EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MENTAL ILLNESS OR AN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY

(a) Each department facility and community center shall annually assess the feasibility of converting entry level support positions into employment opportunities for individuals with mental illness or an intellectual disability in the facility's or center's service area. (b) In making the assessment, the department facility or community center shall consider the feasibility of using an array of job opportunities that may lead to competitive employment, including sheltered employment and supported employment. (c) Each department facility and community center shall annually submit to the department a report showing that the facility or center has complied with Subsection (a). (d) The department shall compile information from the reports and shall make the information available to each designated provider in a service area. (e) Each department facility and community center shall ensure that designated staff are trained to: (1) assist clients through the Social Security Administration disability determination process; (2) provide clients and their families information related to the Social Security Administration Work Incentive Provisions; and (3) assist clients in accessing and utilizing the Social Security Administration Work Incentive Provisions to finance training, services, and supports needed to obtain career goals.