On September 17, 1992, Governor Cuomo signed the Early Intervention Bill (Chapter 428 of the Laws of 1992). This landmark legislation requires localities to offer early intervention services to infants and toddlers with developmental disabilities or delays. The Early Intervention Program is part of a national effort initiated by Congress in 1986 through the passage of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (Public Law 99-457). The law created an entitlement to a wide range of rehabilitative services for infants and toddlers from birth through age two. The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene is the lead City agency; the New York State Department of Health coordinates the statewide network of services.
Early Intervention is a comprehensive interagency program that supports infants and children with developmental delays in their efforts to realize their full potential. It reduces the likelihood of delays among at-risk children, assists and empowers families to meet their child's and their own needs, and entitles children, regardless of race, ethnicity or income, to services through the program.
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