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SF 2018

A bill for an act relating to special education, including by requiring accredited nonpublic schools to provide special education services to students enrolled in the school who require such services and modifying the responsibilities of area education agencies, and including effective date provisions.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Molly Donahue

Iowa bill requires accredited nonpublic schools to provide special education services to enrolled students needing them, shifting service obligations from area education agencies.

Introduced, referred to Education.
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Bill Summary · SF 2018

Legislative bill overview

SF 2018 requires accredited nonpublic schools in Iowa to provide special education services to their enrolled students who need them, rather than potentially referring them elsewhere. The bill also modifies the roles and responsibilities of area education agencies (AEAs) in relation to these services.

Why is this important

Currently, nonpublic schools may not have clear obligations to serve students with disabilities, potentially creating gaps in access to special education. This bill addresses whether private school enrollment should trigger the same special education service requirements that public schools face, affecting families' educational choices and students' right to services under federal law (IDEA).

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden on private schools: Nonpublic schools may argue they lack resources and expertise to provide specialized services, potentially increasing tuition or limiting enrollment of students with disabilities
  • AEA role clarification: Changes to area education agency responsibilities could shift funding obligations and service delivery models between public and private systems
  • Religious school exemptions: The bill does not appear to address whether religiously-affiliated nonpublic schools might claim exemptions, creating legal and practical ambiguity

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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