Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB88

Caption

Relating to a special education liaison program and the provision of certain special education services at public school districts.

Impact

The implementation of SB88 is expected to positively impact public schools in Texas by necessitating the hiring of special education liaisons who can enhance communication between educators, administrators, and families of students in special education programs. This initiative aims to streamline the IEP development process and ensure that educational services are delivered in a manner that complies with legal requirements. Furthermore, the bill explicitly directs the commissioner of education to allocate funds for this purpose, thus promoting the sustainability of special education support within districts.

Summary

Senate Bill 88 seeks to enhance special education services within public school districts by instituting a special education liaison program. The bill outlines the duties and responsibilities of special education liaisons who will be appointed to ensure compliance with both state and federal regulations regarding individualized education programs (IEPs). This initiative aims to provide better support for students with disabilities and their families by establishing a dedicated staff member in each district with specific expertise in managing IEPs and supporting educational staff.

Contention

While the bill is largely viewed as a step forward for special education services, some stakeholders may have concerns regarding funding allocation and the potential strain it could place on school district budgets. There could be debates around the effectiveness and sufficiency of the resources provided to ensure that liaisons perform their duties effectively. Additionally, the requirement for school districts to comply with this legislation may raise discussions about local flexibility in employing staff and the best approaches to meet diverse student needs.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB448

Relating to a special education liaison program and the provision of certain special education services at public school districts.

TX HB272

Relating to the terminology used to refer to certain disabilities and to an individualized education team for purposes of determining a student's eligibility for special education services and providing those services in public schools.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX SB1474

Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach or provide services related to special education.

TX HB3781

Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach special education.

TX HB5216

Relating to the behavioral management of a student enrolled in a special education program of a school district.

TX HB1369

Relating to a student's eligibility for special education services provided by a school district, including services for dyslexia and related disorders.

TX HB950

Relating to a student's eligibility for special education services provided by a school district, including services for dyslexia and related disorders.

TX SB2487

Relating to a student's eligibility for special education services provided by a school district, including services for dyslexia and related disorders.

Similar Bills

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MI SB0512

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CA AB1412

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OR HB2578

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