2002 Signature 2002 Veto 2002 No Action 2001 Veto 2001 No Action 2000 Signature 2000 Veto 2000 No Action 1999 Signature 1999 Veto 1998 Signature 1998 Veto 1998 No Action 1997 Signature 1997 Veto 1996 Signature 1996 Veto 1995 Signature 1995 Veto 1995 No Action		July 3, 1995 TO THE HONORABLE, THE SENATE: I am transmitting to the Secretary of State, with my signature, 95-S-784 Sub A, as amended, "An Act Relating to Education Ñ Program Requirements for Deaf or Hard of Hearing Students." This legislation provides program requirements for deaf and hard of hearing students and identifies factors to be considered in establishing an individualized educational program for such students. The Act is strongly supported by advocates for the Rhode Island deaf community and has also received the support of the Department of Education and the Commission on the Handicapped. Some concern, however, has been raised over the Act's potential cost. If this bill imposed burdensome, unfunded mandates on local school committees, I also would have reservations. As adopted, however, the bill allows flexibility in designing individualized education programs and would not appear to have any substantial fiscal impact. Although the addition of individuals qualified to teach American sign language may be necessary, the Department of Education retains jurisdiction over certification standards. As such, I trust that the Act will not be interpreted to impose onerous, unfunded burdens on local school districts. With the foregoing message. I sign this bill into law. Sincerely, Lincoln Almond Governor