(a) VRD conducts continuing statewide studies of the needs of individuals with disabilities within the state and the methods by which these needs may be most effectively met.     
      (b) The studies are directed toward:      
        (1) assessing the rehabilitation needs of individuals with significant disabilities who reside in the state;       
        (2) reviewing the effectiveness of outreach procedures used to identify and serve individuals with disabilities who are minorities and individuals with disabilities who are unserved or underserved by the vocational rehabilitation system;       
        (3) reviewing a broad variety of methods to provide, expand, and improve vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with the most significant disabilities, including individuals receiving supported employment services;       
        (4) ensuring the orderly and effective development of vocational rehabilitation services; and       
        (5) reviewing the efficacy of the criteria employed by VRD in making ineligibility decisions with respect to applicants for vocational rehabilitation services.       
      (c) Reports of the studies are available to the public for review.     
     Source Note:        The provisions of this §856.80 adopted to be effective December 10, 2012, 37 TexReg 9651; duplicated effective September 1, 2016, as published in the Texas Register September 2, 2016, 41 TexReg 6773; amended to be effective November 8, 2017, 42 TexReg 6195