TX SB1653

Requires the Health and Human Services Commission to operate a statewide co-navigation services program for individuals who are deaf-blind, with the commission reimbursing co-navigators for their services

Defines co-navigation services as assistance helping deaf-blind individuals physically access their environment and make informed decisions, including providing visual/environmental information, sighted guide services, and communicating in the individual's preferred language and mode (such as American Sign Language, protactile language, or auditory amplification)

Explicitly excludes personal care services, running errands, making decisions for the individual, teaching/instruction, and formal interpreting in medical, legal, or business settings from the definition of co-navigation services

Establishes a tiered wage scale for co-navigator reimbursement rates based on the provider's level of training, fluency, and skill in communication modes and sighted guide-mobility techniques for deaf-blind individuals

Requires the commission to monitor co-navigator compliance, develop additional funding sources beyond state funds, and provide funding and technical assistance for training programs for both co-navigators and deaf-blind individuals, with implementation required by September 1, 2026