In The Politics of Autism, I discuss the day-to-day challenges facing autistic people and their families.
Specialists who treat children with autism in Texas will soon be required to obtain licenses after Gov. Greg Abbott recently signed an amended version of Senate Bill 589 into law.
The bill, by Sen. Eddie Lucio Jr., D-Brownsville, will require licenses for applied behavior analysts, therapists most known for their treatment of autism. After easily passing in the Texas Senate on May 1, the bill also swiftly passed in the House on May 23 before heading to Abbott's desk.
"Because of the tireless work behind SB 589, our most vulnerable Texans who benefit from applied behavioral intervention - such as children with autism, along with those with developmental, intellectual, and physical disabilities, and with brain injuries - will now be protected by SB 589, which will reduce the probability and the possibility of them being harmed by unqualified practitioners," Lucio Jr. said in a statement.
The bill's supporters have said a law is needed to regulate the profession. Texas has now joined more than 25 other states requiring licenses for behavior analysts.
