MS HB959

State Superintendent of Public Education shall appoint a Statewide Autism Director within the State Department of Education, subject to available funding.

Director must possess qualifications established by the State Superintendent and receive salary approval from the State Personnel Board.

Director responsibilities include collaborating with department offices to develop autism education programs and coordinating with the Mississippi Autism Advisory Committee, Department of Mental Health, and local school districts.

Director shall provide information and assistance to school districts developing autism education programs and recommend policies to improve educational services for students with autism.

Act takes effect July 1, 2014.