WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 5037

AN ACT CONCERNING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE CONNECTICUT CONNECT 700 PROGRAM TO EXPAND STATE GOVERNMENT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Greg Howard and 1 co-sponsor

Connecticut establishes a 700-position state employment program to hire and support workers with disabilities, aiming to expand opportunities and serve as a model inclusive employer.

PUBLIC HEARING 0220
#stateemployees #workingpersonswithdisabilitiesprogram
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 5037

Legislative bill overview

HB 5037 establishes the Connecticut Connect 700 Program, a state government employment initiative designed to create and expand job opportunities for persons with disabilities. The bill creates a structured framework within Connecticut's state government to hire and support employees with disabilities, with the "700" likely referring to a target number of positions or participants.

Why is this important

Employment rates for persons with disabilities remain significantly lower than the general population, with this legislation attempting to address systemic barriers through direct state government action. By making state government itself a model employer, Connecticut could demonstrate workforce integration practices while providing economic opportunity and independence to a historically underemployed demographic.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs and budget allocation – Creating 700 state positions requires funding for wages, benefits, training, and workplace accommodations; unclear how this will be financed or which agencies will absorb these costs
  • Definition of "persons with disabilities" and eligibility criteria – The bill's scope depends on how broadly or narrowly disability is defined, which could affect program size, costs, and who qualifies
  • Job quality and career advancement – Questions about whether positions will offer competitive wages, benefits, and genuine advancement opportunities or risk becoming segregated, low-wage positions distinct from competitive state employment

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.