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A-Team Missouri Readies for Critical Outreach
The Oct. 30 A-Team Missouri meeting focused on preparations for possible attacks to Section 14(c) and workshops.
MASWM Advocacy Chair Heather Pugh and member Natalie Couch said a large response may soon be critical to defending workshops and 14(c). After hearings last year, the Department of Labor is expected to announce rule changes that could lead to a phase-out of 14(c).
“We need to optimize our voices across the state, so we are ready when needed,” Pugh said. “We need a methodical plan on how to flood them with comments.”
Pugh cited recent congressional discussions that continue to focus solely on community integrated employment and omit extended employment sheltered workshops entirely. She urged shops to organize letter-writing efforts in advance. Breakout sessions at the recent MASWM Fall Conference on letter writing, elevator speeches and other communications have provided excellent resources. The Advocacy and Legislative committees will also communicate guidance and language as needed.
“We need everyone on board to send those comments,” Pugh said. “It’s important that everyone finds a way in their shop to get those comments in.” She noted that an A-Team Missouri newsletter would be shared soon to summarize these points. Managers were also urged to make copies of these letters and send them to her so that A-Team has a record of the communications.
Members also reviewed celebrations and activities from October’s National Disabilities Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). They shared everything from a chili day to a Halloween party, an art contest, and themed T-shirts. One shop collected written comments from employees on their views of workshops and sent those comments to legislators. Jacob Anderson of Lake Area Industries was awarded first place in the NDEAM Art Contest.
The group also discussed Sheltered Workshop Products and Services Day in Jefferson City Jan. 29, 2025. Shops may register at this link. (https://forms.gle/jsZHt9UXASz46yvZ8) Shops are reminded that only 2-4 representatives per shop are requested. Large, employee/group visits will be needed on the annual day at the capital in March (details to be announced).
The next A-Team Missouri meeting will be Nov. 27.