July 11, 2011
There were no additions to the Agenda.
Mr. Larry Kauffman made the motion to approve the agenda and past minutes. Mr. Joseph Kraher seconded the motion. All were in favor.
Staff reported that since the legislators will not be in session on August 9th, members will just be dropping off packets to their offices. Staff made up 30 packets for the 3 members who will be going to the capitol. Staff will meet with council members at 9:30 am in the cafeteria to hand out the packets.
Due to the budget issues, members of the committee agreed to reduce the Legislative Committee budget from $15,000.00 to $11,000.00.
Goal one was changed to read: Increase the PaRC's advocacy on behalf of persons with disabilities in regards to obtaining and maintaining employment.
Another goal was suggested to read: Increase advocacy on behalf of the returning disabled veterans who are seeking employment and employment supports through the Pennsylvania state vocational rehabilitation services.
Goal three will be kept the same. Mr. Don Zeigler stated he would work on the steps to achieve the goal and send them to the office to forward on to the rest of the committee.
Mr. Kraher stated he attended the OVR State Board meeting in June. He stated the new Secretary of the Department of Labor and Industry, Ms. Julia Hearthway was there and seemed very committed and sincere.
Mr. Charles Giambrone stated that he sent a fax to the office that he received from Representative John Evans concerning the budget. Staff will forward this report on to the rest of the committee to review for the next call in August.
The next Legislative Committee conference call will be on August 30th at 10:00 a.m..
The meeting adjourned at approximately 10:35 a.m.