Texas Senate Bill SB661

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the establishment of the Building Better Futures Program to support educational and occupational skills training opportunities and support services for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at public and private institutions of higher education.

Impact

This bill will amend the Education Code to introduce a new framework within which eligible institutions can operate. Institutions must be approved or awaiting approval from the U.S. Department of Education to participate in the program. They will deliver specialized programs designed to meet the unique needs of students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, which will enhance accessibility and inclusivity within higher education. Notably, students who successfully complete the program will receive a certificate, even though the credits earned will not count toward traditional degree programs.

Summary

SB661 establishes the Building Better Futures Program aimed at providing educational and occupational skills training opportunities and support services for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at public and private institutions of higher education. The program seeks to create an inclusive learning environment where students can thrive in both academic and work settings. It emphasizes the need for educational institutions to facilitate access and opportunities for these students while maintaining high standards of support and training.

Contention

While the intention behind SB661 is to support a marginalized group, there may be discussions around funding, implementation, and the balance of inclusivity and academic rigor. Institutions will need to develop selective admissions processes and adapt their curriculum, which might raise concerns about the adequacy of resources and the pressure this might place on existing educational frameworks. Critics could argue about the sustainability of the program and the potential for it to divert existing educational funds, thus intensifying existing debates about resource allocation within public education.