Recommendation — original pdf

Recommendation

BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Mayor’s Committee on People with Disabilities Recommendation Number: 20210312-2D: A Resolution Expand Employment Opportunities for People with Disabilities WHEREAS Federal data shows the unemployment rate for people with disabilities was two times higher than that for people without disabilities in 2018. Among people with disabilities who were employed, they were more likely than their peers to work part time and in low-wage positions; WHEREAS, Under-and unemployment create challenges beyond loss of income, including higher rates of housing insecurity and stress-related health problems; WHEREAS, Texas data shows the same lack of employment of people with disabilities. https://www4.esc13.net/uploads/transition/docs/EFTF__Report_Final.pdf Indeed, in Texas, less than 30% of people with intellectual disabilities are employed. Id; WHEREAS, cultural inclusion and awareness of current technology must include fully include people with disabilities and people with disabilities must fully include the Deaf community and their preferred and current means of communicating with all City personnel and facilities; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that The Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities recommends that the City of Austin Hire an employment liaison to specialize in expanding inclusive job opportunities for people with disabilities with the City of Austin. The liaison will: Partner with local schools on transition planning and paid internship programs, Coordinate with federal and state government entities ( such as DARS-Texas Workforce) to ensure Austin draws down all supports available to expand inclusive employment opportunities, Analyze City hiring policies to eliminate unnecessary barriers to entry; and engage in community outreach to actively recruit people with disabilities. This recommendation is in alignment with this Strategic Outcome: Economic Opportunity and Affordability (including employment/unemployment, income equality, and training for better jobs) Date of Approval: 03/12/21 Attest: Lee Nguyen Record of the vote: Unanimous on a 7-0 vote with Commissioners Gene Brooks and Taurean Burt absent. (Mayor’s Committee for people with Disabilities City Co-Staff Liaison)