The Ohio Employment First and Greater Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities Act seeks to eliminate the subminimum wage for individuals with physical or mental disabilities by amending various sections of the Revised Code and introducing new provisions. Key elements of the bill include a prohibition on issuing new licenses for subminimum wage employment, a requirement for employers to submit transition plans to phase out such wages within five years, and the establishment of a nonrefundable tax credit for businesses that purchase goods from nonprofit corporations employing individuals with disabilities. The bill also mandates the director of developmental disabilities to assist employers during this transition and to report annually on the progress made.

Additionally, the legislation clarifies definitions related to employment and minimum wage, ensuring certain individuals are excluded from the definition of "employee" under the Fair Labor Standards Act. It emphasizes employee privacy regarding pay and personal information while allowing for the filing of complaints about wage law violations. The bill also establishes an employment first task force to coordinate efforts among state agencies to promote competitive employment for individuals with developmental disabilities and introduces a new tax credit for purchases from qualified vendors. Several existing sections of the Revised Code are repealed as part of this legislative effort to enhance employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4111.06, 4111.14, 5122.28, 5123.022, 5123.023, 5123.87, 5747.98, 5751.98