Governor Rendell Says Pennsylvania Recieves First-In-Nation Federal Waiver to Serve Adults With Autism

Governor Rendell Says Pennsylvania Recieves First-In-Nation Federal Waiver to Serve Adults With Autism

May 22, 2008 - Governor Edward G. Rendell today announced that Pennsylvania has been approved for a first-of-its-kind federal waiver program to provide home and community based services specifically for adults with autism.

The $20 million-a-year waiver program, which is expected to serve up to 200 individuals 21 years of age and older with autism, was approved by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Prior to its approval, no dedicated services existed for adults with autism in Pennsylvania.

"This landmark program marks the first time that the federal government has approved the use of federal Medicaid funds to provide individual and family-based services specific to adults with autism," Governor Rendell said. "Prior to the establishment of this waiver program, there was nothing designed for people with autism once they reached the age of 21."

Secretary of Public Welfare Estelle B. Richman, a consistent champion for Pennsylvanians with autism, said the new waiver program was one of the five main recommendations of Pennsylvania's Autism Task Force. Under Richman's tenure, DPW appointed its first director of autism affairs and established the Bureau of Autism Services, which also were major recommendations made by the task force.

The waiver program will give adults with autism and their families the opportunity to choose a variety of available services designed to address their unique needs and maximize opportunities for independence and community inclusion.

"Long-term planning is a never-ending concern for the parents and families of adults with autism and this waiver will provide many families with peace-of-mind because they will know their l