not younger than 14 years of age; and
(ii)
is not older than 24 years of age.
(B)

Youth with disabilities

The term “youth with disabilities” means more than 1 youth with a disability.

Pub. L. 93–112, § 7Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403112 Stat. 1097Pub. L. 105–244, title I, § 102(a)(9)(A)112 Stat. 1619Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1), (b)(3), (c)(1)]112 Stat. 2681–337Pub. L. 105–394, title IV, § 402(a)112 Stat. 3661Pub. L. 110–325, § 7122 Stat. 3558Pub. L. 111–256, § 2(d)(1)124 Stat. 2643Pub. L. 113–128, title IV, § 404128 Stat. 1632(, formerly § 6, as added , , ; amended , , ; renumbered § 7 and amended , , , 2681–412, 2681–413, 2681–415; , , ; , , ; , , ; , , .)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Pub. L. 91–51384 Stat. 1242section 801 of Title 21The Controlled Substances Act, referred to in par. (10)(B), is title II of , , , which is classified principally to subchapter I (§ 801 et seq.) of chapter 13 of Title 21, Food and Drugs. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under and Tables.

Pub. L. 92–20385 Stat. 688section 1601 of Title 43The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, referred to in par. (19)(B), is , , , which is classified generally to chapter 33 (§ 1601 et seq.) of Title 43, Public Lands. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under and Tables.

Pub. L. 91–23084 Stat. 175section 1400 of Title 20The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, referred to in par. (37)(A)(i)(II)(bb), (ii)(I), is title VI of , , , which is classified generally to chapter 33 (§ 1400 et seq.) of Title 20, Education. Part B of the Act is classified generally to subchapter II (§ 1411 et seq.) of chapter 33 of Title 20. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see and Tables.

Pub. L. 113–128128 Stat. 1425section 3101 of this titleThe Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, referred to in par. (41), is , , , which enacted chapter 32 (§ 3101 et seq.) of this title, repealed chapter 30 (§ 2801 et seq.) of this title and chapter 73 (§ 9201 et seq.) of Title 20, Education, and made amendments to numerous other sections and notes in the Code. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under and Tables.

Prior Provisions

section 706 of this titlePub. L. 105–220Provisions similar to this section were contained in prior to repeal by .

Pub. L. 93–112, § 687 Stat. 359Pub. L. 99–506, title X, § 1001(a)(2)100 Stat. 1841Pub. L. 100–630, title II, § 201(b)102 Stat. 3303Pub. L. 102–569, title I, § 128(b)(1)106 Stat. 4388Pub. L. 105–220, title IV, § 403112 Stat. 1093A prior section 705, , , ; , , ; , , ; , , , related to consolidated rehabilitation plan, prior to repeal by , , .

section 7 of Pub. L. 93–112section 706 of this titleA prior was renumbered section 8 and is classified to .

section 7 of Pub. L. 93–112section 706 of this titlePub. L. 105–220Another prior was classified to prior to repeal by .

Amendments

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(1)2014—Par. (2)(B)(v). , added cl. (v).

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(2)Par. (3). , added par. (3) and struck out former par. (3) which defined “assistive technology device”.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(3)Par. (4). , redesignated par. (5) as (4).

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(2), struck out par. (4) which defined “assistive technology service”.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(4)(B)Par. (4)(O). , added subpar. (O). Former subpar. (O) redesignated (P).

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(4)(A)Par. (4)(P), (Q). , redesignated subpars. (O) and (P) as (P) and (Q), respectively. Former subpar. (Q) redesignated (R).

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(4)(C)Par. (4)(R). , substituted “(Q)” for “(P)”.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(4)(A), redesignated subpar. (Q) as (R).

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(5)Par. (5). , added par. (5). Former par. (5) redesignated (4).

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(6)Par. (6)(B). , substituted “includes architects’ fees” for “includes architects’ fees”.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(7)Par. (7). , added par. (7).

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(8)Par. (11)(C). , inserted “of Education” after “Secretary” and “customized employment,” after “vocational outcome of”.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(9)Par. (12). , inserted “of Education” after “Secretary” in two places.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(10)Par. (14)(C). , inserted “of Education” after “Secretary”.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(11)Par. (17)(E). , added subpar. (E).

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(12)Par. (18). , substituted “term ‘independent living services’ includes—” for “term ‘independent living services’ includes—” in introductory provisions.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(13)(A)43 U.S.C. 1602Par. (19)(A). , inserted “and includes a Native and a descendant of a Native, as such terms are defined in subsections (b) and (r) of section 3 of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act ()” before period at end.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(13)(B)lPar. (19)(B). , inserted “and a tribal organization (as defined in section 5304() of title 25)” before period at end.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(14)Par. (23). , substituted “section 1002” for “section 1001”.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(15)Par. (25). , added par. (25) and struck out former par. (25) which defined “local workforce investment board”.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(17)Par. (29). , redesignated par. (29) as (31).

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(18)Par. (30). , added par. (30). Former par. (30) redesignated (32).

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(17)Pars. (31), (32). , redesignated pars. (29) and (30) as (31) and (32), respectively. Former pars. (31) and (32) redesignated (33) and (34), respectively.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(19)Par. (33). , added par. (33) and struck out former par. (33) which defined “Secretary”.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(17), redesignated par. (31) as (33). Former par. (33) redesignated (35).

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(17)Par. (34). , redesignated par. (32) as (34). Former par. (34) redesignated (36).

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(20)Pars. (35), (36). , added pars. (35) and (36) and struck out former pars. (35) and (36), which defined “State workforce investment board” and “statewide workforce investment system”, respectively.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(17), redesignated pars. (33) and (34) as (35) and (36), respectively. Former pars. (35) and (36) redesignated (38) and (39), respectively.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(16)Par. (37). , (21), added par. (37) and struck out former par. (37) which defined “transition services”.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(22)Pars. (38), (39). , added pars. (38) and (39) and struck out former pars. (38) and (39) which defined “supported employment” and “supported employment services”, respectively.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(17), redesignated pars. (35) and (36) as (38) and (39), respectively. Former pars. (38) and (39) redesignated (40) and (41), respectively.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(17)Par. (40). , redesignated par. (38) as (40).

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(23)Par. (41). , substituted “as defined in section 3 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act” for “as defined in section 101 of the Workforce Investment Act of 1998”.

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(17), redesignated par. (39) as (41).

Pub. L. 113–128, § 404(24)Par. (42). , added par. (42).

Pub. L. 111–2562010—Par. (21)(A)(iii). substituted “intellectual disability,” for “mental retardation,”.

Pub. L. 110–325, § 7(1)section 12102 of title 422008—Par. (9)(B). , substituted “the meaning given it in ” for “a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities”.

Pub. L. 110–325, § 7(2)section 12102 of title 42Par. (20)(B). , substituted “any person who has a disability as defined in .” for “any person who—

“(i) has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more of such person’s major life activities;

“(ii) has a record of such an impairment; or

“(iii) is regarded as having such an impairment.”

Pub. L. 105–277, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(b)(3)]1998—, made technical amendment to section designation and catchline in the original and inserted par. (1) heading.

Pub. L. 105–277, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(c)(1)(A)]Par. (2)(B). , substituted “nature” for “objectives, nature,”.

Pub. L. 105–394, § 402(a)(1)Pub. L. 105–277, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1)]Par. (3). , which directed the amendment of section 6 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 by substituting “3002” for “2202(2)”, was executed to this section, which is section 7 of that act, to reflect the probable intent of Congress and the renumbering of section 6 as 7 by .

Pub. L. 105–394, § 402(a)(2)Pub. L. 105–277, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(a)(1)]Par. (4). , which directed the amendment of section 6 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 by substituting “3002” for “2202(3)”, was executed to this section, which is section 7 of that act, to reflect the probable intent of Congress and the renumbering of section 6 as 7 by .

Pub. L. 105–277, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(c)(1)(B)]Par. (7). , struck out heading and text of par. (7). Text read as follows: “The term ‘criminal act’ means any crime, including an act, omission, or possession under the laws of the United States or a State or unit of general local government, which poses a substantial threat of personal injury, notwithstanding that by reason of age, insanity, or intoxication or otherwise the person engaging in the act, omission, or possession was legally incapable of committing a crime.”

Pub. L. 105–277, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(c)(1)(C)]Par. (16)(A)(iii). , substituted “eligible individual” for “client”.

Pub. L. 105–244section 1001 of title 20section 1141(a) of title 20Par. (23). substituted “” for “”.

Pub. L. 105–277, § 101(f) [title VIII, § 402(c)(1)(D)]Par. (36)(C). , substituted “employment outcome” for “rehabilitation objectives”.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2008 Amendment

Pub. L. 110–325, § 8122 Stat. 3559

section 706 of this titlesection 12101 of Title 42“This Act [enacting sections 12103 and 12205a of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, amending this section, former , and sections 12101, 12102, 12111 to 12114, 12201, and 12206 to 12213 of Title 42, and enacting provisions set out as notes under ] and the amendments made by this Act shall become effective on .”
, , , provided that:

Effective Date of 1998 Amendment

Pub. L. 105–244Pub. L. 105–244section 3 of Pub. L. 105–244section 1001 of Title 20Amendment by effective , except as otherwise provided in , see , set out as a note under , Education.

Definitions

section 2 of Pub. L. 111–256section 2(k) of Pub. L. 111–256section 1400 of Title 20For meaning of references to an intellectual disability and to individuals with intellectual disabilities in provisions amended by , see , set out as a note under , Education.