Commission History
On March 25, 2009 Governor Ted Kulongoski signed Executive Order 09-07 establishing the Oregon Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder. In his order the Governor asked the Commission to engage stakeholders, identify priorities, promote the efficient use of limited resources, and to create and facilitate the implementation of a long-term strategic plan. His vision was clear; improve the lives of the thousands of Oregonians experiencing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families.
While the Commission was created on March 25, the roots of the Commission stretch back further than the signing.
In the spring of 2008, with the support of State Representatives Peter Buckley (D-Ashland), then Chair of the House Education Committee, and Mitch Greenlick (D-Portland), Chair of the House Health Care Committee, then Representative Chris Edwards convened the Oregon Autism Project, a workgroup consisting of legislators, agency personnel, and parent advocates. The workgroup was charged to investigate the current status of services to those experiencing ASD and to begin to chart a path toward a better future.
The group reviewed the successes and failures of previous Oregon efforts to address the challenges presented by ASD. They studied activities occurring in states around the country. After months of meetings and a listening tour that reached Oregonians from every corner of the State, the group presented their findings in a report to three interim legislative committees. The report, Serving and Supporting People with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Their Families, identified issues concerning service to those with ASD and offered a broad vision of the changes that need to take place in order for Oregon to meet the needs of its citizens.
The work of the Oregon Autism Project highlighted the need for improved coordination of State services and for a continuation of efforts to devise an enhanced system of service. Governor Kulongoski was more than eager to help out and began working with members of the Oregon Autism Project to establish a Commission that would identify the steps necessary to change the status quo and make a difference in individuals’ daily lives.
After signing the executive order in March the Governor and Legislative leaders began the careful process of selecting members for the 13 person Commission. In making selections individuals were selected based on their pertinent experience, leadership, and passion for the issue.
OR_ASD_Commission_Executive_Order.pdf
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