Bay of Quinte MPP Todd Smith wants parents and caregivers of those with autism to know he is listening.
On Monday at Queen’s Park, he announced current treatment and programs will continue while a new program is developed.
He says the Autism Advisory Panel has been given its instructions.
Smith says they are broadening the scope of the Autism Advisory Panel to develop recommendations for a new, needs-based and sustainable program.
He says the program will be unveiled this fall and expected to begin implementation in April 2020.
Smith was at Zwick’s Park earlier this month to speak with parents and caregivers about their questions, concerns and needs regarding the new autism program.
The government announced the investment of an additional $278 million in the province’s autism program, bringing the total amount of funding to $600 million annually.
The province’s 20-member autism expert panel includes parents of children with autism, clinicians, autism self-advocates, service providers, former public servants and others.
