Senator Nozzolio Recognizes April as Autism Awareness Month

In recognition of individuals diagnosed with autism, as well as their families and the dedicated professionals who work with them, Senator Nozzolio is helping to commemorate April as Autism Awareness Month. Autism Awareness Month is a nationwide effort to bring greater awareness of the help and resources that are available for families. 

“Autism continues to be the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States. There are literally hundreds of families in the Finger Lakes Region affected by autism,” said Senator Nozzolio. “Autism Awareness Month presents a vital opportunity to learn more about the particular challenges that families affected by autism face and for these families to gain a better understanding of the services and programs that are available to them.”

Senator Nozzolio has fought aggressively for the necessary state funding to help diagnose, treat, and provide essential services for families dealing with autism. In addition, the Senator has hosted public discussions on the issue throughout the region. Senator Nozzolio secured the funding needed to establish the Happiness House Autism Evaluation Center, which provides families with comprehensive diagnosis and treatment options in the Finger Lakes Region.

Additionally, Senator Nozzolio co-sponsored and successfully fought to enact legislation requiring accident and health insurance companies to provide coverage for screening, diagnosis and treatment for patients on the autism spectrum.

“Families coping with a diagnosis of autism deserve all the help, support and compassion that we can provide. I admire the determination of the parents to provide every possible opportunity for their children, and I will continue to seek financial assistance for programs that help children diagnosed with autism. I remain committed to helping in whatever way I can to support these individuals and their families,” concluded Senator Nozzolio.

National Autism Awareness Month represents an excellent opportunity to promote autism awareness, autism acceptance and to draw attention to the tens of thousands facing an autism diagnosis each year. For further information visit: http://www.autism-society.org