Hello readers! I'm Adrianne Horton, founder of AutismCanLearn, and I've been on a unique journey in the field of special education. With my background in Special Education (MSEd from Hunter College) and as a parent to a young adult with autism, I've seen how traditional job paths don't always align with the talents and needs of individuals with disabilities. This challenge is particularly visible in New York, where only 36.9% of people with disabilities are in employment, compared to 73.8% of their peers without disabilities. That is why I have always advocated for the need for people with disabilities to pave the entrepreneur path. However, Hochul's Executive Order 31 is indeed a game changer.
Understanding Executive Order 31
Governor Kathy Hochul’s Executive Order 31 represents a crucial step towards inclusive employment in New York. This order is a testament to New York’s dedication to becoming a model employer for people with disabilities. Its key features include:
- State Agency Plans: Mandating each state agency to develop annual strategies to enhance inclusivity and hiring of individuals with disabilities.
- Data Collection and Reporting: Agencies are tasked with gathering and analyzing employment data for people with disabilities to set benchmarks and monitor progress.
- Inclusive Training: This involves creating awareness programs to cultivate an inclusive state workforce.
- Agency Disability Contacts: Each agency will have designated personnel to steer hiring strategies for people with disabilities.
The Promise of Executive Order 31
New York's recent Executive Order 31 by Governor Kathy Hochul is a beacon of hope. It's not just a policy but a commitment to making New York a model employer for people with disabilities, promoting inclusivity in the workforce. This move is a significant step forward in providing equal employment opportunities. It reflects a shift in mindset towards the employment of people with disabilities.
For more detailed information on Executive Order 31, you can refer to Governor Kathy Hochul's Executive Order No. 31 at https://www.governor.ny.gov/executive-order/no-31-committing-new-york-state-becoming-model-employer-people-disabilities
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