People with disabilities steered to ‘real’ jobs
August 19th, 2007The state of Washington has adopted a policy aimed at steering people with disabilities away from sheltered workshops and into paying employment.
The state’s Working Age Adult Policy, which took effect last year, is being described as “revolutionary.” It requires adults who receive services funded by the state Division of Developmental Disabilities to be on a “pathway to employment,” or have a job out in the community that pays a living wage.
“This is the next great civil-rights movement in our country,” said Chris Brandt, chief executive of Issaquah-based AtWork!, a nonprofit that serves people with disabilities.
Some have criticized the policy because it has led to cutbacks in popular programs. Others worry that people with severe disabilities could lose benefits if they cannot find appropriate employment.
From the Seattle Times.
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