Bill aimed at streamlining special education programs in New Jersey public schools.

A state Assembly bill aimed at streamlining special education programs in the state’s public schools on Thursday passed its first major hurdle when it cleared the Education Committee.

The bill, A1365, this week passed the committee by a unanimous vote and will be headed for a full vote of the Assembly. The bill is sponsored by Assemblyman Dave Rible and would create a task force charged with improving the funding, deliver and effectiveness of special education programs and services in New Jersey’s public schools.

The bill would create the Task Force on Improving Special Education for Public School Students, comprised of 14 Gubernatorial appointments and the state Education Commissioner. The 14 would include parents, teachers, administrators and advocates involved in the special education community, according to the bill.

The bipartisan legislation is also prime-sponsored by Assembly members Mary Pat Angelini, Jason O’Donnell and Donna Simon, and Senators Jennifer Beck and Teresa M. Ruiz.

Read the whole story at Wall Patch.