HB 697 Summary

• District school boards must provide disability history and awareness instruction in all K-12 public schools during the first week of October each year, designated as "Disability History and Awareness Week."

• Instruction must be delivered by individuals certified in disability awareness or teachers who specialize in exceptional student education, with preference for individuals with disabilities as instructors.

• The Governor's Commission on Disabilities shall initiate a study by July 1, 2011 (conducted by a private nonprofit entity) to establish training standards, protocols, and curriculum for disability awareness instructors.

• Beginning July 1, 2012, the commission shall oversee a statewide certification program for disability awareness providers and instructors, including approval requirements, a maximum $200 application fee for providers, and a maximum $100 certification fee for individuals.

• The commission shall promote disability awareness training in all state public entities and encourage participation in activities that expand knowledge and understanding of individuals with disabilities and the disability rights movement.