Bill > H3293

This bill introduces a new requirement for state contracts in Massachusetts, mandating that contractors employ up to 2% of individuals with disabilities, applicable to companies with at least 75 full-time equivalent employees receiving state appropriated funds. The bill provides a comprehensive definition of disability, covering a wide range of physical and mental conditions such as blindness, autism, cerebral palsy, mental illness, and various neurological and physical impairments. Contractors must meet this employment requirement within one year of contract award, with the goal of minimizing displacement of existing workers. The implementation and regulation of this law will be overseen by the Supplier Diversity Office in collaboration with the Massachusetts Office on Disability, Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, and Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission. These agencies will also arrange employment support services through non-profit employment providers. The types of services covered by this requirement include a broad range of work such as janitorial, landscaping, mailroom, food services, manufacturing, document scanning, and facility management. The bill defines individuals with disabilities as those with severe impairments that substantially limit functional capacities, require extended vocational rehabilitation services, or have specific conditions that create significant functional limitations.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3293