The guide presents a composite of part 30 of California's education code which deals with special education. An introduction explains the history of the law, noting the passage of five legislative bills during 1984 which amended, added, or repealed special education sections. The revised part 30 is presented with the following headings: general provisions, administration; elements of the local plan; identification and referral, assessment, instructional planning, implementation, and review; early education for individuals with exceptional needs; career and vocational education programs and funding; awareness programs; interagency agreements; procedural safeguards; evaluation, audits, and information; funding; special education programs for individuals with exceptional needs residing in state hospitals; and joint funding for the Education for All Handicapped Children Act of 1980. Selected provisions of related legislation not included in part 30 are also presented. (CL)