SB 819, signed into law on July 13, 2023, represents a significant transformation in the structure of Abbreviated School Day Program Placements for students with disabilities in Oregon. This law repeals ORS 343.161 and establishes a new framework, emphasizing meaningful access, updated definitions, informed consent, regular meetings, and increased accountability.
Key Highlights of SB 819
- Meaningful Access: Students with disabilities must have access to the same number of instructional hours as other students in their resident school district.
- Updated Definitions: The bill broadens the scope of comparison for instructional hours and updates the definition of “student with a disability.”
- Informed and Written Parent Consent: Schools must obtain consent from parents or foster parents before placing a student on an abbreviated school day program.
- Regular IEP/504 Meetings: Regular meetings are mandated within specific timelines to review the student’s placement.
Increased Accountability and Enforcement: ODE has the authority to investigate complaints and withhold funding from noncompliant districts.