Transformation to Competitive Integrated Employment Act

# Transformation to Competitive Integrated Employment Act (S 2438) ## What the Bill Would Do This bill aims to increase competitive integrated employment opportunities for people with disabilities. "Competitive integrated employment" means working in regular community jobs alongside non-disabled coworkers at minimum wage or higher. Currently, many people with disabilities work in sheltered workshops—segregated facilities that often pay sub-minimum wages. This bill would shift federal policy to prioritize and expand pathways into mainstream employment instead. ## Who It Affects & Key Provisions The bill primarily affects people with disabilities, particularly those receiving services through Medicaid or vocational rehabilitation programs.

It would likely include provisions to phase out or restructure sheltered workshop programs, increase funding for job training and support services in community settings, and create incentives for employers to hire workers with disabilities. The legislation reflects broader disability rights advocacy emphasizing inclusion and equal opportunity in the workforce. ## Current Status As of now, S 2438 remains in committee, meaning it has not advanced to a full Senate vote. The bill was introduced by Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) in the 119th Congress. For a bill to become law, it must be debated, potentially amended, and approved by both the Senate and House before being signed by the President.