The resolution, titled the Special Education for Young Adults in the Custody of the Department of Corrections Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2025, addresses the urgent need to amend existing legislation to designate the Department of Corrections (DOC) as the responsible agency for providing a free appropriate public education (FAPE) to eligible individuals in its custody, in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and District law. This designation is crucial for individuals aged 18 and older who are incarcerated and have been identified as needing special education services. The resolution highlights that previous arrangements for providing these services through Maya Angelou Public Charter Schools are set to expire, necessitating immediate action to ensure continuity of education for these individuals.

The Council recognizes that without this emergency legislation, there would be a disruption in the delivery of required special education services for eligible individuals in DOC custody. The resolution emphasizes the importance of passing this legislation promptly to allow DOC to continue its contract with Maya Angelou Public Charter Schools for the remainder of the 2024-2025 school year. The Council has determined that the circumstances warrant immediate adoption of the amendment after a single reading, and the resolution is set to take effect immediately.