Councils & Advisory Committees

DARS Council

The DARS Council helps the DARS commissioner and the Health and Human Services executive commissioner develop rules and policies for the Department. The council is composed of nine members of the public appointed by the Governor. To be eligible for appointment to the council, a person must have demonstrated an interest in and knowledge of problems and available services related to early childhood intervention services or to people with disabilities other than developmental delay and mental retardation and people who are blind, deaf, or hard of hearing.

Rehabilitation Council of Texas

The Rehabilitation Council of Texas (RCT) advises DARS on policy and the scope and effectiveness of vocational rehabilitation services and eligibility requirements. The RCT works with the divisions to develop, agree to, and review state goals and priorities. The council also contributes to the preparation of the state plans for vocational rehabilitation. Council members are appointed by the Governor.

ECI Advisory Committee

The ECI Advisory Committee, which is required by Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, advises the DARS Division for Early Childhood Intervention Services on development and implementation of policies that constitute the statewide ECI system. The Governor appoints the committee members.

State Independent Living Council

The State Independent Living Council (SILC) is an equal partner with DARS in the development, approval, and implementation of the State Plan for Independent Living. The Texas SILC leads, promotes, and advances the independent living philosophy and advocates for the rights of individuals with disabilities. The Governor appoints council members, with the majority being individuals with disabilities.