TRENTON – The Senate Health, Human Services, and Senior Citizens Committee advanced legislation sponsored by Senators Linda Greenstein and Angela McKnight, which would codify the “Level the Playing Field” early language instruction program for deaf, hard-of-hearing, and deaf-blind children within the Department of Health.
“Individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing often face serious challenges due to cultural and communication barriers, which is why it is so important to make sure they can easily obtain the support they need from an early age,” said Senator Greenstein (D-Mercer/Middlesex). “Access to the early childhood supports outlined in this legislation is essential for a deaf child’s successful language development, social growth, and long-term academic success.”
Under the bill, S-3764, the early language instruction program would support the language acquisition and developmental needs of deaf, hard-of-hearing, and deaf-blind children aged five and younger. All services delivered under this program would be free of charge. Eligible children and their families would have to provide proof of the child’s hearing loss, age, and state residency to receive services.
“For any child, the first years of life are critical to their long-term development. For deaf children, early intervention is imperative to prevent developmental delays,” said Senator McKnight (D-Hudson). “This bill will ensure that all of New Jersey’s deaf and hard-of-hearing children have the resources they need to stay on track with their developmental goals, reducing the likelihood of adverse outcomes later in life.”