Committee
Public Health and Welfare
Author
Rod Hickman and Nicole Boyd
Session
2023 Session
Explanation of the Bill
On March 14, the Governor signed SB 2485 into law.
Explanation of the Bill
SB 2485 would update the definition of those considered qualified to provide early intervention services. The new definition would qualify individuals who hold degrees in Human Development and Family Sciences or Child and Family Science with a concentration in child development and licensure in pre-K/K.
As it exists now, the Early Intervention Act for Infants and Toddlers counts audiologists, family therapists, nurses, nutritionists, occupational therapists, orientation and mobility specialists, pediatricians and other physicians, physical therapists, psychologists, social workers, special educators, and speech language pathologists as qualified personnel. The change would ensure that those who hold degrees that specialize in child development are now able to work with children and families that require early intervention.
While this change intends to broaden the types of professionals who may serve children, the specific language in the bill may exclude those who hold similar knowledge with different degree names such as Human Development and Family Studies, as it is found at Mississippi State University, Child Care and Family Education, as it is found at Jackson State University, Family & Consumer Sciences with a concentration in Child Development, as it is found at Delta State University, or other early childhood-focused degree programs.
Date | Details |
---|---|
1/16/23 | On January 16, SB 2485 was referred to the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee. |
1/31/23 | On January 31, the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee passed SB 2485. |
2/8/23 | On February 8, the Senate passed SB 2485. |
2/9/23 | On February 9, SB 2485 transmitted to the House. |
2/22/23 | On February 22, SB 2485 was referred to the House Education Committee. |
2/28/23 | On February 28, SB 2485 passed the House Education Committee. |
3/7/23 | On March 7, the House passed SB 2485. |
3/13/23 | On March 13, the House and the Senate signed the enrolled bill SB 2485. |
3/14/23 | On March 14, the Governor signed SB 2485 into law. |