Bill > S460

This bill establishes a comprehensive Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Program in North Carolina to address the impacts of prenatal alcohol exposure, which is the leading cause of preventable developmental disabilities. The bill creates a statewide program within the Department of Health and Human Services, led by a designated FASD Program Coordinator, with goals including preventing alcohol-exposed pregnancies, educating the public, and providing evidence-based interventions for individuals diagnosed with FASD. Additionally, the bill creates a 17-member FASD Advisory Committee composed of government officials from various departments, public members with personal FASD experience, and professionals from health, education, and justice sectors. The committee will develop a strategic plan to reduce prenatal alcohol exposure, review and coordinate existing programs, and provide guidance on FASD identification and support. To support these initiatives, the bill appropriates $2 million in recurring funds for the 2025-2027 fiscal biennium, with the program and advisory committee set to be established by July 1, 2025. FASD is defined as a range of effects occurring in individuals prenatally exposed to alcohol, potentially impacting multiple body systems and including various diagnoses such as Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder.

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S460