Action alert on Workforce Investment Act Plus
April, 2005

I am writing to urge you to oppose the inclusion of the Administrations WIA Plus Consolidated Grant proposal in your work to reauthorize the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998 and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. In the past, Congress has used this reauthorization as an opportunity to improve the nations job training systems for people with barriers to employment, including people with disabilities. The WIA Plus proposal does not follow in these steps.

The proposal:

• abandons the basic principle of informed consumer choice;
• disregards the individualization of services;
• does not allow for the protections established for people with disabilities under current law; and
• lacks assurances and accountability for continuing services for people with all types of disabilities.

If Rehabilitation Act funds were to be absorbed under WIA Plus, significant numbers of people with disabilities will find it difficult to have their unique needs met as they try to find employment. I strongly urge you to oppose any effort to adopt this plan as it stand to diminish supports and services for people with disabilities trying to enter the workforce.

Your active support for people with disabilities is appreciated. Thank you for considering my views.

Email Bradford C. Turner-Little
Asst. Vice President, Job Training & Employment
Easter Seals website
202-347-3066

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