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What was the primary function of the Smith Fess Act of 1920?

  1. To promote social integration for individuals with disabilities

  2. To establish a national data system for rehabilitation

  3. To initiate the civilian vocational rehabilitation program in the United States

  4. To provide educational resources for rehabilitation counselors

The correct answer is: To initiate the civilian vocational rehabilitation program in the United States

The primary function of the Smith Fess Act of 1920 was to initiate the civilian vocational rehabilitation program in the United States. This landmark legislation marked a significant turning point in the vocational rehabilitation landscape, as it was the first federal law to provide for the vocational rehabilitation of individuals with physical disabilities. The Act established a framework for states to receive federal funding to create rehabilitation programs that would help injured veterans and civilian workers gain skills relevant to the job market, thereby promoting their employability and fostering independence. By focusing on vocational rehabilitation, the Smith Fess Act recognized the need for structured support for individuals with disabilities to transition into the workforce. This foundational legislation set the stage for subsequent legislation and programs aimed at increasing employment opportunities for people with disabilities, including the development of training programs, job placement services, and supportive resources. Other choices, while they might relate to aspects of disability advocacy or rehabilitation services, do not accurately capture the core purpose of the Smith Fess Act. For instance, promoting social integration and providing educational resources can be seen as broader goals within the realm of disability advocacy, but they do not encapsulate the specific intent of establishing a civilian vocational rehabilitation framework. Similarly, the establishment of a national data system for rehabilitation is not directly associated with the primary