Rep. Foncello Backs $40M in Special Education Funding, Calls for Greater Action
HARTFORD— State Representative Martin Foncello (R-Brookfield) on Monday joined fellow Republicans in fighting to fully fund the special education Excess Cost Grant, a critical state funding source that helps municipalities manage the skyrocketing costs of providing intensive services to students with the greatest needs.
In an effort to deliver more relief to cities and towns, Rep. Foncello and House Republicans introduced an amendment to fully fund the grant—providing the $108 million necessary to get school districts through the fiscal year. Instead, Democrats advanced a bill that offered only $40 million, which will leave local leaders scrambling to cover the gap.
The Republican amendment was rejected along party lines in a 48-96 vote.
Despite the amendment’s failure, Rep. Foncello ultimately supported the $40 million measure, recognizing it as a necessary though insufficient step.
“The omnibus bill also included a clarification on the property tax break for certain veterans we approved last year. I’ve heard from constituents wondering why the house and not the land was specified in last year’s bill. I’m glad the General Assembly’s Veterans’ and Miliary Affairs Committee is considering bills this session to expand the tax break coverage,” said Rep. Foncello.
Both SB1276 and SB1091 were brought up for public hearings on February 13th. The General Assembly 2025 session adjourns on June 4.
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