The complex rules that govern how federal dollars must be spent on special education services are getting a new, critical look as stimulus money starts flowing to the states.

The New Jersey Department of Children and Families plans to close 18 schools that serve troubled or disabled young people.

At issue is whether families can be reimbursed for private school costs if their children have not received public special education services.

President Obama would eliminate a dozen Education Department programs, even as overall K-12 aid swells under the stimulus.

A decision could flesh out when parents of a child with disabilities can seek to recover costs for private school services.