Brownback Signs Jobs Bill For Disabled

Kansas will now give preference in awarding state contracts to companies where 20 percent of the employees have disabilities.

Gov. Sam Brownback says the bill he signed Tuesday will help disabled Kansans find steady work and get off aid programs.

The bill requires the state to give preferences for state contracts to certified businesses if their bids are no more than 10 percent higher than the most competitive bid.

The companies must meet three criteria to take part in the program.

The businesses must work mostly in Kansas and have a workforce with 20 percent of full-time employees with a disability. And those employees must contribute at least 75 percent of total health insurance premiums for all workers.