HB2375

THE CONTEXT: Before a child who is suspected of having a disability is placed in a special education program, the child must be evaluated in accordance with the IDEA. An initial evaluation is used to determine whether a child has a disability and the nature and extent of the special education and related services the child needs.

WHAT THE BILL DID: The final vetoed version would require a home school district, if a parent submits a written request to the child's home school district for an evaluation in accordance with the IDEA on or after May 1 and before August 15, to begin the evaluation or provide the parent written notice of refusal to conduct the requested evaluation within 15 calendar days of receipt of the request.

WHY IT MATTERED: The practical reason for this bill was to give the people who rely on the rule clearer information and a defined reporting process. It would require a home school district, if a parent submits a written request to the child's home school district for an evaluation in accordance with the IDEA on or after May 1 and before August 15, to begin the evaluation or provide the parent written notice of refusal to conduct the requested evaluation within 15 calendar days of receipt of the request, rather than leave the current rule unchanged.