The Hawai’i Department of Health (HDOH), Family Health Services Division, Children with Special Health Needs Branch, Early Intervention Section (EIS), is seeking public comment on its Annual State Application under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) for Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2025.

This application is required for the state to receive its allocation of IDEA Part C funds from the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE). These funds support early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families. The application verifies that the HDOH has reviewed its policies and procedures and assures compliance with the provisions of Part C of IDEA 2004.

The EIS has posted the application and supporting documents on its website at http://health.hawaii.gov/eis/ (click on the links under “Annual State Application”). The public is encouraged to review the application and provide feedback.

Comments will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. on May 16, 2025, and can be submitted to the Early Intervention Section at 1010 Richards Street, Suite 811, Honolulu, Hawai’i 96813.

In addition to the online availability, copies of the application are available for review at the address listed above during the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (excluding State holidays).

Individuals who prefer to receive a mailed copy of the application and supporting documents can contact EIS at (808) 594-0000.

Accommodations, such as interpreter services or large print versions of the documents, can be requested for persons with disabilities by calling (808) 594-0000 (Oahu) at least five (5) working days before May 1, 2025, to allow for necessary arrangements.

This is a vital opportunity for the community to contribute to the planning and implementation of early intervention services that support the well-being of young children with disabilities in Hawai’i.