Developmental services: supported employment.

Existing law authorizes the State Department of Developmental Services to contract with regional centers to provide services and supports to persons with developmental disabilities, in accordance with the person's individual program plan. As part of the individual program plan, the regional center may refer an adult consumer to habilitation services, including work activity programs or supported employment programs. Existing law declares the policy of the state, known as the Employment First Policy, that opportunities for integrated, competitive employment be given the highest priority for working age individuals with developmental disabilities. This bill would require the department to provide a clear financial incentive in order to encourage the development of and support for consumers in individual supported employment in integrated work settings. The bill would require the incentive to establish at least a 10% rate differential for individual supported employment services. The bill would authorize the department to adjust the rate for individual placement supported employment services to administer the incentive payment, as specified. The bill would also require the department to review the need for clarifying placement fees and bonus payments, as specified.