Chapter 19B of the General Laws, as appearing in the 2016 Official Edition, is hereby amended by inserting after section 12A the following section:-

Section 12B.  (a) The department shall provide employment services in a flexible integrated setting within the community based day support services programs facilities which are appropriate to the needs of persons with disabilities, hereinafter referred to as “employees”, until such time as they are ready to be mainstreamed into employment within a community setting.   For the purpose of this section, the term “community based day support services programs” shall mean programs that assist clients to build and maintain their ability to participate in community activities by focusing on skill areas that include communication, self-care, relationship-building and community involvement. 

(b) An integrated setting shall consist of social and interpersonal interactions with colleagues, vendors, customers, superiors or other such persons who the employee may come into contact with during the work day.  The employment service shall allow intellectually and physically challenged individuals to work in a supportive employment environment which enhances productivity, safety and self-esteem.  Any individual who chooses to participate in the employment service shall be assessed annually by the department to determine the appropriate employment environment. 

(c) A reserve through the department shall be established and all employment shall remain under department guidelines.  The work will be offered through and managed by the community based day support services programs for up to but not to exceed 4 hours per day.  All participating employees shall receive a subminimum wage rate from the provider as set forth in Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act.