Newly formed group will study needs of deaf children

AUGUSTA – Rep. Elaine Makas, D-Lewiston, has been appointed by House Speaker Patrick Colwell to be House chair of a task force studying the needs of deaf and hard-of-hearing children.

Makas has been a research consultant for more than 20 years on projects designed to facilitate interactions between disabled and nondisabled people.

“I am honored to have been appointed to this position, and I look forward to the opportunity to apply my knowledge and experience to finding a solution for a problem that directly or indirectly affects many Maine families,” said Makas after her appointement.

The task force is charged with examining the behavioral, developmental, social, emotional and educational needs of deaf and hard-of-hearing children and adolescents who are not receiving adequate services because of a lack of appropriate resources in the state.

The task force, comprising four legislators and 11 members of the public, the commissioners of human services, education, and behavioral and development services, will submit a report, including suggested legislation to the second regular session of the 121st Legislature no later than Jan. 9.

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