STATEHOUSE (Jan. 25, 2023) – State Rep. Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville) is working to support job opportunities for Hoosiers with disabilities, especially since they face far greater challenges to finding meaningful employment.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the unemployment rate for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities is estimated to be 80 percent. In contrast, Indiana's overall unemployment rate stands at just 3.1 percent. To reduce employment barriers for Hoosiers, Greene authored a proposal for a new law to create a state tax credit for businesses employing individuals with a disability.
"Hoosiers with disabilities offer valuable skills and talents," Greene said. "Unfortunately, they're often overlooked despite their capabilities and talents. This bill could help encourage employers to diversify their workplace and hire individuals who want more than anything to have the opportunity to join the workforce."
The Arc of Indiana, which works to create employment opportunities for people with disabilities, supports Greene's legislation.
"According to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, Indiana closed out 2022 with more than 130,000 job openings," said Hannah Carlock, senior director of public affairs for The Arc of Indiana. "There is an untapped pool of potential employees who are consistently overlooked because they have a disability. Rep. Greene’s bill will hopefully encourage employers to hire Hoosiers with disabilities and move Indiana from a 'State that Works' to a 'State that Works for All.'"
"This is a deeply personal issue for me," Greene, whose son is autistic, said. "For every special needs parent, the question of 'what happens to my child once I'm gone?' weighs on their mind. If passed, it's my hope this bill will help lessen that weight, and give their child the dignity and independence that comes from meaningful work."
Visit iga.in.gov to learn more about Greene's House Bill 1559. Greene said he encourages constituents who have thoughts on this issue or others before the legislature to contact him at 317-234-9028 or via email at h47@iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville) represents House District 47,
which includes portions of Johnson and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
