Connecticut Senate Bill SB00336

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/15
• Refer: 1/22/15

Caption

An Act Lowering The Excess Cost Threshold For Special Education Costs To Three And One-half Times.

Impact

The passage of SB00336 would have a direct impact on the funding and reimbursement structure for special education. Local education agencies would likely experience a decrease in out-of-pocket expenditures for special education, as the newly established threshold would allow them to claim reimbursements for a larger portion of the costs incurred. This shift could potentially enhance the financial flexibility of school districts, permitting them to allocate their resources more efficiently. Additionally, the bill may result in increased state financial responsibility for special education funding, as more claims for reimbursement may arise due to the lowered threshold.

Summary

SB00336 is a legislative proposal that aims to modify the reimbursement threshold for special education costs incurred by local school districts. Specifically, the bill proposes to lower this threshold from four and one-half times the average per pupil cost to three and one-half times the average per pupil cost. The motivation behind this amendment is to provide relief to local taxpayers by reducing the financial burden of special education services on school districts. By lowering the threshold, it is expected that more costs will be eligible for reimbursement, thereby lessening the financial strain on local budgets.

Contention

While the bill aims to provide tax relief and support for local school districts, there may be points of contention among lawmakers and stakeholders regarding the implications of increased state reimbursements. Opponents may express concerns that the shift in financial responsibility could lead to broader budgetary impacts at the state level, requiring adjustments in other areas of education funding. Supporters, on the other hand, argue that improving the reimbursement process for special education costs is necessary to ensure that students with special needs receive proper support without placing undue financial strain on local municipalities.