Bill > S03898

This bill directs the New York State Commissioner of Health and the Commissioner of the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities to jointly establish new regulations requiring pediatric healthcare providers to screen children for autism spectrum disorders (ASD) during routine wellness visits. Specifically, providers must screen children starting at 12 months of age and continue annual screenings until the child reaches six years old, with additional screenings at ages eleven and fourteen. The regulations, which must be developed by May 1, 2026, will establish best practices for ASD screening, including guidelines for using objective screening tools and creating appropriate referral mechanisms for children who may require further evaluation. If the commissioners fail to develop these regulations by the specified date, the department will adopt and implement relevant federal rules. The goal of this bill is to improve early detection and intervention for children with autism spectrum disorders by mandating consistent and comprehensive screening throughout childhood.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S3898