RÉSUMÉ DIGEST
ACT 455 (HB 199) 2018 Regular Session Smith
New law creates the 23-member Language Equality and Acquisition for Deaf Kids (LEAD-
K) Task Force to (a) develop a resource for parents to monitor and track deaf or hard of
hearing children's language acquisition, using American Sign Language (ASL), English, or
both, and developmental stages toward English literacy and (b) develop a framework for
assessing such children to determine their competencies in language and literacy skills for
the purpose of ensuring they are able to achieve kindergarten readiness in an equitable
manner. Requires impartiality with regard to the language and modalities used to teach such
children. Provides that "English" includes spoken English, written English, and English with
the use of visual supplements, including but not limited to Cued Speech and Signing Exact
English.
New law provides that the task force shall study and make recommendations relative to
matters including developing a framework for assessing children who are deaf or hard of
hearing and selecting language developmental milestones from existing standardized norms.
New law requires the task force to submit a report to the House and Senate education
committees and health and welfare committees not later than Feb. 1, 2019. Requires the state
Dept. of Education and the La. Dept. of Health to submit responses not later than Mar. 1,
2019.
New law repeals new law.
Effective upon signature of governor (May 23, 2018); repeal of new law effective March 1,
2019.
(Adds R.S. 17:1960.1 and R.S. 36:651(G)(6); Repeals R.S. 17:1960.1 and R.S.
36:651(G)(6))