BILL ANALYSIS

 

 

Senate Research Center                                                                                                      S.B. 1585

80R6960 UM-F                                                                                                              By: Gallegos

                                                                                                                  Health & Human Services

                                                                                                                                              5/5/2007

                                                                                                                                              As Filed

 

 

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

 

There are five different disorders which are classified as autism spectrum disorder (ASD): autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder, Rett's disorder, Asperger's disorder, and childhood disintegrated disorder.  Children and adults with ASD vary in the degree to which they struggle with their social skills, speech, communication, and repetitive behaviors.  Children with ASD develop differently from children without ASD and from other children with ASD.

 

According to the Autism Society of America (society), ASD is one of the fastest growing developmental disabilities, and the cost of care amounts to about $90 billion per year.  The society estimates the cost of ASD care could be reduced by two-thirds with early diagnosis and proper intervention.    

 

As proposed, S.B. 1585 requires the Texas Council on Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders to establish and administer an ASD resource program to coordinate resources for individuals with autism and other pervasive developmental disorders and their families.

 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

 

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to any state officer, institution, or agency.

 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

 

SECTION 1.  Amends Chapter 114, Human Resources Code, by adding Section 114.013, as follows:

 

Sec.  114.013.  AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS RESOURCE PROGRAM.  (a) Requires the Texas Council on Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorders (council) to establish and administer an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) resource program (program) to coordinate resources for individuals with autism and other pervasive developmental disorders and their families.

 

(b) Requires the council, in administering the program, to collect and distribute information and research regarding ASD and other pervasive developmental disorders, conduct training and developmental activities for certain persons, coordinate with local entities to provide the required services, and provide support for families affected by ASD and other pervasive diseases.

 

SECTION 2.  Effective date: September 1, 2007.