HB4716 Summary: Early Intervention Services System Act Amendments

• Redefines "eligible infants and toddlers" to include children under 36 months with developmental delays, physical/mental conditions resulting in delays, or those at risk based on informed clinical judgment, with expanded eligibility for children who previously qualified but no longer meet criteria if they continue demonstrating measurable delays

• Modifies the Illinois Interagency Council on Early Intervention composition from 15-25 members to include specific representatives from Department of Insurance, Department of Healthcare and Family Services, advocacy organizations, rural and urban Child and Family Connections managers, and the Illinois Early Learning Council co-chair

• Updates early intervention service delivery requirements to mandate provision in natural environments "to the maximum extent appropriate" with justification consistent with federal regulations under Sections 1431-1444 of Title 20, United States Code, rather than basing placement on where non-disabled peers would participate

• Establishes a 2-working-day referral timeline for the child find system after identification and updates regulatory references from Part H to Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004

• Adds requirement that children transitioning from early intervention services receive a smooth and effective transition to appropriate preschool programs under Part B of IDEA or Article 14 of the School Code by their 3rd birthday