FROM: Barbara Hannah, Chief Counsel
SUBJECT: Agreement for services with Access Employment Network
RECOMMENDATION:
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Recommend that the Board approve a contract for services with Access Employment Network (AEN) for vocational assessment services in the context of disability retirement applications; authorize the Chief Executive Officer to execute an agreement with AEN in a form approved by Chief Counsel.
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BACKGROUND:
SBCERA administers a supplemental disability benefit in the amount of $300 per month for qualifying disabled retirees who are found to be permanently incapacitated for the performance of their duties and incapable of engaging in gainful employment, as provided by Government Code section 31740.
As part of SBCERA's Triennial Strategic Plan, a strategic priority was identified to engage a qualified vocational specialist to advise the Board on disability cases involving determinations of gainful employment. To fulfill this objective, staff engaged Enrique N. Vega, MS through AEN to conduct a pilot evaluation and test case. Mr. Vega's approach is aligned with the standards and definitions outlined in Government Code section 31740, Article V of the SBCERA By-Laws, and SBCERA Benefits Policy No. 016.
The pilot evaluation process included the following steps:
* Completion of a detailed applicant questionnaire.
* Follow-up interview with the applicant to validate and expand upon questionnaire responses.
* In person vocational testing, tailored to the applicant's specific injury or illness.
* Review of relevant records, including an analysis of work restrictions.
* Assessment of test results, transferable skills, and labor market factors.
* Final report summarizing the methodology, findings, and determination regarding gainful employment.
The Board received Mr. Vega's report as part of a disability matter on its agenda for the February 6, 2025 meeting. Mr. Vega's report was structured to provide clear, concise, and sound ...
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