Committee advances $464,300 to cover mandated therapy services after drop in external funding

The Blount County budget committee on Jan. 4 advanced resolution 25-11-003, a $464,300 appropriation to cover mandated occupational and physical therapy services for students after a reduction in external funding.

Ms. Hannum asked whether the funding was “completely state funded or was it tied to a grant of some sort” and whether the physical therapy represented services beyond what the district customarily provides. An unnamed school official told the committee that “last year, it was provided through federal funding” and that prior years were locally funded. The official said the federal funding "decreased by about $425,000 and so that shifted the burden back to local funds." (Unidentified School Official)

County/school staff clarified that the services are those outlined in each student’s individualized education program (IEP) and therefore must be provided: “It is services that are outlined in their IEP... that's what we provide.” The committee was told the therapy services are contracted out rather than provided by county staff.

Commissioner Kahler moved the appropriation; Commissioner Anderson seconded. The committee advanced the resolution on a 5-0 voice vote.

Why it matters

The appropriation covers services that staff described as federally mandated through students’ IEPs. Committee discussion made clear the county cannot decline services specified in an IEP; instead, the appropriation is intended to replace funding that previously came from outside sources. Meeting comments characterized the federal funding reduction as approximately $425,000, a figure provided by school staff during the discussion.

What happens next

The schools department is responsible for implementing the services and will monitor incoming funding and report any additional shortfalls to the committee. The resolution was forwarded by unanimous vote for the county’s next steps.