The bill, S.B. No. 154, mandates that school districts in Texas implement screenings for pediatric feeding disorders in students eligible for special education services who exhibit feeding or swallowing concerns. It introduces a new section to the Education Code, Section 29.023, which defines pediatric feeding disorder and requires that students identified through screenings receive an individualized education program (IEP) that includes a safe feeding and swallowing plan. This plan must detail specific strategies to ensure adequate nutrition and hydration, taking into account the student's needs, dietary restrictions, and any necessary precautions.

Additionally, the bill amends the Health and Safety Code to establish screening requirements for pediatric feeding disorders and outlines the qualifications of professionals who may conduct these screenings. The new legal language specifies that screenings must be performed by a team of qualified individuals, including speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and other relevant professionals. The provisions of this bill will take effect starting with the 2025-2026 school year, and the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission is tasked with adopting necessary rules to implement these changes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 29.005, Health and Safety Code 36.004 (Health and Safety Code 36, Education Code 29)