CA SB577

Requires the State Department of Developmental Services to conduct a 4-year demonstration project with up to five volunteer regional centers to test whether community-based vocational development services increase employment outcomes and reduce costs for working-age adults with developmental disabilities.

Establishes community-based vocational development services to include job exploration, social skill development, internship and apprenticeship opportunities, postsecondary education access, and employment network building.

Sets hourly rate for community-based vocational development services at $40 per hour for a maximum of 75 hours per calendar quarter, with hours potentially substituting for other day program services for up to 4 years total.

Requires development of individualized plans with semiannual reviews documenting progress toward employment outcomes, barriers, and changes affecting desired employment goals.

Requires department to notify Legislature of project effectiveness findings and whether services can be implemented statewide; provisions expire January 1, 2025, contingent on federal Medicaid funding approval.