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HB 5251

AN ACT APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR THE FULL FUNDING OF THE SPECIAL EDUCATION EXCESS COST GRANT.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Amy Morrin Bello and 1 co-sponsor

Connecticut bill appropriates unspecified state funds to fully reimburse school districts' special education costs exceeding state-mandated spending thresholds.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Education
#grantsbythestate #specialeducation
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Bill Summary · HB 5251

Legislative bill overview

HB 5251 appropriates state funding to fully cover the Special Education Excess Cost Grant program in Connecticut. This grant reimburses school districts for costs exceeding their state-mandated special education spending obligations. The bill seeks to eliminate or reduce the current gap between what districts spend on special education services and what the state reimburses them for those excess expenses.

Why is this important

Special education services are legally mandated and often significantly exceed base funding allocations, creating substantial financial burdens on local school districts. Full funding of this grant program would reduce the need for districts to divert general education resources to special education or increase local property taxes to cover the gap, potentially improving overall educational equity and district fiscal stability.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact and prioritization: The bill does not specify the appropriation amount, raising questions about whether the state budget can absorb full funding costs or whether this competes with other educational priorities
  • Definition of "excess cost": Disputes may arise over what qualifies as reimbursable excess special education costs versus standard district obligations
  • Implementation timeline: Schools may need clarity on when full funding takes effect and how reimbursement processes will change, potentially affecting district budgeting practices

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

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