Texas Senate Bill SB1966

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/5/25

Caption

Relating to the provision of information regarding centers for independent living for certain persons with an intellectual or developmental disability.

Impact

By requiring schools to disseminate information about independent living centers, SB1966 seeks to improve the accessibility of essential services for families dealing with the challenges posed by intellectual or developmental disabilities. The Health and Human Services Commission is tasked with developing these informational materials, which will include a description of services offered and contact information for local centers. While this aims to increase awareness and empower parents, it also signifies a critical step towards creating a more inclusive educational environment for children with special needs.

Summary

SB1966 is a proposed legislation aimed at enhancing the support systems for individuals diagnosed with intellectual or developmental disabilities in Texas. The bill mandates that each school district and open-enrollment charter school provide informational materials about centers for independent living to the parents or legal guardians of children receiving special education services or covered under the federal Rehabilitation Act. This initiative is designed to ensure that parents are well-informed about the available resources that can aid their children’s growth and independence.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1966 may stem from the implementation and logistical aspects of providing these resources within the existing educational framework. Concerns may arise regarding the sufficiency of funding and resources to support the additional informational requirements for schools. Moreover, ensuring that the materials are comprehensible, current, and accessible in multiple languages could present challenges that advocates will need to address to achieve the bill's goals effectively.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 29. Educational Programs
  • Section: New Section

Health And Safety Code

• Chapter 161. Public Health Provisions
  • Section: New Section