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HR 99

URGING THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO SUPPORT ACADEMIC FLEXIBILITY AND EQUITY FOR STUDENTS WITH CHRONIC AND AUTOIMMUNE ILLNESSES.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sam Kong

Resolution urges federal education department to develop policies enabling academic flexibility and equity accommodations for students with chronic and autoimmune illnesses.

The committee on EDN recommend that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED. The votes were as follows: 6 Ayes: Representative(s) Woodson, La Chica, Amato, Evslin, Kapela, Olds; Ayes with reservations: none; Noes: none; and 4 Excused: Representative(s) Garrett, Kila, Muraoka, Souza.
#autoimmuneillnesses #chronicillnesses #departmentofeducation #support
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Bill Summary · HR 99

Legislative bill overview

HR 99 is a non-binding resolution urging the U.S. Department of Education to develop and promote policies supporting academic flexibility and equity for students with chronic and autoimmune illnesses. The bill advocates for accommodations that allow these students to maintain educational progress despite health challenges, such as flexible attendance policies, alternative learning formats, and medical leave provisions.

Why is this important

Students with chronic and autoimmune conditions often face barriers to consistent school attendance and academic participation, potentially leading to educational delays or dropout. Standardized policies addressing these needs could help ensure equitable educational access and reduce academic disparities for a significant student population managing complex health conditions.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal versus local control: Opponents may argue education policy should remain primarily a state and local responsibility rather than federal intervention through the Department of Education.
  • Definition and scope creep: Disagreement over which conditions qualify as "chronic and autoimmune illnesses" and how broadly accommodations should apply, potentially affecting resource allocation.
  • Implementation costs: Concerns about unfunded mandates requiring schools to develop new systems, staff training, and individualized accommodations without corresponding federal funding increases.

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

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