Bill > A09230

This bill requires school districts to collect and report detailed information about Manifestation Determination Reviews (MDRs), which are meetings to determine whether a student with a disability's behavioral issues are related to their disability. Specifically, school districts must annually report data for each MDR, including the final determination, proposed and actual suspension days, student disability classification, demographic information, meeting attendees, and whether a functional behavioral assessment was conducted. The bill mandates that districts attach an MDR worksheet to prior written notices and requires the state Department of Education to publicly report this information in an accessible format, disaggregated by categories like race, gender, and disability classification. The legislation aims to promote transparency and equity by providing comprehensive data on how schools handle disciplinary actions for students with disabilities, recognizing that these students are often disproportionately suspended without proper consideration of their specific needs. The bill is driven by findings that current MDR procedures can inconsistently protect students' educational rights and potentially contribute to negative long-term outcomes like academic disengagement and increased dropout rates.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A9230