MT HJ51

Requests the Legislative Council to designate an interim committee to study special education in Montana, with findings to be reported to the 70th Legislature.

Requires collaboration with the Board of Public Education, Office of Public Instruction, school district special education directors, cooperative directors, parents of children with disabilities, and disability advocacy organizations.

Directs the committee to examine educational rights and needs of students, increasing intensity and number of children with specific disabilities, and availability of special education teachers, school psychologists, and related service specialists.

Requires monitoring of changes in federal special education policy and funding throughout the study.

Study must be concluded prior to September 15, 2026.