HI SCR219

Requests state and county agencies to implement "employment first" principles in hiring practices and all programs and services, prioritizing competitive employment in integrated settings for persons with disabilities.

Defines key terms: "competitive employment" as work at or above minimum wage in integrated settings; "employment first" as prioritizing integrated employment as the first option for employment services; and "integrated setting" as workplaces where persons with disabilities interact with non-disabled employees in comparable positions.

Requests the Department of Human Services to practice employment first principles for waiver program personnel under Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 346D and ensure contracted service providers follow these principles in hiring.

Clarifies that the resolution does not require employers to give preference to hiring persons with disabilities or eliminate other appropriate supported employment services.

Directs transmission of certified copies to the Governor, relevant state directors, county mayors, and disability-related organizations including the State Council on Developmental Disabilities and Hawaii Disability Rights Center.