VA HB231

Repeals the existing Autism Advisory Council and establishes a new Autism Advisory Board as an executive branch advisory body to advise the Governor, cabinet members, and General Assembly on autism services coordination and public awareness

Creates a 12-member board consisting of six legislative members (three senators appointed by Senate Rules Committee, three delegates appointed by Speaker) and six nonlegislative citizen members appointed by the Governor

Nonlegislative members must represent or have experience with autism spectrum disorders, including advocates, parents, clinicians, and representatives from schools or higher education autism programs, serving staggered four-year terms with a two-term limit

Requires an annual report to the Governor and General Assembly by December 1 on activities and policy recommendations, with meetings limited to four per year

Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services will provide staff support; the Board has a sunset date of July 1, 2029, and current Council members' terms expire July 1, 2026