Transformation to Competitive Integrated Employment Act
Summary
The Transformation to Competitive Integrated Employment Act aims to assist employers in transitioning from employing people with disabilities under special certificates to providing competitive integrated employment. It establishes grant programs for states and certificate holders to transform their business models. The act also phases out the use of special certificates under Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938.
Expected Effects
The act will likely lead to increased competitive integrated employment opportunities for people with disabilities. It will also ensure fair wages and integrated services for this population. The phasing out of special certificates will eliminate the practice of paying subminimum wages to individuals with disabilities.
Potential Benefits
- Increased employment opportunities for people with disabilities in competitive, integrated settings.
- Fairer wages for people with disabilities, aligning with minimum wage standards.
- Enhanced access to integrated services and community participation for people with disabilities.
- Support for states and employers in transitioning to more inclusive employment models.
- Improved data collection and reporting on the employment and wages of people with disabilities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential challenges for employers in transitioning their business models, requiring significant adjustments and investments.
- Possible disruptions in employment for some people with disabilities during the transition period.
- Increased costs for states and the federal government in providing grants and technical assistance.
- Risk that some individuals may not be able to find or retain competitive integrated employment despite the act's provisions.
- Potential for unintended consequences or unforeseen challenges during the implementation and evaluation phases.
Constitutional Alignment
The act aligns with the Constitution by promoting the general welfare (Preamble) and ensuring equal protection under the law, potentially implicating the Fourteenth Amendment. The Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) provides Congress with the power to regulate labor standards, including wages and working conditions, which is relevant to phasing out special certificates. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, which could be relevant to the implementation of state grant programs.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).