A California congressperson has introduced a bill in the U.S. House of Representatives that offers a path to extra money for schools with special education expenses that are three or more times the average cost per student.
H.R. 4673, the IDEA High Cost Pool Funding Act, or H.R. 4673, would provide additional federal funding to sates that establish funding “pools” to reimburse local school districts for IEP related expenses beyond a certain threshold.
When the IDEA originated, Congress committed to covering 40 percent of the cost of special education services. But, according to the lawmakers behind the bill, that figure now stands at just 15 percent. As a result, states and localities must make up the difference.
Advocates believe that The IDEA High Cost Pool Funding Act will ensure that our schools receive reimbursement for these services so they can continue to meet special education needs and help students reach their full potential.”
