News
Governor Rell signs bills expanding treatment and education of autism
By Governor Rell's office
Jul 24, 2008 - 2:56:55 PM

In a ceremony today at the FOCUS Alternative Learning Center in Canton, Governor M. Jodi Rell signed legislation that expands treatment for autism and creates a statewide plan for teaching children with the disorder.

“This legislation will help improve the lives of so many children and their families, who must live every day with a condition that we know is treatable with early diagnosis and intervention,” Governor Rell said.

Beginning January 1, 2009, health insurance companies are required to cover physical, speech and occupational therapies for autism spectrum disorders if their policies cover the same treatment for other diseases and conditions.

Autism spectrum disorders can impair a child’s ability to relate to others and range in severity. Researchers with the National Institutes of Health estimate that three to six children out of every 1,000 will have some type of autism. The NIH researchers say there is no single best treatment for all children with autism spectrum disorders, but all agree that early intervention is essential.

“As parents we take great joy in our children’s ‘firsts.’ Their first smile. Their first steps. Their first words,” Governor Rell said. “We are also the first to sense a problem. This new law open doors to more treatment – and sooner.”

The Governor also signed a bill today that would improve the education of children with autism and other developmental disabilities.

Under the new law, a study will be conducted by the Commissioners of Education and Higher Education and Developmental Services and the Connecticut State University Chancellor to develop recommendations for a comprehensive teaching plan. They are required to report their findings to the Legislature by February 1, 2009.

“Our teachers need the most up-to-date knowledge and resources to understand the complexities of this condition so they can help their students achieve and grow,” Governor Rell said. “We have a wealth of knowledge on autism right here in Connecticut and we must tap into those resources.”

House Bill 5696, An Act Requiring Insurance Coverage for Autism Spectrum Disorder Therapies; takes effect January 1, 2009.

House Bill 5590, An Act Concerning the Teaching of Children with Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities; report due by February 1, 2009.

© Copyright by StamfordPlus.com