Bill > SB139

This bill provides an exception from compulsory education for certain children with autism spectrum disorder who are six years old and entering school for the first time in Pennsylvania. Parents or guardians can request a one-year waiver from school attendance if their child has been clinically diagnosed with autism by a qualified medical professional, has been recently assessed and recommended for intensive early intervention services, and can provide proof of those services. The waiver allows the child to remain in early intervention programs instead of starting traditional schooling, while still maintaining the right to enroll in their school district at any time during the waiver period. The Department of Education will manage these waivers, notify the child's school district, and must issue implementation guidelines within 30 days of the bill's effective date. During the waiver period, the child will be considered an "eligible young child" for early intervention services, and at the end of the year, the parent can choose to enroll the child in kindergarten or first grade. Importantly, parents will not be eligible for compensatory education during the waiver period, and the waiver applies specifically to the 2025-2026 school year and onward.

Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=139