Bill > H1448

This bill aims to create comprehensive higher education opportunities for students with severe intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and other developmental disabilities by making several key changes to existing Massachusetts education laws. The legislation mandates that public higher education institutions provide inclusive opportunities for these students, including allowing them to enroll in credit-bearing and non-credit courses without traditional admission requirements like standardized test scores, high school diplomas, or minimum grade point averages. The bill requires public colleges to provide necessary supports, services, and accommodations to facilitate these students' participation in academic courses, extracurricular activities, internships, and other campus experiences. Additionally, the legislation directs the Board of Higher Education to develop strategies for inclusive dormitory living and requires the state to cover tuition and fee waivers for these students. For students ages 18-22, the bill expands educational options to include continuing education, skill development in independent living, job seeking, community service access, and medical self-management. The executive office of education is tasked with creating implementation guidelines by January 1, 2027, with the overarching goal of improving academic achievement, employment prospects, and independent living for students with developmental disabilities while enhancing the overall learning environment for all students.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H1448