BOE’s opposition to autism bill ‘disappointing’—Sablan

Like many of her colleagues in the House, Rep. Christina Sablan was surprised and disappointed with the Board of Education’s opposition to a bill that proposes to develop a state plan for services for people with autism.

Sablan said yesterday that she could not help but think that the BOE Committee on Legislative Intergovernmental Affairs’ position only underscores the need for improved understanding.

Sablan said the bill had received strong support from the Autism Society of the CNMI and other advocates, including various healthcare and education professionals.

“The intent of the bill is certainly not to breach PSS’ autonomy, or the supersede or negate existing services provided by the Public School System for students with disabilities, including autism,” she said.

As caregivers and advocates for individuals with autism can attest, the lawmaker said, “there are significant gaps in existing services and programs for individuals with autism, and a need to integrate and improve such services and programs across all relevant agencies and departments, including PSS.”

The House unanimously passed Friday the autism bill, which was introduced by Rep. Heinz Hofschneider.

The legislation will establish the Commonwealth Commission on Autism to study and investigate issues, including the early identification and intervention of autism spectrum disorders, ASD.

Hofschneider stated in the bill that autism is the fastest growing serious developmental disability in the United States and the Commonwealth.

BOE’s Committee on Legislative Intergovernmental Affairs chair Lucia L. Blanco-Maratita and Education Commissioner Rita A. Sablan had both opposed the legislation.

Blanco-Maratita and Commissioner Sablan had pointed out that, although the intent to create a commission is commendable, PSS cannot support the bill in its current form.

The two pointed out that the bill seems to circumvent certain local and federal regulations of both education and governmental entities.

“Conflicts could arise because PSS already has policies and procedures in place regarding special needs children,” they said.

Blanco-Maratita and Commissioner Sablan also noted that the committee’s concern is that many departments within PSS are already burdened with a heavy workload and are short-staffed.

Rep. Sablan said she is hopeful that if and when an Autism Commission is created, the PSS leadership will indeed come to the table and participate in the development of a plan that would be geared toward improving services for students with autism and their families.

“Certainly, PSS’ support and assistance would be crucial if the plan is to be successful,” Rep. Sablan said.