HF2311

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to support people with disabilities in Minnesota by ensuring that they have access to employment opportunities and necessary support services. It also safeguards the availability of day services and certain wage policies for individuals with disabilities.

Main Provisions

• Employment First Initiative: The bill mandates that the commissioner of human services must prioritize helping Minnesotans with disabilities find competitive, integrated employment. This means that people with disabilities should have access to work opportunities where they can earn similar wages as their non-disabled peers, with the help of proper services and support.

• Access to Day Services: Individuals with disabilities must be informed about and allowed to pursue employment before being directed solely to day services. Day services refer to programs that provide social and recreational activities for people with disabilities during the day.

• Wage Policies: The bill ensures that people with disabilities have the opportunity to earn a special minimum wage where applicable. This can occur under a specific certificate from the U.S. Department of Labor or permits from Minnesota’s Department of Labor and Industry, which allow certain employers to pay a wage lower than the federal minimum wage to employees whose work output is affected by a disability.

Significant Changes

• The bill prohibits the commissioner from creating new rules or policies that would limit or reduce the availability of current day services for individuals with disabilities. It also prevents any restrictions on the ability of these individuals to earn under special minimum wage programs.

Relevant Terms

disability waivers, competitive integrated employment, day services, special minimum wage, U.S. Department of Labor, Fair Labor Standards Act, 14(c) certificate, informed decision-making, person-centered planning.