AK SB178

Adds early intervention services for children under age 3 with developmental delays or disabilities as an optional service under Alaska's Medicaid program, contingent on federal approval by July 1, 2026

Narrows eligibility to children with confirmed developmental delays or disabilities, removing the previous discretionary category for children merely "at risk" of such conditions

Establishes two-tiered definitions of "developmentally delayed" based on funding source: 15% below age norms for non-IDEA services, and 20-25% below age norms for federally-funded IDEA services

Requires the Department of Health to review qualifying disability conditions at least every five years in consultation with medical professionals and the state interagency coordinating council

Mandates a report to the legislature by July 1, 2029 on the number of children needing and receiving services, service types and costs, federal funding received, and recommendations for program improvements