Last reviewed: June 8, 2026. This is a draft news update for human review before publishing.
Short takeaway
Texas families may hear more from schools about LIDDA services and Medicaid waiver programs. The state is also moving toward changes in special education funding for the 2026 to 2027 school year.
Who this may affect
This may matter for Texas families whose children have intellectual disability, developmental delay, autism, an IEP, a 504 plan, or needs connected to community services and waiver programs.
What changed
Under HB 1188, school systems must provide parents of students with intellectual disability or developmental delay with information about local LIDDA services and waiver programs. TEA has also described a move toward a service intensity model for special education funding, with an estimated statewide increase of about $250 million tied to that transition. Other parent-facing updates include device policy exceptions for IEP, 504, medical, or safety needs, and excused absences for mental health appointments.
What parents can do now
If your child has an IEP or 504 plan, ask whether any device access, communication needs, medical needs, mental health appointments, or community support referrals should be written clearly into the plan. If your child may qualify for LIDDA or waiver services, ask your school team or local LIDDA how to start the process.
Why this matters
Many families learn about waiver interest lists later than they wish. A simple handout or school conversation may be the first step toward supports that take time to access.
Source
Read the source update here: Texas Education Agency. Additional source: TEA Special Education Funding Updates.