Special to the NEWS
In a historic move, Texas State Representative Janie Lopez (R-SAN BENITO, DISTRICT 37) is championing new legislation to establish October 17 as Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Day in Texas.
During the 88th Legislative Session, Representative Lopez sponsored Senate Bill 464 to honor what she describes as important Texans. Texas is home to the second largest disabled community in the nation, many of whom are young adults facing uncertainties after graduating or aging out of school systems.
These individuals often find themselves overlooked in the workforce. S.B. 464 addresses these issues by recognizing and celebrating the career pathways available to individuals with disabilities, particularly in the entrepreneurial space, Lopez said. “Representative Lopez is proud to raise awareness about the untapped potential within this community and promote their inclusion in every aspect of the workforce,” noted a statement from her office.
According to the statement, one of the key goals of this legislation is to broaden entrepreneurial options for individuals with disabilities, allowing them to pursue their dreams and contribute to the economic growth of our state. By designating October 17 as Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Day, Texas honors the resilience, creativity, and innovation of Entrepreneurs with disabilities.
“Recognizing entrepreneurs with disabilities is a crucial step towards fostering a more inclusive and diverse workforce in Texas,” said Lopez. “Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Day will serve as a reminder of the immense talent and potential within our disabled community, and it is an opportunity to encourage their participation in the entrepreneurial world.”
Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed this legislation on May 13, 2023 and it took effect on September 1, 2023, authorizing the regular observance of Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Day in Texas through appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs, reinforcing the state’s commitment to creating a supportive environment for disabled entrepreneurs.
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