Substitute House Bill No. 7187 aims to implement the recommendations from a December 2024 report by the Office of Policy and Management (OPM) to enhance employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Effective July 1, 2025, the bill mandates the Secretary of OPM to assess the feasibility of a pilot program that provides one-time grants to mid-sized businesses for accommodating employees with disabilities. It also includes provisions for increasing transitional services for youth with disabilities, evaluating the potential benefits of a tax credit for jobs created for individuals with disabilities, and creating a disability employment toolkit for businesses. Additionally, the bill requires the analysis of data related to the demand for employment services for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

The bill entails a fiscal impact, with estimated costs of $772,500 in FY 26 and $742,500 in FY 27 for OPM to implement these recommendations. This includes costs for consultants to conduct market analysis and stakeholder engagement, as well as funding for new internships aimed at youth with disabilities. The bill also specifies that each internship is estimated to cost approximately $43,000 per year per youth. Furthermore, a one-time cost of $30,000 is allocated for a public relations vendor to develop and distribute the disability employment toolkit. The bill reflects a commitment to improving employment assistance programs for individuals with disabilities while also ensuring that businesses are supported in their efforts to create inclusive work environments.