AN ACT ESTABLISHING A PILOT PROGRAM TO PROVIDE SERVICES TO INDIVIDUALS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS.

OFFICE OF FISCAL ANALYSIS

Legislative Office Building, Room 5200

Hartford, CT 06106 ¯ (860) 240-0200

http: //www. cga. ct. gov/ofa

sHB-5471

AN ACT ESTABLISHING A PILOT PROGRAM TO PROVIDE SERVICES TO INDIVIDUALS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS.

Agency Affected	Fund-Effect	FY 07 $
Department of Mental Retardation	GF - Implements the Budget	$1 million

Note: GF=General Fund

Municipal Impact: None

Explanation

The bill requires the Department of Mental Retardation (DMR) to establish a pilot program to provide a coordinated system of supports and services for up to 50 adults with autism spectrum disorders who are not eligible for DMR services. sHB 5007 (the budget bill), as favorably reported by the Appropriations Committee includes $1 million in funding in FY 07 to support the pilot program for autism services (including service coordination, supported employment, supported living and transportation). Up to 50 individuals will be provided services to meet their individualized needs with the annual cost per person varying from $15,000 - $30,000. The $1 million funding in FY 07 supports a phase-in of services starting October 1, 2006.

The bill also requires the department to submit a report to the Public Health Committee no later than January 1, 2009 with the results of the pilot program and recommendations. The department can meet this reporting requirement without additional resources.

The Out Years

It is anticipated that the annualized cost to support the pilot program will result in $1. 3 million in FY 08. The bill requires the termination of the pilot program no later than October 1, 2008; it is unknown if funding would be eliminated at that time.