Texas Senate Bill SB1301

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the accessibility of services for certain students with autism or autism spectrum disorder.

Impact

The bill aims to provide greater flexibility and accessibility for families of children with autism, allowing them to choose educational settings that best meet their child's needs. Each eligible student can continue participating in this program until they either graduate from high school or turn 22 years old. The responsibility falls on school districts to notify parents about this program annually, facilitating a better-informed educational environment for students with special needs.

Summary

SB1301 establishes the Autism Services Accessibility Program, designed to improve access to educational services for students diagnosed with autism or autism spectrum disorder. The bill amends the Education Code by adding a new subchapter that outlines the eligibility criteria for participation in the program, which includes students who are eligible for public school services, have a diagnosis of autism or autism spectrum disorder, and have an individualized education program in place. Parents are empowered with the choice to enroll their children in any public school within the district or attend a qualifying community-based educational establishment under the guidelines set in the legislation.

Contention

One of the notable points regarding SB1301 is its emphasis on diminishing the bureaucratic barriers that often impede access to necessary educational services. Critics may argue that qualifying schools should meet stringent criteria to ensure quality and compliance with special education laws. The implications of funding transfers between school districts based on student enrollment add a layer of complexity; it will require careful monitoring to ensure that the funding structure does not disadvantage any particular school district and that the quality of education is maintained across both public and qualifying schools.