House Bill No. 5001, also known as Public Act No. 25-67, seeks to improve the quality and management of special education services in Connecticut, with an effective date of July 1, 2025. The bill repeals and replaces Section 10-76a, introducing new definitions such as "charging entity" and "provider of special education transportation services." It modifies the age range for "a child requiring special education" from ages three to five to ages three to eight and establishes a framework for the Department of Education to create a rate schedule for related services. Additionally, the bill restricts charging entities from increasing fees for services under individualized education programs unless there is a change in services, and it mandates the establishment of a rate schedule by January 1, 2028.

The legislation also introduces new requirements for local and regional boards of education regarding funding and reporting for special education services. It ensures that any increase in funds received cannot supplant existing funding and introduces a forfeiture mechanism for non-compliance with funding requirements. The bill establishes new licensure standards for private providers, mandates audits and site visits by the Department of Education, and requires annual reports on special education placements. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for planning and placement team meetings before transferring students and mandates the development of a user-friendly individualized education program (IEP) form. Overall, House Bill No. 5001 aims to enhance accountability, transparency, and the quality of special education services in Connecticut.

Statutes affected:
Public Act No. 25-67: 10-76a, 10-262j, 10-74u, 10-76d, 2-137, 10-76mm, 10-91j