The bill introduces the "Higher Education Opportunities for Students with Disabilities Act" to Title 16 of the General Laws, aiming to provide inclusive educational opportunities for students with disabilities, including those with severe intellectual disabilities, severe autism spectrum disorders, or other severe developmental disabilities. It specifies that students aged 18 to 21, and up to 22 in certain cases, who receive special education services, may participate in program options at state colleges and universities without meeting typical entrance criteria. The bill ensures that individual supports and services are available for inclusion in academic and extracurricular activities, but it does not mandate public institutions of higher education to cover the costs for these supports that exceed what is generally provided.

The bill also outlines that the costs associated with supporting participation in higher education for eligible students can be covered by federal funding, foundation education aid, or other sources. It includes provisions for students to return to public high school if necessary, with a proportional refund of foundation education aid to the sending district. State colleges and universities are required to report annually on the participation of individuals with disabilities, which will help in fostering constructive conversations and best practices between educational departments and institutions. The act is set to take effect upon passage.