Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB673

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to transition and employment services for public school students enrolled in special education programs.

Impact

The enactment of HB 673 will significantly amend the Texas Education Code, specifically pertaining to transition planning within special education. It establishes a framework where each school district must appoint a designated employee responsible for overseeing transition and employment services. The bill also emphasizes the collaboration between local school staff and various state agencies to ensure a comprehensive support system is in place. Additionally, it introduces a requirement for a transition and employment guide, which will be provided to students and their parents to navigate available services effectively.

Summary

House Bill 673 focuses on enhancing transition and employment services for students enrolled in special education programs within Texas public schools. The bill mandates the Texas Education Agency to adopt procedures that comply with federal requirements, ensuring that students receive the necessary support as they transition from school to adult life. This includes considering various factors in the Individualized Education Program (IEP), such as employment goals, independent living objectives, and postsecondary education options, tailored to individual student needs.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 673 is largely positive, reflecting a strong support for enhanced services for students in special education. Advocates argue that the bill is a crucial step towards preparing these students for higher independence and success beyond their school years. However, critics may raise concerns over the implementation challenges and sufficient funding for such services, highlighting the need for effective resource allocation to realize the bill's objectives.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 673 include the adequacy of resources to effectively execute the mandated guidelines. Critics could express worries that without sufficient training for designated employees within school districts, the objectives outlined in the bill may not be met. Additionally, there may be discussions surrounding the balance between governmental oversight and local autonomy in addressing the unique needs of special education students, ensuring that individual districts can tailor their approach to best support their students.

Companion Bills

TX SB37

Identical Relating to transition and employment services for public school students enrolled in special education programs.

Previously Filed As

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 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 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 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 SB1539

Relating to the terminology used to refer to an individualized education program team.

TX HB133

Relating to prohibiting the use of certain restraints on students enrolled in public schools who receive special education services.

TX SB1610

Relating to prohibiting the use of certain restraints on students enrolled in public schools who receive special education services.

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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.