This bill revises the existing laws governing extended employment programs for individuals with disabilities in New Jersey, renaming the "Sheltered Workshop Act" to the "Extended Employment Act." It updates the terminology used to describe facilities operated by nonprofit organizations that provide vocational rehabilitation and transitional employment, changing "sheltered workshop" to "extended employment." The bill broadens the eligibility criteria for individuals classified as extended employees, allowing those with significant disabilities to participate without the prior requirement of completing a workshop program or being deemed incapable of competing in the regular labor market. Additionally, it removes the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired from the eligibility determination process and eliminates the need for individual progress reports.

The legislation also clarifies the desired outcomes of the extended employment program, establishes baseline funding requirements tied to the FY 2024 New Jersey State Budget and the consumer price index, and mandates that the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services inform and refer individuals to the program. Furthermore, it repeals outdated provisions related to the sale of products produced in extended employment facilities and removes specific transportation requirements for individuals with disabilities. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the support and opportunities available to individuals with disabilities through extended employment programs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 34:16-39, 34:16-40, 34:16-41, 34:16-42, 34:16-43, 34:16-51, 34:16-53, 34:16-54