Primary and Secondary Students - Vision and Hearing Studies and Evaluations
Impact
By establishing this workgroup, HB893 sets a framework for systematic evaluations of how students who face vision and hearing issues can get the necessary treatments. The bill intends to equip students with better support systems that are crucial for their academic performance and overall well-being. Furthermore, it emphasizes collaboration with various stakeholders, including local health departments and vision service providers, to ensure that resources are efficiently allocated and accessed.
Summary
House Bill 893 aims to enhance the support and services available for vision and hearing difficulties experienced by primary and secondary students in Maryland. The bill mandates the State Department of Education, in conjunction with the Maryland Department of Health, to assemble a workgroup that will study and generate recommendations concerning vision and hearing support treatments for students. This will include evaluating the prevalence of vision deficiencies, the accessibility of treatment services, and identifying potential barriers that prevent students from receiving necessary care.
Contention
Discussion surrounding this bill may encompass points of contention concerning funding and the implementation of mandatory screenings. Critics could argue about the feasibility of additional mandatory vision screening tests and potential budgetary constraints that might arise. Supporters will likely assert that these screenings and evaluations are necessary to address significant gaps in the educational support system for students with sensory difficulties, highlighting the importance of adequate state and local funding for such educational health initiatives. Additionally, the bill's two-year sunset provision may provoke debate about the long-term commitments needed for systemic changes in student health support services.
Department of Mental Health; expand category for involuntary commitment to include individuals with co-occurring substance use disorder, authorize service of petition in county of respondent's location when original petition was filed, authorize judge to determine when to bring respondent before court for hearing on restriction of liberty pending final hearing, authorize judge of probate to petition district or municipal court for suspension of criminal confinement for commitment; bill does not require providers to expand services unless additional funding provided
Department of Mental Health; expand category for involuntary commitment to include individuals with co-occurring substance use disorder, authorize service of petition in county of respondent's location when original petition was filed, authorize judge to determine when to bring respondent before court for hearing on restriction of liberty pending final hearing, authorize judge of probate to petition district or municipal court for suspension of criminal confinement for commitment; bill does not require providers to expand services unless additional funding provided