Bill > H0291

This bill establishes the Idaho High-Needs Student Fund, a financial support mechanism designed to help local education agencies (school districts and independent public charter schools) cover extraordinary special education expenses. The fund provides reimbursement for eligible costs associated with students with disabilities whose individualized education program (IEP) expenses exceed $15,000. Specifically, the fund will reimburse up to 100% of costs between $15,000 and $65,000, 80% of costs above $65,000, with a maximum reimbursement of $100,000 per student and limited to 5% of the total fund annually. Eligible expenses include specialized services like nursing, interpreting, therapy, personal care, and specialized equipment, but exclude routine classroom costs. Local education agencies must apply annually, providing detailed documentation including the student's IEP, cost documentation, and Medicaid service reports. If funding requests exceed available money, reimbursements will be prorated, with priority given to small, rural school districts and specialized programs. Starting in fiscal year 2027, the state Department of Education must provide an annual report to state leadership detailing fund usage, applicants, and reimbursed services, ensuring transparency and accountability in the program's implementation.

Education

Education Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0291/