The 2026 legislature is considering two different approaches to the future of the Autism Advisory Council. Proposals to change the Council were offered in 2025, as well, but did not pass.
As it currently exists, the Autism Advisory Council has the mandate to promote coordination of services and resources among agencies involved in the delivery of services to Virginians with autism spectrum disorders and to increase public awareness of such services and resources. It consists of 25 members, from specific agencies and from the House and the Senate, but has no designated staff support.
HB 231 (Cohen) seeks to reestablish the Council as a legislative “commission,” with more limited membership but with paid staff to support its efforts. The mandate of the Commission would be to promote coordination of services and resources among agencies involved in the delivery of services to Virginians with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities, to improve the quality of and access to such services and resources, to address gaps in services and resources needed, and to increase public awareness of such services and resources. It would reduce membership from 25 to 12, but would include paid staff support. It is anticipated to have a budget impact of approximately $25,000 annually.
SB 280 (Aird) moves the Council from the legislative branch to the executive branch and establishes it as an “Advisory Board.” The mandate of the Board would be to advise the Governor, cabinet members, and the General Assembly on strategies to promote coordination of services and resources among agencies involved in the delivery of services to Virginians with autism spectrum disorders and to increase public awareness of such services and resources. Staffing would be provided by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services; as such, it would have a minimal budgetary impact.
Our mission, at the disAbility Law Center of Virginia, is to advance independence, choice and self-determination; protect legal, human and civil rights; and eliminate abuse, neglect and discrimination of people with disabilities through zealous and uncompromising legal advocacy and representation. We are available to educate policy makers about the potential impact of legislative proposals.