IL SB2945

Amends Section 14-7.02 of the School Code to authorize school districts to pay tuition for special education services at non-public schools, public out-of-state schools, or county-operated special education facilities when the district cannot meet a child's needs due to disability.

School districts pay actual tuition costs for special education and related services (excluding room, board, and transportation) or $4,500 per year, whichever is less, and provide necessary transportation.

Establishes the Illinois Purchased Care Review Board to approve tuition costs exceeding $4,500 or increasing more than 10 percent annually, composed of state agency directors and the State Superintendent of Education.

Allows the Review Board to approve standard rates for out-of-state non-public providers offering autism-specific integrated educational and residential services with 2 or more residential care levels serving 12 or fewer Illinois students.

School districts can claim reimbursement from the State for tuition payments exceeding the district's per capita tuition charge for non-special education students, with claims due to the State Board of Education by August 15.