This report included a review of conformity of the programs with legislative intent; an evaluation of program administration; an expenditure review and an evaluation of the effectiveness of the accounting system used in program administration; and a review of the impact of federal grants-in-aid on the program. Goals and objectives of the program were examined as well as the benefits of the program in relation to expenditures.
Both the administrative structure and scope of services of the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation conformed with legislative intent. However, steps should have been taken to halt decreases in program coverage, in the success ratio, and in clients served and clients rehabilitated. Mississippi’s program compared favorably with all comparable programs in the South, except South Carolina.
Although the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) was well-administered, minimum caseload and clients served/rehabilitated expectations should have been established to encourage better program management and accountability.
The division’s accounting system was reliable and provided adequate internal control. Weaknesses in internal control were noted at the workshop level, however. The Committee recommended that someone other than the bookkeeper be involved in keeping workshop financial records. Also, those workshops not maintaining inventory records of incoming contractor products should do so.
The Committee also found unnecessary duplication between the Disability Determination Unit of the DVR and the Department of Public Welfare concerning medical examinations of applicants for Supplemental Security Income and Medicaid.
For a paper copy of this report, contact PEER by telephone at 601-359-1226 or by e-mail at reports@peer.ms.gov.