A new law is helping Missouri students with visual impairments get the support they need and deserve.
In August 2022, Missouri passed a new law called the BRITE Act, short for Blind Students’ Rights to Independence, Training, and Education. This important legislation sets new standards for how educational services are delivered to students with visual impairments. For families across the state, it’s a meaningful step forward in ensuring equal access and inclusive learning opportunities.
Here’s what families need to know:
What does the BRITE Act do?
The BRITE Act ensures that students with a diagnosed visual impairment receive services that break down barriers to learning. These services must support access to educational content, classroom materials, and the general education curriculum, just like their sighted peers.
If a school district needs an updated eye report to determine eligibility, they must cover the cost, not the family.
What services are included?
Depending on the student’s needs, the following may be included in their IEP or 504 plan:
- Braille instruction at the same intensity and frequency as reading/writing instruction for sighted peers
- Orientation & Mobility (O&M) training, offered in real-world settings like home, school, and the community
- Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) instruction—covering areas like assistive technology, social skills, self-advocacy, and daily living skills
- Assistive Technology (AT) evaluations and access to devices for both home and school use, at no cost to the family
All services must be provided by professionals with the appropriate training and certifications.
Why is this important?
The BRITE Act reinforces the idea that access is not a privilege—it’s a right. It acknowledges that students with visual impairments learn differently and require specific tools and instruction to thrive. It also ensures that school districts are responsible for delivering these services consistently, effectively, and with equity in mind.
What should families do next?
If your child has a visual impairment and is receiving services through an IEP or 504 plan, this law may affect how their support is structured. It’s a good idea to:
- Talk to your child’s educational team about how the BRITE Act may influence their current plan
- Ask about evaluations for Braille, O&M, ECC, or assistive technology if they haven’t already been completed
- Know your rights—your child is entitled to accessible, inclusive education at no extra cost to your family
At DGCKids, we’re committed to helping families navigate these changes with clarity and confidence. If you have questions or need support understanding your child’s rights under the BRITE Act, we’re here to help.
Together, we can ensure every child has what they need to learn, grow, and shine.
Click the link to read Senate Bill 681 (BRITE Act language is on pages 73-82) https://www.senate.mo.gov/22info/pdf-bill/tat/SB681.pdf