Bill > SB280

This bill, titled "Autism Advisory Council; repeals council, advisory Board established, report, sunset," proposes to replace the existing Autism Advisory Council with a new Autism Commission. The Autism Commission, which will be part of the legislative branch, will advise the Governor, cabinet members, and the General Assembly on strategies to improve coordination of services and resources for Virginians with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities, as well as to enhance public awareness of these services. The bill outlines the membership, powers, and duties of this new Commission, reducing its size from 25 to 12 members, with a specific focus on including individuals with autism or their parents, clinicians, and advocacy organization representatives. It also clarifies that the Commission will be responsible for examining services in other states, recommending policy and funding improvements, and identifying further needs. The bill also mandates an annual report to the Governor and General Assembly detailing progress and policy recommendations. Importantly, the bill repeals the current Autism Advisory Council, which was set to expire on July 1, 2027, and establishes the new Commission with its own reporting and operational requirements.

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/SB280