The following is an unedited statement from Congressman Glenn Grothman on Community Rehabilitation Providers (CRPs) in Wisconsin’s Sixth District.
“Community Rehabilitation Providers in Wisconsin’s Sixth District offer a wide array of services to individuals with disabilities and are vital parts of our communities,” said Grothman. “Many CRPs in Wisconsin, and throughout the country, utilize 14c certificates issued by the federal government to offer choice in employment to individuals with disabilities. The 14c certificate allows CRPs to pay these individuals a commensurate wage based on a productivity scale. In some cases, this can result in earnings that exceed minimum wage.
“The benefits of these jobs go far beyond a paycheck. Having a job at a CRP provides a sense of belonging and a safe environment that provides valuable social interaction with peers and guidance from professionals. In other words, the 14c certificate grants individuals with disabilities more options in employment, and in fulfillment.
“Losing access to 14c certificates would decrease employment choices for these individuals, and I have spent my time in Congress fighting to keep their options open. A rule currently proposed by the Biden Administration’s Department of Labor would phase out the issuance of 14c certificates. Yesterday, I introduced a bill, the Continuing Opportunities for People with Disabilities to Excel Act, which would overturn this rule if it went into effect.
“This rule would be devastating for the employment options of many individuals with disabilities. After many meetings with these groups and tours of CRPs in Wisconsin’s Sixth District, it is obvious to see that individuals with disabilities want and deserve to have every employment option made available to them, and the right to choose which best fits their needs.
“I have worked with Ascend Services in Manitowoc, along with A-Team Wisconsin, for many years to support individuals with disabilities and preserve choice in employment. For 67 years, the people of Ascend have been a pillar of the County. I look forward to many more decades of their service to the community and will continue to stand beside them in advocating for the best opportunities available for individuals in Manitowoc County.”
