DE HB21

Remove barriers for inmates with disabilities by allowing them to earn a State of Delaware Diploma of Alternate Achievement Standards instead of requiring a GED or high school diploma for parole or sentence modification consideration.

Inmates with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) who successfully complete their IEP requirements become eligible for parole or sentence modification, addressing the previous prohibition that only recognized traditional diplomas.

Establish the State of Delaware Diploma of Alternate Achievement Standards for inmates aged 18-21 with special education needs who meet their IEP requirements but cannot complete regular high school graduation credit requirements.

Maintain Department of Education responsibility for hiring and supervising teachers in prison education programs, with existing Department of Correction teachers allowed to transfer to Department of Education annually with permanent transfer rights.

Require Department of Education employees in Level 4 or Level 5 correctional facilities to submit to the same random drug testing procedures as Department of Correction employees.