The General Assembly finds that the benefits of meaningful work have significance and importance to all working-age individuals, including persons with disabilities, which shall include, but not be limited to, veterans with service-connected disabilities. All persons, including persons with disabilities, have a right to the opportunity for competitive employment. In order to achieve meaningful and competitive employment for persons with disabilities, employment opportunities in fully-integrated work settings shall be the first and priority option explored in the service planning for working-age persons with disabilities.