This bill amends the process of neutral conferences under alternative dispute resolutions for children receiving special education services. It changes the selection process for neutrals, stating that the department of education will select a neutral on a rotational basis. The bill also removes the requirement for the parties to agree on the selection of a neutral. Additionally, the bill clarifies the role of the neutral, stating that their role is not to provide a decision but to offer options for settlement and provide insights on how a hearing officer may view the matter.

The bill also amends the procedure for mediation by assigning mediators on a rotational basis instead of a regional basis. The effective date of the bill is January 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 186-C:23-b, 186-C:24