On September 15, 2021, Governor Tony Evers redesignated the Client Assistance Program (CAP) from the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) to Disability Rights Wisconsin (DRW). The CAP program will now be housed with other Protection and Advocacy Programs and will no longer be under the umbrella of state government.
The CAP serves people with disabilities and assists them with advice and information about benefits and services available under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act (WIOA), and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act. CAP assists people with disabilities who are trying to get services or are already receiving services from the Divisions of Vocational Rehabilitation, the Independent Living Centers, or the Native American Vocational Rehabilitation Project.
Disability Rights Wisconsin has decades of experience with assisting people with disabilities with employment related concerns. “We are delighted to bring the CAP under our roof. We believe it will enhance our ability to assist people with disabilities facing barriers to employment,” said Lea Kitz, DRW Executive Director, adding that state personnel with DATCP and the Governor’s office are working to make the transition as seamless as possible. DRW currently provides information and referral, technical assistance, and direct advocacy to individuals with disabilities who are experiencing a need for reasonable accommodations or facing employment discrimination due to their disabilities. “The CAP is a natural fit for us and we look forward to expanding our ability to help people with disabilities with their employment related needs. The ability to access employment in the community increases independence and forwards our vision of empowering people with disabilities to exercise and enjoy the full extent of their rights and to pursue the greatest possible quality of life,” offered Monica Murphy, a managing attorney who will oversee the program.
The new designation takes effect on October 1, 2021. For more information about the services offered by Disability Rights Wisconsin contact 1-800-928-8778 or visit disabilityrightswi.org.
