April is Autism Awareness Month

April is designated "Autism Spectrum Disorder Awareness Month" in New York state, to raise awareness about the disorder, and to support families of autistic individuals.

As your Senator, I was proud to co-sponsor a bill last year, which Governor Cuomo signed into law, that will provide families with better access to critically important medical care for both adults and children who have autism.

This November, when the law takes effect, health insurance companies will be required to provide coverage for the screening, diagnosis, and treatment of autism spectrum disorders. In addition, insurance companies will be prohibited from terminating or refusing to renew policies solely because a person has some form of autism. This law will help thousands of financially-struggling families in Central New York obtain the proper care they need. And when it comes to autism, early diagnosis and treatment is essential to improving outcomes.

While the focus may be on autism during the month of April, I will do what I can throughout the year to help support our families. For more information, please feel free to contact my district office at 315-428-7632.