(

a) In addition to the program described

Section 4870, subject to an appropriation in the Budget Act, the department shall establish, by December 31, 2021, a program to increase pathways to competitive integrated employment that shall meet both of the following requirements: (1) (

A) Be developed in consultation with stakeholders as specified in subparagraph (B). (

B) Consultation with stakeholders pursuant to subparagraph (

A) shall commence no later than September 30, 2021, and shall include individuals with disabilities, including those served by the program, family members, employers and provider association representatives, consumer advocates, disability provider representatives, including regional centers, members of the Developmental Services Task Force, and legislative staff.

(2) Provide contracts or grants for entities to develop and implement innovative and replicable strategies and practices to increase paid work experiences and employment opportunities for regional center consumers. (

b) The department shall include in its annual May Revision fiscal estimate a description of the implementation of the program including, but not limited to, all of the following:

(1) A description of the stakeholder consultation.

(2) Data about the number and start date of funded grants or contracts.

(3) The number of enrolled participants.

(4) The number of employed participants.

(5) Any recommendations for program changes that may be necessary or desirable to maximize program effectiveness. (

c) Notwithstanding the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with

Section 11340) of Part of Division of Title of the Government Code), the department may implement, interpret, or make specific this

section by means of written directives or similar instructions, without taking any regulatory action.