(a) After considering the recommendation from the committee of blind vendors, the department shall set aside or cause to be set aside a percentage of the net proceeds of the vending facilities in a reasonable amount not to exceed fifteen percent (15%) of their net income and pursuant to a schedule approved by the United States secretary of education. Such funds shall be expended on behalf of blind vendors only for purposes specified by regulations promulgated in accordance with the Randolph-Sheppard Act (20 U.S.C. §§ 107-107f).
(b) All funds set aside pursuant to subsection (a) and funds in the account for unassigned funds established for the blind vendors program, and all other revenue, except funds appropriated by the state or matching federal funds, shall be invested by the state treasurer pursuant to § 9-4-603, for the benefit of those funds.