The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) was an amendment to Title V of the Rehabilitation Act. The Act went into effect in July 2016 placing limits on the use of subminimum wage employment. WIOA effects schools because many vocational programs operate under agreements with community employers to allow young adults with disabilities to gain work experience while being paid subminimum wages. Schools can consult Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) to provide services in community integrated settings. WIOA states that any company operating under 14(c) certificate (allowing them to pay special wages) may not continue to employ individuals with disabilities unless they have received career counseling, access to a VR agency and information about self-advocacy, self-determination and peer mentoring opportunities.
Employment First is a federal initiative designed around the idea that all citizens (including those with disabilities) are capable of full participation in employment and community life. With integrated employment, workers with disabilities are to be compensated and interact with their peers without disabilities, have the opportunity for advancement and job mobility, and preferably engaged full-time.
(Source: Presentation by Tania, Morawiec; IL DHS Employment First Manager)
