Bill > S1294

This bill mandates that all infants and newborns in Idaho undergo hearing loss screening before leaving a hospital, healthcare facility, or birthing facility, or within twenty-one days of birth for those born outside of these settings. The screening must use approved physiologic methods like otoacoustic emissions or automated auditory brainstem response, as determined by the Idaho Educational Services for the Deaf and the Blind (IESDB). Results must be reported to the IESDB within seven days to facilitate follow-up and early intervention, with all procedures adhering to IESDB standards. Importantly, these requirements are dependent on continued federal funding for infant and newborn hearing screening, and will not be enforced if such funding is lost, preventing increased costs to the state. The bill also declares an emergency and sets an effective date of July 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services, Justice

Health and Welfare Committee (Senate)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2026/legislation/S1294/