(1) It is the purpose of this act to ensure that individuals with a disability be given the opportunity to achieve economic independence through jobs that pay competitive wages in community integrated settings.

(2) The current work force participation rate for individuals with a disability is 20%.

(3) Pennsylvanians with a disability are valued members of society, and all members of society deserve to have the opportunity to work.

(4) Significant changes have occurred and are continuing to evolve with advances in effective support strategies and technology.

(5) Each year throughout this Commonwealth, thousands of high school students with a disability who use plans developed in accordance with section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Public Law 93-112, 29 U.S.C. § 794) or qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (Public Law 101-336, 104 Stat. 327)¹ graduate from special education programs and are ready and able to work at competitive wages in private sector and public sector jobs.

(6) The Commonwealth can realize a return on its significant investment in young adults with a disability who have benefited from a free and appropriate public education and other State services by adopting policies that further the goal of competitive integrated employment for individuals with a disability.

(7) Hundreds of thousands of job openings are listed every day, reflecting the challenges faced by employers in finding and keeping a dedicated work force, which could be resolved, in part, through the hiring of individuals with a disability.

(8) Recognition and furtherance of the benefits of meaningful work applies to all working individuals, including the opportunity for competitive integrated employment for individuals with a disability.