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Landscaper laying sod at a state facility

About CASUP

A Trusted, Policy-Backed Path to Inclusive Procurement
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The CA State Use Program

The California State Use Program (CASUP) 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, the program 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.

CASUP exists to ensure this process is understood, accessible, and applied with confidence. As the only program 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.

Desert Arc landscaper employed under a State Use contract
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Working with Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRPs)

Professional Services Through Mission-Driven Nonprofit Partners

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.

CASUP 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 CASUP to explore local options and identify CRP partners that align with their contract goals and service requirements.

The CASUP Process

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 program requirements, procurement pathways, and how to engage with qualified CRP providers—so your agency can move forward with understanding, compliance, and confidence.

Desert Arc PR Event celebrating State Use contract
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