Seizure Safe Schools Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Foushee, Valerie P. [D-NC-4]
- Committees
- Education and Workforce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 27, 2026
Bottom line
The Seizure Safe Schools Act of 2026 requires federal guidance to help schools better support students with seizure disorders, aiming to standardize safety protocols and care plans.
What it actually does
This bill mandates that the Secretary of Education, in collaboration with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, issue guidance within six months of enactment. This guidance will instruct elementary and secondary schools on how to promote seizure safety and provide care for students with epilepsy or other seizure disorders, specifically referencing accommodations through Section 504 plans or Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The guidance may be updated as deemed necessary.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill is crucial for ensuring a safe and inclusive learning environment for students with epilepsy and other seizure disorders. They contend that clear, consistent federal guidance will help schools develop effective safety protocols, provide appropriate accommodations, and empower school staff to respond confidently and correctly during a seizure, ultimately protecting vulnerable students and reducing educational disruptions.
Opponents contend
Critics might express concerns about potential unfunded mandates if the guidance necessitates significant new training or resources for schools without corresponding federal funding. Some may also argue that such guidance could be seen as federal overreach into areas traditionally managed at the state or local level, or that many schools already have adequate policies in place, rendering new federal guidance redundant.
The bill is very short and straightforward, making it highly accessible for any reader to understand its core purpose and provisions quickly.
Section 2(a)
Mandate for Seizure Safety Guidance
This provision requires the Secretary of Education, in cooperation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to develop and issue official guidance within six months of the bill becoming law. This guidance will provide elementary and secondary schools with recommendations and best practices for ensuring seizure safety and properly caring for students who have epilepsy or other seizure disorders. It specifically notes that such care should include services or accommodations provided under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act or through an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this guidance will standardize best practices across schools, ensuring that all students with seizure disorders receive consistent, high-quality care and accommodations, regardless of their location. They believe it will reduce confusion for school staff and provide parents with greater peace of mind.
Critics contend
Some may argue that while the intent is good, federal guidance might impose additional administrative burdens on schools, especially if it requires extensive new training or policy changes without dedicated funding. Critics might also suggest that states and local districts are better equipped to tailor such guidance to their specific needs.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the need for national consistency in student safety with potential concerns about federal mandates on local educational agencies. It aims to provide a framework without being overly prescriptive, relying on existing disability accommodation structures.
Section 2(b)
Guidance Updates
This subsection grants the Secretary of Education, in coordination with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the authority to update the seizure safety guidance as they deem necessary. This ensures that the guidance can remain current with medical advancements, best practices, and evolving understanding of seizure care and safety in school settings.