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Bill > HB2219
VA HB2219
VA HB2219Students who need or use augmentative and alternative communication; documentation of needs.
summary
Introduced
01/07/2025
01/07/2025
In Committee
02/13/2025
02/13/2025
Crossed Over
02/19/2025
02/19/2025
Passed
03/07/2025
03/07/2025
Dead
Signed/Enacted/Adopted
03/24/2025
03/24/2025
Introduced Session
Potential new amendment
2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Students who need or use augmentative and alternative communication; documentation of needs on individualized education program; staff training. Requires each school division to document on the individualized education program of a student with a disability who needs or uses augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) such student's AAC and communication access and support needs prior to the provision of instruction or support to such student, including any extended school year period. The bill defines AAC as any method or tool other than oral speech that an individual uses to communicate, including gestures, facial expressions, writing, and speech-generating devices. The bill also requires each school division to provide to each employee or contractor who provides instruction or direct support to a student with a disability who needs or uses an AAC individualized training as an assistive technology to support the student's use of AAC and to ensure that access to curricula and instruction is designed or adapted as necessary to accommodate the student's unique communication access needs. The bill also establishes a timeline for such training based on certain circumstances. This bill is identical to SB 1034.
AI Summary
This bill requires school divisions in Virginia to document the augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) needs of students with disabilities on their individualized education programs (IEPs). AAC refers to any communication method other than oral speech, such as gestures, facial expressions, writing, or speech-generating devices. The bill mandates that schools identify and record a student's specific communication access and support needs before providing instruction or support, including during extended school year periods. Additionally, the bill requires schools to provide individualized training to employees or contractors who work directly with AAC students, ensuring they understand how to support the student's communication methods and adapt curricula to accommodate their unique communication needs. The training must occur before the school year starts if the staff member is known in advance, or as soon as possible if the student enrolls mid-year, transfers to a new school or classroom, or when a new staff member joins the student's educational setting. This legislation aims to improve educational support and communication access for students who rely on alternative communication methods.
Committee Categories
Education, Health and Social Services
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0453) (on 03/24/2025)
Official Document
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