Bill > S430

This bill establishes a special commission to comprehensively review and evaluate the current special education financing system in Massachusetts, with the goal of improving its long-term fiscal health and sustainability. The commission, composed of diverse stakeholders including educators, administrators, parents, and education advocates, will conduct at least four public hearings across the state to examine the effectiveness of special education funding. Key objectives include ensuring sufficient and equitable funding for school districts, promoting flexible and innovative educational approaches, recognizing the varying resources needed for students with different disabilities, and limiting local financial burdens for extraordinary educational needs. The bill proposes several specific changes to existing law, such as increasing the Circuit Breaker reimbursement rate from 75% to 90% for special education costs, including transportation reimbursement, and adjusting the approved costs threshold. The commission is required to file a comprehensive report with legislative clerks by June 30, 2027, with recommendations to be made publicly available and distributed to relevant legislative committees. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education provide funding for educational collaboratives' per-pupil facilities needs, starting at $4,320 per pupil in fiscal year 2025 and adjusting annually for inflation.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S430