Rick Scott Creates Commission on Jobs for Floridians with Disabilities

Gov. Rick Scott on Tuesday ordered the creation of the Governors Commission on Jobs for Floridians with Disabilities. Lane Wright, his press secretary, said it was to mark the 21st anniversary of the federal Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA).

The U.S. Department of Labors Office of Disability Employment Policy has reported that people with disabilities have been disproportionately affected by the bad economy. Between October 2008 and June 2011, the rate of job loss among workers with disabilities exceeded by 9 percent that of workers without disabilities. The commission will identify strategies to close the gap.

As we work to grow Floridas private-sector jobs by making our state the best place to start, grow or move a business, we need to also make sure we are ensuring job opportunities for Floridians with disabilities, Scott said.Through employment, persons with disabilities increase their independence and, therefore, enjoy a better quality of life.

The governor is currently working to select individuals to serve on the commission and will appoint advocates, education and job-training professionals, private-sector employers and persons with disabilities.
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