Angela Fletcher

My name is Angela Fletcher and I am a parent, advocate, and liaison. I strongly oppose repealing the New Hampshire Council on Autism Spectrum Disorders. The Autism Council is not duplicative of the New Hampshire Quality Council. The Quality Council only represents individuals who qualify for certain Medicaid waivers. Many autistic individuals in New Hampshire do not qualify for those waivers but still need representation. The Autism Council serves all people with autism, regardless of service eligibility. Claims about quorum are misleading. The Council has been meeting lawfully. While some seats require gubernatorial appointment, two-thirds do not and are currently filled. Appointment delays should not be used as a reason to eliminate an entire council. The Council has also been productive. It played an instrumental role in developing materials for the state’s Blue Envelope Program, improving safety for individuals with autism and anxiety during interactions with law enforcement. Autism is complex and affects people across a broad spectrum. A specialized council ensures those voices are heard. Instead of repeal, we should strengthen and renew this council so it can continue its important work. I respectfully urge you to oppose repeal and support strengthening the Autism Council.