SB 143 Summary

• School districts must provide parents of deaf or hard of hearing children comprehensive, neutral information about hearing technology (hearing aids, cochlear implants, remote microphone systems), communication methods (listening and spoken language, bilingual approach, cued speech, total communication), services and programs, and support and advocacy services.

• Parents may choose the communication method they determine most appropriate for their child, and school districts must provide services using that chosen method delivered by professionals trained and experienced in that method.

• School districts must inform parents of their duties and the parents' rights regarding communication method selection and service delivery.

• The bill defines key terms including "deaf," "hard of hearing," "bilingual approach," "cued speech," "listening and spoken language," and "total communication."

• The state department must establish and operate a centralized program for deaf students statewide that includes residential services, which may be operated by a school district under department agreement.