This bill establishes a new commission to study the costs associated with special education in public schools, amending RSA 186-C by inserting a new section, 186-C:1-a. The commission will consist of various members, including representatives from the House and Senate, special education educators, advocates, and state department officials. Its primary focus will be to explore the financial implications of special education, including student referral rates, the impact of COVID-19 on referrals, and the costs of services not deemed "medically necessary" by Medicaid. The commission is tasked with reporting its findings and recommendations for potential legislation by November 1, 2025, with a final report due by July 1, 2026.

Additionally, the bill includes a repeal of RSA 186-C:1-a, which pertains to the commission studying special education, indicating a restructuring of how these studies will be conducted moving forward. The legislative members of the commission will receive mileage reimbursement for their duties, and the commission will elect its own leadership. The effective date for the repeal is set for July 1, 2026, while the rest of the act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 193-E:2-a