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SB 433

Office of Disability Employment Advancement and Policy and Maryland as a Model Employer Initiative - Established

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Malcolm Augustine and 8 co-sponsors

Maryland establishes a disability employment office and model employer initiative to increase job opportunities and workplace inclusion for people with disabilities statewide.

Referred Rules and Executive Nominations
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Bill Summary · SB 433

Legislative bill overview

SB 433 establishes a new Office of Disability Employment Advancement and Policy within Maryland state government and creates the "Maryland as a Model Employer Initiative." The bill aims to improve employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and position Maryland as a leader in disability-inclusive workplace practices across both public and private sectors.

Why is this important

Approximately 16% of the U.S. working-age population has a disability, yet employment rates for this group remain significantly lower than the general population. By creating dedicated institutional infrastructure and establishing state-level goals, Maryland could improve access to meaningful employment for thousands of residents while potentially reducing reliance on disability benefits and increasing tax revenue.

Potential points of contention

  • Budget and staffing costs: The bill creates a new office requiring funding, personnel, and administrative overhead—details on appropriations and operational budgets are not specified in the summary provided
  • Employer compliance burden: The "Model Employer Initiative" may impose new requirements or regulations on private businesses, raising concerns about implementation costs and regulatory scope
  • Defining measurable success: The bill's effectiveness depends on clear metrics and accountability mechanisms; vague goals could lead to ineffective programs without meaningful employment outcomes for disabled workers

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

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