Massachusetts is looking closely at how to better support the transition services requirements of IDEA 2004. On March 9, 2012 the Governor Patrick signed H. 3720 (formerly H.159) An Act to Promote the Successful Transition of Students with Disabilities to Post-Secondary Education, Employment and Independent Living into law. The new law is Chapter 51 of the Acts of 2012. The new law requires the Board of Education to revise educator licensure regulations to provide a mechanism for current special education teachers and rehabilitation counselors to obtain a Specialist Teacher Endorsement in Transition Services. The new regulations must be issued by September 1, 2012 and shall include details on coursework and field experience necessary to obtain the Transition Specialist Endorsement. It is anticipated that with this advanced training, secondary transition specialists will gain the skills necessary to focus on employment, college preparation, and independent living skills for students with disabilities ages 14-22.

Governor Patrick signed H. 3720 (formerly H.159) An Act to Promote the Successful Transition of Students with Disabilities to Post-Secondary Education, Employment and Independent Living into law.