State Rep. Bolinsky Participates in Autism Awareness Day

From the House Republican Office:

HARTFORD – On Wednesday, State Representative Mitch Bolinsky (R-106) joined his legislative colleagues for a ceremony at the State Capitol recognizing Autism Awareness Day.

“It was wonderful to see so many advocates, families, and legislators gathered in support of those with autism,” said Rep. Bolinsky. “Keeping this much needed conversation going about services and support is critical to continuing to make progress on behalf of those affected by autism, as well as their families and caregivers.”

Rep. Bolinsky has sponsored many pieces of legislation during his tenure in the legislature, in support of individuals with special needs, including last session’s HB 6737 that established a bill of rights for parents of children receiving special education services. The bill of rights will outline special education laws and the individual’s rights under these laws, and include information on individualized education programs (IEPs).

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) encompass complex neurobiological disorders that affects one’s ability to communicate and relate to others. In addition to autism, diagnoses of Asperger’s Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder are recognized as being on the "spectrum".

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 68 children (or 14.7 per 1,000 eight-year-olds) in multiple communities in the United States has been identified with ASD. This new estimate is roughly 30 percent higher than previous estimates reported in 2012 of 1 in 88 children (11.3 per 1,000 eight year olds) being identified with ASD.

Photo caption 1: Rep. Mitch Bolinsky (second from right) celebrates Autism Awareness Day with Rep. Jay Case (R-63) and advocates.

Photo caption 2: Rep. Mitch Bolinsky (fourth from right) stands with other legislative colleagues at Autism Awareness Day.