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Bill to Help Children With Autism Gets Tentative Approval
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 27, 2007
Contact:
Rep. Joe Patton
785/296-7663
BILL TO HELP CHILDREN WITH AUTISM GETS TENTATIVE APPROVAL
Topeka - The Kansas House of Representatives gave tentative approval today to Senate Bill 138, a bill that would establish the Kansas Autism Task Force.
Rep. Joe Patton (R-Topeka) presented the bill to House Members for debate and answered their questions.
"There is a growing concern about the increasing number of autistic children in Kansas. This task force will work to learn about the issues surrounding this condition as well as the needs of and the services available for persons with autism," said Rep. Patton. "Autism will devastate a family and is a life-altering battle. This task force is about hope, hope for children with autism and their families."
Rep. Patton said he was moved to support SB 138 by the testimony of a young Kansas girl named Kate who was diagnosed with autism at the age of two.
"She was minimally responsive and exhibited classic behaviors associated with autism," explained Rep. Patton. "However today she is very happy second grader. She is excelling in a regular education classroom without an aide. Her speech and academic skills are at, or above grade level. She has a small group of good friends and although she still struggles in certain social situations, she is making steady gains all because she received early intensive care. I am very pleased that with this task force we can work toward removing the obstacles to timely delivery of quality care for children with autism."
The 20-member task force will include parents of children with autism. Appointments will be made by the Senate President (4), Senate Minority Leader (3); House Speaker (4); House Minority Leader (3); Governor (4), Insurance Commissioner (1) and appointed parents (1). The Secretary of Health and Environment, Secretary of Social and Rehabilitation Service and Commissioner of Education will serve as ex officio members.
The Center for Disease Control reported the prevalence of autism as 1 in 150. Ten years ago, the prevalence was 1 in 10,000.
House Members are scheduled to take final action on SB 138 Wednesday, March 28, 2007.
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