Special education legislation introduced by State Rep. Michelle Cook (D-Torrington) has been approved on a bi-partisan vote by the Education Committee.

The bill will now move on to the full House of Representatives for consideration.

HB5426 requires the State Board of Education to develop a streamlined process for the administration of Individualized Education Programs (IEP) and the creation of a form that clearly and adequately records all relevant information necessary for students in need of special education services.

"Every child's needs are unique, but the current IEP form is not flexible enough to allow sufficient explanation and detail," said Cook. By making changes to the IEP form and process the bill will allow for better identification of a student's needs, the creation of a more thorough plan to address those needs, and ultimately position the student for the greater success.