Senate passes higher ed bill to aid students with disabilities
Photo | Grant Welker
Framingham State University
Young adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities would gain new opportunities to participate in public college programs under a bill the Senate approved Tuesday, a step that supporters say will boost inclusion and will help participants acquire important life skills.
The bill (S 2844), which sailed through on a 39-0 vote, would make programs that some schools in Massachusetts already offer a permanent requirement in state law. Under the bill, all public higher education institutions would need to offer ways for individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders or developmental disabilities to participate in programs that provide academic, career and independent living skills alongside students who do not have disabilities.
Students with disabilities could access courses without first needing to take a standardized test or meeting a similar entrance requirement, and those who are between 18 and 21 could have the costs of doing so covered by a local school committee if higher education is part of their individualized education program.
"This bill makes a strong statement that we are dedicated to the inclusion of individuals with disabilities on our college and university campuses and as participating members of our commonwealth," said Sen. Michael Rodrigues, chair of the Senate Ways and Means Committee.
Rodrigues said a Massachusetts grant program in place since 2007 has helped 1,200 students with disabilities access higher education alongside their public school resources. The legislation would expand that program as a part of statute.
The bill, which now moves to the House, advanced days after the 30th anniversary of Americans with Disabilities Act.
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