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; to the list of optional services that the Department of Health may offer under the medical assistance program. Additionally, the bill modifies the eligibility criteria for early intervention services by removing the provision that allowed services to be provided on a discretionary basis to children at risk of developmental delays or disabilities. It also introduces 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 early intervention services, including the establishment of a review process for disability qualifications every five years. It also defines "early intervention services" comprehensively, listing various types of support designed to assist developmentally delayed or disabled children. The bill includes provisions for the amendment and federal approval of the state plan for medical assistance coverage to implement these changes, with a conditional effect that ties the implementation of certain sections to federal approval. If approved, the changes will take effect the day after the federal determination, or otherwise on 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
SB0178B, AM CSSB 178(FIN), introduced 05/11/2026: 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