The proposed bill, Substitute Senate Bill No. 1561, seeks to enhance special education services in Connecticut by introducing new definitions, regulations, and funding mechanisms. Key changes include the repeal of Section 10-76a, replaced with updated 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 tuition and fees for special education services, establishing a rate schedule for direct services under individualized education programs. This schedule will be reviewed biennially, and any charges exceeding it will not be eligible for reimbursement. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for the hiring of instructional support teachers, the establishment of a special education offset grant, and the creation of a special education transportation grant program.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes accountability and oversight by requiring unannounced site visits to private special education providers, mandating criminal background checks for employees, and ensuring that any changes in staffing affecting special education services are communicated promptly. It also establishes the Office of the Educational Ombudsperson to assist families with educational issues and requires the State Department of Education to create a special education family guide. The bill aims to improve the quality and accessibility of special education services while ensuring compliance with federal regulations and enhancing the support available for students with disabilities. Overall, the bill is projected to incur significant costs but aims to provide a more structured and equitable framework for special education in the state.

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