NJ S1188

Renames the "Sheltered Workshop Act of 1971" to the "Extended Employment Act" and replaces terminology from "sheltered workshop" to "extended employment" throughout New Jersey law governing vocational rehabilitation programs for persons with disabilities.

Expands eligibility by changing the disability threshold from "severe" to "significant" disabilities and removes requirements that individuals complete a workshop program or be certified as incapable of competing in the open labor market.

Establishes baseline funding at FY 2024 levels with annual increases tied to either the Consumer Price Index for urban wage earners (CPI-W) or 80% of provider-submitted functional expense analyses, whichever is greater.

Creates a hybrid employment program allowing extended employees to work up to 16 hours per week in regular employment without losing their extended employment eligibility status.

Requires the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services to consult with ACCSES New Jersey, Inc. and the New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities on significant policy and leadership changes affecting the program.