162.670. Statement of policy. - Missouri Statutes

Statement of policy.

162.670. In order to fully implement section 1(a) of article IX,constitution of Missouri, 1945, providing for the establishment andmaintenance of free public schools for gratuitous instruction of allpersons in this state within ages not in excess of twenty-one years asprescribed by law, it is hereby declared the policy of the state ofMissouri to provide or to require public schools to provide to allhandicapped and severely handicapped children within the ages prescribedherein, as an integral part of Missouri's system of gratuitous education, afree appropriate education consistent with the provisions set forth instate and federal regulations implementing the Individuals withDisabilities Education Act (IDEA), 20 U.S.C. Section 1400 et seq. and anyamendments thereto. The need of such children for early recognition,diagnosis and intensive educational services leading to more successfulparticipation in home, employment and community life is recognized. Thetimely implementation of this policy is declared to be an integral part ofthe policy of this state.

(L. 1973 H.B. 474 § 1, A.L. 2002 H.B. 2023)