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NJ S1994

Bill

Status

Introduced

1/13/2026

Primary Sponsor

Holly Schepisi

Click for details

Origin

Senate

2026-2027 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • 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.

  • Mandates school districts provide appropriate screening, assessment, and early intervention for communication disabilities at the earliest possible age and throughout the educational experience.

  • 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.

  • Requires communication plans to be included in students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Section 504 plans, focusing on the student's preferred communication method.

  • 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

Committee Referrals

Education1/13/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available