A bill for an act relating to student resources for the submission of applications for home and community-based services waivers by the parents or guardians of students enrolled in school districts, accredited nonpublic schools, charter schools, or innovation zone schools.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Megan Jones

HF 121 enhances support for parents seeking home and community-based services waivers, improving access for students with disabilities through educational resources.

Introduced, referred to Education.

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Bill Information

Bill Number: HF 121

Title: A bill for an act relating to student resources for the submission of applications for home and community-based services waivers by the parents or guardians of students enrolled in school districts, accredited nonpublic schools, charter schools, or innovation zone schools.

Status: Introduced, referred to Education

Introduced Date: January 27, 2025

Classification: Bill

Subject Areas: Charter Schools, Innovation Zone Schools, Private Education, Public Assistance, School Districts, Students

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HF 121 is to enhance the support available to parents and guardians of students who are seeking home and community-based services waivers. These waivers are part of Medicaid programs designed to help individuals receive necessary services while remaining in their homes or communities, rather than in institutional settings. The bill aims to facilitate the application process for these waivers by providing necessary resources through educational institutions.

Key Provisions

Resource Development and Distribution:

The bill mandates the Director of the Department of Education to develop and distribute resources to:
- School districts
- Accredited nonpublic schools
- Charter schools
- Innovation zone schools
- Area education agencies
These resources will assist school employees in providing testing services to students, which will help parents or guardians in submitting applications for home and community-based services waivers.

Testing Services:

The bill allows area education agencies to furnish testing services to students enrolled in both public and nonpublic schools that are accredited. This is aimed at supporting the application process for home and community-based services waivers.

Impact

Affected Parties:

The bill will primarily benefit:
Parents and guardians of students enrolled in various educational institutions who are seeking home and community-based services.
Students who may require these services to remain in their home environments.
Educational institutions that will receive guidance and resources to assist in this process.

Broader Implications:

By streamlining the application process for home and community-based services waivers, the bill aims to improve access to essential services for students with disabilities or special needs, thereby promoting their ability to remain in community settings.

Procedural Aspects

The bill was introduced on January 27, 2025, and has been referred to the Education Committee for further consideration. The timeline for subsequent actions or votes has not yet been established.

This summary provides an overview of HF 121, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on students and their families within the educational system.

Bill