Family and Social Services Administration announces the end of order of selection

 From FSSA/DDRS Updates

"The Family and Social Services Administration Division of Disability and Rehabilitative Services and Vocational Rehabilitation, celebrate the end of the order of selection waitlist for VR services. This is especially relevant as DDRS recognizes National Disability Employment Awareness Month and continues its efforts to promote employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. This important milestone enables all eligible individuals to access services they need to achieve employment through the VR program.

In October 2024, the waitlist for VR services decreased to 0, ending the order of selection. In August 2017, Indiana implemented its order of selection waitlist through a state plan amendment approved by the U.S. Department of Education, Rehabilitation Services Administration. As amended by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, the Rehabilitation Act requires a state VR agency to implement an order of selection when it does not have enough resources to provide all eligible individuals with the full range of vocational rehabilitation services. The order of selection process ensures that individuals with the most significant disabilities are served first.

VR continues to implement strategies to assess and grow capacity to serve all eligible individuals as VR experiences an increase in applicants and participants served. The number of VR applicants has increased by over 20% and individuals served under VR service plans by 16%, over the last two completed state fiscal years, with further growth projected.

Several strategies to continue to grow capacity are being implemented, including a request for funding released earlier this month to support increased capacity for VR service providers through establishment project funds.

To learn more about VR services and how to apply, visit the Vocational Rehabilitation Services website."