Bill > HB725

This bill amends the Public School Code of 1949 to extend special education enrollment options for students impacted by COVID-19, allowing students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) to potentially remain in school beyond the typical age limit through the 2035-2036 school year. Specifically, the bill permits students who were continuously enrolled since the 2020-2021 school year, have not graduated high school, and had an active IEP when they turned 21 to seek additional enrollment through the school year in which they reach 22 years old. To do so, parents or guardians must submit a standard election form to the Department of Education by April 1 of the year the student turns 21, with the Secretary of Education then having 30 days to approve or deny the application. For approved students, the school entity must include their attendance in average daily membership, comply with special education regulations, and count these students toward caseload limitations. The bill aims to provide additional educational support for students whose learning may have been disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic by offering this extended enrollment opportunity.

Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=725