In 2017, the Code of Virginia was amended to establish a goal to increase by five percent, the level of employment of individuals with disabilities over the next five years. This new talent acquisition initiative builds upon the prior accomplishments of workgroups convened under Executive Order 46 (2015) and Executive Directive 8 (2007).

One of the new requirements for all Executive Branch agencies isthe establishment of a formal Employment Plan that outlines the organization's individual strategies for helping the Commonwealth achieve its goal.

The Department of Human Resource Management (DHRM) designed an Agency Employment Opportunity Plan template to collect required information and enable agencies the flexibility to present successful practices that can drive the future direction of the overall strategy. The first plans were due to DHRM on 12/31/2017.

Ninety-four percent of Executive Branch agencies are in compliance with the mandate. These agencies submitted a Statement of Commitment signed by their Agency Head or College or University President, and an Employment Opportunity Plan outlining their recruitment and retention efforts. Based on current data, Individuals with Disabilities represent approximately 1% of Executive Branch employees. However, many agencies have employees who have not disclosed their disabilities. By fostering a culture of inclusion, agencies will build the necessary trust for employees to provide this data and agencies will be able to see an increased representation.