This bill amends existing laws related to early intervention services for children under the age of three who have developmental delays or disabilities. Notably, it adds "early intervention services for children eligible under AS 47.20.080" as an optional service under the medical assistance program. The bill also revises the eligibility criteria for early intervention services, removing the provision that allowed services for children at risk of developmental delays or disabilities. Additionally, it establishes a requirement for the Department of Health to submit a report to the legislature by July 1, 2029, detailing the number of children needing and receiving early intervention services, the types of services provided, and recommendations for statutory changes.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Health in developing a state plan for providing services to eligible children and mandates a review of the conditions qualifying as a disability every five years. It also clarifies the definition of "developmentally delayed" and provides a comprehensive list of early intervention services designed to support the developmental needs of affected children. The bill includes provisions for federal approval of amendments to the state plan for medical assistance coverage and specifies that the changes will take effect only if approved by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services by July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB0178A, AM SB 178, introduced 04/22/2025: 47.07.030, 47.07.063, 21.42.375, 47.20.080, 47.20.060, 47.20.290, 47.20.070, 47.20.100, 47.20.090