Bill > S332

This bill establishes a special commission to study Chapter 71B, which governs special education in Massachusetts, and make recommendations to improve the long-term fiscal health and sustainability of special education programs throughout the Commonwealth. The commission will examine various aspects of special education, including the number of eligible students, costs and funding, transportation services, coordination between school districts, the evaluation and placement of students, the appeals process, and the impact of special education services on school districts' budgets and educational outcomes. The commission will also study issues surrounding the discipline of students with special needs and identify any necessary changes to state laws and regulations to comply with federal laws. The commission will report its findings and recommendations to the legislature by January 1, 2024.