Download Fact Sheet: CIE Systems Transformation (PDF)
Lead: Ellice Switzer, Cornell University & Dr. Renée Edwards, Rutgers University
Research Strand: Enhancing Employment
What are we Studying?
This study examines which state policies and practices are most effective at transforming systems to support competitive integrated employment (CIE) for people with disabilities, particularly those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Why are we Studying this Issue?
Currently, over 76% of people receiving services from state IDD systems receive only non-work services, and only 11% have individual jobs in the community. Despite growing adoption of Employment First policies across states, barriers remain in aligning policies, funding, and service delivery to effectively support CIE. Understanding which transformation strategies work and how to implement them successfully is critical for improving employment outcomes.
How will we Study this Issue?
This three-phase study will: (1) Conduct a national policy scan of the ten highest-performing states for CIE and survey system leaders across all 50 states to identify prevalent and effective practices; (2) Conduct focus groups and interviews with leaders from high-performing states to understand how they successfully implement CIE transformation efforts; and (3) Create three detailed case studies of New Jersey pilot programs transitioning to CIE, including in-depth interviews with employees and employers to examine real-world implementation and outcomes.
How will this Study Impact Disability Employment Policy?
This study will produce a new set of evidence-based High-Level Practices and actionable implementation guidance to help state and federal policymakers successfully transform systems to support CIE for people with significant disabilities.