individuals with disabilities education act
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. A federal statute that governs the public education of children with physical or mental handicaps and attempts to ensure that these children receive a free public education that meets their unique needs. • The Education of All Handicapped Children Act (enacted in 1975) was renamed the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act in 1990, and this Act was substantially amended in 1997. All states currently participate in this joint federal–state initiative. 20 USCA §§ 1400–1485. — Abbr. IDEA.