TITLE 40. SOCIAL SERVICES AND ASSISTANCE

Part 2. DEPARTMENT OF ASSISTIVE AND REHABILITATIVE SERVICES

Chapter 101. ADMINISTRATIVE RULES AND PROCEDURES

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission adopts amendments to the rules of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) in Title 40, Part 2, Chapter 101, concerning Administrative Rules and Procedures. DARS adopts the repeal of Subchapters F, G, H, J, K and L of Chapter 101 and replaces with new Subchapters A, B, C, and D of Chapter 101.

The repeals and new sections are adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the May 11, 2007, issue of the Texas Register (32 TexReg 2537), and will not be republished.

The following Subchapters, Divisions, and sections in Title 40, Chapter 101, are adopted for repeal:

Subchapter F, Administrative Rules and Procedures Pertaining to Blind Services

Division 1, General Rules, §§101.3601, 101.3603, 101.3605, 101.3607, 101.3609, 101.3611, 101.3613, 101.3615, and 101.3617.

Division 2, Commission Board Procedures, §§101.3641, 101.3643, 101.3645, and 101.3647.

Division 3, Access to Public Information, §§101.3681, 101.3683, 101.3685, 101.3687, and 101.3689.

Division 4, Contract Dispute Resolution, §§101.3711, 101.3713, 101.3715, 101.3717, 101.3719, 101.3721, 101.3723, 101.3725, 101.3727, 101.3729, 101.3731, 101.3733, 101.3735, 101.3737, 101.3739, 101.3741, 101.3743, 101.3745, 101.3747, 101.3749, 101.3751, 101.3753, 101.3755, 101.3757, 101.3759, 101.3761, 101.3763, 101.3765, and 101.3767.

Division 5, Purchase of Goods and Services by the Commission, §§101.3801, 101.3807, and 101.3811.

Subchapter G, Administrative Rules and Procedures Pertaining to Rehabilitation Services

Division 1, General Rules, §§101.4001, 101.4003, 101.4005, 101.4007, 101.4009, 101.4011, 101.4013, 101.4015, 101.4017, 101.4019, 101.4021, 101.4023, 101.4025, 101.4027, 101.4029, 101.4031, 101.4033, 101.4035, 101.4037, 101.4039, and 101.4041.

Division 2, Legal Services, §101.4201 and §101.4203.

Division 3, Special Rules and Policies §§101.4223, 101.4225, 101.4227, 101.4229, 101.4231, 101.4233, 101.4235, 101.4237, 101.4239, and 101.4241.

Subchapter H, Purchase of Goods and Services for Rehabilitation Services

Division 4, Purchase of Goods and Services, §101.4525 and §101.4527.

Division 11, Historically Underutilized Businesses, §§101.5051, 101.5053, 101.5055, and 101.5057.

Division 13, Miscellaneous Requirements, §101.5201 and §101.5205.

Division 14, Contract Administration, §§101.5211, 101.5213, 101.5231, 101.5233, and 101.5235.

Subchapter J, Administrative Rules and Procedures Pertaining to Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services

Division 1, General Provisions, §§101.5801, 101.5803, 101.5805, 101.5807, 101.5809, 101.5811, 101.5813, 101.5815, 101.5817, 101.5819, 101.5821, 101.5823, 101.5825, 101.5827, 101.5829, 101.5831, 101.5833, 101.5835, 101.5837, 101.5839, 101.5841, 101.5843, 101.5845, 101.5847, 101.5849, 101.5851, 101.5853, 101.5855, 101.5857, 101.5859, 101.5861, and 101.5863.

Division 3. Program Standards and Procedures, §101.6401.

Division 4, Rulemaking Procedures, §§101.6451, 101.6453, 101.6455, 101.6457, 101.6459, and 101.6461.

Division 5, Gifts, Grants and Donations, §§101.6601, 101.6603, 101.6605, 101.6607, 101.6609, 101.6611, 101.6613, and 101.6615.

Division 6, Fees, §§101.6701, 101.6703, and 101.6705.

Division 7, Cooperative Activities, §101.6801.

Division 8, Memoranda of Understanding With State Agencies, §101.6821.

Subchapter K, Administrative Rules and Procedures Pertaining to the Rehabilitation Council of Texas, §101.8103.

Subchapter L, Administrative Rules and Procedures Pertaining to the State Independent Living Council, §101.9101.

The following new sections are adopted:

Subchapter A, General Rules, §§101.101, 101.103, 101.105, 101.107, 101.109, 101.111, 101.113, 101.115, 101.117, 101.119, 101.121, 101.123, and 101.131.

Subchapter B, Purchase of Goods and Services, §§101.201, 101.203, 101.209, 101.211, and 101.213.

Subchapter C, Historically Underutilized Businesses, §§101.551, 101.553, 101.555, and 101.557.

Subchapter D, Councils and Committees, §§101.601, 101.603, and 101.605.

The repeals and new rules are being adopted to consolidate separate administrative and purchasing rules from the four legacy agencies of DARS: the Texas Commission for the Blind, Texas Rehabilitation Commission, Texas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, and the Interagency Council on Early Childhood Intervention, into agency-wide administrative and purchasing rules applicable to the entire Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services as provided by House Bill 2292, 78th Legislature, Regular Session.

Services as provided by House Bill 2292, 78th Legislature, Regular Session.

DARS received no comments regarding the adoption of the repeals or the new rules.

Subchapter F. ADMINISTRATIVE RULES AND PROCEDURES PERTAINING TO BLIND SERVICES

Division 1. GENERAL RULES

40 TAC §§101.3601, 101.3603, 101.3605, 101.3607, 101.3609, 101.3611, 101.3613, 101.3615, 101.3617

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703098

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 2. COMMISSION BOARD PROCEDURES

40 TAC §§101.3641, 101.3643, 101.3645, 101.3647

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703099

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 3. ACCESS TO PUBLIC INFORMATION

40 TAC §§101.3681, 101.3683, 101.3685, 101.3687, 101.3689

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703100

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 4. CONTRACT DISPUTE RESOLUTION

40 TAC §§101.3711, 101.3713, 101.3715, 101.3717, 101.3719, 101.3721, 101.3723, 101.3725, 101.3727, 101.3729, 101.3731, 101.3733, 101.3735, 101.3737, 101.3739, 101.3741, 101.3743, 101.3745, 101.3747, 101.3749, 101.3751, 101.3753, 101.3755, 101.3757, 101.3759, 101.3761, 101.3763, 101.3765, 101.3767

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703101

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 5. PURCHASE OF GOODS AND SERVICES BY THE COMMISSION

40 TAC §§101.3801, 101.3807, 101.3811

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703102

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter G. ADMINISTRATIVE RULES AND PROCEDURES PERTAINING TO REHABILITATION SERVICES

Division 1. GENERAL RULES

40 TAC §§101.4001, 101.4003, 101.4005, 101.4007, 101.4009, 101.4011, 101.4013, 101.4015, 101.4017, 101.4019, 101.4021, 101.4023, 101.4025, 101.4027, 101.4029, 101.4031, 101.4033, 101.4035, 101.4037, 101.4039, 101.4041

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703103

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 2. LEGAL SERVICES

40 TAC §101.4201, §101.4203

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703104

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 3. SPECIAL RULES AND POLICIES

40 TAC §§101.4223, 101.4225, 101.4227, 101.4229, 101.4231, 101.4233, 101.4235, 101.4237, 101.4239, 101.4241

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703105

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter H. PURCHASE OF GOODS AND SERVICES FOR REHABILITATION SERVICES

Division 4. PURCHASE OF GOODS AND SERVICES

40 TAC §101.4525, §101.4527

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703106

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 11. HISTORICALLY UNDERUTILIZED BUSINESSES

40 TAC §§101.5051, 101.5053, 101.5055, 101.5057

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703107

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 13. MISCELLANEOUS REQUIREMENTS

40 TAC §101.5201, §101.5205

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703108

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 14. CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION

40 TAC §§101.5211, 101.5213, 101.5231, 101.5233, 101.5235

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703109

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter J. ADMINISTRATIVE RULES AND PROCEDURES PERTAINING TO DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING SERVICES

Division 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS

40 TAC §§101.5801, 101.5803, 101.5805, 101.5807, 101.5809, 101.5811, 101.5813, 101.5815, 101.5817, 101.5819, 101.5821, 101.5823, 101.5825, 101.5827, 101.5829, 101.5831, 101.5833, 101.5835, 101.5837, 101.5839, 101.5841, 101.5843, 101.5845, 101.5847, 101.5849, 101.5851, 101.5853, 101.5855, 101.5857, 101.5859, 101.5861, 101.5863

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703110

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 3. PROGRAM STANDARDS AND PROCEDURES

40 TAC §101.6401

The repeal is adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703111

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 4. RULEMAKING PROCEDURES

40 TAC §§101.6451, 101.6453, 101.6455, 101.6457, 101.6459, 101.6461

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703112

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 5. GIFTS, GRANTS AND DONATIONS

40 TAC §§101.6601, 101.6603, 101.6605, 101.6607, 101.6609, 101.6611, 101.6613, 101.6615

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703113

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 6. FEES

40 TAC §§101.6701, 101.6703, 101.6705

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703114

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 7. COOPERATIVE ACTIVITIES

40 TAC §101.6801

The repeal is adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703115

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 8. MEMORANDA OF UNDERSTANDING WITH STATE AGENCIES

40 TAC §101.6821

The repeal is adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703116

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: September 1, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter K. ADMINISTRATIVE RULES AND PROCEDURES PERTAINING TO THE REHABILITATION COUNCIL OF TEXAS

40 TAC §101.8103

The repeal is adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703117

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter L. ADMINISTRATIVE RULES AND PROCEDURES PERTAINING TO THE STATE INDEPENDENT LIVING COUNCIL

40 TAC §101.9101

The repeal is adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703118

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter A. GENERAL RULES

40 TAC §§101.101, 101.103, 101.105, 101.107, 101.109, 101.111, 101.113, 101.115, 101.117, 101.119, 101.121, 101.123, 101.131

The new rules are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703119

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter B. PURCHASE OF GOODS AND SERVICES

40 TAC §§101.201, 101.203, 101.209, 101.211, 101.213

The new rules are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703120

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter C. HISTORICALLY UNDERUTILIZED BUSINESSES

40 TAC §§101.551, 101.553, 101.555, 101.557

The new rules are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703121

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter D. COUNCILS AND COMMITTEES

40 TAC §§101.601, 101.603, 101.605

The new rules are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703122

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter E. APPEALS AND HEARING PROCEDURES FOR VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION AND INDEPENDENT LIVING PROGRAMS

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission adopts amendments to the rules of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services in Title 40, Part 2, Chapter 101, concerning Administrative Rules and Procedures. This adoption adds a new Subchapter E, Appeals and Hearing Procedures for Vocational Rehabilitation and Independent Living Programs, Division 1, General Rules, §101.811 and §101.821; Division 2, Division for Blind Services Appeals and Hearing Procedures, §§101.851, 101.853, 101.855, 101.857, 101.859, 101.861, 101.863, 101.865, 101.867, 101.869, 101.871, 101.873, 101.875, 101.877, 101.879, 101.881, 101.883 and Division 3, Division for Rehabilitation Services Appeals and Hearing Procedures, §§101.901, 101.903, 101.905, 101.907, 101.909 and 101.911, without changes to the proposed text as published in the May 11, 2007, issue of the Texas Register (32 TexReg 2529), and the sections will not be republished.

The new rules are being adopted to clarify and update program rules from the former Texas Commission for the Blind and the former Texas Rehabilitation Commission, which were consolidated into the DARS in 2004, into a single set of rules applicable to appeal and hearings procedures for all vocational rehabilitation and independent living programs administered by the DARS, as provided by House Bill 2292, 78th Legislature, Regular Session. Rules relating to appeals and hearing procedures for these programs were previously contained in Chapter 106, Subchapter A, Division 1, of this title, relating to Blind Services, and in Chapter 107, Subchapter C of this title, relating to Rehabilitation Services, the repeals of which are being adopted contemporaneously elsewhere in this issue of the Texas Register.

DARS received no comments regarding the adoption of the new rules.

Division 1. GENERAL RULES

40 TAC §101.811, §101.821

The new rules are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703095

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 2. DIVISION FOR BLIND SERVICES APPEALS AND HEARING PROCEDURES

40 TAC §§101.851, 101.853, 101.855, 101.857, 101.859, 101.861, 101.863, 101.865, 101.867, 101.869, 101.871, 101.873, 101.875, 101.877, 101.879, 101.881, 101.883

The new rules are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703096

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 3. DIVISION FOR REHABILITATION SERVICES APPEALS AND HEARING PROCEDURES

40 TAC §§101.901, 101.903, 101.905, 101.907, 101.909, 101.911

The new rules are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703097

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter F. DURABLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT AND ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY LISTING

Division 2. DIVISION FOR BLIND SERVICES APPEALS AND HEARING PROCEDURES

40 TAC §§101.1001, 101.1003, 101.1005, 101.1007, 101.1009, 101.1011

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission adopts amendments to the rules of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) in Title 40, Part 2, Chapter 101, relating to Administrative Rules and Procedures, by adopting new Subchapter F, Durable Medical Equipment and Assistive Technology Listing, §§101.1001, 101.1003, 101.1005, 101.1007, 101.1009 and 101.1011, without changes to the proposed text as published in the May 11, 2007, issue of the Texas Register (32 TexReg 2553) and will not be republished.

The new rules are being adopted to update administrative and program rules from the former Texas Rehabilitation Commission, which was consolidated into DARS in 2004, by setting forth a single set of rules applicable to the technology listing activities of DARS, as provided by House Bill 2292, 78th Legislature, Regular Session. Rules relating to technology listing activities were previously contained in Chapter 107, Subchapter G of this title, relating to Durable Medical Equipment and Assistive Technology Listing. The repeal of those rules is being contemporaneously adopted elsewhere in this issue of the Texas Register.

DARS received no comments regarding the adoption of the new rules.

The new rules are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703123

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Chapter 105. GENERAL CONTRACTING RULES

Subchapter F. CLAIMS FOR BREACH OF CONTRACT

40 TAC §§105.1403, 105.1405, 105.1407, 105.1409, 105.1411, 105.1413, 105.1415, 105.1417, 105.1419, 105.1421, 105.1423, 105.1425

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission adopts amendments to the rules of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) in Title 40, Part 2, Chapter 105, Subchapter F, relating to Claims for Breach of Contract. DARS adopts new §§105.1403, 105.1405, 105.1407, 105.1409, 105.1411, 105.1413, 105.1415, 105.1417, 105.1419, 105.1421, 105.1423, and 105.1425, without changes to the proposed text as published in the May 11, 2007, issue of the Texas Register (32 TexReg 2554) and will not be republished.

The new rules are replacing rules currently in Chapter 101, Subchapter F, Division 4 of this title, relating to Contract Dispute Resolution. The adoption of the repeal of those rules is contemporaneously proposed elsewhere in this issue of the Texas Register.

DARS received no comments regarding the adoption of the new rules.

The new rules are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703124

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Chapter 106. BLIND SERVICES

Subchapter A. APPEALS AND HEARING PROCDURES

Division 1. VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION AND INDEPENDENT LIVING PROGRAMS

40 TAC §§106.19, 106.23, 106.25, 106.27, 106.29, 106.30, 106.33, 106.34, 106.37, 106.39, 106.41, 106.43, 106.45, 106.47, 106.49, 106.51, 106.53, 106.55, 106.57, 106.59, 106.61, 106.63, 106.65, 106.67, 106.69, 106.71, 106.73, 106.75, 106.77, 106.79, 106.81, 106.83, 106.85, 106.87, 106.89, 106.91

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission adopts amendments to the rules of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) in Title 40, Part 2, Chapter 106, concerning Blind Services. DARS adopts the repeal of Subchapter A, Division 1, §§106.19, 106.23, 106.25, 106.27, 106.29, 106.30, 106.33, 106.34, 106.37, 106.39, 106.41, 106.43, 106.45, 106.47, 106.49, 106.51, 106.53, 106.55, 106.57, 106.59, 106.61, 106.63, 106.65, 106.67, 106.69, 106.71, 106.73, 106.75, 106.77, 106.79, 106.81, 106.83, 106.85, 106.87, 106.89 and 106.91, concerning Appeals and Hearing Procedures for Vocational Rehabilitation and Independent Living Programs, without changes to the proposed text as published in the May 11, 2007, issue of the Texas Register (32 TexReg 2555), and will not be republished.

This repeal is being adopted to clarify and update program rules from the former Texas Commission for the Blind, which were consolidated into DARS in 2004, into agency-wide appeals and hearings rules applicable to all vocational rehabilitation and independent living programs now administered by DARS, as provided by House Bill 2292, 78th Legislature, Regular Session. Rules relating to Appeals and Hearing Procedures for Vocational Rehabilitation and Independent Living Programs, Chapter 101, new Subchapter E, are being adopted contemporaneously elsewhere in this issue of the Texas Register.

DARS received no comments regarding the adoption of the repeal.

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703125

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Chapter 107. DIVISION FOR REHABILITATION SERVICES

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), on behalf of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS), adopts the repeals of Subchapters A, D, and M, in their entirety, and adopts the repeals and amendments to certain rules contained in Subchapter B and Subchapter N. Specifically, this proposal adopts the repeals of Subchapter A, Texas Rehabilitation Advisory Council, §§107.11, 107.13, 107.15, 107.17, and 107.19; Subchapter B, Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program, Division 4, Eligibility, Ineligibility, and Certification, §107.193; Subchapter D, Extended Rehabilitation Services Program, §§107.601, 107,603, 107.605, 107.607, and 107.609; Subchapter M, Transition Planning Program, §§107.1401, 107.1403, and 107.1405; and Subchapter N, Memoranda of Understanding With Other State Agencies, §§107.1611, 107.1615, and 107.1617. This adoption also amends Subchapter B, Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program, Division 1, Provision of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, §§107.101, 107.103, 107.107, 107.109, 107.111, 107.113, 107.115, 107.117, 107.119, 107.121, 107.123, 107.125, 107.127, 107.129, 107.131, 107.133, 107.135, and 107.137, and adds new §107.139; Division 2, Client Participation, §107.151 and §107.153; Division 3, Comparable Benefits, §§107.171, 107.173, and 107.175; and Division 4, Eligibility and Ineligibility, §107.191 and §107.197, and adds new §107.193; Division 5, Methods of Administration of Vocational Rehabilitation, §§107.215, 107.217, 107.221, 107.223, and 107.225; Subchapter F, Independent Living Services Program, §§107.801, 107.803, 107.805, and 107.807, and adds new §107.811; Subchapter L, Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services, §107.1203 and §107.1209; and Subchapter N, Memoranda of Understanding with Other State Agencies, §107.1607. The sections are adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the May 11, 2007, issue of the Texas Register (32 TexReg 2597) and will not be republished.

This adoption also changes the title of Chapter 107 from "Rehabilitation Services" to "Division for Rehabilitation Services."

These repeals, amendments, and new rules are being adopted to clarify and update program rules from the former Texas Rehabilitation Commission, which was consolidated into DARS in 2004, into rules applicable to programs now administered by the Division for Rehabilitation Services, Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services, as provided by House Bill 2292, 78th Legislature, Regular Session. Rules relating to Subchapter G, Durable Medical Equipment and Assistive Technology Listing, §§107.1001, 107.1003, 107.1005, 107.1007, 107.1009, 107.1011, and 107.1013, are being repealed contemporaneously elsewhere in this issue of the Texas Register.

DARS received no comments regarding the adoption of the repeals, amendments, or new rules.

Subchapter A. TEXAS REHABILITATION ADVISORY COUNCIL

40 TAC §§107.11, 107.13, 107.15, 107.17, 107.19

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703126

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter B. VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES PROGRAM

Division 1. PROVISION OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES

40 TAC §§107.101, 107.103, 107.107, 107.109, 107.111, 107.113, 107.115, 107.117, 107.119, 107.121, 107.123, 107.125, 107.127, 107.129, 107.131, 107.133, 107.135, 107.137, 107.139

The amendments and new rule are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703127

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 2. CLIENT PARTICIPATION

40 TAC §107.151, §107.153

The amendments are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703128

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 3. COMPARABLE BENEFITS

40 TAC §§107.171, 107.173, 107.175

The amendments are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703129

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 4. ELIGIBILITY AND INELIGIBILITY

40 TAC §§107.191, 107.193, 107.197

The amendments and new rule are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703130

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 4. ELIGIBILITY, INELIGIBILITY, AND CERTIFICATION

40 TAC §107.193

The repeal is adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703131

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 5. METHODS OF ADMINISTRATION OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION

40 TAC §§107.215, 107.217, 107.221, 107.223, 107.225

The amendments are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703132

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter D. EXTENDED REHABILITATION SERVICES PROGRAM

40 TAC §§107.601, 107.603, 107.605, 107.607, 107.609

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703133

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter F. INDEPENDENT LIVING SERVICES PROGRAM

40 TAC §§107.801, 107.803, 107.805, 107.807, 107.811

The amendments and new rule are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703134

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter L. COMPREHENSIVE REHABILITATION SERVICES

40 TAC §107.1203, §107.1209

The amendments are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703135

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter M. TRANSITION PLANNING PROGRAM

40 TAC §§107.1401, 107.1403, 107.1405

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703136

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter N. MEMORANDA OF UNDERSTANDING WITH OTHER STATE AGENCIES

40 TAC §107.1607

The amendment is adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703137

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


40 TAC §§107.1611, 107.1615, 107.1617

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703138

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter C. DUE PROCESS HEARING AND MEDIATION BY APPLICATIONS/CLIENTS CONCERNING DETERMINATIONS BY AGENCY PERSONNEL THAT AFFECT THE PROVISION OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES

40 TAC §§107.401, 107.403, 107.405, 107.407, 107.409, 107.411, 107.413, 107.415

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission adopts changes to the rules of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS), Title 40, Part 2, Chapter 107, concerning Rehabilitation Services. DARS adopts the repeal of Subchapter C, §§107.401, 107.403, 107.405, 107.407, 107.409, 107.411, 107.413, and 107.415, concerning Due Process Hearings and Mediation by Applicants/Clients Concerning Determinations by Agency Personnel that Affect the Provision of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, without changes to the proposed text as published in the May 11, 2007, issue of the Texas Register (32 TexReg 2608), and will not be republished.

The repeal is being adopted to clarify and update program rules from the former Texas Rehabilitation Commission, which was consolidated into DARS in 2004, into agency-wide appeals and hearings rules applicable to all vocational rehabilitation and independent living programs now administered by Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services, as provided by House Bill 2292, 78th Legislature, Regular Session. Rules relating to Appeals and Hearing Procedures for Vocational Rehabilitation and Independent Living Programs, Chapter 101, new Subchapter E, are being adopted contemporaneously elsewhere in this issue of the Texas Register.

DARS received no comments regarding the adoption of the repeal.

The repeal is adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703139

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter G. DURABLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT AND ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY LISTING

40 TAC §§107.1001, 107.1003, 107.1005, 107.1007, 107.1009, 107.1011, 107.1013

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission adopts changes to the rules of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS), Title 40, Part 2, Chapter 107, relating to Rehabilitation Services. DARS adopts the repeal of Subchapter G, Durable Medical Equipment and Assistive Technology Listing, §§107.1001, 107.1003, 107.1005, 107.1007, 107.1009, 107.1011 and 107.1013. without changes to the proposed text as published in the May 11, 2007, issue of the Texas Register (32 TexReg 2608), and will not be republished.

This repeal is being adopted to clarify and update program rules from the former Texas Rehabilitation Commission, which were consolidated into DARS in 2004, into rules applicable to programs now administered by the Division for Rehabilitation Services, Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services, as provided by House Bill 2292, 78th Legislature, Regular Session. New rules relating to Durable Medical Equipment and Assistive Technology Listing have been proposed in a new subchapter F of Chapter 101 of this title and are being adopted contemporaneously herewith in this issue of the Texas Register.

DARS received no comments regarding the adoption of the repeal.

The repeal is adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703140

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Chapter 108. DIVISION FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD INTERVENTION SERVICES

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission adopts changes to the rules of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS), in Title 40, Part 2, Chapter 108, relating to Division for Early Childhood Intervention Services. DARS adopts the repeal of Subchapter B, §108.65, concerning Opportunities for Citizen Participation. DARS also adopts the repeal of Subchapter C, §§108.85, 108.87, 108.89, and 108.91, concerning Early Childhood Intervention Advisory Committee, without changes to the proposed text as published in the May 11, 2007, issue of the Texas Register (32 TexReg 2609), and will not be republished.

The repeals are being adopted to facilitate consolidation and transfer of the substance of the repealed rules to Chapter 101 of this title, relating to Administrative Rules and Procedures, new Subchapter A, General Rules, §101.105, and new Subchapter D, Advisory Committees and Councils, §101.605. These new subchapters are being adopted contemporaneously elsewhere in this issue of the Texas Register.

DARS received no comments regarding the adoption of the repeals.

Subchapter B. PROCEDURAL SAFEGUARDS AND DUE PROCESS PROCEDURES

40 TAC §108.65

The repeal is adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703141

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter C. EARLY CHILDHOOD INTERVENTION ADVISORY COMMITTEE

40 TAC §§108.85, 108.87, 108.89, 108.91

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703142

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Chapter 109. DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING SERVICES

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission adopts amendments to the rules of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) in Title 40, Part 2, Chapter 109, concerning Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services. DARS adopts the repeal of Subchapter A, Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program, Division 1, Definitions, §§109.1, 109.3, 109.5 and 109.7 and Division 2, Program Eligibility, §§109.31, 109.33, 109.35, 109.37, 109.39, 109.41, 109.43 and 109.45. A new Subchapter A, General Rules, §109.101 and §109.103 and a new Subchapter D, Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program, §§109.401, 109.403, 109.405, 109.407, 109.409, 109.411, 109.413, 109.415 and 109.417 replaces the repealed sections. The rules are adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the May 11, 2007, issue of the Texas Register (32 TexReg 2610) and will not be republished.

The title of Chapter 109 is changed from "Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services" to "Office for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services."

The repeal, new rules, and chapter title change are being adopted to clarify and update program rules from the former Texas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, which was consolidated into DARS in 2004, into rules applicable to programs now administered by the Office for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, DARS, as provided by House Bill 2292, 78th Legislature, Regular Session. Elsewhere in this issue of the Texas Register, DARS contemporaneously adopts the repeal of Chapter 109, Subchapter B, Division 7, Certified Court Interpreters, §§109.901, 109.903, 109.905, 109.907, 109.909, 109.911, 109.913, 109.915, 109.917, 109.919, 109.921, 109.923, 109.925, 109.927, 109.929 and 109.931.

DARS received no comments regarding the adoption of the repeal, the new rules, or the chapter title change.

Subchapter A. SPECIALIZED TELECOMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Division 1. DEFINITIONS

40 TAC §§109.1, 109.3, 109.5, 109.7

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703143

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Division 2. PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY

40 TAC §§109.31, 109.33, 109.35, 109.37, 109.39, 109.41, 109.43, 109.45

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703144

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Chapter 109. OFFICE FOR DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING SERVICES

Subchapter A. GENERAL RULES

40 TAC §109.101, §109.103

The new rules are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703145

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Subchapter D. SPECIALIZED TELECOMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

40 TAC §§109.401, 109.403, 109.405, 109.407, 109.409, 109.411, 109.413, 109.415, 109.417

The new rules are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703146

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: August 12, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Chapter 109. DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING SERVICES

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission adopts amendments to the rules of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) in Title 40, Part 2, Chapter 109, concerning Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services. DARS adopts the repeal of Subchapter B, Division 7, Certified Court Interpreters, §§109.901, 109.903, 109.905, 109.907, 109.909, 109.911, 109.913, 109.915, 109.917, 109.919, 109.921, 109.923, 109.925, 109.927, 109.929, and 109.931, and adopts new Subchapter C, Certified Court Interpreters, §§109.301, 109.303, 109.305, 109.311, 109.313, 109.315, 109.321, 109.323, 109.325, 109.327, 109.329, 109.331, 109.333, 109.335, 109.337, 109.339, 109.341, 109.351, 109.353, 109.361, 109.363, 109.365, 109.367, 109.371, and 109.373, concerning certification of court interpreters, without changes to the proposed text as published in the May 11, 2007, issue of the Texas Register (32 TexReg 2613), and will not be republished.

The repeal and new rules are being adopted to conform the rules concerning certified court interpreters to current provisions of the Human Resources Code, Chapter 81, as amended through the 78th Legislative Session and as currently implemented following consolidation of the former Texas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing into the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services; to provide updated information necessary for persons seeking to obtain and persons holding certification as court interpreters; and to remove details of program administration that do not affect applicants for and holders of court interpreter certification. In addition, as Government Code §57.027(a) provides that a person commits an offense if the person violates a rule adopted under Government Code Chapter 57, Subchapter B, the new rules clearly identify which of the rules are adopted under Government Code Chapter 57, Subchapter B and subject to §57.027(a). Finally, the new rules establish a new requirement that an individual may not interpret a court proceeding or deposition unless properly qualified as court interpreter for that particular case, by presenting to the judge presiding, or to the court reporter at a deposition, proper evidence of court interpreter certification by either the Department or by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf. This new requirement is identified in the new rules as being adopted under Government Code Chapter 57, Subchapter B.

DARS received no comments regarding the adoption of the repeal or the new rules.

Subchapter B. BOARD FOR EVALUATION OF INTERPRETERS AND INTERPRETER CERTIFICATION

Division 7. CERTIFIED COURT INTERPRETERS

40 TAC §§109.901, 109.903, 109.905, 109.907, 109.909, 109.911, 109.913, 109.915, 109.917, 109.919, 109.921, 109.923, 109.925, 109.927, 109.929, 109.931

The repeals are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703147

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: September 1, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050


Chapter 109. OFFICE FOR DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING SERVICES

Subchapter C. CERTIFIED COURT INTERPRETERS

40 TAC §§109.301, 109.303, 109.305, 109.311, 109.313, 109.315, 109.321, 109.323, 109.325, 109.327, 109.329, 109.331, 109.333, 109.335, 109.337, 109.339, 109.341, 109.351, 109.353, 109.361, 109.363, 109.365, 109.367, 109.371, 109.373

The new rules are adopted under Government Code, Chapter 531, §531.0055(e), which provides the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission with the authority to promulgate rules for the operation and provision of health and human services by health and human services agencies, which includes DARS.

This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on July 23, 2007.

TRD-200703187

Sylvia F. Hardman

General Counsel

Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services

Effective date: September 1, 2007

Proposal publication date: May 11, 2007

For further information, please call: (512) 424-4050