These are some questions employers frequently ask about DORS and its services.
What does the Division of Rehabilitation Services do?
The Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) has programs and services that help people with disabilities prepare for jobs and careers. DORS also has employments specialists who helps Maryland’s employers find pre-screened applicants with disabilities for job openings. What kinds of disabilities?
People come to DORS with many types of disabilities, educational levels and circumstances. Some have had a disability since birth. These may include neurological problems that limit standing and walking; vision loss; learning limitations or hearing loss. Others have acquired a disability from illness or an accident. These may include people with brain injuries, spinal cord injuries or amputations. DORS also serves people who have been treated for mental illness and people with learning and developmental delays.
What kinds of jobs?
There is no single answer. People come to DORS with many backgrounds. Some are students looking for their first job. Others are experienced workers who seek another career as a result of a disability.
Educational backgrounds range from those who have not completed high school to those who possess post-graduate education or specialized training.
People who have participated in DORS programs have become employed in entry level positions, mid-level professions and highly specialized technical or artistic careers.
How much will it cost?
DORS vocational rehabilitation program is federally and state funded. There is no cost to employers for consultative services. Employers may, on occasion, be responsible for costs of some job site accommodations required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
What if there is a problem after employment starts?
DORS rehabilitation counselors follow-up with individuals who have been hired for at least 90 days. At the time of hiring, employers can arrange with DORS and the new employee for assistance from DORS if needed to help ensure success for both the employer and the new employee.
Are there tax incentives for hiring someone with a disability?
Maryland's employers are authorized to take tax credits for hiring workers with disabilities through the Maryland Disability Employment Tax Credit (MDETC).
There are also several federal tax credits for businesses who hire people with disabilities.
I have an employee who has become disabled. She wants to return to her old job. How can DORS help?
DORS operates Maryland's WorkTech, which provides free information, consulting and training about ways to keep valued employees with disabilities. The program can also help employers find the information they need to create barrier-free facilities and accessible products and/or services that improve customer service as well.
What is a reasonable accommodation?
A reasonable accommodation is a modification or adjustment to a job duty, the work environment or the way things are usually done that enables an employee to do his or her job effectively or more effectively. Many reasonable accommodations are free or cost under $500.
Is there such a thing as "disability etiquette" on the job?
Most people with disabilities say they want to be treated in a business-like manner and in the same way that others without a disability are treated. However, sometimes people wonder about issues like shaking hands, offering assistance and how to communicate with a person who is deaf.
There are websites that address these issues. For a good overview, see the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy discussion on this subject.
Disability Employment Links ->