Bill > S348

This bill establishes a new framework for reimbursing cities, towns, regional school districts, and independent vocational schools for special education transportation expenses. Specifically, the state treasurer will annually reimburse these entities for transportation costs related to special education students, provided the transportation is required by the student's individual educational plan and is not typically provided to regular day program students. The reimbursement will consist of two parts: first, an amount equal to the average transportation expenditure per regular day program student, and second, any additional costs specific to special education transportation that exceed the regular program average (but capped at 110% of the statewide average). The bill introduces a gradual funding schedule, requiring the state to reimburse increasing percentages of the total eligible transportation costs: 25% in fiscal year 2026, 50% in fiscal year 2027, 75% in fiscal year 2028, and 100% in fiscal year 2029 and beyond. This approach ensures a phased implementation of full transportation funding for special education students, helping school districts manage their transportation expenses more effectively while providing comprehensive support for students with special needs.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S348