This bill amends the Public School Code of 1949 to provide an exception from compulsory education for certain children with disabilities, specifically those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, parents or guardians of children who are six years old and required to attend school for the first time may request a waiver from compulsory attendance if specific criteria are met. These criteria include a clinical diagnosis of autism by a qualified professional, a recent assessment recommending continued early intervention services, and proof that such services will be provided during the waiver period.

If the waiver request is approved by the department, it will be valid for up to one year, during which the child will be considered an "eligible young child" under the Early Intervention Services System Act. Parents retain the right to enroll their child in the school district at any time during the waiver period but will not be eligible for compensatory education for the time the child is not enrolled. The department is also tasked with issuing guidelines to implement this new provision within thirty days of the bill's effective date.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 85 (Jan 22, 2025): P.L.30, No.14
Printer's No. 0085: P.L.30, No.14