SC H4468

Requires each South Carolina school district and charter school authorizer to establish a Local Advisory Council for Educating Students with Disabilities, appointed by the respective governing body.

Council membership must include at least 51% parents or guardians of students with disabilities, plus one student with a disability, one school administrator, one special education representative, and two special education teachers (one K-8, one 9-12).

Councils must meet at least four times annually and provide an annual report to their governing body and the state Advisory Council for Educating Students with Disabilities (ACESD).

Council functions include advising on needs and safety of students with disabilities, commenting on improvement plans and compliance with state and federal laws, and advocating for students and families.

Implementation timeline requires ACESD to create model bylaws by December 1, 2026; local councils must submit proposed bylaws by May 1, 2027; and first council meetings must occur before September 1, 2027.