CHICAGO (AP) — Gov. Pat Quinn says new legislation will help disabled Illinois residents find better jobs.
The Employment First Act is headed to Quinn’s desk for signature after clearing the state Senate Tuesday in a 54-0 vote.
It requires state agencies helping the disabled find work to consider as a first option those positions that offer competitive pay. It also prioritizes jobs in integrated settings that include non-disabled workers.
Quinn proposed the measure in his State of the State address in February. His goal is to double the rate of employment for people with disabilities by 2015.
On Wednesday he said in a written statement that “Illinois is a state where every person has the opportunity to chase their dreams.”
