Substitute Senate Bill No. 1244 seeks to improve special education services in local and regional school districts by establishing a standardized methodology for calculating tuition and related fees charged by private special education providers. By July 1, 2026, the Department of Education (SDE) is mandated to develop and publish a tuition rate and fee schedule, which will be updated annually. Starting July 1, 2027, all contracts between school boards and private providers must comply with this established schedule. Additionally, the bill requires local and regional boards of education to conduct a comprehensive review of their special education spending every five years and submit reports to the Commissioner of Education.

The bill also introduces a competitive grant program, effective from the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027, aimed at supporting in-district or regionalized programming for students with disabilities. Local and regional boards of education can apply for grants to enhance existing programs or fund new initiatives, with the SDE responsible for developing the application process and criteria for approval. Grant recipients will be required to report annually on the impact of the funding on student outcomes and district expenditures, while the SDE will report on the program's overall progress to the General Assembly. The bill does not specify funding for the grant program, making its financial viability contingent on future appropriations.

Statutes affected:
Governor's Bill: 10-91j
ED Joint Favorable Substitute Change of Reference: 10-91j
APP Joint Favorable: 10-91j
File No. 848: 10-91j