BILL ANALYSIS
By: Zaffirini
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
In the past 10 years, the number of students diagnosed with autism or autism-related disorders has risen dramatically in Texas. Reports show that there were approximately 16,799 students with autism or autism-related disorders in Texas public schools during the 2005-2006 school year. It is important for school districts to have access to the most current and accurate information concerning the best teaching and assistance methods that are used to help students with autism.
This bill requires an online clearinghouse maintained by the Texas Education Agency to include certain information as it relates to instruction of students with autism and autism-related disorders.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.
ANALYSIS
The bill provides that the online clearinghouse established under Section 7.009, Education Code, must include information relating to research-based programs and best practices of campuses and school districts regarding the instruction of students with autism and autism-related disorders. The Texas Education Agency shall facilitate any necessary technical assistance to a school district in implementing such a research-based program.
EFFECTIVE DATE
September 1, 2007.