OLR Bill Analysis

sHB 5666

AN ACT CONCERNING EXPANSION OF THE PILOT PROGRAM FOR PERSONS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS.

SUMMARY:

This bill expands, from 50 to 75, the number of people who can participate in the Department of Developmental Services' (DDS) pilot program for adults with autism spectrum disorders but not mental retardation. The program provides coordinated services and support, including case management, for people not otherwise eligible for DDS services and their families.

The bill requires the DDS commissioner to ensure that eligible adults living outside the pilot's current service area (parts of New Haven and Middlesex counties) have access to the expanded slots.

The bill extends the pilot's end date for nine months, from October 1, 2008 to June 30, 2009. The law requires DSS to report on the pilot's results by January 1, 2009.

EFFECTIVE DATE: Upon passage

BACKGROUND

Autism Spectrum Pilot Program

The pilot program was created in 2006 (PA 06-188) and currently serves 27 people. Its service area encompasses Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Branford, Cheshire, Clinton, Derby, Durham, East Haven, Guilford, Hamden, Killingworth, Madison, Meriden, Middlefield, Middletown, Milford, New Haven, North Branford, North Haven, Orange, Oxford, Seymour, Shelton, Wallingford, Westbrook, West Haven, and Woodbridge.

COMMITTEE ACTION

Public Health Committee

Joint Favorable Substitute Change of Reference

Appropriations Committee

Joint Favorable