Special Needs Voucher Expansion Bill Awaits Gov. Kemp’s Signature

Senate Bill 47, which would expand Georgia’s special needs voucher program, is on its way to Gov. Brian Kemp’s desk for his signature. The bill was heavily debated before state House members gave it final approval this week.

Increasing Eligibility

Georgia’s current special needs voucher program lets students who have Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) use state money to pay for private school tuition. Students with IEPs are typically diagnosed with one of 13 disabilities outlined in federal law. SB 47 would also let students with education plans under Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act take advantage of the program. Students with 504 plans typically need some kind of accommodation, although they may not have a disability. SB 47 would require the state board of education to list conditions students with 504 plans could have in order to qualify for the voucher. They include intellectual disabilities, bipolar disorder, and drug and alcohol abuse.

“For the vast majority of students with special needs, 97-98 percent will best be served by their public school system,” said Sen. Steve Gooch (R-Dahlonega), one of the bill’s sponsors. “This scholarship provides opportunities when they are not getting what they need.”