Education (People with Disabilities)

SB 1660 - Beginning in the 2027-28 academic year, this act prohibits public institutions of higher education from accepting standardized test scores from testing entities that require an applicant with a lifelong disability or static disability, as such terms are defined in the act, to complete a comprehensive disability evaluation within two years before taking the test in order to receive accommodations allowed under federal law. This act is identical to HB 1640 (2026). OLIVIA SHANNON

HB 1639, the "Missouri Pathways to Access and Success Act," requires Missouri public colleges and professional licensing boards to standardize disability accommodation processes. It allows students to use IEP records, past disability services, or licensed professional evaluations to prove eligibility for college accommodations, and mandates that licensing bodies (like those for doctors or lawyers) accept similar documentation for exam accommodations. The bill strengthens protections by requiring licensing boards to grant accommodations unless they provide clear evidence of fundamental alteration or undue burden, and establishes a 30-day decision timeline with detailed denial explanations. Applicants denied accommodations can appeal to a panel including disability advocates, and licensing bodies must reimburse legal costs for wrongful denials.