SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) is fighting for the dignity of workers with intellectual or development disabilities with a new bill meant to assist with job searches and wage negotiation.

“Individuals with disabilities have an unemployment rate that is almost three times higher than the statewide average, and many are paid well below the minimum wage” Fine said. “I think we have a duty as a society to find a person’s individual talents and skills so that everyone has the opportunity to contribute to their community. I’m proud to have sponsored this legislation that protects the best interests of our state’s workers with disabilities.”

Senate Bill 2087 establishes the Customized Employment for Individuals with Disabilities Act. The act creates a five-year pilot program designed to provide individuals with disabilities who are looking for employment with assistance in their job search and to help these workers negotiate fair wages with their employers.

The bill was approved by the Senate with unanimous bipartisan support and now moves to the House of Representatives.