Bill > H1823

This bill establishes a special commission to investigate and recommend legislative changes regarding the effectiveness and adequacy of laws and regulations concerning the right to effective treatment and the use of applied behavior analysis (ABA) and behavior modification procedures. ABA is a type of therapy that uses principles of learning to help individuals improve their behavior, often used for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. The commission will examine the current scope of permissible techniques, how behavioral interventions are classified, the content of behavioral plans, and the processes for developing, reviewing, and implementing these plans across public agencies and private agencies receiving public funds. It will also determine if agencies regulated by multiple state bodies face conflicting rules and propose unified standards for ABA and behavior modification procedures. The commission will review existing behavioral plans, hold public hearings, and consist of legislative members, designees from various state departments (including Developmental Services, Mental Health, Early Education and Care, Elementary and Secondary Education, Children and Families, and Youth Services), judicial representatives, advocacy group leaders, and individuals appointed by the Governor, including licensed behavior analysts, service providers, and consumers or their family members. The commission is tasked with reporting its findings and legislative recommendations to the state legislature by June 30, 2016, and may issue interim reports before then.