MN HF4686

Allows mediated agreements in special education disputes to be enforced through the Department of Education complaint process at a parent's written request, in addition to state or federal district court.

Removes requirement that impartial due process hearings must be held in the district responsible for providing free appropriate public education; allows hearings in any district where the student is no longer enrolled if remedies sought are not moot.

Modifies prehearing conference procedures to require a second prehearing conference within five days if parties hold a resolution session that does not resolve the dispute.

Creates new resolution session requirement that districts must convene within 15 days of receiving a due process hearing request, with a district representative having decision-making authority present.

Allows resolution sessions to be waived by written agreement between parent and district, or if parties agree to use the mediation process instead.