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H 646

An Act relative to neurodiversity education

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul McMurtry

Bill H 646 enhances K-12 neurodiversity education in Massachusetts, ensuring tailored support for neurodiverse students and resources for educators and districts.

Accompanied a new draft, see H5285
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Bill Summary · H 646

Summary of Bill H 646: An Act Relative to Neurodiversity Education

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 646 aims to enhance neurodiversity education within the K-12 public school system in Massachusetts. The bill seeks to promote understanding and support for neurodiverse students, ensuring that educational practices are inclusive and tailored to meet diverse learning needs.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following significant changes:

  1. Guidelines for Neurodiversity Education:

    • The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), in collaboration with the Department of Early Education and Care, will develop and issue guidelines to assist school districts in creating K-12 educational programs focused on neurodiversity. This initiative is subject to available funding.

  2. Establishment of a Commission:

    • A commission will be formed to study and provide recommendations on neurodiversity education across early childhood, elementary, and secondary public education.
    • The commission will consist of nine members, including:
      • The Secretary of Health and Human Services (or a designee) as chair.
      • One member from the House of Representatives, appointed by the Speaker.
      • One member from the Senate, appointed by the Senate President.
      • Three members appointed by the Governor, including:
      • Two neurodiverse adults.
      • One representative from the DESE.
      • One representative from the Department of Early Education and Care.
      • One representative from the Massachusetts Teachers Association.
    • The commission is tasked with reporting its findings and recommendations to the Governor and the clerks of both legislative chambers within four months of the bill's effective date.

Affected Parties

  • Students: The primary beneficiaries will be neurodiverse students who will receive tailored educational support.
  • Educators: Teachers and educational staff will gain access to resources and guidelines to better support neurodiverse learners.
  • School Districts: Districts will be required to implement the guidelines and adapt their curricula accordingly.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 27, 2025, and has been referred to the Committee on Education.
  • A hearing is scheduled for November 18, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in room B-1, where stakeholders can discuss the bill and its implications.

Related Legislation

  • This bill replaces House Docket No. 1747, which was a similar matter filed in the previous legislative session (2023-2024).

By establishing a framework for neurodiversity education, Bill H 646 aims to foster an inclusive educational environment that recognizes and supports the unique needs of all students in Massachusetts.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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