State Use Program

The State Use Program, managed by OMES Central Purchasing, creates partnerships between the State of Oklahoma and qualified not-for-profit agencies. These partnerships provide meaningful, long-term employment and job training for individuals with disabilities.

• Job Creation: The program's vendors secure contracts with state agencies to provide a variety of goods and services. These contracts are specifically designed to create sustainable jobs for people with disabilities, offering them a path to economic independence.

• State Advisory Council: The State Use Advisory Council, which consists of seven members, meets a minimum of twice a year. The council's purpose is to exchange ideas on how to market and improve the State Use Program, ensuring it remains effective and continues to benefit both the state and the people it serves.

• Economic Advantage: The State Use Program is a self-sustaining initiative that benefits the state in the following ways:  
  • Reduced Public Assistance: By providing stable employment, the program reduces reliance on government assistance, saving the state and federal government an average of $2,700 per person.
  • Cost Neutral: The program is fully funded by a 1% fee on contracts, which is deposited into the State Use Committee Revolving Fund as outlined in Title 74 Section 3004.2. This makes the program a 25% economic advantage to the state at no cost.
   

Beyond the direct financial savings, the State Use Program provides significant, long-term benefits to Oklahoma's economy and communities.

• Increased Tax Revenue: Participants earned income contributes directly to the state's tax base through income and sales taxes. This shifts individuals from being recipients of government aid to being active, tax-paying citizens.
• A More Inclusive Workforce: The program champions diversity by showcasing the value and talent of employees with disabilities. This helps foster a more inclusive and accessible workforce across Oklahoma, encouraging other businesses to adopt similar hiring practices.
• Improved Quality of Life: Meaningful employment boosts the self-worth and independence of individuals with disabilities. This leads to improved health and well-being, fostering a greater sense of purpose and community engagement.