Official Site of The State of New Jersey

Members of the SRC believe:

• That people with disabilities, like all people, have diverse strengths that must be defined and identified along many dimensions
• That each person with a disability has value
• In a public system of vocational rehabilitation that is responsible and accountable to those it serves and to those who fund it
• In partnerships, affiliations and linkages that meaningfully support competitive, integrated employment for people with disabilities 
• That optimal results in rehabilitation depend on an equal partnership between consumers and the professional (service provider)
• That all consumers should be given enough information to make informed choices about the services they receive
• That all people with disabilities are ultimately responsible and accountable for the choices they make
• That all people with disabilities should have the opportunity to maximize their employment potential.
• That respect for all is critical to the vocational rehabilitation process
• That it is necessary to support, further, and exemplify diversity and multiculturalism within the disability community and the community at large
• That the rights of people with disabilities, like all people, should be advanced and protected

The SRC, on behalf of the community it represents, reviews, analyzes and advises the New Jersey State Vocational Rehabilitation Program (DVRS) regarding the performance of its responsibilities. Council goals and activities are set annually and are in response to both National and State issues, as mandated by Section 105 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. The focus of Council goals and activities includes but is not limited to Consumer Satisfaction, Statewide Needs Assessment, State Plan and Amendments, Policy, Extent/Scope/Effectiveness of Services, Interagency Agreements, and New Jersey's Employment programs.

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), signed into law July; 22, 2014, reauthorized the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 under title IV. It is important to note that most provisions under title IV went into effect upon enactment of WIOA. The SRC is committed to ensuring appropriate support to the DVRS in its implementation of WIOA.

The SRC holds four meetings a year that are open to the public. Meetings are held in person at The New Jersey Law Center, One Constitution Square, New Brunswick, NJ 08901. As a reasonable accommodation to those with disabilities for whom in-person attendance is not an option, the morning’s business portion of the day (10am -12:30pm) is offered virtually. The public is invited to make comments at the start of the meeting (10am) and prior to the break for lunch (12:30pm). The link for virtual participation must be requested from the SRC at least five business days before the scheduled meeting at margaret.gilbride@rutgers.edu.

Following a brief break for lunch at 12:30pm, there is subcommittee work and report-outs to the larger group. SRC member training and open discussion occurs as needed. Members of the public are welcome to participate in subcommittee meetings if they have committed to an active, on-going role.

Fiscal Year 2025 Meeting Dates

• November 13, 2024
• February 12, 2025
• May 14, 2025
• September 17, 2025

November 13, 2024 Meeting - Reference Materials

• SRC Notes 11.13.24
• SRC Expenditure Report
• SRC Director Report
• 10-31-24 CAP Report
• Handouts for Interagency Presentation
• Evaluation Committee Notes
• Legislative Committee Notes
• Transition Meeting Notes
• VR Self Advocacy Guide