In a question-and-answer format, this guide discusses the provisions of three federal laws as they relate to educational services for the handicapped: Public Law 94-142, Public Law 99-457 and Section 504 of Public Law 93-112. The guide outlines: (1) who is eligible for services; (2) legal definitions of such terms as handicapped, learning-disabled, special education, related services, and least restrictive environment; (3) development of the individualized education program; (4) procedural safeguards; (5) assessment of students; (6) confidentiality of information; (7) rights of handicapped children in private schools; (8) fiscal issues concerning payment of the costs of these educational services and application of the federal funding formula; (9) management responsibilities as documented in the state plan and the local education agency applications; (10) enforcement of the legislation and sanctions for failure to comply; (11) architectural barriers; and (12) preschool and early intervention services mandated by Public Law 99-457. (JDD)