What significant amendment was made to Public Law 94-142 in 1986?

The amendment made to Public Law 94-142 in 1986 that specified courts could award attorneys' fees to parents who prevail in legal proceedings is significant because it empowers families of students with disabilities to advocate more effectively for their children's educational rights. By allowing parents to recover legal costs, this amendment serves as a crucial support mechanism, ensuring that families have the financial resources to challenge schools if necessary. It helps to level the playing field between parents and school districts, encouraging schools to comply with the law and providing an incentive for families to pursue appropriate services for their children.

The other options reflect misunderstandings of the protections guaranteed under the law. For example, schools are not permitted to refuse services to students with disabilities, nor does the law limit rights or specify additional services only for severely disabled students. Instead, the focus has consistently been on ensuring a free and appropriate public education for all students with disabilities, promoting inclusion and equal rights in educational settings.