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On September 20, 2025, Governor Kate Brown signed into law a landmark education bill that will significantly increase funding for special education programs in Oregon schools. The new legislation, known as the Special Education Equity Act, aims to address the longstanding challenges faced by students with disabilities in the state's education system.Under the terms of the law, Oregon schools will be required to allocate a minimum of 10% of their total budgets specifically for special education programs. This allocation represents a significant increase from the previous mandate of 7%, which advocates argued was insufficient to meet the needs of students with disabilities. The additional funding will be used to hire more special education teachers, provide training for existing staff, and implement evidence-based interventions to support students with disabilities.In addition to increasing funding, the Special Education Equity Act also includes provisions aimed at improving outcomes for students with disabilities. Schools will be required to develop Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for each student receiving special education services, outlining goals and accommodations tailored to their specific needs. Furthermore, the new law mandates the establishment of a statewide monitoring system to track the progress of students with disabilities and ensure that they are receiving the support they require to succeed academically.Governor Brown praised the passage of the Special Education Equity Act as a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable education system in Oregon. "Every student, regardless of ability, deserves access to a high-quality education that meets their individual needs," she stated. "This law represents our commitment to providing the necessary resources and support to ensure that students with disabilities have the opportunity to thrive in school and beyond."The implementation of the Special Education Equity Act is set to begin immediately, with schools across Oregon expected to adjust their budgets and programming to comply with the new requirements. Advocates for students with disabilities have welcomed the passage of the legislation as a positive development that will help ensure that all students in Oregon have the opportunity to receive a quality education.