SECTION 612:10-7-2.5. Work Experience

(a)   When Work Experience (WE) will best suit the client's needs, this type of training can be considered. In order for the client to gain work experience and obtain employment, WE can be provided in conjunction with any other DRS Service. The nature of the work training experience may (or may not) match the consumer's employment goal on the IPE. This service does not require client participation in cost of services.

(b)   In selecting work training sites, the counselor must assure the items in (1) - (5) of this Subsection are met;

(1)   The business or individual must be willing to train and provide experience to DRS clients for specific duties, skills and occupations.

(2)   DRS will provide proper equipment and other accommodations as needed.

(3)   The individual who actually does the training must be the employer or an employee of the business and have the knowledge, skill, and ability to train the client.

(4)   Time must be devoted daily to the training of the client.

(5)   It is expected the client will be employable after a reasonable period of training.

(c)   The length of time for Work Experience needed for training will vary with the complexity of the job being learned. However, Work Experience cannot exceed six (6) months.

(d)   Individuals and businesses which provide Work Experience are expected to compensate WE participants according to applicable minimum wage and hour regulations under the Fair Labor Standards Act. The employer must pay the client at least the applicable minimum wage.

(e)   Work Experience payments are reimbursement for training by the employer. Reimbursement is paid to the employer who pays the client just like his or her own employees. It is not permissible for the employer to endorse the reimbursement check and give it to the client in lieu of wages.

(f)   Reimbursement for Work Experience is paid on a monthly basis.

[Source: Added at 37 Ok Reg 2135, eff 9-11-20]