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BILL ANALYSIS |
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By: Shapiro |
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
In the 80th Legislature, Regular Session, 2007, the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) began an autism services pilot program to provide services, such as applied behavioral analysis, for children ages three to eight with an autism spectrum disorder. Over the 17-month pilot program, 317 children with autism spectrum disorder are expected to be served. The pilot program has proven to be successful and should be continued.
As proposed, S.B. 1217 creates the Autism Program, and requires DARS to provide services, including applied behavioral analysis, to children ages three to eight who are diagnosed with autism.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.
ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Subchapter D, Chapter 117, Human Resources Code, by adding Section 117.075, as follows:
Sec. 117.075. AUTISM PROGRAM. (a) Requires the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services, to the extent appropriated money is available for the purpose, to provide services to children not younger than three or older than eight years of age who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, to enhance communication, social, and independent living skills so that the children fully participate in society.
(b) Requires that the services include applied behavioral analysis and complement and not duplicate services outlined in a child's individualized education plan developed by an independent school district.
SECTION 2. Requires the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission to develop the autism program required under Section 117.075, Human Resources Code, as added by this Act, not later than January 1, 2010.
SECTION 3. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2009.
EFFECTIVE DATE
Upon passage, or, if the Act does not receive the necessary vote, the Act takes effect September 1, 2009.