relative to special education dispute resolution.

HB 1443 proposes changes to the special education dispute resolution process in New Hampshire to increase the use of neutral conferences and adjust mediator assignments. The bill would require the Department of Education to select a neutral third party on a rotational basis to help parents and school districts review case facts and issues before a formal hearing. This neutral would issue a non-binding recommendation and suggested settlement options to encourage parties to reach a mutual agreement, rather than acting as a judge. Additionally, the bill outlines specific procedures for these conferences, including time limits for presentations and rules about when parties can communicate with the neutral. Finally, it assigns mediators to cases on a regional rotational basis and sets the law's effective date for January 1, 2025.