IL HB0836

Amends Section 14-8.02 of the School Code regarding identification, evaluation, and placement of children with disabilities in special education programs.

Changes the timeline for eligibility determination and Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings from 60 school days to 60 calendar days from the date of written parental consent.

Requires that when written parental consent is obtained with fewer than 60 calendar days remaining in the school year, the eligibility determination and IEP meeting must be completed before the first day of the following school year.

Adds requirements for IEP teams to consider specific factors for students with autism spectrum disorders, including communication needs, social interaction skills, sensory responses, behavioral interventions, and other disability-related impacts on curriculum progress.

Establishes presumption that Braille reading and writing instruction is essential for functionally blind students' educational progress and requires assessment of Braille skills in their IEP development.