Welcome to the Forum on State Autism Legislation: Understanding the Law and Advocating for Change. I look forward to discussing with you what steps can be taken to help children with autism spectrum disorders get the help that they need to be contributing members of society.
Children across the United States (and the World) with autism spectrum disorders are unlikely to get the help that they need if each of us does not take the time to understand the limitations of any autism legislation in their State and to demand that more be done. To be successful, the parents, families, friends, and caregivers of Florida’s children with autism spectrum disorders must coordinate their efforts with the nonprofit organizations that make bold claims to support the interests of all these children. With that basic level of support and continued coordination of effort, such a coalition can match the efforts of lobbyists who will oppose such change.
Whether or not you live in Florida, I hope that you will make the time to read each chapter of the Article "Florida Autism Legislation: Who Will Benefit, Who Will Not, and Why?." I know how difficult it can be as a parent of a child with an autism spectrum disorder and as a family member. On most days, it can be overwhelming just meeting the basic needs of your families. It has been accurately estimated that the Florida autism insurance mandate would cover no more than 14% of children with an autism spectrum disorder. Several states (for example, Arizona, Indiana, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Texas) have enacted, and other states are considering, legislation that includes autism insurance mandates that are similar to the Florida autism insurance mandate. If you live in one of these states, many of the extensive exemptions in the Florida legislation are present in your State legislation.
Please post in this Forum any questions you have about the article, your State's legislation, efforts to advocate for change, or any other topic related to the ongoing the battle to give all of our Nation's children a realistic opportunity to lead a normal life.
Richard Probert