By: Shapiro, Uresti S.B. No. 1217
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to the creation of an autism program to provide services to
children with autism spectrum disorder.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Subchapter D, Chapter 117, Human Resources Code,
is amended by adding Section 117.075 to read as follows:
Sec. 117.075. AUTISM PROGRAM. (a) To the extent
appropriated money is available for the purpose, the department
shall provide services to children not younger than three or older
than eight years of age who are diagnosed with autism spectrum
disorder, to enhance communication, social, and independent living
skills so that the children may fully participate in society.
(b) The services must include applied behavioral analysis
and must complement and not duplicate services outlined in a
child's individualized education plan developed by an independent
school district.
SECTION 2. The executive commissioner of the Health and
Human Services Commission shall develop the autism program required
under Section 117.075, Human Resources Code, as added by this Act,
not later than January 1, 2010.
SECTION 3. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives
a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as
provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this
Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this
Act takes effect September 1, 2009.