HI SB1140

Mandates that audiologists and physicians specialized in hearing function report diagnostic audiologic evaluation results to the department of health for infants who fail newborn hearing screening or are diagnosed as deaf or hard of hearing up to age three years.

Adds four new definitions to Hawaii Revised Statutes: "audiologist," "deaf or hard of hearing," "diagnostic audiologic evaluation," and "hearing screening."

Replaces outdated terminology throughout the statute, including "hearing-impaired infant" with "deaf or hard of hearing" and "screening" with "hearing screening."

Requires the department of health to establish a statewide system for hearing screening, diagnostic audiologic evaluation, and referral to early intervention services for infants identified as deaf or hard of hearing or with risk indicators for delayed-onset or progressive hearing loss.

Takes effect upon approval.