MA H4217

School districts would bear the burden of proof in all special education due process hearings before the Bureau of Special Education Appeals, including hearings under IDEA, Section 504, and state education laws

Districts must prove by a preponderance of evidence that proposed IEPs, Section 504 plans, and other educational decisions are appropriate, provide a free appropriate public education, and do not constitute discrimination

Establishes an "equitable access commission" to study barriers faced by pro se litigants in special education hearings, focusing on parents with disabilities, economically disadvantaged families, non-native English speakers, and those facing cultural barriers

Commission membership includes legislative leaders, an attorney general appointee (who must be unaffiliated with DESE), and governor appointees including a parent of a student with a disability and a current or recent student with a disability

Commission must convene within 30 days of establishment and submit findings and legislative recommendations within 1 year; bill is designated as emergency legislation for immediate effect