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Senate adopts amendment and passes pilot for specialized attendance centers for some students with complex needs
Summary
The Senate adopted an amendment making the pilot contingent on appropriated funds and passed Senate File 2404 to authorize a pilot program establishing specialized attendance centers in one rural and one urban district to serve students with intensive behavioral or special‑education needs.
The Senate adopted amendment S5095 to Senate File 2404 and then passed the bill on final reading. Senator Gruenhagen, sponsor of the bill, said the amendment “strikes through the original funding mechanism and makes the implementation of the pilot program contingent upon appropriated funds,” and moved the amendment to adoption, which members approved by voice vote.
Opponents raised legal and equity concerns. Senator Stade argued the bill risks creating segregated settings and may conflict with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, urging investment in special‑education staff pay, retention, and training rather than new separate facilities. Supporters, including Senator Evans and Senator Donahue, said the bill creates a continuum of services and aims to give teachers tools and districts flexibility while preserving IEP and 504 protections. The roll call on final passage recorded 32 ayes and 13 nays; the Senate declared the bill passed and agreed to the title.
