MI HB5942

Creates an Office of the IEP Ombudsman within the Department's Office of Special Education, with an IEP ombudsman designated by the state board as principal executive officer.

Requires the IEP ombudsman to assist pupils and parents or guardians in understanding their rights and responsibilities concerning individualized education programs (IEPs).

Empowers the IEP ombudsman to receive, review, and attempt to resolve questions regarding pupils' prospective, ongoing, or prior participation in IEPs.

Directs the IEP ombudsman to analyze and monitor laws and policies affecting IEPs and communicate concerns and recommendations to public agencies, legislators, schools, school boards, and school districts.

Requires the department to disseminate information about the IEP ombudsman office, including contact information and services, to school districts, intermediate school districts, public school academies, and special education personnel; takes effect 90 days after enactment.