DE HB319

Establishes the "Employment First Act" making competitive employment in integrated settings the first and priority option when providing services to working-age persons with disabilities, including veterans with service-connected disabilities

Defines "competitive employment" as work in integrated settings compensated at or above minimum wage with benefits comparable to workers without disabilities performing similar work

Creates an 11-member Employment First Oversight Commission under the State Council for Persons with Disabilities, including 4 persons with disabilities appointed by legislative leaders, plus representatives from state agencies serving disabled populations

Requires all state agencies to coordinate efforts, share data, and adopt measurable goals to support competitive employment for persons with disabilities in integrated settings

Mandates the Commission submit annual reports to the Governor and General Assembly tracking progress toward employment first goals and identifying barriers and effective strategies