Why is the NC Infant-Toddler Program eligibility definition change necessary?
Due to the continued very high number of referrals (annualizing to more than 17,000 for 2005-2006), and lack of adequate resources to meet the needs of all children and families, the NC Infant-Toddler Program proposed a change in its eligibility definition. Public comment processes for both state (Administrative Rules) and federal (Office of Special Education Programs) approvals were completed. The new eligibility definition includes a more restricted level of developmental delay and lists specific established conditions. Potential high risk and atypical development categories were redefined or eliminated as appropriate in the new categories. State and federal approvals of the new eligibility definition were received as of April 2006, and the changes will be implemented for new children referred to the program as of July 1, 2006.
