SS/SCS/SB 768 - This act creates the Missouri Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorders to advise and make recommendations to the Governor, General Assembly, and state agencies on matters relating to autism spectrum disorder. The Commission must develop a comprehensive statewide plan for an integrated system of training, treatment, and services for individuals of all ages with ASD. The Commission must issue preliminary recommendations by July 1, 2009. The Commission's membership shall include representatives from the General Assembly, various state agencies, other organizations involved with autism, as well as parents and individuals with ASD. The Commission's duties include: studying the formation of a comprehensive, coordinated service delivery system; conducting an assessment of the need for certain education and treatment programs; providing recommendations for training programs; and creating a panel to review existing models of evidence-based educational practices. Other responsibilities of the Commission may include studying or exploring other developmental delay disorders and genetic conditions known to be associated with autism as described in the act.
The Department of Mental Health will provide administrative support to the Commission.
This act also establishes the Office of Autism Services in the Department of Mental Health within the Division of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities. The Office of Autism Services, under the supervision of the division director, will provide leadership in program development for children and adults with Autism spectrum disorders. Such leadership will include establishment of program standards and coordination of program capacity.
This act contains provisions identical to SB 1127 (2008).
MICHAEL RUFF