Provides for the EarlySteps childhood disability intervention program and authorizes a fee schedule known as cost participation for services of the program (RE +$1,197,640 SG RV See Note)
Impact
The proposed legislation would fundamentally reshape the landscape of disability support services in Louisiana. By implementing a cost participation schedule based on family income levels, the bill ensures that families contribute to the funding of the services they receive, but also protects low-income families by exempting those below 300% of the federal poverty level from fees. This sliding scale aims to balance access to services with community investment in the program, while maintaining a focus on the needs of at-risk children across socioeconomic backgrounds.
Summary
House Bill 375 establishes Louisiana's EarlySteps program for early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities. This program aims to minimize developmental delays among children with disabilities by providing them and their families with comprehensive support. The bill outlines the administration of these services by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals and emphasizes collaboration across agencies to ensure that all children receive timely and appropriate interventions.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 375 is positive, reflecting a bipartisan recognition of the importance of early intervention for developmental disabilities. However, concerns have been raised regarding potential inequities in access to services should families face financial burdens. Advocates for families with disabled children have expressed appreciation for the emphasis on tailored support while urging careful implementation to ensure no child is left behind due to economic constraints.
Contention
Some points of contention arose during discussions of the bill, particularly regarding the fee structures and the potential impact on families' access to essential services. Opponents highlighted concerns over the financial implications for low-income families, stressing the need for safeguards to ensure that children continue to receive necessary early intervention without undue financial stress. Furthermore, the requirement for interagency coordination may present logistical challenges that could affect service delivery timelines.
Provides relative to pupil appraisal and services for children transitioning from EarlySteps to services provided by the local public school system upon their third birthday (EN INCREASE LF EX See Note)
Creates the Early Childhood Care and Education Commission and pilot programs for community early childhood care and education networks (RE SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Levies a 7% tax on the gross sales of therapeutic marijuana and dedicates the avails into the Community and Family Support System Fund (RE1 INCREASE SD RV See Note)
Establishes a program for needs assessment and coordination of services for people with disabilities affected by disasters (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD RV See Note)
An Act Concerning The Administration Of Certain Early Childhood Programs And The Provision Of Early Childhood Services By The Office Of Early Childhood.
Joint Resolution Respectfully Requesting The Executive Office Of Health And Human Services To Increase Rates For Early Intervention And First Connection Programs (directs The Executive Office Of Health And Human Services To Increase Medicaid Rates For The Early Intervention And First Connections Programs Allowing For Payment Of Competitive Wages For Qualified Professionals.)
Authorizes BESE to exempt a school district from certain laws, rules, and regulations pursuant to a request and proposal for increasing quality of instruction and academic achievement from the school district (EN SEE FISC NOTE EX See Note)
Provides for determinations for grade level promotion of certain students with exceptionalities regarding performance on state tests and provides for calculations of school performance scores relative to such students