Chapter 688 Law/Referral

• Chapter 688 was enacted in 1984 (also known as the "turning 22" law)
• Provides a planning process for young adults with severe disabilities as they leave special education and transition into the adult service system.
• Each year, the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) transitions young adult with severe disabilities into the Department's adult service system.
• Purpose is to continually meet the needs of these young people with disabilities from Special Education as their entitlement ends.
• In Hopkinton referrals for students are made no later than two years prior to his/her graduation or turning age 22 whichever comes first.

Link to Chapter 688 referral form

Chapter 688: Guidelines for Referral