Assemblyman Rob Walker (R, C, I, WF - Hicksville) recently supported legislation that would establish an Adult Living with Autism Task Force within the Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities. The task force would ensure that appropriate services and support are available to meet the needs of individuals living with Autism.

"The increasing number of children being diagnosed with Autism is cause for concern," said Walker. "Recent attention and public awareness has focused on meeting the needs of children with autism. It is critical that New York takes a proactive approach to addressing the issues that individuals with autism face as they age."

The task force would consist of nine members who would be required to study, evaluate and make recommendations on specific actions that the state could take to deal with the variety of challenges that adults with Autism encounter. Any recommendations made by the task force would serve as the foundation of a comprehensive plan to be submitted to the governor.

If you have any concerns, questions or would like to be a part of presenting testimony to the task force, contact Walker's district office by calling 937-3571.