S.B. No. 58 amends the Education Code to improve policies and procedures for public school students with disabilities. The bill introduces new definitions, including "Parent" as per the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and clarifies "special services" to encompass both special education instruction and related services essential for students' educational benefit. It outlines the commissioner's responsibilities in ensuring compliance with federal transition service requirements and emphasizes the involvement of students, parents, and representatives in developing individualized education programs (IEPs).

The bill also addresses the appointment and rescission of educational representatives for students aged 18 and older or those whose disabilities of minority have been removed. It allows students to rescind their educational representative's appointment at any time, with provisions for their admission, review, and dismissal committee to document this if the student is unable to do so. Upon rescission, rights previously held by parents will transfer to the student, and the school district must notify the original appointing individual. The bill clarifies that a certification of a student's inability to provide informed consent does not imply incompetence for other legal purposes and establishes confidentiality for related documentation. It also includes the repeal of Section 29.017(f) of the Education Code and will take effect immediately upon a two-thirds vote or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 29.002, Education Code 29.011, Education Code 29.0162, Education Code 29.017 (Education Code 29)