LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Senate on Tuesday passed Sen. Michael Webber’s resolution declaring April as Autism Awareness Month throughout the state.
“Autism spectrum disorder affects millions of people in many unique ways. While its effects are deeply personal for some of us, autism touches many of us and knows no political or social boundaries,” said Webber, R-Rochester Hills, who serves as co-chair of the Michigan Legislature Autism Advocates Caucus.
“I have been honored to work with my fellow legislators on both sides of the aisle on policies to better support individuals with autism and their families. Autism Awareness Month serves as an important reminder to both celebrate the accomplishments of those living with autism and recognize the important work we have before us to continue supporting their success.”
An estimated 1 in 36 children and 1 in 44 adults have autism, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication and repetitive behaviors that can range from mild to severe and may require a wide variety of support services.
Webber has introduced bipartisan legislation with Sen. Sam Singh, D-East Lansing, to help limit misdiagnoses and provide more accurate care for individuals living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
“This legislation will bring Michigan up to par with other states in providing the most modern diagnostic and care standards as we continue to grow in our understanding of autism,” Webber said. “Current outdated policies are leading to more people being misdiagnosed, which can then result in limited access to care or the wrong care plan altogether. These bills help ensure the right care plans are accessible to the right individuals.”
Senate Bills 103 and 104 would allow any master’s level mental health professional employed by a benevolent organization to diagnose ASD, provided they have at least three years of ongoing professional development experience and are supervised by a non-limited licensed psychologist. Currently, no licensed psychological supervision is required.
“This bill package strikes a good balance between access to care and ensuring accurate care,” Singh said. “Many stakeholders, including the Autism Alliance of Michigan and the Autism Council of Michigan, have recommended these needed legislative fixes in recent years. I look forward to reaching a positive solution we can all agree on.”
Senate Resolution 32 states, “We acknowledge and support individuals with autism and their families, and affirm our commitment to promoting understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of individuals with autism in all aspects of community life.”
