Relating to additional requirements for individualized education programs developed for children with autism or other pervasive developmental disorders.

HB 1706 requires Texas public schools to include research-based educational strategies for children with autism or pervasive developmental disorders in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Specifically, IEP committees must consider all peer-reviewed, research-based strategies identified by education commissioners and document any exclusions with written justification. Schools must also provide parents with written information about these strategies in advance of IEP meetings, translating materials into the parent's primary language if needed. The law applies starting the 2025-2026 school year and directly affects students with autism or similar disorders, their families, and school district IEP committees.