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Bill

Bill

A 6904

Adds Down syndrome to the definition of developmental disability and expands such definition to include certain individuals below the age of ten

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Noah Burroughs and 10 co-sponsors

Adds Down syndrome to the definition of developmental disability, expanding eligibility for state programs, services, and protections for individuals and families.

PRINT NUMBER 6904A
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Bill Summary · A 6904

Summary of Bill A 6904 — Adds Down syndrome to the definition of developmental disability

Overview

Bill A 6904 seeks to amend the state’s definition of “developmental disability” by explicitly including Down syndrome. This change would recognize individuals with Down syndrome as having developmental disabilities for the purposes of state programs, services, and protections that rely on that definition. The bill was introduced on March 18, 2025 and was immediately referred to the Mental Health committee.

What the bill would do (key provisions)

  • Add Down syndrome to the statutory definition of developmental disability.
  • By broadening the definition, potentially extend eligibility for state programs, supports, and protections that are designed for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Note: The text provided does not specify program names, funding details, or eligibility criteria beyond the definitional change. The practical effect would depend on how the existing developmental disability framework is implemented, including which services or funding streams use the definition to determine eligibility.

Who would be affected

  • Individuals with Down syndrome: Potentially eligible for developmental disability services and protections previously restricted to other conditions within the definition.
  • Families and guardians of those individuals: May gain access to services, supports, or accommodations.
  • Service providers and agencies: If they administer or coordinate developmental disability programs, they may see changes in eligibility criteria and program design.
  • State agencies administering developmental disability programs: Could see changes in policy application, reporting, and compliance requirements.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduced: March 18, 2025.
  • Legislative action: Referred to the Mental Health committee on March 18, 2025 (listed twice in the actions provided).
  • Next steps (typical process): If the committee holds hearings and approves the bill (possibly with amendments), it would move to the full chamber for a floor vote. If passed there, it would proceed to the other legislative chamber and, if ultimately approved, to the governor for consideration and signature or veto.

Sponsorship

  • Primary sponsor: Karen McMahon.
  • Cosponsors: Judy Griffin, MaryJane Shimsky, Alicia Hyndman, Andrew Hevesi, Noah Burroughs, Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, Deborah Glick, Jen Lunsford.

Why this matters

By explicitly including Down syndrome in the developmental disability definition, the bill aims to ensure individuals with Down syndrome are recognized within the state’s disability framework, potentially improving access to relevant services, supports, and protections. The outcome will depend on committee actions and subsequent legislative steps.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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