An Act creating higher education opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and other developmental disabilities

HD 3984 creates new opportunities for students with severe intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and other developmental disabilities to access public higher education in Massachusetts. The bill allows these students to enroll in credit and noncredit courses at public colleges alongside typically developing peers, without needing standardized tests, high school diplomas, or meeting academic prerequisites. It mandates state-funded tuition and fee waivers (not institution-funded) and requires schools to provide necessary supports for inclusion in academic courses, activities, and dorm life. The law also establishes new guidelines for inclusive programming and ensures these students receive a free public education within higher education settings.