Bill > HB807

This bill establishes a new Division of Autism Services within the Bureau of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities of the Mississippi Department of Mental Health to address the urgent need for comprehensive care for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The bill defines key terms such as ASD (using the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), autism services (support designed to meet the needs of individuals with ASD across their lifespan), and a coordinated system of care (a statewide effort to support individuals with ASD and their families). The new division will be responsible for providing leadership in program development, establishing program standards, and coordinating care for children and adults with ASD. Specifically, the division will define its own roles and responsibilities, develop and annually review a long-term, scientifically-based plan for statewide ASD care, and ensure collaboration between agencies and stakeholders to implement a comprehensive support system. The bill amends existing state law to recognize this new division and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with the ultimate goal of creating a more coordinated and effective approach to supporting individuals with autism and their families in Mississippi.

Health and Social Services

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0807.xml