Bill > SB433

This bill establishes the Office of Disability Employment Advancement and Policy (ODEAP) within the Maryland Department of Disabilities, starting July 1, 2026. The office will be responsible for implementing the Maryland as a Model Employer Initiative, which aims to improve employment opportunities for people with disabilities in state government. Key responsibilities include promoting recruitment, hiring, retention, and career advancement of individuals with disabilities; coordinating outreach to job seekers and state agencies; developing training on best practices and relevant laws; assisting agencies in attracting qualified candidates with disabilities; promoting assistive technology access; evaluating employment practices; and collecting performance data. The office will be required to submit an annual report to the Governor and General Assembly detailing the initiative's progress, outcomes, and recommendations for improving state government employment practices for people with disabilities. Beginning in fiscal year 2027, the Governor may include an appropriation of $250,000 for the office's operations. The bill emphasizes that this initiative is not an entitlement program and provides the Secretary of Disabilities the authority to adopt necessary regulations.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0433?ys=2025RS