CT HB05448

Redefines "parent" in the birth-to-three early intervention program to include biological, adoptive, foster parents, guardians (except the Commissioner of Children and Families), relatives with custody, individuals legally responsible for the child, and surrogate parents.

Changes the commissioner's authority from "shall establish" to "may establish" local interagency coordinating councils, and shifts advisory role from "regional birth-to-three managers" to the "lead agency."

Corrects federal statute references from Part H to Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (20 USC 1431 et seq. instead of 1471 et seq.).

Authorizes the lead agency to directly provide early intervention services, arrange delivery through participating agencies, or contract with providers, and requires monitoring of all service providers for quality and establishment of state-wide service rates.

Allows advanced practice registered nurses working within their scope of practice to sign individualized family service plans and order services when collaborating with a physician, with signatures deemed sufficient for federal Medicaid reimbursement claims.