MN HF535

Creates a legislative working group on special education to review service delivery models, costs, and benefits across school districts, charter schools, cooperatives, and nonpublic schools.

Requires the working group to analyze special education enrollment trends, funding mechanisms, section 504 plan usage, and the 2013 Office of the Legislative Auditor recommendations.

Directs the working group to examine disparities in student identification, medication use for mood or behavior modification, and strategies to reduce the need for special education services.

Comprises 12 legislators: 6 House members (3 appointed by Speaker, 3 by Minority Leader) and 6 Senators (3 appointed by Majority Leader, 3 by Minority Leader), including current education committee chairs.

Working group must submit findings and policy recommendations to the legislature by January 15, 2022, and expires January 16, 2022, unless extended by law.