2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26101364D

HOUSE BILL NO. 461

Offered January 14, 2026

Prefiled January 12, 2026

A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 22.1-217.5, relating to special education; certain educational settings; student age range restrictions.

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Patrons—Cohen and Thornton

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Referred to Committee on Education

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Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding a section numbered 22.1-217.5 as follows:

§ 22.1-217.5. Certain educational settings; student age range restrictions.

A. The maximum age range for students with disabilities in grades kindergarten through six in nongeneral educational settings shall be three years.

B. No student with a disability in grades kindergarten through six shall be placed in any educational setting in which the maximum age range exceeds three years unless the student's individualized education program (IEP) team determines that an exception is appropriate and justifies such exception in the student's IEP.