H.R. 2527: Early Detection of Vision Impairments for Children Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Early Detection of Vision Impairments for Children Act of 2025, aims to improve vision and eye health in children through a series of grants and cooperative agreements. The main provisions include:

Grants for Early Detection Programs

The bill authorizes the Secretary of Health and Human Services to distribute grants to eligible entities such as states, territories, Indian Tribes, and relevant organizations for developing and implementing statewide early detection and intervention programs focused on children’s vision.

Eligible entities must:

• Be a State, territory, Indian Tribe, Tribal organization, or Urban Indian organization.
• Submit an application as required by the Secretary.

Grant funds can be used for a variety of activities, including:

• Implementing early detection practices like vision screenings.
• Developing systems for data collection and management related to children's vision.
• Identifying strategies to improve eye health outcomes and reduce disparities in care.
• Raising public awareness about children's vision and eye health.
• Establishing a coordinated public health system for vision care.

Technical Assistance

The bill also mandates the provision of technical support to these entities, which includes:

• Developing and improving data collection systems.
• Disseminating information and strategies for preventing and treating vision disorders in children.
• Conducting applied research on early vision screening techniques.
• Monitoring the quality of vision screening and intervention programs.
• Coordinating on best practices and maintaining national goals for vision health.

Collaboration and Coordination

In administering these programs, the Secretary must collaborate with various federal and state agencies, as well as community organizations, to ensure comprehensive program and policy development and enhancement.

Evaluation and Reporting

Entities that receive grant funding are required to submit annual reports detailing their activities, outcomes, and whether they met their project goals. The Secretary will make these reports available to the public.

Funding Authorization

The bill authorizes funding of $5 million per year from 2026 to 2030 to support the programs and activities outlined in the legislation.

Definitions

Key terms defined in the bill include:

• Indian Tribe: Defined as per federal recognition statutes.
• State Educational Agency: As defined in relevant educational acts.
• Tribal Organization: Defined according to federal laws related to Indian self-determination.
• Urban Indian Organization: Defined in the context of Indian health improvement acts.

Relevant Companies

• None found