House Bill No. 5557, now Public Act No. 26-151, mandates the Commissioner of Developmental Services to create a plan for a standardized definition of intellectual disability, which must be established before an individual turns eighteen. This definition will focus on significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, aligning with professional standards recognized by the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. The plan will ensure that no single test score is determinative of intellectual disability and will consider a comprehensive range of clinical, educational, and functional evidence. The Commissioner is required to report on this plan by July 1, 2027, including recommendations for transitioning to the new definition and associated costs.

Additionally, the bill establishes an American Sign Language (ASL) education working group under the Commissioner of Education, tasked with providing recommendations on ASL curriculum, teacher certification standards, and educator preparation programs. The working group will consist of representatives from various state departments, educational institutions, and appointed members from the General Assembly and the Governor. The Department of Education must submit annual progress reports starting January 1, 2028. Furthermore, the Commissioner of Social Services is directed to study Medicaid reimbursement rates and the availability of nonemergency medical transportation services for Medicaid beneficiaries, with a report due by February 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 1-1g
HS Joint Favorable: 1-1g
File No. 441: 1-1g
APP Joint Favorable: 1-1g