Voice Options Program 2026 – 2029

The Voice Options Program (VOP) Request for Application (RFA) G26-VOP-01 is administered by the California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) and funded through the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) under the Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program. The program seeks to enhance communication access for Californians of all ages with verified speech or language disabilities by providing them with speech-generating devices (SGDs)—specifically tablets—and communication applications. Through education, demonstrations, and both short-term and long-term device loans, the program promotes independence and equal access to communication technology for underserved populations throughout California’s ten CPUC-identified regions. The VOP aims to annually distribute at least 1,260 long-term loan devices (LTLs) statewide, ensuring equitable access in urban and rural areas. Grantees will provide services such as identifying eligible individuals, verifying eligibility through approved professionals, and conducting demonstrations of preloaded devices. Short-term loans (2–14 days) allow users to test different applications before selecting a preferred option. Training on accessibility features and application usage is also provided. Following the selection process, individuals receive long-term loans of new iPads, Android tablets, or other CPUC-approved SGDs equipped with one VOP-approved application to support their communication needs. The grant allows for reimbursement-based funding up to $250,000 per region per fiscal year, with applicants able to apply for multiple regions over the three-year term. Allowable costs include personnel time, travel (not exceeding California Department of Human Resources [CalHR] rates), outreach efforts, equipment (new tablets with ≥128 GB storage, protective cases, warranties), and the purchase of approved applications via gift codes. Importantly, indirect costs are not reimbursable, and shipping expenses are capped at $100 per device. Providers must also maintain financial and program records for at least seven years after the grant period and document services through individual applications and consumer surveys. Applicants must be community-based organizations, school districts, or entities with demonstrated experience in assistive technology services. Notably, references to 501(c)(3) status have been removed, broadening eligibility beyond nonprofit organizations. Each applicant must propose to serve a full CPUC-designated region. The application process requires submitting four attachments: a 10-page work plan, a 5-page budget and narrative (per region), a list of regions to be served, and a required documents checklist. Applications must be submitted by March 25, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. via email to [email protected]. All documents must be accessible per DOR standards. Applications will undergo an administrative check for completeness before being scored based on three categories: Organizational Experience and Capacity (50 points), Proposed Work Plan (40 points), and Cost Proposal & Narrative (10 points). A minimum score of 75 is required for consideration. Awards will be announced tentatively on April 10, 2026, with the grant term beginning on or after July 1, 2026, upon final DOR approval. The grant does not support indirect costs, prepayments, or services provided after the funding period without prior approval. Devices previously issued to consumers may not be replaced unless justified by developmental progression. The VOP model is transitioning away from prior allocation-based approaches, and all applicants must reapply regardless of past participation.

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