Establishes the right of non-speaking developmentally and otherwise disabled individuals to advocate for themselves using alternative communication.

The bill establishes the right of non-speaking developmentally and otherwise disabled individuals to advocate for themselves in educational, medical, legal, and other decisions by using alternative forms of communication, such as spelling boards, typing-based communication, sign language, and speech-generating devices. It amends the mental hygiene law, education law, and surrogate's court procedure act to ensure that these individuals' communication rights are respected and supported in various settings.

Establishes the right of non-speaking developmentally and otherwise disabled individuals to advocate for themselves using alternative communication.

The bill establishes the right of non-speaking developmentally and otherwise disabled individuals to advocate for themselves in educational, medical, legal, and other decisions by using alternative forms of communication, such as spelling boards, typing-based communication, sign language, and speech-generating devices. It amends the mental hygiene law, education law, and surrogate's court procedure act to ensure that these individuals' communication rights are respected and supported in various settings.