This bill amends the current law regarding alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods available to parents and school districts in the context of special education. It repeals and reenacts RSA 186-C:23, which now includes IEP team meeting facilitation as a new option for resolving disputes, alongside existing methods such as neutral conferences and mediation. The bill mandates that local education agencies notify the Department of Education when a parent rejects an individualized education program, triggering a 30-day discussion period to explore resolution options. While participation in these informal resolution procedures is encouraged, it remains voluntary for both parties.

Additionally, the bill establishes confidentiality for ADR proceedings, ensuring that any information or admissions made during these sessions cannot be used in subsequent due process hearings. It specifies that no records will be made of the ADR proceedings, and evidence that would typically be admissible in a due process hearing will not be rendered inadmissible due to its involvement in ADR. The Department of Education is tasked with adopting rules to govern these new procedures, which will take effect 60 days after the bill's passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 186-C:23
As Amended by the House: 186-C:23