Summary of Bill S 383: An Act to Create a Facilities Loan Program for Private Special Education Schools

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 383 aims to establish a facilities loan program specifically designed for private special education schools in Massachusetts. The primary goal of this legislation is to provide financial support for the construction and upgrading of facilities that serve students with special needs, thereby enhancing the educational environment and resources available to these institutions.

Key Provisions

• Loan Program Creation: The bill mandates the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) to develop regulations for a loan program that offers either no-interest or low-interest loans.
• Eligible Schools: The program will be available to schools that are approved under Chapter 71B of the Massachusetts General Laws, which pertains to the education of students with disabilities.
• Funding Source: The loans will be funded through the School Modernization and Reconstruction Trust Fund, as authorized by Section 35BB of Chapter 10 of the General Laws.

Impact

• Beneficiaries: The primary beneficiaries of this bill will be private special education schools that require financial assistance for facility improvements. This support is expected to lead to better educational outcomes for students with special needs by providing them with improved learning environments.
• Broader Educational Community: By enhancing the facilities of private special education schools, the bill may also positively impact families and communities that rely on these institutions for specialized education services.

Procedural Aspects

• Introduced: The bill was introduced on February 27, 2025, by Senator John F. Keenan, representing the Norfolk and Plymouth district.
• Legislative Actions:
  • The bill was referred to the Committee on Education on the same day it was introduced.
  • The House of Representatives concurred with the bill's referral.
• Hearing Scheduled: A public hearing is set for November 18, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in room B-1, where stakeholders and the public can provide input on the proposed legislation.

Conclusion

Bill S 383 represents a significant step towards improving the infrastructure of private special education schools in Massachusetts. By facilitating access to financial resources for facility upgrades, the bill seeks to foster an environment conducive to the education of students with special needs, ultimately aiming to enhance their learning experiences and outcomes.