Making the Preferred Source Program Modernization Law Permanent is in the best interest of New York State
The New York State Legislature chartered the Preferred Source Program in 1946 to create meaningful employment opportunities for New Yorkers who are blind. Since then, thousands of legally blind New Yorkers have received training, employment, and vital services leading to increased independence and fulfilling careers.
In 2022, Governor Hochul and the Legislature approved unanimously the first significant updates to the Preferred Source Program since its inception. The modernization law removed outdated language and amended the ratio percentage of people working on preferred source contracts to be more inclusive and integrated. These contracts produce vital products and services that help New York state and local government agencies operate.
New York State has led the nation in progressive programs that provide employment opportunities for people who are blind and have other disabilities. However, the modernization law will sunset in October. By making these changes permanent, the program will continue to support families across the State, providing vital employment while bolstering local economies.
The Governor’s new Executive Budget proposes to eliminate the sunset and make the modernization law permanent, furthering her commitment to be an Employment First State and to increase competitive integrated employment for New Yorkers who are blind.
Legislation making the modernization legislation permanent has been introduced by Assembly Member Chris Burdick (A783) and Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton (S2367). On behalf of the hundreds of New Yorkers who are blind working in our program we thank Governor Hochul and the Legislature for their continued support of our mission. Making the modernization law permanent will create and maintain vital manufacturing and service-related jobs, with the Rockefeller Institute estimating our program and affiliated agencies generate over $500 million in economic output annually in New York State.
Your support to make these critical changes permanent will allow people who are legally blind to continue to gain independence, achieve their goals and be fully integrated members of the New York workforce.
Christopher T. Burke is the Executive Director of New York State Preferred Source Program for People who are Blind (NYSPSP), a 501(c)(3).
Peter Slatin is the Chair of NYSPSP’s Board of Directors and is a leading journalist, consultant, and advocate on disability rights.
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