The bill SB1024 expands the definition of "developmental disability" under Arizona law to include severe, chronic disabilities attributable to spina bifida. This change allows individuals with spina bifida to receive services through the Department of Economic Security's Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD). The bill also provides a specific definition of spina bifida as a neural tube defect that occurs when the neural tube fails to develop or close properly before birth, with severity varying based on factors such as the size of the spinal opening and its location.

In addition to the new inclusions, the bill makes conforming changes to the existing definitions within the law, including the renumbering of subsequent definitions. The overall aim is to ensure that individuals with spina bifida are recognized and supported within the framework of services provided for developmental disabilities in Arizona. The bill is set to take effect on the general effective date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-551
Senate Engrossed Version: 36-551