(a) The department or its designee shall conduct competitive examinations to determine the qualifications and readiness of persons with disabilities for state employment. The examinations may include an on-the-job-performance evaluation and any other selection techniques deemed appropriate.

(b) (1) The department or its designee shall permit a person with a developmental disability to choose to complete a written examination or readiness evaluation, or to complete an internship, as described in this paragraph, in order to qualify for service in a position under the Limited Examination and Appointment Program. The use of an internship as a competitive examination of a person with a developmental disability shall consist of both of the following:

(A) Successful completion of an internship with a state agency of at least 512 hours in duration.

(B) Certification by the state agency that the employee has completed the internship and has demonstrated the skills, knowledge, and abilities necessary to successfully perform the requirements of the position.

(2) A person with a developmental disability who successfully completes the examination or internship required by this subdivision is deemed to meet the minimum qualifications, as determined by the board, for the position in which the internship was performed.

(c) Examination results may be ranked or unranked.

(Amended (as amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 573, Sec. 9) by Stats. 2023, Ch. 44, Sec. 9. (AB 121) Effective July 10, 2023.)