The critical piece of my Autism Action Plan has now been signed into law (Chap. 469 of 2016). The measure creates the state’s first Autism Spectrum Disorder Advisory Board to develop, implement and update a statewide Autism Action Plan, incorporate new information as it becomes available, and create a central location for services.

The bill passed both houses with unanimous support and is part of a comprehensive legislative package I introduced earlier this year, called Autism Action NY, which carries out its mission through the creation and administration of the most effective service delivery models and the development of resources to support people on the autism spectrum – from childhood to adulthood.

As the father of a teenage son with autism, I’m happy to see New York State take action on such an important issue that affects so many. About 1 in 68 children in the United States are living with autism, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the country, and there is a crisis for support services that needs immediate attention. With this bill signed into law, New York is taking a critical step to help find solutions to the challenges families affected by autism face each day. I extend my heartfelt thanks for the on-going support from so many that helped make this possible.

I look forward to continuing work on Autism Action NY in the upcoming legislative session. Autism Action NY is a five-point plan aimed at increasing job opportunities; providing independent housing options; improving access to information; assisting in communication; and, most importantly, creating a centralized location for services in New York.

More information on Autism Action NY is available on my website at http://nyassembly.gov/mem/Angelo-Santabarbara/story/71977/ or simply contact my office by phone (518) 382-2941 or by email at SantabarbaraA@nyassembly.gov and I will gladly help answer any questions. If you have not taken my Autism Action Tour, please take a few minutes to watch the video on my Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/AsmSantabarbara/ or at https://vimeo.com/181741159