The disability system and programs to promote employment for people with disabilities
Over the past 30 years, there have been a growing number of interventions designed to promote employment among people with disabilities, particularly those receiving public cash benefits and other supports. In part, this interest reflects a desire by policymakers to stem the large caseload increases in programs that provide cash supports to people with disabilities, such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
This paper examines employment-focused interventions within the US disability system. Our review illustrates the challenges of developing and implementing these types of initiatives, despite substantial policy interest. Our findings indicate that none of the demonstrations we reviewed have the potential to lead to substantial caseload reductions that could reverse program growth. However, they can inform future designs, particularly the importance of customizing supports to very well-defined target populations.