Bill > A00702

This bill amends the New York education law to strengthen protections for special education students when schools are scheduled to close or undergo significant changes. Specifically, the bill requires that before a school closure or major utilization change can be implemented, all special education students must be assigned to new schools, and the school chancellor must verify that each new school can accommodate these students. The bill expands the requirements for an educational impact statement to include more detailed information about the potential school closure, such as enrollment data, the number of special education students affected, and the capacity of other schools to absorb these students. The bill aims to ensure that special education students are not negatively impacted by school closures or significant changes by mandating a comprehensive and student-focused transition process. The new provisions will apply to schools in New York City and require city board approval before any school closure or significant change can take effect, with the goal of protecting the educational continuity and needs of special education students.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A702