About the CA State Use Network
The CA State Use Network
California State Use Procurement is a longstanding, fully compliant procurement framework designed to expand and advance employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities while meeting the operational needs of public agencies. Established in 1974 under California Welfare & Institutions Code §§ 19403–19404, State Use provides a lawful and accountable pathway for agencies to contract directly with qualified nonprofit providers for professional goods and services while avoiding the competitive bid process.
State Use is recognized across state, county, and local government as a credible and responsible procurement method. It maintains the same expectations of performance, service quality, and public stewardship as traditional contracting—while offering agencies a streamlined, bid-exempt option that aligns compliance with community impact. Through this framework, agencies are able to fulfill service needs, uphold procurement standards, and contribute to meaningful employment across California.
The CA State Use Network exists to ensure this process is understood, accessible, and applied with confidence. As the only organization dedicated solely to education and guidance within the State Use framework, we serve as a trusted resource for agencies seeking clarity on policy, procedures, and best practices.
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Working with Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRPs)
Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRPs) are nonprofit organizations that employ and train individuals with disabilities to deliver professional goods and services to public agencies. CRPs operate as licensed and insured contractors and serve as the contract holders for the services they provide. As contract holders, CRPs are fully responsible for meeting all contract specifications, performance requirements, and service standards, and perform all obligations in the same manner and to the same extent as any other qualified contractor.
Across California, more than 120 qualified Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRPs)—each sharing a core mission to advance meaningful employment for individuals with disabilities—offer a wide range of service capabilities to support both routine and specialized operational needs. These services commonly include facilities and janitorial services, landscaping and grounds maintenance, food service and catering, administrative and clerical support, and skilled trades or technical services. Individuals are matched to roles based on ability, readiness, and reliability—ensuring agencies receive consistent, professional service delivered by a trained and supported workforce.
The CA State Use Network helps agencies understand what services are available and which CRPs operate in their region. Because capabilities and scale vary by provider and location, agencies are encouraged to connect with CA State USe Network to explore local options and identify CRP partners that align with their contract goals and service requirements.
How it works
Identify Needs
Clarify priorities and service requirements to align contracts with compliance and community impact.
Explore CRP Service Capabilities
Discover local nonprofit providers and the services, expertise, and capacity they offer.
Define Scope and Pricing
Set clear expectations, performance standards, and fair, compliant pricing for every contract.
Agency Contract Review & Approval
Navigate internal review and approval with confidence, understanding all policy and procurement requirements.
Contract Execution, Service Delivery & Ongoing Support
Ensure reliable service delivery and lasting impact with trained workforces and ongoing guidance.
Ready to Begin?
Begin your State Use journey by scheduling a 30-minute online introductory training. This session provides a clear overview of the requirements, procurement pathways, and how to engage with qualified CRP providers—so your agency can move forward with understanding, compliance, and confidence.
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