The plan to adjust the funding method for education and other services for students placed in behavioral treatment centers crossed the hall in the Capitol this week.

 

House members passed House Bill 1021, which revises certain provisions regarding the education provided for children in certain residential treatment centers, on a 64-3 vote on Wednesday (Jan. 25).

 

ASBSD supports the bill.

 

Rep. Thomas Holmes told Representatives HB 1021 “would allow for some of our children who have behavioral issues to be dealt with in a better matter” as “many times” they are turned away from in-state treatment centers due to the cost of care and education services.”

 

HB 1021 would implement a provision for the South Dakota Department of Education to pay tuition for education services of the student directly to the treatment center in which they are placed, instead of counting the student on the fall enrollment of a school district.

 

The funding, which is approximately $160,000 and was included in the Governor’s fiscal year 2018 budget proposal, will cover students still in parental custody, but not in on IEP or behavioral plans.

 

“This (bill) is really critical for these kids,” Rep. Tona Rozum told House members.

 

HB 1021 now heads to the Senate for review and vote. For updates, check the ASBSD Blog, Twitter feed and Bill Tracker.