Substitute Bill No. 1561 aims to enhance special education services in Connecticut by updating definitions, establishing a financial framework, and improving oversight and accountability. Key changes include the repeal of Section 10-76a, replaced with new definitions such as "charging entity" and "unilateral placement," and an increase in the age limit for children requiring special education from five to eight years. The bill mandates the Office of Policy and Management, in collaboration with the Department of Education, to analyze data on tuition and fees for special education services, leading to the establishment of a biennial rate schedule for direct services under individualized education programs. Additionally, it prohibits charging entities from exceeding this schedule and outlines penalties for noncompliance, including ineligibility for reimbursement and restrictions on accepting new students.

The bill also introduces provisions for improved oversight of private providers and regional educational service centers, including new licensure standards and requirements for background checks. It establishes a special education offset grant program for local boards of education, ensuring that funds are used exclusively for special education purposes, and creates a competitive grant program for special education training. Furthermore, the bill mandates the development of a state-wide workload analysis model to limit the workload of educators involved in special education and requires the Commissioner of Education to create a user-friendly IEP form. Overall, Substitute Bill No. 1561 seeks to enhance the quality and accessibility of special education services while ensuring accountability and transparency in their provision.

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. 918: 10-76a, 10-285a, 10-232a, 10-76d, 2-137, 10-76mm, 10-91j
ED Joint Favorable: 10-76a, 10-285a, 10-74u, 10-232a, 10-76d, 2-137, 10-76mm, 10-91j