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We have been notified that four Autism Commission related bills will be heard next Tuesday, May 21, 2013 in Room B-1 of the Statehouse from 1-5 PM.
The bills include:
Priority 1: H 78 – An Act to permit the Department of Developmental Services to provide services to adults with developmental disabilities.
This requires that DDS broaden their reach to include developmental disabilities by following the federal definition and makes changes to parts of MGL Ch123B and authorizes DDS to issue 2 year licenses to any program that offers residential or day care services to treat persons with a developmental disability.
Priority 4: H 76 – An Act to Provide equal access to medical treatments essential for children with autism.
This directs Medicaid to cover the same treatments as ARICA plus AAC devices.
Priority 6: H 77 – An Act establishing an integrated confidential data system among state agencies to track diagnosis, treatment, services and outcomes of individuals with autism.
This directs EOHHS to establish and maintain a confidential data system across all state agencies that interact with individuals with autism to track diagnosis, treatment, services, and outcomes of services accessed.
Priority 8: H75 – An Act establishing a pilot program for adults with Asperger Syndrome and Autism.
This directs the MA Rehab Commissioner to establish a two-year pilot program for 25 adults on the spectrum to provide services to lead to paid employment and requires the establishment of an advisory board of community professionals to advise the project and submit a final report at the conclusion of the pilot program.
Please spread the word so that those interested can come in to testify or to submit written testimony.
Written testimony can be addressed to Joint Committee on Children, Families & Persons with Disabilities:
House Chairwoman Kay Khan c/o Room 146, State House, Boston, MA 02133 (617) 722-2011 Kay.Khan@mahouse.gov
Senate Chairman Michael Barrett c/o Room 213A, State House, Boston, MA 02133 (617)722-1572 Mike.Barrett@masenate.gov
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The Massachusetts Autism Commission has released its long-awaited Report, which includes a wide range of findings and recommendations. You can read the full report or an executive summary by visiting the following website: www.mass.gov/hhs/autismcommission
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AFAM Agency Video from Video Presentations on Vimeo.
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Sign up for the new Autism Awareness License Plate!
 AFAM and Autism Speaks have partnered to promote an Autism Awareness Specialty License Plate in Massachusetts! A portion of the proceeds from each plate sold will benefit Autism Speaks and AFAM. “We are proud to partner with AFAM and the other thirteen member organizations to spread awareness across the state and advocate for everyone on the autism spectrum,” said Kelley Borer-Miller of the Greater Boston Chapter of Autism Speaks.
“The success of this joint license plate venture between AFAM and Autism Speaks will ensure advocacy at the Massachusetts State House for all individuals and families impacted by an autism spectrum disorder,” said Michael Borr, Chairman of AFAM’s Executive Committee. “The proceeds of the Autism Awareness License Plate will allow AFAM to continue to serve as the primary advocacy vehicle protecting the rights and needs of families throughout the state.”
To obtain an Autism Awareness License Plate Application, click here (pdf).
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About Advocates for Autism for Massachusetts (AFAM)
Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts was formed in 2004
to address the need for public advocacy on behalf of individuals,
families and professionals who have or deal with people with
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) which also encompasses Asperger's
Syndrome and high-functioning Autism. The organization provides
an important arena for mobilizing those of us who deal with
ASD in our day-to-day lives as the most eloquent and persuasive
spokespeople for our concerns. Our efforts focus not only on the
State House but also on towns and city halls that also have
responsibility for service delivery and funding.
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Mission
Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts will strive to assure the human and civil rights of individuals of all ages across the entire Autism Spectrum and promote the availability of essential supports so that they may live fully and enjoy the same opportunities as other citizens of the Commonwealth. We will educate individuals with ASD, their families and other AFAM members/supporters to be effective, vigorous agents of change. Read more.
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