(a) Requirements for LEAs in general. LEAs that establish joint eligibility under this section must—

1. (1) Adopt policies and procedures that are consistent with the State's policies and procedures under §§ 300.101 through 300.163, and §§ 300.165 through 300.174; and
2. (2) Be jointly responsible for implementing programs that receive assistance under Part B of the Act.

(b) Requirements for educational service agencies in general. If an educational service agency is required by State law to carry out programs under Part B of the Act, the joint responsibilities given to LEAs under Part B of the Act—

1. (1) Do not apply to the administration and disbursement of any payments received by that educational service agency; and
2. (2) Must be carried out only by that educational service agency.

(c) Additional requirement. Notwithstanding any other provision of §§ 300.223 through 300.224, an educational service agency must provide for the education of children with disabilities in the least restrictive environment, as required by § 300.112.

(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 1820-0600)

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1413(e)(3) and (4))