The proposed bill, Substitute Bill No. 1244, aims to enhance special education services within local and regional school districts by establishing a structured methodology for calculating tuition and related fees charged by private providers of special education services. By July 1, 2026, the Department of Education is required to develop this methodology and publish a tuition rate and fee schedule annually thereafter. Additionally, the bill mandates that any contracts between school boards and private providers include a clear explanation of how costs are calculated, and from July 1, 2027, all contracts must adhere to the established tuition rate schedule. The bill also introduces provisions for regular reporting and oversight of services provided under these contracts.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a competitive grant program administered by the Department of Education to support in-district or regionalized programming for students with disabilities, starting in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027. Local and regional boards of education can apply for grants to enhance existing programs or cover start-up costs for new initiatives. The application process will require detailed descriptions of the proposed programs, including staffing and budget needs. The bill emphasizes collaboration between educational entities and mandates annual reporting on the impact of the grants on student outcomes and district expenditures. Overall, the bill seeks to improve the quality and accessibility of special education services in Connecticut.

Statutes affected:
Governor's Bill: 10-91j
ED Joint Favorable Substitute Change of Reference: 10-91j