(a) (1) If an orientation and mobility evaluation is determined to be needed for a pupil who is blind, has low vision, or is visually impaired, it shall be conducted by a person who is appropriately certified as an orientation and mobility specialist.

(2) The orientation and mobility evaluations described in paragraph (1) shall occur in familiar and unfamiliar environments, in varying lighting conditions, and in the home, school, and community, as appropriate.

(b) Except as specified in subdivision (c), a local educational agency shall not impose any limitations that result in the preclusion or the limitation of the ability of a pupil to receive instruction in orientation and mobility services in the home, school, or community setting and in varying lighting conditions, as designated in the pupil’s individualized education program and provided for pursuant to the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1400 et seq.).

(c) (1) A local educational agency may require annual written parental consent to provide the services described in subdivision (b) when those services are provided before or after regular school hours and when those services are provided away from the schoolsite.

(2) If a local educational agency prohibits an orientation and mobility specialist from using their vehicles for the transportation of pupils to and from orientation and mobility instruction, the local educational agency shall provide, without cost to the orientation and mobility specialist, an equally effective transportation alternative for that purpose.

(d) For purposes of this section, “local educational agency” means a school district, county office of education, or charter school.

(Added by Stats. 2019, Ch. 778, Sec. 3. (AB 947) Effective January 1, 2020.)