I oppose this legislation.  NW Works personnel working in this area are specially trained.  They have developed trusted relationships with employers in the community so that these employers now feel confident in providing employment for an adult with a disability.  The employer knows that should problems arise, they can come back to our job specialist who will then take the time to assist both the employer and the person employed.

If unqualified individuals start trying to provide these services, great strides in employing adults with disabilities will be lost.  Positive relationships with employers could be damaged, and with that future employment opportunities.

CRP's in Virginia must be CARF certified in order to receive compensation from DRS for provision of Supported Employment Services.  Given that, any person providing Supported Employment services should be held to the same standard.  This legislation could result in disabled adults losing ground in the employment arena through no fault of their own.

Sincerely,

Luana Murray

lmurray@nwworks.com