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Following is a statement by John H. Hager, assistant secretary for special education and rehabilitative services.

Today, I met with representatives from the disability community to discuss a variety of issues of interest including how a modernized Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) will better serve the needs of Americans with disabilities. We have listened to the issues that have been discussed today and have responded to many of their concerns.

Our focus must always be on improving customer service. When states get the help they need faster, they can spend more time helping people with disabilities reach their potential and live the American dream.

The Department is modernizing the RSA by moving the work of RSA's regional offices into the RSA's central headquarters in Washington, D.C. These changes will help modernize the RSA for the 21st century and help more Americans with disabilities live satisfying, independent lives.

The RSA oversees state grants to help people with disabilities find meaningful employment. In the past, geography made such a level of cooperation impossible, but new advances in management and communications enable the RSA to work directly with each state vocational rehabilitation agency to modernize all of RSA's programs for individuals with disabilities. And with this new structure, the RSA will be able to streamline its monitoring process and provide direct technical assistance to state agencies. The result will be more efficient, more reliable, and more equitable service.

These changes will also save taxpayer money. When we spend taxpayer dollars wisely, we can save money and provide more programs and services at the same time.

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