Resolution 2024-09 - Enhancing Employment Opportunities for Individuals Who are Blind or Have Low Vision

Resolution 2024-09 - Enhancing Employment Opportunities for Individuals Who are Blind or Have Low Vision

Submitted by: ACB Employment Committee

Whereas, the unemployment rate of people who are blind or have low vision is at least two to three times higher than their non-disabled peers; and

Whereas, a recent survey conducted by the Employment Committee of the American Council of the Blind highlighted a number of discouraged workers who report that due to discrimination, the SSI-SSDI "cliff," technology challenges, and inadequate transportation, they are failing to gain access to jobs for which they are qualified;

Now, therefore, be it resolved by the American Council of the Blind in convention assembled virtually that the American Council of the Blind will increase its focus on employment through strategies such as:

1. Working collaboratively with successful thought leaders in the employment arena to hold a summit on employment opportunities and challenges impacting people who are blind or have low vision, and using findings from this summit to define an appropriate consumer role for ACB as a chief influencer and leading blindness organization, in order to increase employment opportunities for people who are blind or have low vision; and

2. Providing information to members on any regulatory or legislative developments related to Social Security reform that might impact work incentives or payments to blind or low vision individuals seeking employment, and reporting on whether any such legislation or regulatory development is feasible as an imperative for ACB; and

3. Ensuring that the reduction of employment barriers is incorporated into communications related to advocacy initiatives whenever possible and encouraging members to stress employment while communicating with legislators and policymakers; and

4. Highlighting employment-related activities of ACB affiliates and chapters; and

Be it further resolved that ACB will report on the above activities during its 2025 Conference and Convention.

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