Texas Senate Bill SB1559

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to an interagency plan to promote competitive and integrated employment for persons with disabilities.

Impact

The implementation of SB1559 is expected to significantly influence state laws that govern the employment of individuals with disabilities. It would prohibit the use of state funds for services provided in environments where individuals with disabilities are segregated and underpaid. This change would challenge current mechanisms that allow for sheltered workshops and provide a clearer path toward inclusive employment, effectively reshaping the landscape of disability employment services across Texas. Through this legislation, Texas aims to align its employment practices with national standards that advocate for inclusivity and fairness in the workplace.

Summary

SB1559 aims to establish an interagency plan that promotes competitive and integrated employment opportunities for persons with disabilities in Texas. The proposed bill mandates cooperation between several state agencies, including the Texas Education Agency and the Texas Workforce Commission, to create a structured approach that transitions individuals with disabilities from segregated settings, where they often earn less than minimum wage, to inclusive environments that offer competitive compensation. The bill outlines specific timelines for the development and implementation of various plans to enhance employment conditions for persons with disabilities.

Contention

Although SB1559 has positive intentions, it may face points of contention among stakeholders. Some advocacy groups and families of individuals with disabilities may express concerns about the transition from sheltered environments to integrated workplaces, fearing that adequate support may not be available. Questions may arise regarding the resources, training, and accommodations needed to ensure individuals can succeed in competitive jobs. Moreover, businesses may also worry about the implications of immediate changes in workforce dynamics and potential financial burdens of accommodating individuals with disabilities. These concerns will require careful consideration by lawmakers to ensure that the aims of the bill are met without unintended consequences.