CO SB095

Continues the Employment First Advisory Partnership beyond its September 1, 2021 sunset date by removing the repeal provision from Colorado Revised Statutes.

Creates a hiring preference pilot program for persons with disabilities in the Department of Labor and Employment, effective January 1, 2023, allowing qualified applicants with disabilities to either be added to interview referral lists (non-numerical method) or receive 5 points added to final scores (numerical method).

Expands agency partners to include the Colorado Office of Employment First, JFK Partners within the University of Colorado School of Medicine Department of Pediatrics, and the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.

Pilot program applies only to new hires, not promotions or current state employees, and requires applicants to voluntarily identify as persons with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and submit proof of disability.

Pilot program sunsets December 31, 2027, with participating departments required to submit reports by November 1, 2027 on applicant participation, hiring outcomes, and data relevant to implementing a permanent program.