Located in:
- III. Operational Planning ElementsThe Unified or Combined State Plan must include an Operational Planning Elements section that support the State’s strategy and the system-wide vision described in Section II.(c) above. Unless otherwise noted, all Operational Planning Elements apply to Combined State Plan partner programs included in the plan as well as to core programs. This section must include—
- b. State Operating Systems and PoliciesThe Unified or Combined State Plan must include a description of the State operating systems and policies that will support the implementation of the State strategy described in Section II Strategic Elements . This includes—
- b. State Operating Systems and Policies
III. b. 8. Addressing the Accessibility of the One-stop Delivery System for Individuals with Disabilities
Current Narrative:
Colorado has a rich history of going above and beyond the compliance requirements of Section 188 of the Workforce Investment Act (which are now incorporated in Section 188 of WIOA), and the American’s with Disabilities Act of 1990. Over the life of the Workforce Investment Act, Colorado’s one-stop system was governed by a comprehensive set of state policies regarding non-discrimination and accessibility that are in the process of being updated with the most current requirements. These policies include a robust system of monitoring to ensure that one-stop center programs practice non-discrimination and that centers accommodate the needs of those with disabilities. In addition, Colorado served as a lead state in the national Disability Navigator initiative between 2002 and 2009, providing technical assistance to other states and participating in the national evaluation process. During that time, the one-stop system partnered with Assistive Technology Partners, who worked with staff on the purchase of assistive technology and trained staff in its use.
Colorado expects to build upon its past successes by strengthening its partnership with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, which will become part of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment as of July 1, 2016. As the leases for local DVR offices come up for renewal, there will be an effort to co-locate with one-stop centers. DVR staff is also preparing to provide ongoing training to their one-stop colleagues within the core programs and assist with the procurement and installation of more current assistive technology. Colorado’s one-stop certification policy includes the following criteria related to accessibility:
Physical and programmatic accessibility - ADA Guidelines:
· In compliance as shown by an inspection, audit, or review within last 3 years
Colorado applied for and received a $2.25 million Disability Employment Initiative grant from USDOL that is being implemented during 2018 and will provide increased access to one-stop career and training services. WIOA Title I funds will be leveraged with grant funds to ensure increased training and employment opportunities for the disabled population.