The county Board of Supervisors unanimously agreed Tuesday to study ways of increasing “neurodiversity” job opportunities for people with conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome or other such disorders.
The board directed the departments of Aging and Disabilities and Economic Opportunity to work with the County Librarian, County Counsel and the CEO and report back to the board in 180 days with recommendations.
Tuesday’s motion by Supervisors Janice Hahn and Holly Mitchell cited reports noting that people with disabilities face challenges securing employment.
“Neurodiversity is the recognition that people have diverse ways of thinking, learning and interacting with the world. It includes conditions such as autism, ADHD and dyslexia — natural variations of the human mind that do not necessarily impact job performance,” Hahn said.
“People with autism or other developmental differences have immense potential and valuable skills to offer, yet, are far too overlooked in the hiring process.”
Hahn said systemic barriers and outdated hiring practices contribute to the fact that only 20% of people with disabilities are gainfully employed.
Mitchell said her district was already engaging in neurodiversity efforts, including work with Special Needs Network, the Wiley Center and The Friendship Foundation, amongst others.
“It’s my expectation that we’re reaching out to our expert community organizations and trusted messengers to help craft recommendations for this pilot program so that L.A. County can better align its hiring practices to be more inclusive,” Mitchell said in a statement. “Learning differences and abilities vary for each person and shouldn’t present barriers to accessing opportunities.”
The report is expected to include suggestions on inclusive hiring, embracing neurodiversity in workplaces, reasonable accommodations, training opportunities and outreach to targeted demographics.
The board also asked that the report include potential funding sources and recommendations for collaboration with community-based organizations.
The CEO was directed to support regulatory proposals that promote employment rights, including eliminating a federal sub-minimum wage for workers with disabilities and creating non-interference with Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income payments.
“A more inclusive workforce welcomes unique perspectives as essential. We must continue to enhance the county hiring system to support intensive, individualized services in a range of settings, with flexibility, and an equitable approach,” according to the motion.
