Proposed RISE Act Eases College Disability Documentation
The proposed legislation would allow students to use high school IEPs as proof of disability for college accommodations.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Special Education
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Senator Maggie Hassan introduced the RISE Act, which aims to remove barriers to higher education by streamlining how students provide proof of disability. The bill would permit colleges to accept high school Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) as documentation.
Why it matters
This legislation addresses significant logistical hurdles by removing the need for repetitive and costly re-evaluations when students transition to higher education. By standardizing documentation, it aims to create more equitable access for students with disabilities across the country.
The RISE Act seeks to standardize documentation requirements by codifying the use of high school IEPs as sufficient evidence. While some institutions currently allow past accommodation records, others do not, creating an inconsistent barrier for incoming college students.
The players
Senator Maggie Hassan
A U.S. Senator who focuses on legislation regarding healthcare access, education, and consumer protections for families.
Southern New Hampshire University
A university that hosted a recent roundtable discussion regarding the logistical challenges faced by students with disabilities.
The details
The RISE Act simplifies the transition to higher education by establishing a uniform process for validating disability status. Currently, students often face varying institutional standards, requiring them to undergo additional assessments despite having established needs. Under this proposed change, an existing high school IEP would serve as the official record, directly streamlining the request process for campus support services.
Timeline
September 21, 2026: Senator Hassan held a roundtable discussion at Southern New Hampshire University.
Before the end of 2026: Senate passage of the RISE Act is intended.
The Home Front
The RISE Act builds upon the educational frameworks established by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act to provide continuity for students entering college. This shift represents a broader effort to reduce the administrative and financial burdens placed on families during the higher education transition.
Families with students approaching college should maintain copies of current IEPs and accommodation records as these documents may soon be simplified for use in higher education. Start by organizing these files now to ensure you are prepared for potential upcoming changes in documentation standards.
The takeaway
The RISE Act is designed to make the transition to college smoother by leveraging documentation you likely already have. If you have a child currently in a special education program, ensure that you have electronic and physical copies of their most recent IEP secured in a permanent file.
What happens next
The Senate intends to pass the legislation before the end of 2026.
Further reading
For more information on navigating support programs, visit our Special Education resources.
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Should the federal government standardize disability documentation requirements for colleges nationwide?
