IL HB5256

State agencies with 1,500 or more employees must offer at least one trainee position per year for a person with a disability, effective July 1, 2020; smaller agencies and executive branch constitutional officers may voluntarily participate.

Trainee positions must last at least 6 months with a minimum commitment of 20 hours per week, administered by the Department of Central Management Services.

Individuals who successfully complete the trainee program are eligible for promotion to the target title without further examination.

"Disability" is defined according to the federal Americans with Disabilities Act and specifically includes a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder by a medical professional.

The Employment and Economic Opportunity for Persons with Disabilities Task Force must submit an annual report to the Governor and General Assembly detailing program participation, best practices, proposed rules, and the number of trainees who became full-time state employees.