Developmental disabilities: competitive integrated employment ombudsperson.
The bill mandates that the Competitive Integrated Employment Ombudsperson be appointed by the executive director of the State Council on Developmental Disabilities and outlines specific duties, including serving as a resource, providing conflict resolution support, and submitting annual reports detailing the efficacy of the Blueprint's implementation. These changes are expected to bridge gaps in employment services, benefiting both the individuals affected and the agencies involved in their support.
Assembly Bill No. 1170, introduced by Assembly Member Cooley, seeks to enhance employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities by establishing the office of the Competitive Integrated Employment Ombudsperson within the State Council on Developmental Disabilities. This new role is tasked with providing necessary resources and support for individuals navigating the services available under the California Competitive Integrated Employment Blueprint. The Blueprint, developed collaboratively by state departments and stakeholders, aims to facilitate access to competitive integrated employment for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
There are concerns surrounding the confidentiality of communications between the ombudsperson and individuals seeking assistance, as the bill designates these communications as confidential. This aspect of the bill is framed by the Legislature’s findings, which assert that protecting privacy is essential for effective service provision. Discussions may arise about the balance between transparency and confidentiality, especially in public discussions of employment outcomes and grievances affecting individuals with developmental disabilities.