MA S2864

Establishes a special commission to study Chapter 71B and recommend improvements to special education financing and service delivery, with a report due by June 30, 2027

Commission membership includes legislators, education commissioner, and representatives from 12 stakeholder organizations including school administrators, teachers unions, PTAs, and municipal associations

Requires at least 4 public hearings across Massachusetts regions before issuing recommendations

Increases Circuit Breaker reimbursement rate from 75% to 80% for high-cost special education expenses, and adds 80% reimbursement for special education transportation costs

Commission goals include ensuring equitable funding based on student needs and district resources, providing predictable funding for multi-year planning, and examining demographic factors affecting disability diagnosis rates