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Bill

Bill

HB 1188

Relating to the provision of information regarding a local intellectual and developmental disability authority to the parents or guardians of certain special education students.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Jeff Barry and 18 co-sponsors

Texas schools must inform parents of special education students about local intellectual and developmental disability authority services during eligibility and annual meetings.

Effective immediately
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Bill Summary · HB 1188

Legislative bill overview

HB 1188 requires Texas school districts to provide parents and guardians of special education students with information about local intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) authorities and the services they offer. The bill mandates that this information be shared during initial special education eligibility meetings and annually thereafter, ensuring families are aware of available community resources.

Why is this important

Parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities often lack knowledge about support services available through local IDD authorities, which can provide residential services, employment support, and other critical resources. By requiring schools to inform families about these services, the bill aims to improve access to a comprehensive support network that can significantly enhance quality of life and independence for individuals with IDD.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation burden: School districts must develop, maintain, and distribute information materials about local IDD authorities, which requires administrative resources and staff training
  • Consistency and accuracy: Without state-mandated templates or oversight, information quality and comprehensiveness may vary significantly across districts, potentially creating disparities in family awareness
  • Timing and effectiveness: Providing information during meetings may overwhelm parents already processing special education decisions; effectiveness depends on how information is presented and whether families have capacity to engage with additional services

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

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