Bill > S1340

This bill modifies existing Florida law regarding student assessment and support, specifically focusing on the identification and intervention for students exhibiting characteristics of dyslexia or dyscalculia, which are learning disorders affecting reading and math skills, respectively. If a school's screening system, or a district-approved tool, indicates a student might have dyslexia or dyscalculia, the school district must ensure the student receives evidence-based interventions tailored to these specific needs, aligned with existing reading and math support requirements. Furthermore, such a screening result is considered sufficient reason to suspect the student may have a disability, prompting the district to seek parental consent for an initial evaluation for special education services, in accordance with state and federal laws. Importantly, these screening and intervention activities must happen concurrently with the evaluation process and cannot be used to delay or deny a proper evaluation. The bill also expands the requirements for the statewide coordinated screening and progress monitoring system, mandating that if a student's performance within this system meets certain thresholds set by the State Board of Education, even if the system itself doesn't explicitly identify dyslexia or dyscalculia, the student must undergo further screening. This additional screening is intended to refine instructional planning and communication with parents, and it does not replace or delay the interventions or evaluation obligations already outlined. The State Board of Education will be responsible for establishing rules for this further screening, including timelines, performance benchmarks, and parental notification procedures, ensuring these activities also occur alongside interventions and evaluations without causing delays. This act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/1340