Rep. Zawistowski Proposes Bill to Protect Juveniles with Autism and Nonverbal Learning Disorder

HARTFORD – State Representative Tami Zawistowski (R-61) submitted a legislative proposal to improve training for first responders for incidents with juveniles with autism and other nonverbal disorders in response to concerns from constituents.

HB 5156 ‘An Act Concerning First Responder Training for Incidents Involving Juveniles with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Nonverbal Learning Disorder’ would require first responders to receive training on techniques for handling incidents involving juveniles with autism spectrum disorder and nonverbal learning disorder provided that the curriculum is provided at no cost.

“This is a common sense no-cost proposal to protect children and teens who might not be able to effectively communicate with first responders,” said Rep. Zawistowski. “It will also benefit our men and women in uniform – who have to respond to incidents such as wandering – by providing additional training to more effectively manage incidents. The legislation will also help build collaborative relationships between first responders, health care professionals and advocacy groups.”

Suffield Police Department Captain Christopher McKee commented, “As first responders, police, fire, and EMS personnel are traditionally the first to respond to these crisis situations; we need to ensure that they have the proper training to recognize, approach, and address these interactions safely and successfully. In most cases, individuals with autism spectrum disorder and/or nonverbal learning disorder will exhibit difficulties understanding and complying with verbal commands, they may flee, they may actively resist medical treatment, and their responses  may reflect the changes in their sensory perception to lights, sirens, uniforms, stimuli; in some instances these responses may even escalate the individual’s behavior. Adoption of this proposed bill is a proactive step for first responders towards successful approaches and long-term positive change.”

The bill proposal has received support from the Center for Autism and Related Disorders, one of the largest organizations providing care for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The legislation has been referred to the General Assembly’s Committee on Public Safety and Security. For more information or to track the legislation visit www.cga.ct.gov.