Statewide autism council proposed in NY

From The Times Union in Albany:

State Sen. Roy McDonald, R-Saratoga, has introduced legislation to create a statewide council on autism that would develop a policy to address the needs of the growing autism population in New York. It would also establish regional centers to assist families and autistic individuals with services and treatment.

"It's time for New York state to become a leader in addressing the needs of families affected by autism and similar type disabilities," said McDonald, who has two grandsons who are autistic.

There are several state agencies responsible for the various aspects involved in diagnosing and treating autism, but there is little coordination between them, according to McDonald. Also, he said there is no reliable clearinghouse of information on financial help available for autism caregivers, nor is the training of autism professionals provided on a consistent or statewide basis.

Autism Spectrum Disorders are a group of developmental disabilities that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC estimates 1 in 110 children have such a disorder, which is more commonly found in boys.

Under McDonald's legislation, the New York Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorders Treatment, Training and Research Council would be modeled after the Autism Council of Saratoga County, which has served as a resource center providing information, education, services and support for individuals with autism and their families.

The 25-member state council would consist of the commissioners from the Department of Health, Office of Children and Family Services, Education Department, Office of Mental Health, Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities and Department of Labor. It would also include the state superintendent of Insurance, the chancellors of SUNY and CUNY, and the chair of the State Council on Children and Families.

Seven additional members would be appointed by the governor and eight more on the recommendation of legislative leaders.

Within 18 months of its creation, the research council would then be required to establish one or more regional centers similar to the Saratoga County center in the following areas: Long Island, New York City, Northern Metropolitan New York, Northeastern New York, Central New York, the Rochester area, and Western New York, as well as in other areas where the council demonstrates a need.

McDonald also introduced legislation that would create a New York State Autism Scholarship Program and one that would require the state Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities to establish an autism Web site.