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HB 469

Autism Competencies Checklist; positive behavior support facilitators, training.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Laura Jane Cohen and 1 co-sponsor

Virginia bill establishes autism competency standards and training requirements for school-based positive behavior support facilitators to improve support quality for autistic students.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0150)
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Bill Summary · HB 469

Legislative bill overview

HB 469 establishes autism competencies standards and training requirements for positive behavior support (PBS) facilitators in Virginia schools. The bill creates a checklist of competencies that PBS facilitators must demonstrate to ensure they have adequate knowledge and skills when working with autistic students. This represents a formalization of professional standards in a specialized educational support role.

Why is this important

As autism identification rates increase, schools employ more behavior support staff to work with autistic students. Without standardized competency requirements, the quality and consistency of support can vary significantly. Establishing clear training standards helps ensure autistic students receive evidence-based, culturally competent support and reduces the risk of ineffective or potentially harmful interventions based on outdated or incorrect understanding of autism.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: School districts may face expenses for training existing staff and hiring qualified personnel who meet new competency standards, potentially straining special education budgets
  • Definition of competencies: Disagreement over which specific competencies are essential; different stakeholders (educators, autism advocates, parents, behavior analysts) may prioritize different skills or philosophical approaches
  • Credential requirements: Unclear whether the bill requires formal credentials (like BCBA certification) or allows alternative pathways, which could affect workforce availability and equity of access across districts

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

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