Albany, NY – Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther (D,I,WF-Forestburgh), Chair of the Assembly Mental Health Committee, announced Assembly passage today of legislation she sponsors to create a task force on adults with developmental disabilities (A.8835-A/S.6659-A).

“Historically, the focus has been on providing supports and services for children with developmental disabilities,” said Assemblywoman Gunther. “As these children begin to age-out of the educational system and reach adulthood, we have a responsibility to ensure that their needs – be it housing, employment or appropriate community-based supports – are being met. With the ever-increasing incidence of Autism Spectrum Disorders, this need is going to be greater than ever, and as a State, we need to prepare for that.”

The legislation creates a ten-member task force, including the Commissioners of the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, Health, Education, Housing and Community Renewal, Mental Health, and Labor, as well as four experts in the field. The task force will make recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature no later than January 1, 2016 that will be the basis for a state-wide, comprehensive plan for meeting the needs of adults with developmental disabilities.