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Resources » State Policies » Arkansas

ARKANSAS REHABILITATION SERVICES POLICY AND PROCEDURE MANUAL
http://www.arsinfo.org/pdf/ARSPolicyProcedureManual.pdf

Page 38:  Technical assistance and other consultation services to individuals who are pursuing self-employment, telecommuting or establishing a small business operation as an employment outcome

Page 76:  Tools, equipment, initial stock and occupational licenses may be provided for an individual if: the individual is self-employed, self-employment is the most suitable method of placing the individual in a remunerative occupation.

Page 176:  SMALL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM

A self-employment situation is sometimes the best rehabilitation program that can be developed with an eligible individual. Assistance with the purchase of occupational tools, equipment and initial stocks may enable an individual to reach a self-employment outcome rather than working for a wage or salary in a competitive situation. Any expense beyond $5000 for Small Business Enterprise cases must be justified with clear and convincing evidence of need and must be submitted to the Chief of Field Services through the District Manager for approval.

PROCEDURES – SMALL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM

Eligibility is determined and the case is placed in Status 10.

• Counselor will consult with the District Manager as soon as a case is determined to need Small Business Enterprise services.
• The SBE Consultant is used to facilitate a SBE case and will be given a copy of the RS-4 and a memo summarizing the case, including medical and psychological information.
• The SBE Consultant will provide technical information concerning the development of the small business plan, information about contacting the Small Business Administration and how to access information and training in the local area, and the availability of other resources.
• The consultant will prepare a small business assessment of the project, which will be presented to the counselor and district manager.
• If the counselor and client agree, the Small Business Plan will be presented to the District Manager for approval. 
• The DM must approve the SBE plan before services can be authorized.
• The DM will review all Small Business Programs and may require an on site inspection.
• The DM must approve the IPE and purchase order where the expense is beyond $1000.
• The DM must approve any request beyond $5,000 and will forward any request to the Chief of Field Services for approval.
• The counselor will develop the IPE with the individual.
• The counselor will follow all agency guidelines, purchasing policy, and procedures. 
• The counselor is responsible for the supervision of the case and provision of services.
• The counselor must assure all local ordinances and regulations are followed.