This bill would reauthorize the federal government’s authority to provide hearing tests and intervention programs to newborn babies. These programs have been operating since 1999, and in 2011 screened about 97 percent of all infants.
Under current law, this program would expire in September 2015. This bill would authorize appropriations for fiscal years 2017 to 2022.
The Health Resources and Services Administration would receive $17.8 million annually through 2022. These funds would go to administering statewide programs for hearing screenings, evaluations, and intervention programs for newborns, infants, and young children.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) would get $10.8 million annually for technical assistance, data management, and research projects.