Program Office: Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA)

CFDA Number: 84.250
Program Type: Discretionary/Competitive Grants
Also Known As: Sec. 121 Program; American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program

The purpose of this program is to assist tribal governments to develop or to increase their capacity to provide a program of vocational rehabilitation services, in a culturally relevant manner, to American Indians with disabilities residing on or near federal or state reservations. The program's goal is to enable these individuals, consistent with their individual strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, and informed choice, to prepare for and engage in gainful employment. Program services are provided under an individualized plan for employment and may include native healing services.

The program provides financial assistance for the establishment and operations of VR services programs for American Indians with disabilities living on or near a federal or state reservation.

The U.S. Department of Education (Department) published an NPRM in the June 23, 2014 Federal Register requesting public comment on the actions that the Department should take to amend the definition of “reservation” under the regulations governing the American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services (AIVRS) program in one of two ways. The Department is requesting comment from the public on two proposed amendments:

1. Alternative A: would conform the definition to the Department’s current interpretation and practices.
2. Alternative B: would limit the areas of land the Department considers to be reservations to those that are listed in the statutory definition of “reservation.”

The NPRM includes information about how to submit public comments. Responses must be received on or before August 22, 2014.

(June 23, 2014)