4870.2. (Added by Stats. 2022, Ch. 49, Sec. 81.)

(a) In addition to the program described in Section 4870, subject to an appropriation in the Budget Act for this purpose, the department shall establish, by December 31, 2022, a three-year pilot program that focuses on competitive integrated employment, postsecondary education, and career readiness for individuals with developmental disabilities exiting work activity programs or secondary education in order to explore inclusive options, including, but not limited to, paid internships, competitive integrated employment, and college-to-career programs.

(b) The pilot program established pursuant to subdivision (a) shall satisfy all of the following requirements:

(1) Be developed in consultation with stakeholders, including, but not limited to, individuals with disabilities, including those who will be served by the program, family members, provider association representatives, consumer advocates, regional centers, the State Council on Developmental Disabilities, the State Department of Education, and the Department of Rehabilitation. The consultation described in this paragraph shall commence no later than August 31, 2022.

(2) Provide person-centered and time-limited services, aligning with each individual’s needs and a person-centered approach, focused on preparing individuals for career pathways.

(3) Consider evidence-based or promising practices for reducing or eliminating barriers to competitive integrated employment for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the development of innovated service options.

(4) Require service providers participating in the pilot program to report on defined outcome measures, as determined by the department.