H.R.3939 - Respond, Innovate, Succeed, and Empower Act; RISE Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 3939, the RISE Act, aims to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to improve access to college for students with disabilities. It seeks to ensure that colleges accept various forms of disability documentation, provide transparent information about accommodation processes, and collect data on students with disabilities. The bill also authorizes $10 million in appropriations for the National Center for Information and Technical Support for Postsecondary Students with Disabilities.
Expected Effects
The RISE Act would likely lead to more students with disabilities enrolling in and succeeding in college. By standardizing documentation requirements and increasing transparency, the bill aims to reduce barriers faced by students with disabilities. The increased funding for the National Center will further support these students.
Potential Benefits
- Easier Access to Accommodations: Standardizing disability documentation makes it simpler for students to receive necessary accommodations.
- Increased Transparency: Clear policies on accommodation eligibility will help students and families understand the process.
- Data Collection: Gathering data on students with disabilities will help institutions and policymakers better understand their needs.
- Dedicated Funding: The authorization of appropriations provides resources for supporting students with disabilities.
- Improved College Selection: Providing families with access to critical information needed to select the right college.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Increased Costs: Colleges may incur additional administrative costs to implement these policies and collect data.
- Risk of Overburdening Disability Services: Increased enrollment of students with disabilities could strain existing resources.
- Privacy Concerns: Data collection, if not handled carefully, could raise privacy issues for students with disabilities.
- Unintended Consequences: Institutions might establish less burdensome criteria that could lead to abuse of the system.
- Limited Scope: The act primarily focuses on documentation and data collection, potentially overlooking other critical support needs.
Constitutional Alignment
The RISE Act appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble) by promoting educational opportunities for individuals with disabilities. It does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, but this act falls under Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce and provide for the general welfare through funding and regulation of higher education.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).