The Special Education for Young Adults in the Custody of the Department of Corrections Emergency Amendment Act of 2026 amends existing laws to designate the Department of Corrections as the agency responsible for providing a free appropriate public education (FAPE) to individuals with disabilities who are in its custody and detained in secure facilities. This provision specifically applies to individuals aged 18 and older during the school years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, ensuring compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and relevant District laws.

The bill includes several amendments to existing legal language, such as redesignating and modifying paragraphs within the Department of Corrections Act and the Corrections Oversight Improvement Omnibus Amendment Act of 2022. Notably, it adds a new paragraph that explicitly mandates the provision of FAPE to eligible individuals in custody, thereby enhancing educational opportunities for this population. The act will take effect upon approval by the Mayor and is intended to remain in effect for no longer than 90 days.