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HB 6452

AN ACT CONCERNING A LIMITATION ON THE COSTS CHARGED TO A SCHOOL DISTRICT FOR THE PROVISION OF SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Tom O'Dea

Connecticut HB 6452 caps costs school districts can be charged for special education services to reduce local budget pressures while maintaining student access.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Education
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Bill Summary · HB 6452

Legislative bill overview

HB 6452 proposes to impose cost limitations on what school districts can be charged for providing special education services in Connecticut. The bill restricts the financial burden placed on local school districts when they deliver individualized education programs (IEPs) and related special education support services. This represents an attempt to control spending pressures that school districts face in compliance with federal special education mandates.

Why is this important

Special education services are among the most expensive per-pupil expenditures for school districts, and costs have risen significantly over the past decade. School districts argue that uncapped special education expenses strain already-limited budgets and divert resources from general education programs. How Connecticut structures these cost limitations could serve as a model or cautionary tale for other states balancing special education funding with fiscal sustainability.

Potential points of contention

  • Student access concerns: Cost caps risk limiting the quality, intensity, or availability of services students with disabilities actually need, potentially conflicting with federal IDEA requirements guaranteeing appropriate services
  • Funding allocation dispute: Unclear whether the bill shifts costs to the state, reduces services, or creates a complex new reimbursement formula that could leave gaps in service provision
  • Defining "reasonable" limits: The bill's specific cost thresholds are not detailed in this summary, but determining what constitutes fair cost limitations while ensuring educational quality remains contentious between advocates, districts, and policymakers

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

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