PCPID Quarterly Meeting: September 9–10, 2008

Chairman Rhatigan asked the ex officio members for any agency updates relevant to the Committee.

Mr. Balkus of SSA discussed the cost of living increase and the publication of the new Ticket to Work regulations.

Ron Gordon of Transportation discussed the agency’s efforts to assess its activities to employ people with intellectual disabilities. He also noted that the Agency is currently conducting training sessions for supervisors and managers on how to increase the number of people with disabilities employed in the department.

Ms. Bazilio-Bellgarde of the Corporation for National and Community Service discussed the recently-passed Hart Law and what it means for people with disabilities that work with the Corporation. She also noted that the Corporation would be hosting a conference on disability and service in October.

Ms. Ashby of the Department of Education discussed a grant awarded for a training center that focuses on people with intellectual disabilities and employment. She also noted that they have a center that provides technical assistance to colleges and universities that want to provide programs for people with intellectual disabilities.

Ms. Picerno of the Department of Labor discussed Secretary Romano’s efforts to change the term “reasonable accommodation” to “productivity enhancement.” Ms. Picerno suggested that the new term be incorporated into the report.

Mr. Leahy of the Department of Commerce discussed outreach efforts to people with disabilities for the transition to digital television. He also noted that the census would be adding new measures that include people with disabilities.

Ms. Mauren of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission reminded the Committee of the fact sheet provided by EEOC that specifically addresses people with intellectual disabilities and employment.

The Committee then recessed for the members to eat lunch and to work in their respective subcommittees.