Requires hearing screenings for students

HB 467 requires all public, private, parochial, and parish schools to conduct hearing screenings for new kindergarten and first-grade students starting in the 2026-27 school year. Schools must provide parents with screening information by August 1st and complete screenings before November 1st each year, using options like in-house staff, contracted providers, or parent-selected services. Parents may decline screening in writing or provide a recent doctor's exam (within 12 months) to exempt their child. If screenings indicate potential hearing issues, schools must refer students for further evaluation under existing state special education protocols.