The deadline for policy committees to submit bills to their chamber of origin was last Friday(Feb 21st). Several bills that were important to the autism community did not advance. This blog post will examine some of the key bills that were passed and progressing through the legislative session and explain their significance.

Bill 1: Extending Special Education Services

This bill aligns Washington state law with federal IDEA requirements, extending special education services for students with disabilities until the end of the school year in which they turn 22. Key changes include:

• Amending the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to specify that educational services will begin at age three and continue until age 22, addressing a previous court ruling that deemed the state's policy of terminating services at age 21 as non-compliant with federal law.
• Mandating that by October 30, 2026, state agencies must collaborate to update the implementation plan for transition services, ensuring a smooth transition from school to post-school life for students aged 16 to 22.
• Clarifying the responsibilities of school districts in providing educational programs for residents of residential schools, including those with disabilities.
• Introducing provisions for appeals regarding student transfers between school districts, particularly for students under 21 and those with disabilities, ensuring compliance with the new regulations.

These amendments expire on August 1, 2027.

Why it matters: This bill ensures that students with disabilities receive necessary support and resources throughout their educational journey, fostering a more inclusive educational environment.

Bill 2: Authorizing Payment for Parental Caregivers

This bill directs the Developmental Disability Administration (DDA) to submit requests to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for amendments to applicable DDA Home and Community Based Services waivers. These amendments would allow parents who provide personal care services to their minor children with developmental disabilities to receive payment for providing personal care services that qualify as extraordinary care.

• Parental caregivers would have the option to be employed as individual providers, subject to the same training and oversight as other individual providers.
• 703 children in the high B category (complex behavior support needs) and 301 in the E category (medically dependent) are initially eligible, with payments starting in 2027.

Why it matters: This bill recognizes and compensates the extraordinary efforts of parents caring for children with developmental disabilities.

Bill 3: Closing the Yakima Valley and Rainier Schools

This bill mandates the closure of the Yakima Valley school and Rainier school, two residential habilitation centers for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, by June 30, 2027.

• New admissions will be limited to short-term respite or crisis stabilization services.
• The Department of Social and Health Services is required to provide alternative living arrangements for current residents based on individual preferences, which may include state-operated living alternatives, supported living programs, or space in other residential habilitation centers.
• Employees of these centers will be offered opportunities to work in other state facilities and programs.
• The transitions will prioritize personal choice, transparency with residents, families, and staff, and safe, individually tailored support for each resident.

Why it matters: This bill aims to shift from institutional care to community-based living arrangements that promote individual dignity, autonomy, and skill development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Call to Action: Advocate for the above bills

As advocates for the autism community, we must come together to ensure that the voices of autistic individuals and their families are heard at the legislative level. Here's how you can make a difference:

Educate Yourself:

• Familiarize yourself with the bills discussed in this blog post and other relevant autism-related legislation.

Contact Your Legislators:

• Reach out to your state representatives and senators to express your support for bills that promote the well-being of individuals with autism.
• Share your personal experiences or those of loved ones to emphasize the impact of these bills.

Attend Advocacy Training Events:

• Participate in advocacy training events organized by local and national autism organizations.
• Engage with legislators, share your stories, and advocate for policies that support the autism community.

Support Legislative Advocacy:

• Contribute to legislative advocacy campaigns.
• Their efforts are vital in shaping legislative agendas and ensuring the rights of autistic individuals are protected.

Social Media Advocacy:

• Utilize social media platforms to raise awareness about autism-related bills and encourage others to contact their legislators.
• Share information and resources to educate your followers about the importance of legislative advocacy.

Stay Informed:

• Regularly check the WAA websites and social media channels for legislative updates and opportunities to get involved.

By taking these actions, you can help create a more inclusive society where autistic individuals have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.