Overview

The report from the Autism Feasibility Study Workgroup, “Autism Services in Connecticut” included recommendations to establish a new Autism Spectrum Disorder Advisory Council (ASDAC).  The goal of ASDAC is to provide advice and counsel to the Commissioner of DSS regarding the implementation of the recommendations of the Autism Feasibility Study workgroup with the ultimate goal of designing and developing a state-wide service delivery system for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families, by building on existing infrastructure and resources and drawing on the experiences of other states.  Members of the ASDAC and related subcommittees will be integral members of the process. This advisory committee will integrate and coordinate the work of subcommittees. DSS will be the lead agency with representatives from: DDS, DMHAS, DCF, SDE, OPM, Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS), Department of Public Health (DPH), consumers, families, advocates, professionals (M.D., PhD, and licensed professionals), providers and Higher Education/Academic Institutions. Commissioners will serve or appoint representatives from their respective state agencies to the Advisory Committee and sub-committees. All of the applicable human services agency Commissioners will also play an oversight function to ensure maximum cross-agency integration of services.