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Disability Emphasis Program

Program Manager: Bridget M. Biernat
Phone: (505) 761-4485
Email: Bridget.Biernat@nm.usda.gov

The Disability Emphasis Program, formerly the Selective Placement Program for the Handicapped. Disability Emphasis Programs are organized action plans and procedures which promote the hiring, placement, and advancement of employees with disabilities. 

Program Objectives

The objective of the Disability Emphasis Program is to insure that qualified persons with disabilities receive equal treatment in all aspects of employment.

Definitions

The definition of a person with a disability according to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, is an individual who:

  • Has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more of such person’s major life activities. A physical or mental impairment means:
    1. Any physiological disorder, or condition, cosmetic disfigurement, or anatomical loss affecting one or more systems or
    2. Any mental or psychological disorder
  • Has a record of having a mental or physical impairment
  • Is regarded as having such an impairment; this includes individuals who are perceived to have disabilities.

The NRCS New Mexico Disability Special Emphasis Program manager is a member of the NM Civil Rights Advisory Committee and the responsibilities include:

  • Recommending specific actions to eliminate barriers to the achievement of workforce diversity
  • Recommending specific actions to enhance program outreach to female and minority eligible participants
  • Serving as a resource person to managers, civil rights committee and others in recruitment of persons with disabilities
  • Providing employment information on NRCS to persons with disabilities
  • Coordinating actions to ensure NRCS workplace is free of barriers and problem areas
  • Monitoring and evaluating progress to increase the number of employees with disabilities in NRCS
  • Keeping the State Conservationist informed of progress, program activities and problem areas.

Additional Information

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