This bill introduces automatic discovery procedures in due process hearings related to the enforcement of special education rights. It amends RSA 186-C:16-b by adding a new paragraph (III-b) that mandates school districts to provide specific core documents to the hearing officer and parents at least five business days before any prehearing conference. The core documents include documentation of IEP team deliberations, current and proposed IEPs, prior notices, evaluations, independent educational evaluations, and progress reports, all pertaining to the last three years.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the requirement to present these core documents does not negate the rights of either party to comply with voluntary discovery requests or to present supplementary information. It also stipulates that an updated copy of procedural safeguards must be provided to parents before the next IEP meeting. The act is set to take effect upon its passage, ensuring that the new discovery procedures are implemented promptly to enhance transparency and support in special education due process hearings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 186-C:16-b
As Amended by the House: 186-C:16-b
Version adopted by both bodies: 186-C:16-b
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 186-C:16-b
HB754 text: 186-C:16-b