AR SB443

Creates the "Arkansas Employment First Act" to improve competitive integrated employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities through policies promoting youth transition, employer engagement, and service system enhancements.

Establishes the Arkansas Office of Employment First within the Department of Commerce to define Arkansas as an Employment First state and administer the Employment First Business Partner Program.

Creates a 21-member Employment First Advisory Committee including 6 self-advocates with disabilities, 2 family members, and representatives from 13 state agencies and organizations to develop interagency agreements, establish performance benchmarks, and measure employment progress.

Establishes the Employment First Business Partner Program allowing businesses to apply for designation by employing at least 10% employees with disabilities at minimum wage, with options for application or community nomination; designated businesses receive a logo and appear on a Division of Workforce Services website.

Requires annual reporting to legislative leaders beginning January 1, 2025, on implementation status including rule adoption and logo development, and annual reports thereafter on program participation and success metrics.