The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5259, aims to enhance the educational rights of homeless children and youth in Connecticut. It amends subsection (f) of section 10-253 of the general statutes by repealing the existing language and substituting it with new provisions that align with federal law, specifically 42 USC 11431, et seq., revised to December 23, 2022. The bill ensures that educational services are provided to homeless children and youth by local and regional boards of education, and it establishes that if these students are denied school accommodations based on residency, they are entitled to a hearing under section 10-186. Additionally, unaccompanied youth will have the right to access their educational, medical, and similar records maintained by the school board.

The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, and its purpose is to codify the rights related to school district choice, transportation, notice, and appeal processes for students experiencing homelessness and their guardians. The legislation reflects a commitment to ensuring that homeless students receive the educational support they need, while also providing them with avenues for recourse if their rights are violated.