RELATING TO EDUCATION.

Eligibility criteria were expanded from 'eligible blind students' to 'eligible low vision or blind students', broadening the population the bill protects.

New definitions were added to clarify that 'Braille instructional materials' must be produced in braille and that 'Eligible low vision or blind student' refers to students with low vision or blindness who are eligible under existing special education laws.

The bill now requires that braille educational services be provided under either an IEP or Section 504 plan, with specific documentation requirements for when braille instruction or materials are deemed unnecessary.

New requirements mandate that assessments for low vision or blind students must evaluate their reading and writing abilities, needs, and appropriate media, including braille.

The Braille Literacy Resource Center's responsibilities were expanded to include advocating for services, obtaining materials with preference for in-state suppliers, and cooperating with the Department of Human Services.

The effective date was changed from an unspecified date to July 1, 2050, which appears to be a placeholder or error that should be reviewed.

The appropriation section was simplified to remove specific dollar amounts and instead authorize funding for the establishment and operation of the Braille Literacy Resource Center for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027.