2010 AFAM BUDGETARY & LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
AFAM BUDGETARY PRIORITIES
Level Funding for the Division of Autism (Including Children's Autism Medicaid Waiver) DDS Line Item 5920-3010
The Division of Autism requires level funding to continue to provide services to the dramatically increasing number of children with ASD. Included in this line item is the Waiver program which provides low income young children with ASD at risk of institutionalization with intensive in-home services (ABA, Floor time and RTI). $4 million is targeted to Waiver Services, an amount equal to the FY’10 appropriation. The Commonwealth will be reimbursed 50% of the total costs of these services by the federal government. In addition to the Waiver, this line item also provides funding for programs offered to families by the Autism support centers. Level funding will enable the continuation of behavioral, social, and communication services and programs for children with ASD. AFAM seeks funding in the amount of approximately $4.1 million for the Division of Autism.
Level Funding for Family Support, DDS Line Item 5920-3000
The dramatic growth in the number of children with ASD is resulting in a greater demand for Family Support allocations. Funding for this program supports the seven autism support centers through out the Commonwealth. Thousands of families who receive family support use it to pay for respite and community programs for their children and young adults with autism. This program is a lifeline for many of these families. Elimination of funding for this program would be a tremendous hardship on families already facing difficult challenges. AFAM seeks level funding of approximately $46.5 million for the Family Support Program.
Level Funding for the Turning 22 Program , DDS Line Item 5920-5000
There has been a dramatic increase in young people with severe disabilities "Turning 22" and moving from the locally funded school programs into the state funded DDS system each year. It is thought that the rising rates of autism are contributing to this increased need. Funding for this vital transition program should not be reduced. AFAM seeks level funding of $5 million for the Turning 22 Program.
Restored Funding for DESE/DDS Collaboration, Line Item 5948-0012
DESE/DDS funding enables families with children with severe disabilities requiring intensive supports to continue to live at home and avoid costly residential placements. Many of the children who receive these services have ASD. The waiting list for this cost-effective program has closed. During the first round of cuts by Governor Patrick in October 2008, $3.5 million in funding was eliminated from the program. Last year, $6.5 million was appropriated for the program but additional cuts were made through out the year. Every family enrolled in the program saw their funding reduced. Funding restored to $6.5 million would ensure that more children with ASD remain at home with their families.
Level Funding for Day/Employment Services, DDS Line Item 5920-2025
As the number of adults diagnosed with ASD continues to climb, employment services critical to help these adults remain employed, particularly in this economic downturn must be maintained. Absent these supports, jobs will be lost. For those adults with ASD unable to work, structured day programs with proper supports enable them to gain skills and remain in the community. Any reduction in funding would be a strain to older parents of adults with autism. AFAM seeks level funding of approximately $120 million for the Day/Employment Services Program.
AFAM LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
An Act Relative to Insurance Coverage for Autism (H. 3809) Lead Sponsors: Rep. Barbara L’Italien, Sen. Frederick Berry
This bill requires health insurers in Massachusetts to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, which currently affects 1 in every 110 children. It includes habilitative or rehabilitative care, pharmacy care, psychiatric care, psychological care and therapeutic care prescribed, provided, or ordered for an individual diagnosed with ASD by a licensed physician or a licensed psychologist. Treatments include testing to diagnose autism, structured behavioral therapies including ABA, occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy provided by certified or licensed providers. The proposed legislation does not limit the amount of coverage and has no age limit. Over 110 legislators are co-sponsors of this legislation, representing a majority of the Massachusetts legislature.
An Act Relative to Improve Teacher Training in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (S. 223) Lead Sponsors: Sen. Cynthia Creem, Rep. Garrett Bradley
This bill will help to ensure that teachers receive training in augmentative and alternative communication methods necessary to educate children with disabilities who are nonverbal or who have limited speech. Thousands of children who are nonverbal or have limited speech (including children with ASD) rely on augmentative and alternative communication methods to interact with others, and many students are now being included in regular education. The bill directs the Board of Education to revise regulations for educator licensure so that all teachers are adequately prepared in methods of communication other than speech to facilitate interaction and inclusion and to ensure access to the general education curriculum.
Help us to educate our legislators about these important legislative priorities which, if adopted, will enhance the lives of people with ASD and their families.
Help our advocacy efforts by becoming a supporter of AFAM today. As an AFAM member you will receive periodic governmental updates and action alerts so you will be informed about critical issues affecting our families and can take action with your legislators.
We urge you to participate in the process. Join us on April 13, 2010 at the State House for Autism Spectrum Awareness Day and help us to educate our legislators about these important budget and legislative priorities which, if adopted, will enhance the lives of people with ASD and their families.
You also can support our advocacy by becoming a member of AFAM today. As an AFAM member you
will receive periodic governmental updates and action alerts so you will be informed about critical issues affecting our families and can take action with your legislators.
BECOME INVOLVED!
