MN HF1279

Congress passed Public Law 94-142 (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) in 1975 with intent to fund 40 percent of special education costs nationally.

Federal funding for special education in Minnesota has never exceeded 18 percent of total costs, except for one year due to American Recovery and Reinvestment Act stimulus funds in 2009.

States and local school districts have borne primary responsibility for funding special education services due to insufficient federal appropriations.

Resolution calls on Congress to adhere to the original goal of funding 40 percent of special education costs and provide significant assistance to states.

Resolution requests that federal maintenance of effort requirements apply only to state appropriations for special education, not to local school district subsidies from general education funds.

Minnesota Secretary of State is directed to transmit copies of this memorial to the President, Congress leadership, and Minnesota's federal delegation.