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Connor's Law, HB 569
By: John M. Krumm, Editor, The New Hampshire Challenge, source material Kristen Murphy
On November 13, Connorfs Law, HB 569 experienced a victory.
The NH House Committee on Commerce and Consumer Affairs voted in favor of HB 569 by 13 (yes) to 3 (no).(One Representative left the room during the vote and three were absent from todayfs executive session).
Advocates for citizens with ASD wish to thank the following:
Representatives Susi Nord, Rip Holden, and Chris Nevins, who comprised the sub-committee that tirelessly researched the issues involved, and a very good job of explaining and promoting the bill before their house colleagues.
Great help was also realized by CISNI and its legislative liaisons, NH CAN, and the NH Council on Autism Spectrum Disorders. These organizations put in calls that were crucial in helping committee members to see both the human and financial costs associated with under-treating autism spectrum disorders.
Support was given from contacts at the Autism Society of America and Autism Speaks which were invaluable. Also noted for this success was Jon Hockenyos of Resources for Hope, who put together irrefutable evidence of the long term societal benefit of this bill.
Lead Sponsor Rep. Suzanne Butcher (D-Keene), whose foresight led us to begin this long process over a year ago, and her advisors Michelle Jarvis and Michelle Winchester.
Work for Connorfs law is far from finished. The next hurdle will be a vote of the full House that is currently scheduled for January 6, 2010.
What should advocates do now? Please send a quick "thank you" (email, hand written note, whatever suits your style) to Committee Chair Butler, or to Subcommittee Chair Nord. Also, contact house members who represent you and let them know of your support of this bill.
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