Henry Genga

April is Autism Awareness Month and with that spirit the House of Representatives passed three autism related bills during session this month.

HB 6184, An Act Concerning Access to Information on Early Childhood Interventions.

The bill will require (1) the Office of Early Childhood to develop a document concerning developmental milestones experienced by children from birth to age three and information on how to access the Child Development Infoline, and (2) child care centers, group child care homes and family child care homes to post copies of such document on the premises of such centers and homes and distribute copies of such document to parents and guardians of children under the age of three enrolled in such homes.

HB 5559, An Act Concerning Communication between Persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Law Enforcement Officers

The bill would require the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles to make available, upon request by a person with autism spectrum disorder, a blue envelope to contain such person's operator's license, registration and insurance card.

HB 7168, An Act Concerning Transitional Services for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

The bill aims to ensure that persons with autism spectrum disorder receive services from the Department of Developmental Services and are eligible for Medicaid coverage despite family earnings.

It our responsibility to support individuals with autism spectrum disorder and passing these bills are a step in the right direction.

These bills will now be considered by the Senate.