FL H0339

Creates an Autism Spectrum Disorder Study Committee with nine members, including the State Surgeon General (or designee), Executive Director of the Family Network on Disabilities (or designee), and seven additional members appointed by the Governor (3), President of the Senate (2), and Speaker of the House (2).

Requires appointed committee members to include at least one physician, one behavior analyst or mental health professional specializing in autism treatment, one parent of a child with autism spectrum disorder, and one special education certified educator.

Committee shall study the effects of autism spectrum disorder on families where English is the second language and advise the Agency for Persons with Disabilities on related legislative, programmatic, and administrative matters.

Committee members receive no compensation; only the State Surgeon General may authorize state funds for publishing recommendations and public announcements.

Committee must hold at least six bimonthly meetings beginning August 2012, submit findings and recommendations for community awareness campaigns by September 1, 2013, and expire on that same date.