CS FOR HOUSE BILL NO. 235(FIN) An Act relating to educational programs and services for children with disabilities and other exceptional children and to persons with a handicap; and providing for an effective date. Co-chair Pearce directed that CSHB 235 (Fin) be brought on for discussion. CHRISTINE NIEMI, Educational Program Support Division, Special Education Program, Dept. of Education, came before committee. She explained that HB 235 was introduced by Representative Bunde at the request of the department. Passage will allow for compliance with federal regulations in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Approximately $8,300.0 in federal funds are at stake. Ms. Niemi advised of correspondence from the federal government indicating that the 1994 grant award cannot be released until compliance is achieved. The following required revisions to state law are embodied within the proposed bill: 1. Amendments to and clarification of the hearing process. 2. Amendments to withdrawal of consent provisions and amendment of the definition of consent. 3. Addition of rehabilitation counseling services. 4. Addition of autism and traumatic brain injury as well a definition of "education records." Co-chair Pearce called for additional questions or comments. Senator Rieger advised that the proposed bill was reviewed at length in the Senate Health, Education, and Social Services Committee. He then MOVED that SCS CSHB 235 (HES) pass from committee with individual recommendations and accompanying fiscal notes. No objection having been raised, SCS CSHB 235 (HES) was REPORTED OUT of committee with zero notes from the Dept. of Education and the Dept. of Administration. All members present signed the committee report with a "do pass" recommendation. Senators Kelly and Kerttula were absent and did not sign. Co-chair Pearce directed that the meeting be briefly recessed. RECESS - 3:55 P.M. RECONVENE - 4:15 P.M.