HARTFORD, CT — The legislature’s Education Committee voted Friday to advance Substitute Senate Bill 1561, a sweeping special education reform measure that has become a cornerstone of the 2025 legislative session.
State Rep. Maryam Khan, D-Windsor, emphasized that the legislation remains a work in progress. She noted that a more updated House version—approved by the Appropriations Committee earlier in the day—is expected to serve as the foundation for the final proposal.
“The final product that is being worked on now was developed in consultation with all stakeholders,” Khan said. “They’ve been instrumental in ironing out concerns, and the final bill will reflect that.”
The bill comes amid intensifying pressure on school districts contending with rising special education costs. Hartford Public Schools, for example, spend over $70 million annually on outplacement tuition alone. In response, the General Assembly earlier this year approved a $40 million funding boost through emergency procedures.
The bill seeks to overhaul what educators and advocates describe as a flawed funding structure. Under the current system, districts are more likely to receive reimbursement for expensive out-of-district placements than for building inclusive, in-house programs. The bill also proposes a statewide rate schedule and a redefinition of “reasonable cost” to support more predictable budgeting and incentivize local services.
According to previous reports, the need for reform comes as the needs of students have become more complex and the cost for private special education placements have surged well over 35%, with the cost outplacement transportation reaching into the tens of millions.
Rep. Ken Gucker, D-Danbury, spoke in support of the bill while acknowledging that the language still needs refining.
“As someone who is a product of special education and understands the values, the needs, and the concerns, let’s have a hard look at those kids who are dealing with special education needs and those costs, and make sure they get what they need,” he said.
Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox, D-Trumbull, framed the committee’s action as a procedural step rather than an endorsement of the current draft.
“Today’s vote is just a process piece to move us toward a finished product that looks out for the needs of students, teachers, and special education going forward,” she said.
The bill passed the committee by a vote of 25-13, with 7 absent or no votes, and with several lawmakers stressing that their opposition was based on procedural concerns rather than the bill’s intent, which all acknowledged was a necessity.
The administration of Gov. Ned Lamont, while not directly involved in Friday’s discussions, has also seen education reform as necessary. Lamont has been prioritizing education reform — particularly early childhood education, which the administration views as a long-term investment that can reduce future special education costs and improve student outcomes.
The final bill is expected to be a priority bill in the House and Senate.
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