TRANSPORTATION

    Transportation means travel and related expenses that are necessary to enable an applicant or eligible individual to participate in a vocational rehabilitation service, including expenses for training in the use of public transportation. Transportation assistance may be provided according to the following guidelines: ; Transportation may be provided for individuals when it is necessary to support

    and derive the full benefit of other OVR services being provided. It shall not be

    provided as the sole service.

    ; Generally the maximum cost should not exceed the established reimbursement

    rate for state employees (actual toll cost may be paid). Counselors may negotiate

    a lesser amount. Exceptions above the maximums may be considered for

    essential transportation in vehicles with special adaptive equipment, etc. ; Transportation, other than for diagnostic purposes, is subject to economic need.

    The cost of transportation will not exceed the cost of maintenance to stay in the

    area to which the individual is transported. Transportation for training is limited

    to actual time in attendance.

    ; When social services agencies, hospitals, community rehabilitation programs, or

    similar organizations are used to provide financial disbursement to an individual

    for transportation, the individual must sign a receipt acknowledging that funds

    were received and that it was used for transportation

    Procedures for Providing Transportation

; Public transportation, paratransit, other regulated carriers – the counselor may pay

    the standard fee charged to the general public or negotiate a lower rate. ; Individual, family member, or third party vehicles – the counselor may pay:

    a) the prevailing state rate per mile or

    b) $7.00 per hour or

    c) total miles to be driven divided by the approximate miles per gallon and

     multiplied by the average cost per gallon.

    The rate of payment applies regardless of who owns the vehicle or how many individuals are transported. The third party may be compensated at the established per diem rate for state employees when it is necessary to be away overnight in order to provide transportation.

    OVR Operated Vehicles - OVR owned and operated vehicles should be used when

    circumstances are advantageous to the Office and the consumer. Arrangements for transportation can be made by contacting the Transportation Branch at the Carl D. Perkins Comprehensive Rehabilitation Center.

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    In addition to any exceptions described above, unless prohibited by federal, state, or local statute or regulation, the Director of Program Services or his/her designee may approve an exception to policy. Please refer to the Services Introduction section of the Counselors Manual for the exception guidelines.

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