The bill, S.B. No. 57, aims to enhance the safety of individuals with disabilities or impairments during mandatory school drills and emergency situations in Texas public schools. It introduces a new section, 29.0052, to the Education Code, which mandates that when developing or modifying an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a Section 504 plan, committees or teams must consider necessary accommodations for students with disabilities during such drills. The bill outlines the responsibilities of these committees or teams, including identifying disabilities that require accommodations and recommending specific measures to ensure safety. Additionally, it requires that this information be shared with school administrators responsible for emergency planning.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing provisions in the Education Code to ensure that school districts include specific guidelines for accommodating students with disabilities in their multihazard emergency operations plans. It emphasizes the need for equal access to safety during emergencies and mandates the Texas Education Agency to establish guidelines for these accommodations by December 1, 2025. The bill also includes a provision for immediate implementation if passed by a two-thirds majority, or it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 37.108, Education Code 37.1086 (Education Code 37)