What significant change did the Social Security Act of 1935 bring to the VR program?

The Social Security Act of 1935 marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of vocational rehabilitation (VR) programs by making the state-federal VR program permanent. This legislation established a framework for a cooperative funding model between the federal government and the states, ensuring ongoing support for individuals seeking vocational rehabilitation services.

Prior to this act, funding for rehabilitation services was sporadic and often reliant on state initiatives without guaranteed federal backing. By enshrining the state-federal relationship in law, the Social Security Act provided stability and predictability in funding, enabling states to develop robust programs aimed at assisting individuals with disabilities in obtaining employment.

This permanence allowed for the expansion and enhancement of services over time, fostering the development of a more sophisticated system of rehabilitation that could adapt to the needs of individuals. While other options mention aspects like funding availability, regulations, and assessments, it was the establishment of a lasting framework that truly defined the impact of this legislation on vocational rehabilitation services.