Response to “A Disability System for the 21st Century”

1. Response to “A Disability System for the 21st Century” Presented by Alaine Perry

2. Chart 3 Adult Model • Transition program • develop work Rx • coordinate supports SSDI/SSI Exit to employment Flexible program re-entry and exit rule; differential work incentive rules and waivers Current work incentive rules; current reinstatement rules (e.g., EPE easy-on) Transition program participant maintains loose program attachment. Can re-enter transition program or apply for SSDI/SSI without “penalty.” Participation in traditional program is governed by current work incentive and reinstatement rules. From A Disability System for the 21st Century: A Report by the Social Security Advisory Board, September 2006, page 14

3. Chart 3 Adult Model x • Transition program • develop work Rx • coordinate supports SSDI/SSI Exit to employment Flexible program re-entry and exit rule; differential work incentive rules and waivers Current work incentive rules; current reinstatement rules (e.g., EPE easy-on) Transition program participant maintains loose program attachment. Can re-enter transition program or apply for SSDI/SSI without “penalty.” Participation in traditional program is governed by current work incentive and reinstatement rules. Adapted from A Disability System for the 21st Century: A Report by the Social Security Advisory Board, September 2006, page 14, chart 3

4. Revised Model • Work Support Program • Work support plan • Coordinated supports • Provide information about SSDI/SSI • SSDI/SSI • Provide information about SSDI/SSI work incentives • Provide information about separate work support program Exit to employment Adapted from A Disability System for the 21st Century: A Report by the Social Security Advisory Board, September 2006, page 14, chart 3

5. What Does “Do No Harm” Mean ? • No changes to the Social Security statutory definition of disability • Participation in work, or activities to prepare for work, should be voluntary • Eligibility and cash benefits should not be subject to time limits • Any new programs to promote employment should not be coupled with cutbacks to existing Title II and SSI disability programs; i.e., eligibility should not be narrowed

6. Recommendations • Changes within the Social Security disability programs and SSA • External Changes

7. Improve Administration of Existing Work Incentives Programs and Policies • SSA has made progress but much more needed • Better information and supports • Process improvements such as reduction of overpayments • Importance of adequate administrative funding

8. Reduce Fear • Continued attachment or easy re-entry to program • Continued access to health care after RTW (including PAS) • CDR protections – adequate? • Access to accurate information The Ticket to Work Act made a start on all of these, but more is needed.

9. External Changes • Improved access to health care without needing to access cash benefits • Making the workplace more disability friendly – for example, importance of flexible employment