California Assembly Bill AB1172

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/19
• Refer: 3/25/19
• Report Pass: 3/26/19
• Refer: 3/27/19
• Report Pass: 4/22/19
• Refer: 4/23/19
• Report Pass: 4/25/19
• Refer: 4/30/19
• Refer: 5/8/19
• Report Pass: 5/16/19
• Engrossed: 5/29/19
• Refer: 5/30/19
• Refer: 6/12/19
• Report Pass: 6/24/19
• Refer: 6/24/19
• Report Pass: 7/3/19
• Refer: 7/3/19
• Refer: 8/12/19
• Report Pass: 8/30/19
• Enrolled: 9/9/19
• Chaptered: 10/2/19
• Passed: 10/2/19

Caption

Special education: nonpublic, nonsectarian schools or agencies.

Impact

The bill modifies the existing framework for how special education services are provided in California, emphasizing greater accountability and oversight for nonpublic schools. It requires these institutions to provide documentation on training their staff undergo and ensures they follow proper protocols for pupil behavior management. Additionally, local agencies must conduct onsite visits and monitor compliance with safety protocols, enhancing student protection.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 1172, introduced by Assemblyman Frazier, amends provisions within the Education Code, particularly related to the certification and operational requirements for nonpublic, nonsectarian schools or agencies providing special education services to students with exceptional needs. The bill mandates that local educational agencies pay the full tuition for individuals with exceptional needs enrolled in these institutions and reinforces the need for comprehensive certification standards for such nonpublic schools.

Sentiment

The sentiment around AB 1172 appears largely positive, as it is aimed at improving the standards and safety of educational environments for vulnerable student populations. Supporters argue that these measures are necessary to ensure that nonpublic schools maintain quality standards and protect the welfare of pupils during school hours. Some concerns revolve around the administrative burden it may place on local agencies and the nonpublic schools themselves, as the new requirements may be seen as complex and challenging to implement.

Contention

Key points of contention include the implications of the bill on the operational dynamics of nonpublic schools and the potential for increased scrutiny of their practices. There are fears that the enhanced oversight and certification requirements could strain resources for these institutions, particularly smaller ones that may struggle to meet the new stipulations. The bill's requirement for immediate notification of any incidents involving law enforcement also raises questions about privacy and the handling of sensitive situations, potentially impacting the trust between students, staff, and school authorities.