This bill amends Section 13-101 of Title 70 of the Oklahoma Statutes, focusing on the provision of services for children with disabilities. It mandates that the State Department of Education and public school districts comply with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and authorizes the Department to use federal funds for special education services. The definition of "children with disabilities" is updated to align with IDEA, specifying that it includes children aged three to twenty-one. Additionally, the bill allows for cooperative programs among school districts and provides for the extension of special education services during summer months if specified in a child's Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Furthermore, the bill requires the State Department of Education to publish information on dispute resolution options available to parents and guardians of children with disabilities, including IEP facilitation, mediation, due process, and state complaint procedures. The State Board of Education is also given the authority to promulgate rules and update policies to ensure compliance with the new provisions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and includes an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage and approval.