Ark. Code Ann. § 20-15-1501: Purpose

The purpose of this subchapter is to:

(1) Provide early detection of hearing loss by physiological measurement in newborn children at the birthing facility or as soon after birth as possible;

(2) Enable these children and their families and caregivers to obtain needed multidisciplinary evaluation, treatment, and intervention services at the earliest opportunity;

(3) Prevent or mitigate the developmental delays and academic failures associated with late identification of hearing loss; and

(4) Provide the state with the information necessary to effectively plan, establish, and evaluate a comprehensive system of appropriate services for newborns and infants who have a hearing loss or are deaf.