The bill aims to enhance early intervention services for children with developmental disabilities in Rhode Island by allowing families to extend these services beyond a child's third birthday. Specifically, it permits children who turn three between May 1 and August 31 to continue receiving early intervention services until September 1 following their birthday. The Rhode Island Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) and the Department of Education are required to develop and implement a plan by July 1, 2026, to facilitate this extension and ensure continuity of services as children transition to early childhood special education.

An implementation advisory committee will be established to advise on the execution of the plan, which will include representatives from EOHHS, the Department of Education, early intervention provider agencies, local education agencies, advocates, and parents of children who have received early intervention services. The committee will identify strategies to reduce administrative burdens, maximize provider support for the extended population, and develop shared resources for training and development.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to require private health insurers to cover early intervention services for children from birth to age three, as well as for those older than three who qualify under the new provisions. It mandates that insurers reimburse certified early intervention providers at rates equal to or greater than the prevailing state Medicaid rate. The legislation reflects a commitment to improving educational outcomes and minimizing service gaps for children with disabilities in Rhode Island. This act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2834: 23-13-22, 27-18-64, 27-19-55, 27-20-50, 27-41-68