Bill > S0233

This bill establishes a two-year special education family advocacy pilot program, allocating $250,000.00 to the Agency of Human Services to award grants for its development. The program aims to provide families of kindergarten through 12th-grade students with knowledgeable, neutral advocates to assist them through the individualized education program (IEP) process, which is a plan outlining a student's special education needs and services. These advocates will offer in-person support during IEP meetings, foster better collaboration between parents and schools, and help prevent costly legal disputes by addressing issues early. The Agency will accept applications from school districts, parent child centers, and other nonprofit organizations, requiring them to detail how they will train advocates, empower parents to advocate for themselves, and work with school districts to support students. The Agency of Human Services, in collaboration with the Agency of Education, will evaluate the pilot program and report its findings and recommendations to legislative committees by November 15, 2027. This act will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/S.233