Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired outlines services, warns of federal funding dependence

Summary

Commission administrators gave the Health and Welfare Committee an overview of vocational, independent‑living and summer programs for people who are blind or visually impaired, described core services and an assessment center, and told senators the commission receives roughly 80% of its funding from federal grants; staff said losing federal funds

Beth Cunningham, administrator of the Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, and Steve Ochabal, the commission’s independent living program coordinator, briefed the Senate Health and Welfare Committee on the agency’s programs, services and funding.

Cunningham told the committee the commission’s mission is to “empower people with disabilities who are blind or visually impaired by providing vocational rehabilitation, skills training, and educational opportunities to achieve self fulfillment through quality employment and independent living.” She said the commission served Idahoans statewide in fiscal year 2024 and runs programs for adults, seniors and youth from offices in Boise, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Falls, Lewiston, Pocatello and Twin Falls.

Committee members viewed descriptions of the commission’s vocational rehabilitation services, school‑to‑work transition services for students 14–21, and summer…

Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired outlines services, warns of federal funding dependence

Summary

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