A state senate committee unanimously passed a bill Friday that could increase access to workplace assistance and services for people with disabilities in Wisconsin.
State Sen. Jennifer Shilling, D-La Crosse, said in a statement more than 4,100 people with disabilities are on waiting lists for job training and employment assistance services through the state’s vocational rehabilitation program, according to the Department of Workforce Development.
The bill could leverage additional funding to eliminate waiting lists and provide more workplace opportunities to people with disabilities, according to the statement.
“Unemployment and underemployment of people with disabilities is a serious issue in Wisconsin,” Shilling said in the statement. “Every community in our state is affected by this issue.”
According to the statement, the state’s vocational rehabilitation program provides services including job search and placement assistance, transportation, on-the-job support and vocational training as well as interpreter services, career guidance and counseling.
The bill will go to the Joint Finance Committee for approval before it is scheduled for a vote in the state Senate and Assembly.
