The proposed bill establishes the "Higher Education Opportunities for Students with Disabilities Act," which aims to provide inclusive educational opportunities for students with disabilities, specifically those aged eighteen to twenty-one, and up to twenty-two in certain cases. The act allows these students to audit and attend state colleges and universities, including options for continuing education, participation in credit and noncredit courses, and the development of independent living and employment skills. It emphasizes the importance of inclusive educational environments and ensures that participation in higher education is considered an approved expense as a special education service.

The bill outlines specific program requirements to facilitate the inclusion of students with severe intellectual disabilities, severe autism spectrum disorders, and other severe developmental disabilities in higher education. It removes barriers such as the need for standardized college entrance tests, high school diplomas, minimum academic course requirements, and minimum grade point average requirements for participation.

Additionally, the act provides that public institutions of higher education shall not be required to bear the costs of individual supports and services that exceed what is generally provided, and it allows for the return of foundation education aid to the sending district if a student returns to high school after attending college.

The act mandates annual reporting from state colleges and universities on the participation of individuals with disabilities, detailing demographics, courses taken, extracurricular activities, and employment outcomes, to ensure accountability and continuous improvement in supporting these students. The act will take effect upon passage.