Bill > H597

This bill aims to ensure full reimbursement for school transportation costs, specifically for special education students and in-district transportation. The legislation establishes a new section in Massachusetts law that requires the state treasurer to annually reimburse cities, towns, regional school districts, and independent vocational schools for transportation expenditures related to special education students, provided these transportation services are specified in each student's individual educational plan and are not typically provided to regular day program students. The reimbursement will include two components: first, an amount equal to the average transportation expenditure per regular day program student, and second, the additional costs specifically associated with special education transportation. The bill introduces a phased funding schedule, gradually increasing state reimbursement from 25% in fiscal year 2026 to 100% by fiscal year 2029, ensuring that schools receive full compensation for special education transportation costs. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will calculate these reimbursements using specific criteria, and the commissioner is authorized to further define expenditure calculations through regulations.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H597