From Gov. Mark Parkinson, August 26, 2010
To help ensure Kansans with disabilities thrive in the workplace and in the community, Governor Mark Parkinson has signed Executive Orders 10-09 and 10-10, to recognize individuals and agencies that support persons with disabilities and advance state employment opportunities for such individuals.
"We have made great strides as a state to uphold our commitment to Kansans with disabilities," said Parkinson. "I am honored to recognize those that have contributed to this commitment, while also setting an example for how we can continue to maximize employment opportunities for Kansans with disabilities."
Through Executive Order 10-10, Governor Parkinson has called upon all state agency heads to develop agency initiatives to increase the number of disabled Kansans who are competitively employed. Agencies have been directed to inventory state plans and reevaluate policies and procedures to ensure Kansans with disabilities are being competitively employed in equal numbers to their peers. State agencies will also work together to develop a shared mission promoting this endeavor and provide annual reports to the governor detailing the number of employed Kansans and the fiscal impact this has on the state.
Governor Parkinson has also established the Governor’s Excellence Awards through Executive Order 10-09 to recognize individuals and agencies who demonstrate exceptional commitment to assisting and empowering Kansans with disabilities. The Governor’s Excellence Awards will be awarded annually for the following categories:
The secretary of the Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services will receive all nominations before submitting them to the governor for a final decision.
The State of Kansas has a long history of making every effort to meet the needs of its citizens who have disabilities. These efforts, spearheaded by Kansas government and the Kansas legislature, have resulted in the development of a statewide network of thousands of provider organizations and individuals committed to community and home-based care. The network also works to empower individuals with disabilities to live active, independent and fully engaged lives.
The 2008 Census reports nearly 16 percent, or approximately 440,000 Kansans, indicate having a disability. Census reports also state that 30 percent of Kansans age 65 and older and 51 percent of Kansans over the age of 75 have a disability. Approximately 66,000 children participate in special education services in their local schools.
To read the full executive orders, please visit http://governor.ks.gov/issues-a-initiatives/executive-orders