Join the conversation for change

WASHINGTON — Members of the public are invited to participate in an online dialogue to examine the impact of existing federal regulations and legislation on the successful transition from school to work of youths and young adults with disabilities. The U.S. departments of Labor, Education, and Health and Human Services and the Social Security Administration will host the event May 13-27, and they invite policymakers, service providers, the advocacy community and others to join this conversation to improve transition outcomes.

Youths and young adults with disabilities face unique challenges that may complicate their educational achievements as well as their plans for school, training and work. As a result, they may have poorer educational and employment outcomes than their peers without disabilities and fail to achieve the maximum independence possible.

"We must ensure that our federal programs and resources support our nation's youths and young adults with disabilities in reaching their dreams of economic empowerment and independence, and we need to hear from many people," said Kathy Martinez, assistant secretary of labor for disability employment policy. "Speaking up online can help us identify barriers as well as opportunities that may exist at the federal level and also help us develop solutions."

The four host agencies are particularly interested in identifying federal legislative and regulatory barriers regarding employment, education, Social Security, and health and human services. Input received during the two-week, facilitated online dialogue will help these agencies improve policies, practices and interagency strategic planning.

To register for and participate in the dialogue, visit http://FPTepolicyworks.ideascale.com.