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NJ S1994
Bill
Status
1/13/2026
Primary Sponsor
Holly Schepisi
Click for details
AI Summary
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Establishes the "Students with Communication Disabilities' Bill of Rights Act" in New Jersey, requiring school districts to recognize and support students with hearing, vision, or speech impairments.
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Mandates school districts provide appropriate screening, assessment, and early intervention for communication disabilities at the earliest possible age and throughout the educational experience.
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Requires school districts to provide trained assistants in each student's primary and preferred communication method, which may include augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems, American Sign Language, letter boards, or speech-generating devices.
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Requires communication plans to be included in students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Section 504 plans, focusing on the student's preferred communication method.
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Guarantees full access to all school programs including extracurricular activities, recess, lunch, and driver education, with the Department of Education providing technical assistance to districts.
Legislative Description
Establishes "Students with Communication Disabilities' Bill of Rights."
Education
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Education Committee
1/13/2026