House Bill No. 466 aims to improve the policies and procedures for public school students with disabilities in Texas by amending various sections of the Education Code. The bill introduces new definitions, such as aligning the definition of "parent" with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and expanding "special services" to encompass both special education instruction and related services. It also outlines the responsibilities of school districts to provide information about guardianship and alternatives, like supported decision-making agreements, as students approach adulthood. Furthermore, the bill establishes a new section for appointing educational representatives for students aged 18 and older, detailing the criteria for certifying a student's inability to provide informed consent and the qualifications required for professionals making such determinations.

Additionally, the bill allows students who have not been deemed incompetent to rescind the appointment of their educational representative at any time, ensuring that all rights previously held by parents transfer to the student upon rescission. It 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. The bill also permits the appointment of a guardian under the Estates Code, even if an educational representative is designated, and tasks the commissioner with developing model forms for certifications while ensuring compliance with federal privacy laws. Lastly, it repeals Section 29.017(f) of the Education Code and specifies that the bill's effective date is contingent on legislative approval.

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