This bill amends existing laws related to early intervention services for children under the age of three who have developmental delays or disabilities. It introduces new optional services under the medical assistance program, specifically adding early intervention services for children eligible under AS 47.20.080; to the list of services that the department may offer. 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 updates the definition of "developmentally delayed" and outlines the specific early intervention services that will be available. Furthermore, the bill mandates 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, associated costs, and federal funding received. It also requires the Department to amend the state plan for medical assistance coverage to align with the new provisions and establishes a conditional effect for the implementation of these changes, which will take effect only if federal approval is granted by July 1, 2026.

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