SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6459

BYSenators Smith, Johnson and Lee

Authorizing the instruction of blind students on braille.

Senate Committee on Education

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 20, 1988; January 26, 1988

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Bailey, Chairman; Kiskaddon, Vice Chairman; Bender, Benitz, Craswell, Gaspard, Lee, Rinehart.

Senate Staff:Don Bennett (786-7424)

                  January 28, 1988

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION,  JANUARY 26, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The Education for All Handicapped Children Act of 1975 (PL 94-142) assures that all handicapped children have available to them a free, appropriate public education which emphasizes special education and related services designed to meet their unique needs.  The federal law is not mandatory, but states which receive federal funds under the act are obligated to comply with its terms.  Special education programs have been provided in Washington under the Education for All Act, enacted in 1971, which ensures that all handicapped children shall have the opportunity for an appropriate education at public expense as guaranteed to them by the Constitution of this state.

SUMMARY:

An appropriate education for visually impaired students who are legally blind includes instruction in braille.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested January 20, 1988

Senate Committee - Testified: Michael Freeman, National Federation of the Blind of Washington; Douglas Trimble, NFBW; Ruby Ryles, NFB Parents Division; Suzy Prows, NFBW