Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. continued his efforts in the fight against autism when he recently introduced legislation that would create a new distinctive license plate to raise awareness about the disorder. Both the New York State Senate and Assembly have passed this legislation.

The new plate would be available for all New Yorkers to use on their motor vehicles for an annual cost of $25, in addition to the regular registration fee. Proceeds of the plate sales would be deposited into a new autism awareness and research fund, which will help fund education and scientific study programs throughout the state.

"Over the years, we have made great strides in the fight against autism, but there is still much more that can be done. This new distinctive license plate will advance our efforts even further," said Fuschillo. "Not only will we be raising additional funding for education and research, we will be increasing the public's awareness about this disorder."

Autism is a complex development disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. The result of a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain, autism impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Patients typically have difficulties interacting with others, communicating both verbally and non-verbally, and engaging in leisure or play activities. The United States Department of Education reports that autism is growing at a rate of 10 - 17 percent per year.

"It is impressive that the State Legislature, under the leadership of Senator Fuschillo, would spend the time and effort on autism research at a time when it is so badly needed," said Dr. Bernard Rosof, a board member of the National Alliance for Autism Research. "The obvious increase in the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders makes the pursuit for research initiatives to benefit patients in the diagnosis, treatment, and pursuit of a cure critical."