Synopsis:

H.S. 1 for H.B. 12 aims to fund basic special education from kindergarten to third grade. Funding for intensive and complex special education already exists for these grades, flowing from Division 1 under a unit system in the state education budget. However, basic special education is funded only from fourth through twelfth grade. Promoting early identification and intervention, the bill expects increased funding for basic special education would mitigate costs over time, with more students eventually transitioning out of special education and finding success in other education and employment settings. The bill also phases in services over time to decrease initial expenses. Backers fear the state’s $350 million budget gap could trip passage of the bill. It calls for $1.8 million from the state and $650,000 from districts in fiscal year 2018. By fiscal year 2021, the state would be paying $12.3 million and districts $4.5 million.

Supporters:

Reps. Williams (D), Bennett (D), Bentz (D) Briggs King (R), Jaques (D), Kowalko (D), Lynn (D), Matthews (D), Paradee (D), Smith (D), Spiegelman (R), Viola (D); Sens. Poore (D), Henry (D), Townsend (D), Walsh (D); Delaware State Education Association, Delaware PTA, Autism Delaware, League of Women Voters of DE, Governor's Advisory Council for Exceptional Citizens.

Opponents:

None reported.

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