Bill > SB244

This bill aims to improve diagnostic assessment services for students with disabilities in California's public higher education system. It revises existing law to expand the purpose and coverage of diagnostic assessments for learning disabilities, specifically requiring the California State University (CSU) system to cover the costs of these assessments for students receiving financial aid or eligible for assistance from the institution's health or disability center, starting July 1, 2027. The bill clarifies that these assessments can be conducted by the institution or an outside entity, and are intended to define specific disabilities and provide proof for academic accommodations. Notably, institutions will not be required to cover assessments already covered by a student's health insurance plan. The Student Aid Commission will oversee the reimbursement process, with state funds provided annually on an actual-cost basis. Each educational institution will be required to document its costs and publicly disclose on its website that these diagnostic assessment services will be covered for eligible students. The legislation aims to make diagnostic assessments more accessible and affordable for students with disabilities in California's public universities, removing potential financial barriers to understanding and addressing their specific educational needs.

Budget and Finance, Education, Government Affairs

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB244