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Bill

H 143

An act relating to establishing a support service program for individuals who are DeafBlind

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Theresa Wood

Creates a state DeafBlind Support Service Program to provide coordinated, personalized services and advocacy to improve independence and access for DeafBlind Vermonters.

Read first time and referred to the Committee on Human Services
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 143

Summary of H.143 (Session 2025-2026) — Vermont

Purpose and intent

  • Establishes a state-supported program to assist individuals who are DeafBlind.
  • Aims to provide targeted support services to improve independence, access to information and services, communication, and overall quality of life for DeafBlind Vermonters.

Key provisions and changes

  • Program establishment: Creates a dedicated DeafBlind Support Service Program within Vermont government (likely housed in the human services framework) to coordinate and deliver services to DeafBlind individuals.
  • Eligibility and participants: Sets criteria to identify Vermonters who are DeafBlind or have combined hearing loss and vision impairment, enabling eligible participants to receive program services.
  • Services provided (examples anticipated by such programs; exact language to be verified in the bill):
    • Personal assistance and supported decision-making to navigate daily life, healthcare, and public programs.
    • Communication supports and access accommodations, including interpretation, tactile signing, or other assistive communication technologies.
    • Assistance with transportation, independent living skills, and community integration.
    • Case management, service coordination, and advocacy to access federal/state benefits and community resources.
  • Care and service coordination: Likely requires a designated coordinator or team to assess needs, develop individualized service plans, and monitor progress.
  • Funding and administration: Sets forth funding mechanisms (state budget allocation, potential federal funds, or grants) and administrative responsibilities for program oversight.
  • Data and reporting: May require data collection, program reporting, and outcomes measurement to ensure effectiveness and accountability.
  • Collaboration: Encourages coordination with other state agencies, disability services, and DeafBlind organizations to maximize available supports.

Who would be affected

  • DeafBlind Vermonters: Primary beneficiaries who would gain access to specialized support services and coordinated care.
  • Families and caregivers: May receive guidance, respite options, and involvement in individualized planning.
  • Service providers: Organizations and professionals delivering DeafBlind supports could experience program referrals and increased coordination responsibilities.
  • State agencies: Likely involve the Department of Health, Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living, or related human services agencies in administration and implementation.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduction and referral: Bill was read in and referred to the Committee on Human Services on February 5, 2025.
  • Legislative process: As a human services measure, it will progress through committee hearings, potential amendments, and voting by the House, with potential consideration by the Senate and final passage subject to standard Vermont legislative timelines.
  • Implementation timeline: Specific start dates, rollout phases, and any sunset or review provisions would be defined in the bill text or any adopted amendments.

Practical impacts and considerations

  • Improves access to targeted supports for DeafBlind individuals, promoting greater independence and community participation.
  • Requires careful funding planning to ensure sustainable program operations and to avoid gaps in service during transition.
  • Success depends on clear eligibility criteria, robust service standards, availability of qualified interpreters and communication specialists, and effective interagency coordination.

Note: The summary reflects the information available from the bill’s title, sponsor, and initial action history. The exact statutory language will detail all eligibility criteria, services offered, funding mechanisms, and implementation steps.

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

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