What “Employment First” Means for Adults With Disabilities
Published: Jan. 12, 2026Updated: Jan. 21, 2026
Sofia Cervantes, Advocate with the State Council on Developmental Disabilities, explains California’s Employment First policy and why employment must always be presented as the first option for adults with developmental disabilities—regardless of support needs or perceived limitations. She breaks down what the policy requires of Regional Centers, how it shifts assumptions about ability, and why honoring the individual’s preferences (employment, day programs, college, volunteering, internships) remains essential.
Want to dive deeper? Check out the Supported Employment article: https://undivided.io/resources/3498
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