Substitute Bill No. 7277 proposes significant amendments to Connecticut's special education laws, aiming to enhance the provision and funding of special education services. The bill repeals Section 10-76a and introduces new definitions, expanding the age range for children requiring special education from three to eight years old. It establishes a framework for the collection and analysis of data on tuition and fees charged for special education services, mandates the creation of a rate schedule for these services, and emphasizes transparency and accountability in financial matters. Additionally, the bill outlines new requirements for local and regional boards of education, including the submission of annual special education cost statements and the establishment of a special education transportation grant program.

The bill also introduces provisions to improve oversight and compliance for private providers of special education services, including the requirement for regular reporting and site visits by local boards. It establishes an Office of the Educational Ombudsperson to assist families with educational issues and mandates the hiring of instructional support teachers to enhance educational experiences for students with disabilities. Furthermore, the bill addresses behavioral health support, requiring individualized education programs to specify services for behavioral goals and establishing a commission to study special education funding and accountability. Overall, Substitute Bill No. 7277 aims to create a more structured, accountable, and supportive environment for students with special education needs in Connecticut.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 10-76a, 10-285a, 10-74u, 10-232a, 10-76d, 2-137, 10-76mm, 10-76b, 10-91j
SED Joint Favorable Substitute: 10-76a, 10-285a, 10-74u, 10-232a, 10-76d, 2-137, 10-76mm, 10-91j
File No. 920: 10-76a, 10-285a, 10-232a, 10-76d, 2-137, 10-76mm, 10-91j
APP Joint Favorable: 10-76a, 10-285a, 10-74u, 10-232a, 10-76d, 2-137, 10-76mm, 10-91j