2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26100555D

SENATE BILL NO. 264

Offered January 14, 2026

Prefiled January 12, 2026

A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 22.1-217.05, relating to Department of Education; individualized education programs; social skills development; neurodivergence and autism awareness.

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Patron—Stanley

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Referred to Committee on Education and Health

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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 22.1-217.05 as follows:

§ 22.1-217.05. Individualized education programs; social skills development.

A. The Department shall establish, make available to each school board, and post on its website guidelines for individualized education program (IEP) teams to utilize when developing IEPs for children with disabilities to indicate whether the child has a disability that affects social skills development and whether the child is vulnerable to bullying, harassment, or teasing.

B. In developing IEPs for children with disabilities, in addition to any other requirements established by the Board, each local school board shall ensure that IEP teams consider the guidelines established by the Department pursuant to subsection A and address the skills and proficiencies needed to avoid and respond to bullying, harassment, or teasing if applicable.

2. That the Department shall promulgate regulations requiring local school boards to develop and implement student education programs on conditions relating to social skills development, including neurodivergence and autism. Such programs shall be designed to increase students' awareness, understanding, and acceptance of neurodivergence and autism spectrum disorder. In developing such education programs, local school boards shall receive input from special education instructors and may further collaborate with groups dedicated to neurodivergence advocacy.