Chief Patron: Downey
Reach Out and Read Initiative

Item 292 #2h

Language
Page 370, line 9, strike "$821,702" and insert "$1,541,702".
Page 370, line 9, strike "$821,702" and insert "$1,541,702".

Page 370, after line 25, insert:

"C. Out of this appropriation, $252,000 from the general fund and $252,000 from nongeneral funds the first year and $468,000 from the general fund and $468,000 from nongeneral funds the second year shall be provided to the Department of Medical Assistance Services to contract with Reach Out and Read to implement a pilot program of their evidence-based model that promotes early literacy and parental bonding as part of routine pediatric primary care visits in select underserved localities. Effective July 1, 2026, the Department of Medical Assistance Services shall have the authority to amend the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)/Title XXI State Plan to establish a Health Services Initiative (HSI) to authorize and fund this project as allowed by Section 2105(a)(1)(D)(ii) of the Social Security Act and 42 CFR 457.10. Funding of the project is contingent on approval of the CHIP state plan amendments and on the availability of CHIP federal funds."