AUSTIN — Governor Rick Perry recently announced that he is appointing Rep. Myra Crownover (R - Denton) to the Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) Advisory Committee. As part of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS), the ECI division assures that families with children birth to three years who have developmental delays have the resources and support they need to reach their goals.

"Being a part of this Advisory Committee is a great honor that also comes with great responsibility," Rep. Crownover said. "I understand and appreciate the task laid before us, for in a state as large as Texas, we have many challenges. The ECI program aims to help and educate families as they care for their babies with health challenges. we know that The first three years of a child's life are the most critical and we want young Texans to have the help and support they need to reach their highest potential."

Over the past couple of legislative sessions, Rep. Crownover has successfully advocated funding and services for newborns and young children with disabilities and developmental delays. Since passing House Bill 790 in 2005, a bill mandating the expansion of diseases tested for at birth, Crownover has continued to work closely with all aspects of state government to make certain resources are available to programs such as these. Her appointment to the ECI Advisory Committee recognizes her dedication to working with all parties to find strong, more sustainable solutions.

"We are so pleased and excited to have someone with Representative Crownover's interest and commitment on the Advisory Committee and are looking forward to working with her on issues that impact children and families. I know the families on the Committee are especially thrilled to have a legislative champion for children joining the group." said Kim Wedel, Assistant Commissioner for Early Childhood Intervention.

For ECI to be successful, early detection of developmental concerns and intervention are crucial. Research has shown that early is best since the growth and development of a child is most rapid in the first three years of life. Crownover added, "What makes ECI so great is that they go to the child rather than the child coming to them. Working with the child and their family in their daily setting - where they live, learn and play - ultimately means greater success for the kids. When a baby has a health challenge the entire family needs special training to achieve the best outcome possible."

For more information on the Early Childhood Intervention Committee, Rep. Crownover hopes you will contact her office or the take the time to visit the DARS web site. More information can be found at http://www.dars.state.tx.us/ecis.

Crownover has represented District 64 in the Texas House of Representatives since 2000. House District 64 includes portions of Denton County: Denton, Lake Dallas, Corinth, Shady Shores, Hickory Creek, Lakewood Village, Little Elm, Oak Point & The Colony north of 121.