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 under the medical assistance program. The bill also revises the eligibility criteria for early intervention services by removing the provision that allowed services on a discretionary basis for children at risk of developmental delays or disabilities. Additionally, it mandates the Department of Health to submit a report by July 1, 2029, detailing the number of children needing and receiving early intervention services, the types of services provided, associated costs, and recommendations for statutory changes. Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Health in developing a state plan for providing services, including the establishment of a review process for disability qualifications every five years. It also specifies the definition of "developmentally delayed" and redefines "early intervention services" to include a comprehensive list of services aimed at supporting the developmental needs of eligible children. The bill includes provisions for federal approval of amendments to the state plan for medical assistance coverage and sets a conditional effective date based on this approval, with a general effective date of July 1, 2026, if the conditions are met.

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
SB0178Z, AM Enrolled SB 178, introduced 05/17/2026: 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