SWTCIE
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GVRA's SWTCIE Team SWTCIE Site Visit Highlights Georgia’s Innovative Approach to Ending 14(c) Subminimum Wage
On August 6, 2026, GVRA's Subminimum Wage to Competitive Integrated Employment (SWTCIE) team had their site visit conducted by Mathematica, the National Evaluator for Disability Innovation Fund (DIF) grants administered by the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA).
The primary purpose of the site visit was to give Mathematica an opportunity to meet with the SWTCIE team and several of its partners to learn more about Georgia’s approach to the grant, the processes being implemented, and strategies that could potentially be replicated in other states as they work to address and eliminate the use of 14(c) subminimum wage.
During the visit, Mathematica explored several key components of Georgia’s SWTCIE initiative, including GVRA’s relationships with clients, service providers, employers, and 14(c) businesses. The team also discussed the impact of resources and initiatives developed through the grant, including the Georgia DB101 website and ACRE trainings being offered at Roosevelt Warm Springs.
Sustainability was another important area of discussion, with Mathematica seeking to understand how these efforts can continue to support individuals with disabilities beyond the life of the grant. The SWTCIE team also shared successes, challenges, and lessons learned that could provide valuable insight to other states working toward the elimination of 14(c) subminimum wage.
Findings from the site visit are expected to become available in early 2027. As part of the national evaluation, Mathematica is meeting with DIF grant teams across the country and will compile its findings into a comprehensive report highlighting successful strategies, key outcomes, and lessons learned that can help inform future disability employment initiatives.
GVRA Government Relations/Policy Analyst John Pilgrim emphasized the broader impact of the site visit and Georgia’s SWTCIE work.
“Not only will this site visit assist other states also seeking to end 14(c) subminimum wage payments, but it will also help bring attention to resources like DB101 and ACRE trainings, which will both be critical for the transition process that will occur for disabled Georgians once 14(c) ends in June 2027, thanks to the Dignity and Pay Act signed by Governor Kemp.”
Georgia’s participation in the national evaluation provides an opportunity to share its experiences and innovative strategies while helping inform the future of competitive integrated employment for individuals with disabilities across the country.