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. It outlines the commissioner's responsibilities in ensuring compliance with federal transition service requirements and emphasizes the importance of involving students, parents, and representatives in the transition planning process. Additionally, the bill establishes criteria for appointing educational representatives for students aged 18 and older, detailing their rights and responsibilities while ensuring that students can rescind these appointments at any time.

The legislation also clarifies that a certification of a student's inability to provide informed consent does not imply incompetence for other legal matters. It mandates confidentiality for documentation related to educational representatives and allows for the appointment of a guardian under the Estates Code, even if an educational representative is designated. The bill repeals Section 29.017(f) of the Education Code and requires the commissioner to develop model forms for certifications and adopt rules to comply with federal privacy laws. The bill will take effect immediately upon a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if such a 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)