The bill, known as Governor’s Bill No. 1244, aims to enhance in-district special education services by establishing a structured methodology for calculating tuition rates charged by private providers to local or regional boards of education. By July 1, 2026, the Department of Education is required to develop this methodology and publish a tuition rate schedule annually thereafter. Additionally, any contracts made after July 1, 2027, between boards of education and private providers must adhere to this established tuition rate schedule. The bill also mandates that agreements include clear explanations of how tuition or service costs are calculated and allows for specific reporting and review provisions to ensure accountability.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a competitive grant program, effective from the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027, to support local and regional boards of education in developing in-district programming for students with disabilities. Boards must conduct a comprehensive review of their special education spending every five years and report their findings to the Commissioner of Education. The Commissioner will also oversee the grant application process, ensuring that applications prioritize enhancing access to quality education and collaboration among educational entities. Reports on the impact of these grants on student outcomes and district expenditures will be required annually from the boards, with the Department of Education providing progress updates to the General Assembly.

Statutes affected:
Governor's Bill: 10-91j