Legislation to Watch
COEF is monitoring state and national legislation that may impact Employment First efforts and
initiatives. Check back frequently for updates and calls to action.
Employment First Advisory Partnership (EFAP) Reauthorization
This bill, which would have continued EFAP for an additional five years, was not introduced in the 2020 legislative session.
Technology First
Early efforts are underway for Colorado to fully embrace and expand access to technology for people with disabilities by becoming a Technology First state.
Phasing Out Sub-minimum Wage – What to Know
Section 14(c) of the federal Fair Labor Standards Act allows employers to pay people with disabilities less – in some cases substantially less – than the minimum wage, if their disability impairs their earning or productive capacity. There are approximately 15 Colorado employers utilizing 14(c) certificates and an estimated 500 Coloradans who are employed in sub-minimum wage positions today.
Ending the use of 14(c) certificates is important for Colorado as an Employment First state where competitive integrated employment is possible for all people with disabilities.
While this bill is postponed, continued, strong support will be necessary to gain momentum for the next legislative session.
Technology First – What to Know
Technology First began as a movement but has transformed to a “framework for systems change where technology is considered first in the discussion of support options available to individuals and families through person-centered approaches to promote meaningful participation, social inclusion, self-determination, and quality of life”
(Tanis, 2019).
Technology First efforts are driven by the principles outlined in the Colorado House and Senate Joint Resolution 14-1011, “Declaration on the Rights of People with Cognitive Disabilities to Technology and Information Access”.
For more information about Technology First, visit the Coleman Institute.