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Committee reports bill extending special-education services through end of school year a student turns 22
Summary
Substitute Senate Bill 5,253, which requires special education and related services be provided through the end of the school year in which a student turns 22 (or until high school graduation, if earlier) and directs agencies to update transition planning, was reported out of committee (18-0, 1 excused).
The House Education Committee voted to report Substitute Senate Bill 5,253 with a do-pass recommendation by voice vote (18-0, 1 excused).
The bill requires that special education and related services for students with disabilities be provided through the end of the school year in which a student turns 22 or until high school graduation, whichever occurs first. It also directs the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction and other state agencies working with individuals with disabilities to collaborate to update a plan to improve transition-planning activities for students likely to become eligible for Developmental Disabilities Administration services, with a completion date noted in the bill (10/30/2026), staff said.
Megan, staff member, summarized the bill: “This bill requires that special education and related services for students with disabilities be provided to the end of the school year in which a student turns 22 or high school graduation, whichever occurs first. And it directs the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction and other state agencies working with individuals with disabilities to collaborate to update a plan to improve transition planning activities for students likely to become eligible Developmental Disabilities Administration by 10/30/2026.”
Representative Pollet urged a yes vote and referenced a court decision (referred to in committee comments as “MD v. Reykdal”) recognizing the state’s obligation to provide special education services to adults; Representative Couture noted fiscal considerations but supported the measure. Committee members emphasized fairness for students with disabilities and the need for careful implementation.
Ending: The committee reported Substitute Senate Bill 5,253 with a do-pass recommendation (18 ayes, 0 nays, 1 excused).
