KXLA 9

Advocates have filed a class action lawsuit in federal court, arguing that the state of Montana should allow students with disabilities to continue receiving public education past the age of 18. Disability Rights Montana sued Gov. Greg Gianforte and Superintendent of Public Instruction Susie Hedalen on behalf of two students with developmental disabilities – and hundreds of other students who are or were receiving special ed services set to end when they turn 19. “This case is about fundamental fairness and giving students with disabilities the time they need to prepare for further education, employment, and independent living,” said Tal Goldin, director of advocacy at Disability Rights Montana and COPAA member, in a statement. “Montana provides publicly funded education to non-disabled adults beyond age 18 yet denies the same access to students with disabilities. This is exactly the kind of discrimination that, if eliminated, can strengthen our communities.” The lawsuit says federal law guarantees students with disabilities access to public education until they’re 22 or they complete a high school diploma.