S. 3589: Respond, Innovate, Succeed, and Empower Act

The Respond, Innovate, Succeed, and Empower Act (RISE Act) proposes several amendments to the Higher Education Act of 1965 aimed at improving support for students with disabilities in colleges and universities. Here are the key points of the bill:

Definition of Disability

The bill refines the definition of disability used in the Higher Education Act. It suggests changes to ensure that documentation provided by students is sufficient to prove their disability status for the purpose of receiving accommodations in college.

Support for Students with Disabilities

Colleges and universities would be required to:

• Recognize various forms of documentation (such as Individualized Education Programs or other records) as valid for establishing a student's disability.
• Develop clear policies on how they determine eligibility for accommodations.
• Make this information accessible to students, parents, and faculty, including during student orientations and on public websites.

Funding for Support Services

The bill authorizes $10 million in funding for the National Center for Information and Technical Support for Postsecondary Students with Disabilities for fiscal years 2027 through 2031. This funding is intended to enhance support services for disabled students in higher education.

Data on Students with Disabilities

Colleges and universities will need to collect and report data on students with disabilities enrolled at their institutions. This data will include:

• The total number of students registered with disability services.
• The number of students receiving accommodations.
• The percentage of students registered with disability services.
• The total number of degrees or certificates awarded to students registered with disability services.

However, institutions are exempt from reporting this data if it could compromise the privacy of individual students.

Clarification of Terms

The bill specifies that its amendments do not alter the meanings of “reasonable accommodation” or “record of impairment” as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, nor do they affect the rights and remedies available under that Act.

Implications for Colleges

The proposed changes would likely lead to increased support for students with disabilities, making it easier for them to access necessary accommodations in higher education settings. This could result in greater inclusion and success for these students in achieving their academic goals.

Relevant Companies

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