Governor Signs Order to Support Adults with Profound Autism
BOSTON — Ahead of Autism Awareness Month, Governor Maura Healey
The Executive Order aims to improve coordination
Adults with profound autism and
"Massachusetts is committed to care and support for all. This executive order will strengthen
The Executive Order establishes an advisory council led by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, with designees from the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, Executive Office of Administration and Finance, Department of Developmental Services, Department of Mental Health, Medicaid Director, and the Chairs of the Joint Committee on Children, Families, and Persons with Disabilities. Governor Healey will also appoint up to 10 additional members
The advisory council will develop recommendations focused on:
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Reporting on the prevalence of adults with profound autism in Massachusetts;
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Strengthening coordination across state systems serving adults with profound autism, including reviewing
eligibility requirements across service systems; -
Promoting person-centered, strengths-based approaches that recognize the needs of adults with profound autism;
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Identifying opportunities to improve access to stable housing, health care, community-based services, and meaningful daily activities;
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Encouraging innovative residential living and service models that support safety, stability, and quality of life;
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Improving the use of data to better understand population needs, service utilization, outcomes, and efficient use of state resources over time;
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Supporting a sustainable and well-trained workforce responsive to level of care and support needs; and
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Informing future policy and budget planning in a manner consistent with the state’s long-term fiscal responsibility.
