State Chamber urges 'yes' vote on special-needs scholarships

Here's the text of a letter released this week by The State Chamber of Oklahoma.

From:  Matt Robison, Vice President, Small Business and Workforce Development

Date:  May 17, 2010

Re:  SUPPORT FOR HB 3393

House Bill 3393 allows students with developmental disabilities and their families freedom to direct the education services they receive. Oklahoma law currently allows school districts to place special education students in private schools, with the consent of the parents, if they are not able to provide the necessary special education services. This measure will assures the same option will be directly provided to parents.

With strong bipartisan support during this year’s session, HB 3393 provides scholarships for private special education while limiting the financial and legal liability of public schools. The bill provides needed reform for special education students without increasing state spending during the current budget crisis.

The State Chamber requests you vote "YES" on HB 3393.