Bill > HB2188

This bill establishes a comprehensive hearing screening program for students in Oklahoma public and charter schools, requiring mandatory hearing screenings for children in pre-kindergarten through eleventh grade at specific intervals. The bill defines detailed requirements for hearing screenings, including the types of equipment that can be used (such as pure tone audiometers, tympanometers, and otoacoustic emission devices), and specifies screening criteria and procedures. Schools will be required to conduct screenings using approved methods, with a three-year gradual implementation plan that allows schools to adapt to the new requirements. If a student fails a hearing screening, parents will receive a recommendation for a comprehensive hearing examination by a licensed audiologist, who must then submit a detailed written report to the school, parents, and health department. The State Department of Health will maintain a statewide registry of approved hearing screening providers and audiologists, and develop training programs for screening personnel. The bill also exempts deaf or hard-of-hearing students with recent audiologist documentation and ensures that no student will be prohibited from attending school due to screening-related documentation issues. Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, school districts must notify parents of these new hearing screening requirements, and the State Department of Education will be required to issue an annual report on the program's impact and effectiveness.

Health and Social Services

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb2188&Session=2600