The Substitute House Bill No. 7076 introduces significant amendments to Connecticut's education laws, focusing on early admission policies for public schools and the provision of special education services. The bill allows local or regional boards of education to admit children under the age of five if they adopt an early admission policy, which requires a written request from parents and an assessment by school staff. Additionally, it modifies the definition of "child" in special education, changing the age limit for eligibility from twenty-two years to twenty-one years, and clarifies the responsibilities of educational boards in providing special education services. The bill also mandates the creation of student success plans for students starting in grade six and establishes rights for these students to receive assistance in applying for state agency programs.

Moreover, the bill addresses racial imbalances in public schools by extending the deadline for school boards to submit corrective plans from July 1, 2025, to July 1, 2029, and repeals certain reporting requirements. It also ensures that children's rights to special education services are protected until they graduate or reach the age of twenty-two, rather than ending at the conclusion of the school year in which they turn twenty-two. The bill's effective dates vary, with provisions related to racial imbalance taking effect on July 1, 2025, while other changes will be effective from July 1, 2026. Overall, the bill aims to enhance educational opportunities and support for children, particularly those with special needs, while reducing bureaucratic barriers and potential financial obligations for local and regional school districts.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 10-15c, 10-95p, 10-226b, 10-226c, 10-226d, 10-234gg
ED Joint Favorable Substitute: 10-15c, 10-95p, 10-226b, 10-226c, 10-226d, 10-234gg
File No. 621: 10-15c, 10-95p, 10-226b, 10-226c, 10-226d, 10-234gg