D.C. Code § 7-863.02: Purpose.

The purpose of this subchapter is:

(1)

To enhance the development of infants and toddlers with disabilities and to minimize their potential for developmental delay;

(2)

To reduce the educational costs to our society, including our schools, by minimizing the need for special education and related services after infants and toddlers with disabilities reach school age;

(3)

To minimize the likelihood for institutionalization of individuals with disabilities and maximize the potential for their independent living in society;

(4)

To enhance the capacity of families to meet the special needs of their infants and toddlers with disabilities;

(5)

To establish collaborative activities among agencies of the District of Columbia that administer programs relating to young children to maximize the quality of early intervention services; and

(6)

To enhance the capacity of city agencies and service providers to identify, evaluate, and meet the special needs of historically under-represented populations, particularly minorities and low-income and inner-city populations.