| Through the school funding formula, the State currently |
| reimburses school districts for legal advice and representation |
| in the special education process. Parents of children with |
| special needs do not receive any state assistance in seeking |
| their rights under federal and state special education laws. |
| This bill specifically authorizes the protection and advocacy |
| agency designated by the Governor, charged with protecting and |
| advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities, with |
| the responsibility and authority for providing advice and |
| representation to parents going through the special education |
| process. Any state funding made available for that purpose must |
| be appropriated to this agency. |
