Bill > SB222

This bill creates the Commission for the Blind and the Visually Impaired, a new state agency that will take over responsibilities previously held by the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency for serving blind and visually impaired individuals. The commission will be responsible for developing and implementing vocational rehabilitation services, independent living programs, and business enterprise opportunities for blind and visually impaired people. It will be composed of eight members (a chairperson and seven members), appointed by the Governor, Speaker of the House, and Senate President, with a majority of members being blind or visually impaired themselves. The bill establishes the commission's core purpose as ensuring lifelong access to quality services that promote independence, self-sufficiency, and career opportunities for blind and visually impaired individuals. Key responsibilities include operating industries for the blind, providing specialized equipment and technology, coordinating library services, offering technical assistance to other agencies, and overseeing deaf-blind services. The commission will also have an executive director and will be required to publish an annual report and maintain a complaint resolution process. The bill transfers existing programs and authorities related to blind services from the Vocational Rehabilitation Agency to this new commission, effective July 1, 2025, with the goal of ensuring continuity of services and improving support for blind and visually impaired Georgians.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70590