This bill establishes programs aimed at addressing the needs of toddlers and children aged three to five who are deaf or hard of hearing, along with their parents or guardians. For toddlers under three, the early intervention program will conduct activities that include biannual meetings between the toddler, their parent or guardian, and a language team until the toddler's language development meets established benchmarks. Additionally, parents or guardians will be paired with a mentor who is deaf or hard of hearing, providing guidance and support in the child's language development. Each eligible toddler will be automatically enrolled in these services unless the parent or guardian opts out.
For children aged three to five who have previously received early intervention services, the Department of Education will provide similar support, including the same biannual meetings and mentorship opportunities. These children can continue to participate in the program until they enter kindergarten or elementary school. The bill also defines key terms such as "language team," which includes professionals like pediatric audiologists and speech and language pathologists, and outlines the responsibilities of the mentors involved in the program. The implementation of this act will be overseen by the Commissioners of Health and Education, who will adopt necessary regulations.