Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Reauthorization

Rep. Jim Walsh (R-NY) introduced the Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Act of 2006 (H.R. 5250) in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill calls for the reauthorization of Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) programs over the next five years. When the legislation was first approved in 2000, 44% of newborns were screened for hearing loss. Since the successful implementation of EHDI programs, this number has increased to 93% of all newborns being screened each year. To ensure the continued success of EHDI programs, the reauthorization of this bill addresses necessary improvements to the original legislation. Key areas of improvement include: connecting screening programs to pediatric audiology services, appropriate early intervention programs, and family support activities.

The Academy has sent a Letter of Support of the bill to Rep. Walsh and thanked him for his sponsorship. The Academy encourages you to ask your member of Congress to co-sponsor the legislation. Please go to the Academy Legislative Action Center at www.Audiology.org for more details.