This legislation, enacted in July 2022, includes provisions that remove barriers precluding persons with intellectual disabilties (ID) and autism from participating in state colleges and universities. Individuals with ID who do not pass MCAS (Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System, high stakes testing for graduation) and who do not obtain a regular high school diploma can participate as non-matriculating students in courses with their nondisabled peers and participate in extracurricular activities and other aspects of campus life, with supports and services necessary to facilitate inclusion. These provisions ensure state colleges and universities establish guidelines governing selection of individuals with ID and autism as well as course selection. 

The state budget includes a $4 million line item for the Massachusetts Inclusive concurrent Enrollment Initiatives (MAICIE). At least $1.5 million is allocated for the new MAICEI Trust Fund to cover planning, implementation, coordination, staffing, and administrative costs to support students in college with services they need to be successful.