Pupil health: individuals with exceptional needs: respiratory services: licensed vocational nurses.

Senator Ochoa Bogh's legislation expands the authority of licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) to perform basic respiratory care services for students with exceptional needs under the supervision of credentialed school nurses. The measure modifies both the Business and Professions Code and Education Code to permit LVNs to conduct suctioning and other respiratory tasks within educational settings.

The bill establishes a two-phase implementation for LVN training requirements. Prior to January 1, 2028, LVNs must complete employer-approved patient-specific training. After that date, training must align with guidelines developed jointly by the Respiratory Care Board and the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians. The legislation also specifies authorized care settings for LVNs, including congregate living facilities, intermediate care facilities, adult day health centers, and home health agencies.

To maintain alignment with federal standards, the measure preserves existing protections under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The bill's provisions require joint regulatory development between the State Department of Education and State Department of Health Care Services, while maintaining current state regulations on medication administration. Authors note the measure aims to prevent student relocation solely based on specialized health care needs.