Bill > HB1706

This bill introduces additional requirements for Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for children with autism or other pervasive developmental disorders in Texas. Specifically, the bill requires that admission, review, and dismissal committees (ARD committees) consider specific strategies identified by the commissioner of education that are based on peer-reviewed, research-based educational programming practices. At least seven days before an ARD committee meeting, school districts must provide parents with written information about these strategies. The committee must then evaluate each strategy and determine whether it is appropriate and practicable for the child's IEP. If a strategy is not included, the committee must provide a written explanation for its exclusion. Additionally, the bill mandates that if a parent is unable to speak English, the school district must provide the written information in Spanish or make a good faith effort to translate it into the parent's native language. These new requirements will be implemented starting in the 2025-2026 school year, with the act taking effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas legislature, or on September 1, 2025, if it does not.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1706