(ST. PAUL, MN) – Senator Michelle Benson (R-Ham Lake) has noted her support for a bill charging the commissioners of DHS, the Department of Education, and DEED to promote the employment of individuals with disabilities. The bill is numbered Senate File (SF) 3003 and is chief authored by Senator Utke (R-Park Rapids). It was presented to the Human Services Reform (HSR) Committee this week.

“We’re hearing from providers that people are falling through the cracks.  Individuals with all kinds of disabilities need freedom and a feeling of control over their own lives. There is no better way to facilitate that than by making sure they know their options when it comes to employment,” said Sen. Benson.

SF 3003 was originally brought forward by The Arc Minnesota, as a result of their ongoing frustration with the coordination and communication between agencies. The bill requires the Commissioners of DHS, the Department of Education, and DEED, to coordinate and develop a plan to assist transition-age youth and individuals with significant disabilities with finding employment.

“When state agencies created to help our most vulnerable don’t follow through, it defeats their purpose,” said Sen. Benson. “We need to make sure that everyone knows they are valued in our society and are recognized for their abilities.”

Additionally, Sen. Utke’s bill requires commissioners to develop a plan to prioritize and create incentives for competitive integrated employment of individuals.  The employment would be compensated at minimum wage, or higher, and is meant to reduce dependence on less integrated service models.

SF 3003 passed out of the HSR committee and will next be presented to the Senate Jobs Committee.