This bill aims to enhance early intervention services for children under the age of three who have developmental delays or disabilities in Alaska. It amends existing laws to include 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 for children at risk of developmental delays and focusing solely on those already experiencing 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 these services, the types of services provided, associated costs, and recommendations for further improvements. 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 comprehensive service framework and the monitoring of service effectiveness. It also introduces new definitions and criteria for what constitutes "developmentally delayed" and "early intervention services," ensuring a more structured approach to service delivery. 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:
HB0376A, AM HB 376, introduced 03/09/2026: 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
HB0376B, AM CSHB 376(EDC), introduced 03/30/2026: 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