New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB634

Introduced
1/16/25  
Refer
1/16/25  
Report Pass
2/26/25  
Report Pass
2/26/25  
Engrossed
3/12/25  
Refer
3/12/25  

Caption

Relative to the New Hampshire council on autism spectrum disorders.

Impact

This bill establishes the NHCASD as a pivotal body in enhancing the support network for individuals with autism and their families. By redefining its duties, the council will focus on leadership in policy-making, service coordination, and best practices, thereby potentially enhancing the overall accessibility and quality of services provided to the autism community in New Hampshire. Additionally, the council's formalization allows it to better interact with organizations centered on disability services, ultimately fostering a more comprehensive support network.

Summary

House Bill 634 aims to amend and reenact the statutes governing the New Hampshire Council on Autism Spectrum Disorders (NHCASD). The intent of the bill is to provide a clearer structure and expand the council's membership and responsibilities in promoting quality education, healthcare, and services for individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. The proposed changes reflect a collaborative approach, involving various stakeholders, including government officials, healthcare representatives, self-advocates, and family members.

Contention

While the bill appears to garner general support for its aim to enhance the structure of the autism council, there may be concerns regarding the effectiveness of such councils in implementing policies across various state departments. Critics may argue about the adequacy of state funding and resources allocated to support the council's objectives, especially in closely monitoring and improving service delivery for those with autism spectrum disorders. These discussions could lead to debates about ensuring adequate checks and balances and the council's ability to effectuate meaningful change.

Operational_changes

The bill outlines that meetings will be conducted in a hybrid format to encourage participation by all council members irrespective of their ability to attend in person. This change is crucial for maintaining inclusivity within the council's operations, as it aims to ensure that various perspectives can be represented in discussions and decisions, thus enhancing the council's outreach and effectiveness in addressing the needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH SB353

Relative to insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorder and Down syndrome.

NH SB317

Relative to establishing a New Hampshire-Ireland trade council.

NH SB30

Relative to membership of the New Hampshire council on developmental disabilities.

NH SB152

Relative to New Hampshire workforce training programs.

NH HB238

Relative to the role of quality control and the developmental disability service system.

NH HB1615

Relative to the autism registry.

NH SB559

Relative to the New Hampshire vaccine association.

NH HB648

Relative to establishing a state bank of New Hampshire.

NH HB322

Relative to establishing a committee to study the New Hampshire board of medicine.

NH SB263

Extending the New Hampshire granite advantage health care program and reestablishing the commission to evaluate the effectiveness and future of the New Hampshire granite advantage health care program.

Similar Bills

NH SB283

Relative to membership of the council on autism spectrum disorders and the developmental services quality council.

NH HB140

Establishing a voluntary "blue envelope" program for drivers with autism spectrum disorders and trauma and stressor-related disorders.

NH HB238

Relative to the role of quality control and the developmental disability service system.

NH SB353

Relative to insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorder and Down syndrome.

NH SB241

Relative to graduated public assistance programs.

NH HCR8

Applying to congress for a limited national convention for the exclusive purpose of proposing an amendment to the United States Constitution relative to elections.

MA S646

Ensuring access to full spectrum pregnancy care

NH HCR1

Calling for policymakers locally and nationally to fully consider all relevant information and factors pertaining to climate change before pursuing courses of action that could adversely affect any economy or environment.