Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Early Learning & Human Services Committee |
SB 5879
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Concerning early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families.
Sponsors: Senators Billig, McAuliffe and Kohl-Welles; by request of Department of Early Learning.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/19/16
Staff: Ashley Paintner (786-7120).
Background:
Early Support for Infants and Toddlers.
In accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Part C, children from birth to age 3 who have been diagnosed with a disability or developmental delays and their families are entitled to intervention services. The program in Washington that provides these services is called the Early Support for Infants and Toddlers (ESIT) program. The stated goal of the ESIT program is to enable young children to be active and successful participants during the early childhood years and in the future.
The Department of Early Learning (DEL) contracts with 27 local lead agencies to deliver a range of services such as: specialized instruction, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. The provision of early intervention services utilizes cross-systems and agency collaborations between educational school districts, health departments, health and human services agencies, nonprofits, and county health departments. In 2010 the Department of Social and Health Services transferred lead agency responsibility to the DEL.
State Interagency Coordinating Council for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities and their Families.
The State Interagency Coordinating Council for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities and their Families (Council) was established in 2014 in accordance with the IDEA, Part C. The Council's primary responsibility is to assist the DEL and other participating agencies in implementing a collaborative and comprehensive statewide system of early intervention services for children birth to age 3 who have disabilities or are at risk for developing disabilities and their families. The Council is also tasked with coordinating the transition of these children into programs for 3 to 6-year-olds.
Summary of Bill:
The lead agency for the ESIT program is identified as the DEL. It is clarified in statute that the Council addresses children from birth to age 3 rather than birth to age 6.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.