Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Early Learning & Human Services Committee |
HB 1794
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: Representatives Sawyer, Walsh, Kagi, S. Hunt and McBride; by request of Department of Early Learning.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/11/15
Staff: Ashley Paintner (786-7120).
Background:
In accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Part C, children from birth to 3 years of age 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 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.
Summary of Bill:
The lead agency for the ESIT program is identified as the DEL.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.