2190

JOIST RESOLUTIONS

WHEREAS, The continued existence of accredited
nonpublic special education programs in the State are
increasingly threatened, and the Maryland community is in
danger of being deprived of the knowledge, skills, and years
of expertise involved in those programs; and

WHEREAS, Nonpublic special education programs are being
displaced by the increasing development of public special
education programs; and

WHEREAS, Nonpublic special education programs have been
recognized by the State Department of Education as part of
the continuum of special education services necessary to
appropriately serve handicapped children in Maryland; and

WHEREAS, There is a need to clarify the intent of the
State law concerning education as to its effect on the
continued existence and number of public special education
facilities; and

WHEREAS, There is a need to clarify the understanding
of funding, criterion of placement, and continuation of
programs for nonpublic special education facilities; now,
therefore, be it

RESOLVED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF MARYLAND, That the
Governor Legislative Policy Committee appoint a commission
to study the effect of the State's education law on
nonpublic, special education programs; and be it further

RESOLVED, That this commission shall consist of:

The State Superintendent of Schools, or his
designee;

The Secretary of Health and Mental Hygiene, or
his designee;

The Secretary of Human Resources, or his
designee;

Three representatives of the Maryland Association
of Nonpublic Special Education Facilities;

One representative of the Maryland Association
for Retarded Citizens;

One representative of United Cerebral Palsy of
Maryland;

Three Two representatives of local education
agencies; and

Three Two persons who are parents of handicapped
children; and bo it further