News In Brief: Panel Urges Easing Special-Ed. Mandates

An independent panel charged with reviewing the role of federal mandates has recommended modifying two major laws that protect children with disabilities.

The Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations last month issued preliminary recommendations calling on lawmakers to ease regulatory and financial burdens posed by the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. The panel also called on Congress to repeal seven federal mandates unrelated to education.

The IDEA guarantees disabled children a "free, appropriate public education." The panel urged Congress to increase funding under the law's grant program, change its structure to eliminate incentives to place children in special education, and allow more flexible implementation. The panel also suggests curbing litigation by requiring parents and schools to use dispute-resolution alternatives, and limiting parents' right to sue...