Bolinsky, House Republicans Issue Response to Findings of Special Education Task Force

HARTFORD — House Republicans on the Select Committee on Special Education, including Ranking Member Rep. Tina Courpas, Rep. Lezlye Zupkus, Rep. Tammy Nuccio and Rep. Mitch Bolinsky, issued the following joint statement in response to the findings of a recent report from the Task Force to Study Special Education Services and Funding.

“House Republicans have consistently prioritized education funding. Our previous budget proposals, including last session, have focused on substantial investments in local education, while fully funding special education grants. For instance, the biennial budget proposal put forward by House Republicans in 2024 allocated close to $80 million to fully fund special education grants for the first time. Instead, the majority chose to direct funds to higher education, shorting K-12 education. If the majority is serious about these reforms, they’ll join us in our proposals.

We recognize the need to address the challenges identified by the task force. We also need to ensure that tax dollars are well spent and that the programs we fund are working. This report helps start the conversation, but there are several other areas of concern that we have about our existing education system and if it’s producing successful outcomes for our kids.

And though some of the recommendations are well intentioned, the cost of implementation has to be considered. This is why we need to take a deep dive to find what’s working, reform what is not, and keep the costs in line with our current fiscal limitations.

As the legislative session progresses, House Republicans will work collaboratively with our colleagues. Our goal is to create a more inclusive and effective educational environment for all Connecticut students, ensuring that those with special needs receive the support and resources they deserve.”