Education (Early Childhood)

S 2226 requires children under age 6 entering public preschools, public schools, or Head Start programs for the first time to have a comprehensive eye exam completed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist by January 1 of their initial enrollment year. Schools must collect proof of the exam from parents, and the state will maintain a list of low-cost or free exam resources for families on its website and provide it to schools. A new "Comprehensive Eye Examination Fund" will cover exam costs for uninsured children or those without healthcare coverage. The bill is pending in the Senate Education Committee after being introduced on January 13, 2026.

This bill requires lead screenings for children aged six months to six years at specific intervals: between 9-18 months, 18-26 months, and immediately before school entry (starting 2024-2025). It directly affects young children, parents/guardians (who must provide screening documentation), healthcare providers (who must conduct screenings), and schools (which must verify results before enrolling pre-K or kindergarten students). Schools cannot admit children without proof of the required screening, and healthcare providers must document results in permanent health records and share them on school enrollment forms. The law updates existing screening schedules and mandates documentation to ensure early detection of lead exposure, a known health risk for young children.