Increasing the dialogue among stakeholders in New Jersey’s special education system

A new proposal introduced in Washington would allocate federal dollars to develop a national plan to help students with disabilities transition to adulthood.

The measure, S-1259, introduced by New Jersey Senator Robert Menendez, would amend the Public Health Service Act and would fund research to determine the most effective interventions and support services for young people with disabilities aging out of the school system. Dubbed AGE-IN – Assistance in Gaining Experience, Independence and Navigation Act of 2013 – the measure calls for the creation of a national strategic action plan and would provide grants to train “transition navigators” who would help youth with disabilities access the supports they need to live independently.

The bill addresses the need for housing, employment, transportation and other services for adults with all types of developmental disabilities.

The bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions. Click here to learn more.