Section 511 of the Rehabilitation Act is a critical federal provision designed to safeguard the employment rights and economic independence of individuals with disabilities—particularly youth and those transitioning from school to the workforce. Enacted under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), Section 511 places clear limits on the use of subminimum wage employment (authorized under Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act) and prioritizes access to competitive integrated employment, where individuals earn fair wages alongside peers without disabilities.
At its core, Section 511 ensures that individuals with disabilities are not funneled into lower-paying, segregated work environments without first being provided meaningful opportunities to explore, prepare for, and pursue competitive employment. This includes required access to pre-employment transition services for students, vocational rehabilitation (VR) services, career counseling, job exploration, and informed choice counseling. It also mandates ongoing counseling and information for individuals already working at subminimum wage, empowering them with the knowledge and resources to pursue higher-paying, integrated job opportunities if they choose.
This website serves as a comprehensive resource hub for individuals with disabilities, families, educators, service providers, employers, and policymakers. Here, you will find detailed explanations of Section 511 requirements, guidance on compliance and implementation, tools for navigating vocational rehabilitation services, and best practices for promoting inclusive employment pathways. Whether you are seeking to understand your rights, support someone in transition, or ensure organizational compliance, our goal is to provide clear, actionable information that advances equitable employment outcomes and expands opportunities for all.