Subcommittee asks DMAS to convene work group to study early-intervention reimbursement rates
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Summary
House Bill 1710 directs the Department of Medical Assistance Services to convene a stakeholder work group to study reimbursement rates for the Part C early intervention program for infants and toddlers; the subcommittee voted unanimously to report the bill to Appropriations.
House Bill 1710 would require the Department of Medical Assistance Services to convene a work group of stakeholders to study and make recommendations regarding reimbursement rates for Virginia’s Part C Early Intervention program, which serves infants and toddlers with developmental delays and disabilities.
The bill’s sponsor, Delegate Gardner, noted that community services boards (CSBs) serve as local lead agencies for early intervention and urged a study because adequate reimbursement affects local service capacity. Jennifer Faison of the Virginia Association of Community Services Boards, Katie Boyle of the Virginia Association of Counties, and Janet Arison of the Virginia Municipal League testified in support, noting the returns on early investments in child development.
A question from a committee member asked why a work group was needed rather than directing the department to seek maximum federal reimbursement; the sponsor said the work group approach was chosen to assess fiscal impact and avoid unintended large budget requests.
The subcommittee voted 8–0 to report HB 1710 and refer it to Appropriations; the work group is directed to report recommendations by November 2025.