Bill > SB2055

This bill requires Local Education Agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools in Tennessee to allow private pay providers, such as licensed behavior analysts or assistant behavior analysts, to access students with autism spectrum disorder or developmental delays during the school day to provide private pay services, which are specialized therapies like applied behavior analysis. These services must be integrated into the student's educational setting, including classrooms, as outlined in their Individualized Education Program (IEP) or service agreement, and require written consent from the parent or guardian, who also has the right to choose the provider. The bill clarifies that schools are not responsible for the costs of these private services unless otherwise agreed upon or mandated by an IEP, and it prohibits schools from charging fees or creating barriers for these providers, discriminating against students receiving these services, or retaliating against those involved. The Department of Education will develop guidelines to help implement these provisions, and any disputes will be resolved by an impartial hearing officer.

Education

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB2055&ga=114