HB 5558 Summary

• Establishes a Division of Autism Spectrum Disorder Services within the Department of Developmental Services to research, design and implement services for state residents of all ages diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

• Requires the Department of Developmental Services to adopt regulations defining autism spectrum disorder, establishing eligibility standards, and creating data collection processes for service delivery.

• Directs the Commissioner of Developmental Services to seek Medicaid waivers or state plan amendments to expand physical activity programs, increase the number of persons served under the Medicaid waiver program, and eliminate the waiting list for services.

• Establishes a pilot program serving no more than 24 persons with developmental disabilities or autism spectrum disorder who require high clinical services and have been difficult to place, providing behavior management services, clinical oversight, and individualized community-based services in group settings.

• Requires the Commissioner of Developmental Services to report results of the pilot program to relevant legislative committees by January 1, 2016.