How long does TEA have to resolve a complaint?
Under federal law, TEA must issue a written decision within 60 calendar days of the date on which the complaint was filed. The timeline does not begin until all requirements for filing a complaint have been met (see Question 2 or review the Checklist). TEA may extend the timeline for exceptional circumstances which include: (1) an unforeseen crisis, such as natural disasters and emergencies; (2) a complaint that relates to a large number of students; and/or (3) a complaint that alleges systemic violations (that is, violations that impact services for more than one student with a disability). In addition, the parties may agree to extend the 60 calendar day timeline in order to engage in mediation. Under state law, a complaint that alleges an LEA’s refusal to provide special education services to an eligible student must be expedited to ensure that any educational services due to the student are initiated. Once a resolution is achieved (services are initiated for the eligible student), t
