Bill > S0429

This bill amends South Carolina law to authorize private healthcare providers to conduct student evaluations and provide services in public schools during the school day, but only upon explicit parental or guardian request. The bill defines key terms like "private provider" (which includes professionals such as speech therapists, psychologists, social workers, and behavioral specialists) and "evaluator" (a licensed professional who can perform medical, behavioral, or therapeutic assessments). School boards cannot prohibit these evaluations or services, and the State Board of Education must develop a model policy by November 1, 2025, that school districts must adopt by January 1, 2026. The model policy must address several requirements, including background checks for providers, liability insurance, instructional time considerations, and documentation from parents. The policy must also align with federal disability laws like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Importantly, any instructional time missed due to these services must be forgiven and not require makeup work, and services can be provided during core subject classes if both the school district and provider agree it's in the student's best interest.

Education

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=0429&session=126&summary=B