The bill aims to clarify the definition of "intellectual and developmental disability" within the Arkansas Code. It amends the existing definition to specify that such disabilities are chronic and affect an individual, rather than a person. The bill introduces a detailed list of qualifying diagnoses, including cerebral palsy, epilepsy, spina bifida, Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, and intellectual disability, which must be established through medical examinations or standardized testing. Additionally, it emphasizes that these disabilities must originate before the individual reaches the age of 22 and must result in substantial impairments requiring support services.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the language surrounding the definition of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, removing references to mental deficits and instead focusing on the need for special evaluation, treatment, and support. It clarifies that individuals who do not exhibit an intellectual deficit but function similarly due to other handicaps are included in this definition. The bill also ensures that the definitions are consistent across various sections of the Arkansas Code, reinforcing the importance of appropriate support services for those affected.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB189 Original - 2-1-2023 02:41 PM: 20-48-101(4), 20-48-202(4), 20-48-603(2)
Old version SB189 V2 - 2-9-2023 11:58 AM: 20-48-101(4), 20-48-202(4), 20-48-603(2), 02-09-2023
Old version SB189 V3 - 2-22-2023 10:07 AM: 20-48-101(4), 20-48-202(4), 20-48-603(2)
SB 189: 20-48-101(4), 20-48-202(4), 20-48-603(2)
Act 214: 20-48-101(4), 20-48-202(4), 20-48-603(2)