Archive: Around Town

In recognition of individuals diagnosed with autism, as well as their families and the dedicated professionals who work with them, State Senator Mike Nozzolio is helping to commemorate April 2013, as Autism Awareness Month.  The State Senate adopted a Special New York State Legislative Resolution sponsored by Nozzolio recognizing this important month as a vital opportunity to learn more about the particular challenges that families affected by autism face.

“It is now estimated that 1 out of every 88 American children is affected by an autism spectrum disorder. There are literally thousands of families in the Finger Lakes region affected by autism,” said Nozzolio. “Autism Awareness Month  is an important time to gain a better understanding of the services and programs that are available to these individuals and their families, as well as to commemorate the courage and determination of those living with this diagnosis.”

Nozzolio has long been a committed advocate for individuals and families living with autism.  Nozzolio secured the funding to establish the Happiness House Autism Evaluation Center in order to provide families with comprehensive diagnosis and treatment options right here in the Finger Lakes region. The services that the Happiness House provides our Finger Lakes region serves as the blueprint for other providers across our State and our Nation.

Nozzolio co-sponsored and successfully fought to enact legislation to require accident and health insurance policies to provide coverage for screening, diagnosis and treatment for patients on the autism spectrum. This legislation was adopted in both houses of the State Legislature and signed into law, closing the gap in coverage for families living with autism once and for all.  This law is one of the strongest autism insurance reforms in the Nation and opened the door for thousands of families to receive early diagnosis and intense early intervention services.

“Families coping with a diagnosis of autism deserve all the help, support and compassion that we can provide,” continued Nozzolio. “As State Senator, I will continue fighting to support programs that help children and adults diagnosed with autism and I remain committed to helping in whatever way I can to support these individuals and their families.”

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