H259 - 2023 Appropriations Act. (SL 2023-134)

Overview: Section 8.8 of S.L. 2023-134 requires the Board of Governors of The University of North Carolina (BOG) to establish a College of Educational Opportunities Program (Program) for students 22 years of age and older with intellectual and developmental disabilities. North Carolina State University (NC State) will develop and operate the Program beginning in the 2023-2024 fiscal year. North Carolina Central University (NC Central) will adapt and operate the Program as developed by NC State beginning in the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The Program will provide post-secondary opportunities for eligible students, including the following:

• A person-centered planning process.
• The opportunity to pursue educational credentials, including degrees, certificates, and other nondegree credentials.
• Inclusive academic enrichment, socialization, independent living skills, and integrated work experiences to develop career skills that can lead to gainful employment.
• Individual supports and services for academic and social inclusion in academic courses, extracurricular activities, and other aspects of campus life.

Funds provided for the Program will be used for administrative and programmatic staff, training for faculty, improvements to existing assistive technologies and other support services, scholarships for economically disadvantaged eligible students, additional supports such as counseling, and outreach. For the 2023-2024 fiscal year, $3 million will be allocated to NC State. For the 2024-2025 fiscal year, $3 million will be allocated to both NC State and NC Central.

No later than May 15, 2024, and annually thereafter, the BOG must report to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee on the impact of the Program.

This section became effective July 1, 2023.