Texas House Bill HB1413

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the language acquisition of children eight years of age or younger who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Impact

The bill proposes an amendment to the Education Code, specifically introducing Section 29.316 which mandates that the Texas Education Agency, in conjunction with the Health and Human Services Commission, will regularly assess the language acquisition of children falling under the specified age and criteria. This assessment will include determining appropriate language assessment protocols and generating annual reports to monitor the progress and effectiveness of language acquisition services provided to these children.

Summary

House Bill 1413 is focused on the language acquisition of children eight years old or younger who are deaf or hard of hearing. This bill emphasizes the need for early monitoring and assessment of language development in these children to ensure timely interventions and support. The legislation establishes a framework for generating and publishing data related to the language skills of this vulnerable population, providing both a proactive approach and an aim for improved educational outcomes.

Contention

While the bill aims to enhance support for children who are deaf or hard of hearing, it also highlights the challenges and frustrations associated with ensuring adequate resources and training for educators and healthcare professionals involved in early intervention. Some stakeholders may express concerns over how these assessments are conducted, the potential burden on families regarding data collection, and the ability of state agencies to comply with federal laws on confidentiality and privacy concerning student information. Potential debates may arise regarding the adequacy of funding and training for implementing the provisions of the bill effectively.