Ohio Administrative Code Title 4115 - State Committee for the Purchase of Products and Services Provided By Persons with Severe Disabilities
Ohio Administrative Code Title 4115 – State Committee for the Purchase of Products and Services Provided by Persons with Severe Disabilities
This title governs the operations, responsibilities, and procedures of the State Use Committee, established to facilitate the purchase of goods and services produced by individuals with severe disabilities.
Purpose:
Title 4115 implements the provisions of Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4115.31 to 4115.35, which establish a preferential purchasing program for state agencies to buy products and services from qualified organizations employing people with severe disabilities.
Key Provisions of Title 4115:
Committee Structure and Authority:
Establishes the State Use Committee under the Ohio Department of Administrative Services (DAS).
The committee oversees the approval of suppliers, pricing, and contracts.
Its mission is to expand employment opportunities for Ohioans with significant disabilities.
Eligible Providers:
Nonprofit agencies employing persons with severe disabilities are eligible to provide goods or services under the program.
To qualify, at least 75% of direct labor hours must be performed by individuals with documented severe disabilities.
Procurement Process:
State agencies are required to purchase certain goods or services through this program when available.
A centralized procurement list is maintained, identifying mandatory-use products and services.
Pricing is determined by the committee and is designed to be fair and competitive.
Application and Approval:
Nonprofits must apply to become qualified program participants.
Applications include documentation of staffing, financial stability, and compliance with disability employment standards.
Monitoring and Compliance:
The committee conducts audits and reviews to ensure ongoing compliance.
Violations can lead to suspension or removal from the approved provider list.
Appeals and Disputes:
Providers may appeal adverse decisions.
The code provides a structured review and hearing process.
Impact:
This program:
Encourages economic independence for people with disabilities.
Helps state agencies comply with social procurement policies.
Creates a structured, transparent method for nonprofit agencies to participate in state contracting.
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