Bill > H0615

This bill aims to improve the process for students with exceptional needs by establishing clearer timelines and procedures for Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), which are tailored educational plans for students requiring special instruction or services. Specifically, it mandates that school districts must complete initial evaluations to determine IEP eligibility within 60 days of parental consent and convene an IEP team meeting within 30 days of eligibility determination. The bill also requires that if a scheduled related service, which is a support service like speech therapy or occupational therapy, is not provided, school personnel must notify parents in writing within five school days, explain the reason, and provide a plan for making up the service. Furthermore, parents will have the right to access service logs, which document the provision of these services, within 15 school days of their provision, and the IEP team must inform parents of this right. For students newly identified as eligible for exceptional student education services, school districts must provide an individualized orientation to parents covering their rights, responsibilities, and how to access service logs and file complaints, with a signed acknowledgment of receipt required. The bill also requires school districts to develop standardized service logs for related services and mandates an effective date of July 1, 2026.

Education

Education Administration Subcommittee (House), Student Academic Success Subcommittee (House)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/615