BILL NUMBER:  S1219

 TITLE OF BILL :  An act to amend the mental hygiene law, in relation
to adding Prader-Willi syndrome to the definition of developmental
disability

 PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL: :

This legislation adds Prader-Willi to the list of disabilities under
the definitions of developmental disability.

 SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS: :

Section 1 amends Subparagraph 1 of paragraph (a) of subdivision 22 of
section 1.03 of the mental hygiene law by adding Prader-Willi syndrome
to the list of disabilities under the definition of developmental
disability.

Section 2 is the effective date.

 JUSTIFICATION: :

Prader-Willi is a genetic condition that occurs in approximately 1 in
12,00-15,000 people. The most critical hallmark of Prader-Willi is
overeating. Individuals with Prader-Willi cannot tell when they are
full and continue to eat without stop leading to ruptured stomachs and
              

death. Other symptoms include: development and cognitive delates, skin
picking, sleep problems, obsessive-compulsive behavior,
hypothyroidism, hypogonadism, low muscle tone and other traits.

Individuals who suffer from Prader-Willi receive services from the
Office of People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). However many
times they initially are rejected for services as the individual may
have an IQ that is slightly too high to qualify initially.  However,
upon appeal by the individual they will then qualify for OPWDD
services. Unfortunately, many individuals and their families will not
appeal and therefore do not receive services. This legislation aims to
streamline this process and make it easier for individuals with
Prader-Willi to receive services.

 PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY: :

New Bill.

 FISCAL IMPLICATIONS :

To be determined

 EFFECTIVE DATE: :

This act shall take effect immediately.