SECTION 317:40-7-1. Overview of Waiver Employment Services

(a)   There are many employment service options available. The options given in (1) through (4) of this subsection are not a continuum, but are prioritized as most desirable by people with and without disabilities. Provider agencies assess each service recipient in maximizing employment options.

(1)   The optimum goal is full-time employment at prevailing wage in business or industry at an occupation of the service recipient's choice with natural supports. If prevailing wage is not available, then employment is at minimum wage with or without paid supports.

(2)   If a service recipient cannot secure enough work hours through a single job of the service recipient's choice, then two part-time jobs or a job that is not the service recipient's first preference may need to be sought to equal a full time job.

(3)   If a fully integrated placement is not currently available, employment of the service recipient's choice in an enclave in a business or industry, with or without paid supports, is an option.

(4)   If there are no paid jobs to be found, temporary unpaid training or volunteer service in accordance with Department of Labor regulations, with or without paid supports, may be an option for the purpose of resume building or job exploration, or temporary participation in real work in a center-based setting can be obtained.

(b)   There may be instances resulting from a variety of factors when people served have not achieved the goal of full employment. The provider agency makes available those supports needed for the service recipient to achieve full employment.

(c)   Employment services are prescribed in accordance with OAC 340:100-17, Part 1, and OAC 340:100-3-33.1.

(d)   People receiving services may choose retirement to pursue activities according to each person's interests, including employment or integrated community activities for senior citizens. If the service recipient is age 62 or older, an exception as described in OAC 317:40-7-21 is not required.

[Source: Added at 15 Ok Reg 3873, eff 7-1-98 (emergency); Added at 16 Ok Reg 1445, eff 5-27-99; Amended at 21 Ok Reg 1327, eff 5-27-04; Amended at 22 Ok Reg 2531, eff 7-11-05]