By Associated Press - Monday, March 10, 2014

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) - A South Dakota legislative panel has passed a bill to study the effect of Autism Spectrum Disorder on children in the state.

The House State Affairs Committee voted 12-1 to support the measure. It goes next to the House floor.

The bill initially addressed another topic, but the committee passed an amendment overhauling its content. It would create a task force to explore the issue and make policy suggestions to the Legislature.

Opponents say the state could order a summer study without a legislative mandate. They say it’s late in the process and the bill might not get much input if it changes again.

Supporters say the issue matters to constituents.

A different measure to ensure insurance coverage for the disorder passed the same committee but ultimately failed.

Copyright © 2024 The Washington Times, LLC.

Please read our comment policy before commenting.

Click to Read More and View Comments

Click to Hide