The examination of state law and the education of handicapped children is intended as a guide for persons seeking change in direction, a rationale, and a model for statutory provisions for exceptional child education. Issues discussed relate specifically to the special legal provisions needed by handicapped children. Background information is presented, the current status of state law summarized, and recommendations presented on the following aspects of state law and exceptional child education: the right to an education, the handicapped population and definitions of such, identification and placement, administrative responsibility, planning and coordination of resources, finance, administrative structures and organization of school districts, educational services, private schools, teachers and other educational personnel, and facilities. Concluding the book is a comprehensive set of model statutory provisions intended to assist states wishing to revise or create laws relating to the education of the handicapped. The models are designed to be incorporated into the comprehensive school law applying to all children in a state. (KW)