This bill establishes the Office of the Special Education Ombud, an independent state office that will ensure compliance with individualized education programs (IEPs) and related services for students with disabilities. The ombud will be appointed by the governor and will have the power to monitor and investigate administrative action related to special education services. The bill also provides definitions for terms used in the chapter and outlines the powers and duties of the ombud, including monitoring complaint and dispute resolution processes, assisting students and guardians in protecting educational rights, and investigating special education-related actions taken by local education agencies or schools. The office is also responsible for analyzing and monitoring laws, rules, and policies related to special education services and making recommendations for changes.

This bill proposes several amendments to current law regarding the office of the special education ombud. The bill requires the office to include in its annual report information about actions taken in the prior school year, special education concerns and their resolution, recommendations for improving special education services, and policy recommendations. The bill also grants the office the authority to investigate complaints related to special education and outlines the procedures for conducting investigations. The bill further specifies that the office may have access to student educational records with consent, and that all files and records maintained by the office are confidential. The bill also prohibits conflicts of interest for the ombud and requires the posting and distribution of ombud information in schools providing special education services.