Members of the Legislature's Education Committee heard lengthy testimony from both supporters and opponents of proposed new rules governing special education programs.
The thrust of the rules is to bring Maine's services into line with levels required by federal law. The state currently provides some services in excess of federal requirements. Sandra McArthur of the Maine School Management Association says that is just too expensive.
"The proposed changes would help assure that special education services are delivered consistently across the state and in a cost-effective manner," McArthur said. "They also recognize that special education costs under current state rules are growing faster than any other part of the education budget."
Opponents argue the rule changes will discourage doctors and other professionals from providing services because their pay would be limited by a formula, not by the needs of children in the program.
Thomas Jamrog is with the Maine School Psychological Association. "Institutionalizing Medicaid rates as the basis for the payment of contracted special education consultant and services in Maine is likely to result in the decision by many special education professionals and consultants to forego work in the public school system," he said.