The Autism Awareness License Plate Bill (HB327) has made it out of the Utah Legislative Transportation Committee by a slim vote of six to five.  Representative Becky Edwards is sponsoring the bill for the specialized license plate.  Money raised will benefit the Autism Council of Utah with annual revenues to support education, public awareness and other autism programs in the state of Utah. Applicants would be required to make a $25 annual donation to an Autism Awareness Restricted Account.  The Superintendent of Public Instruction would distribute funds in the account to programs that are approved by The State Board of Education. If it passes, it will take effect Oct. 1, 2010.   

The Autism Disabilities and Faith Bill (HCR9) has moved to a standing committee in the Senate.  The bill would designate April 29 through May 2, 2010 as Autism, Disabilities and Faith Week in the state of Utah and would also recognize the importance of fully integrating persons with autism and other disabilities and their families into all Utah faith based organizations.

Two other bills have received a second reading in the House.  The Autism Treatment Fund (HB311) would create a restricted account in the General Fund to be administered by the Department of Heath to be used for providing services related to autism.  The Autism Medicaid Waiver (HB184) sponsored by Representative Paul Ray relates to the administration of the state's Medicaid program and requires Division of Health Care Financing to develop a range of options for a Medicaid Autism Waiver.

If you would like to show your support for any of the bills currently being considered, contact your legislative representatives.