Representative Wayne Burton (D-NH) has proposed a bill to expand support for students with developmental disabilities into higher education, including funding and inclusive programming, effective January 1, 2027.
Colleges must demonstrate a commitment to inclusion and receive $100,000 grants from the NH Department of Education, with 25% earmarked for scholarships for developmentally disabled students.
Students with developmental disabilities often lose legal educational protections after high school, as IEPs and 504 plans are not binding in colleges, requiring them to self-advocate under the ADA.
Programs like UNH-4U and its virtual counterpart, Bridges, serve as models by providing residential, academic, and life skill supports for students aged 18-25 with intellectual disabilities.
Burton’s proposed legislation includes progress reporting requirements and is built on years of advocacy and collaboration with experts to ensure equal opportunity and support for these students in post-secondary education.
Comments