Bill > A00033

This bill establishes a 16-member Task Force within the New York State Department of Labor aimed at promoting employment opportunities for people with disabilities. The task force will include representatives from various state agencies, labor organizations, the business community, employment service providers, and two individuals with disabilities. Members will serve three-year terms without compensation but will be reimbursed for expenses. The task force's primary objectives include studying unemployment among individuals with disabilities, examining strategies to increase competitive integrated employment (meaning employment in the competitive labor market with wages and benefits comparable to non-disabled workers), supporting employment goals like independent living and economic self-sufficiency, and ensuring state government becomes a model employer for people with disabilities. The task force is required to meet at least quarterly and will produce a comprehensive report within two years of its formation, which will be submitted to the governor, senate president, and assembly speaker, and made publicly accessible online. The report will provide recommendations on how New York can improve employment opportunities and inclusion for individuals with disabilities across public and private sectors.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A33