The new 2012-2013 Ohio Budget, which took effect July 1, 2011 has lots of changes that will affect individuals with autism, their families and those who work with them around the state.  Overall the focus is on streamlining state services and encouraging local entities to do so as well.

The Ohio Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics (OAAP) will host the Concerned About Development Learning Collaborative (CADLC), a variety of free learning activities funded through grants from the Ohio Department of Health and Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.  Concerns about development are common, with delays affecting 1 in every 8 children in Ohio. Practices like will learn how to implement a system of care that promotes early identification and referral for children with developmental concerns.

As part of the budget bill passed in June, 2007, the Autism Society of Ohio worked with Legislators Rep. Kevin Bacon and Sen. Kirk Schuring as well Dr. Jacquie Wynn from Columbus Children's Hospital, Dr. Nevada Reed from Akron Children's Hospital, Dr. Jim Bryant from the Ohio Department of Health and Melissa Arnold from the Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatricians to

Both the Ohio Senate and the Ohio House have formed an Autism Caucus.  The House Caucus is chaired by Rep. Kevin Bacon and Rep. Ted Celeste.  The Senate Caucus is chaired by Sen. Jason Wilson and Sen. Tom Patton.  The purpose of the caucus is to hold periodic meetings for Representatives and Senators providing organizations like the Autism Society the Opportunity to educate