Across the United States, employment outcomes for individuals with autism continue to lag behind the general population with research showing that nearly four out of ten adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were unemployed.  Now, legislation sponsored by New York State Sen. Monica R. Martinez is looking to expand employment opportunities in the public sector for qualified individuals with an ASD diagnosis.

The proposal would authorize the state Civil Service Commission to designate certain positions within state government as noncompetitive roles that can be filled by individuals with ASD who meet job qualifications.  Employees hired through this pathway would remain eligible to compete in promotional examinations, allowing for advancement within the civil service system.

“Talent and ability should never be overshadowed by a diagnosis,” said Sen. Martinez.  “New York’s workforce is stronger when it reflects the full range of talent across our state, and this legislation will expand opportunities for individuals with autism spectrum disorder so they may experience dignity through work.  All candidates deserve to be considered based on their skills, and this legislation helps make that possible in the public sector.”

According to data from the state Department of Labor, in New York, only 39.4% of New Yorkers with cognitive difficulties, which include autism spectrum-related disorders, participated in the labor force compared to 80.3% of those with no disabilities.  Of those participating, 24.6% were unemployed compared to 8.2% of the general labor force at the time of the study.  Additional analysis has found that as many as 85% of college-educated autistic adults are unemployed or underemployed.

Michele Iallonardi, executive director of the Nassau/Suffolk Autism Society of America, said, "Autistic New Yorkers continue to face disproportionately high rates of underemployment and unemployment. The Nassau/Suffolk Autism Society of America strongly supports this legislation, as well as any measure that advances equitable access to meaningful employment opportunities.”

Carly Teichman, Job Path CEO, said, "For almost 50 years Job Path has worked with New Yorkers with autism and other developmental disabilities, supporting people as they find jobs and thrive at work. We applaud the merits of this legislation, and all efforts to open up more pathways to employment for this untapped workforce. It’s an opportunity for motivated and talented New Yorkers who want to work, and also for our state which can benefit from their talents."

Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental condition that affects how individuals communicate, interact, and process information, with a wide range of strengths and support needs varying from person to person.  Individuals on the spectrum often demonstrate strengths in areas such as attention to detail, pattern recognition, and technical skills, which are valuable in many roles within government service. 

People with autism often succeed in the workplace when provided with appropriate opportunities and support.  The push to approve this legislation comes as New York joins communities across the country in recognizing April as Autism Acceptance Month.