The bill amends existing laws to enhance support for public school students who are deaf or hard of hearing. It mandates that school districts provide parents of these children with comprehensive, unbiased information regarding hearing technology, communication methods, and available services. Additionally, parents are empowered to choose the communication method they believe is best for their child, and the school district is required to deliver services through professionals trained in that chosen method. The bill also stipulates that parents must be informed of their rights and the school district's responsibilities in relation to their child's education.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a centralized program for deaf students, which may be operated by a school district under an agreement with the state department. This program is required to provide residential services as part of its educational offerings. School districts that operate the program must submit an annual plan of operations for approval and maintain their responsibilities for special education, including transportation for students residing within the district. The state department will provide funding to school districts that operate this program for the students enrolled.

Statutes affected:
SB0008A, AM SB 8, introduced 01/10/2025: 14.30.272, 14.30.276
SB0008B, AM CSSB 8(EDC), introduced 05/07/2025: 14.30.272, 14.30.276