Bill > H7586

This bill updates the description of Rhode Island's early intervention program, which provides services to infants and toddlers (under age three) with developmental delays or disabilities, aligning it with Part C of the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The bill designates the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) as the responsible agency, replacing the Department of Human Services in this role, and clarifies that EOHHS will oversee the program's regulations and ensure timely evaluations and services. Importantly, the bill mandates that EOHHS increase Medicaid reimbursement rates for early intervention service providers by the amount recommended in the 2025 rate review to help them afford competitive wages and retain qualified staff, addressing past staffing shortages and long waiting lists. Additionally, EOHHS is required to maintain and regularly update a public online data dashboard with key information, such as the number of children waiting for evaluations and staff vacancy rates, to ensure transparency and accountability in the program.

Budget and Finance

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