HI HB620

Establishes braille literacy as a state policy and requires Section 504 plans and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students with low vision or blindness to include assessments of braille reading and writing needs

Mandates that braille instructional materials be provided to eligible students at the same time print materials are distributed to other students, with substitute materials required if originals are unavailable

Creates the Braille Literacy Resource Center within the Department of Education to advocate for braille services, obtain instructional materials, and provide information to parents and students about braille literacy options

Requires IEP or Section 504 teams to document specific supporting evidence if they determine braille instruction is not appropriate for a student, including visual functioning assessments and evaluation of current and future braille needs

Appropriates an unspecified sum from general revenues for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to establish and operate the Braille Literacy Resource Center, with an effective date of July 1, 2050