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H 505

An Act providing state support for municipal private special education costs

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by James Arena-DeRosa

Bill H 505 limits tuition hikes for private special education to 2.5% annually, helping Massachusetts municipalities budget better and support students in need.

Hearing rescheduled to 11/18/2025 from 01:00 PM-03:25 PM in B-1 and Virtual Hearing updated to New End Time
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Bill Summary · H 505

Summary of Bill H 505: An Act Providing State Support for Municipal Private Special Education Costs

Purpose and Intent

Bill H 505 aims to provide financial support from the state to municipalities in Massachusetts for the costs associated with private special education programs. The legislation seeks to alleviate the financial burden on local governments and school districts by regulating the increase in tuition costs for these programs.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several important amendments to existing laws:

  1. Tuition Cost Regulation:

    • The Bureau of Purchased Services and the Unit for Special Education Pricing will be prohibited from increasing costs for approved private special education programs by more than 2.5% of the current tuition rate within a single year.
    • This provision is designed to ensure that municipalities can better manage their budgets without facing sudden and significant increases in special education costs.

  2. Annual Cost Submission:

    • The Bureau is required to submit proposed increases in costs for approved private special education programs by March 1st of each year. This advance notice will assist municipalities in preparing their budgets.
    • Any proposed increases submitted after this deadline will not take effect until July 1st of the following year, providing additional time for local governments to adjust their financial plans.

Affected Parties

  • Municipalities and School Districts: Local governments and school districts will benefit from the regulated tuition increases, allowing for more predictable budgeting and financial planning.
  • Students in Special Education: The bill indirectly supports students requiring private special education services by ensuring that municipalities can afford to provide necessary educational resources without excessive financial strain.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 27, 2025, and has been referred to the Committee on Education.
  • A hearing is scheduled for November 18, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in room B-1, where stakeholders can provide input on the proposed legislation.

Related Legislation

  • Bill H 505 is associated with House Docket No. 2027, which it replaces.

This summary provides a clear overview of Bill H 505, highlighting its intent to support municipalities in managing private special education costs while ensuring that students receive the necessary educational services.

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

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